Buying or selling a business? Acquire the tools and learn the methods for accurate business valuation

Business valuation is the process of determining the value of a business enterprise or ownership interest. Business Valuation For Dummies covers valuation methods, including advice on analyzing historical performance, evaluating assets and income value, understanding a company's financial statements, forecasting performance; estimating the cost of capital; and cash flow methods of valuation.

Written in plain English, this no-nonsense guide is filled with expert guidance that business owners, managers at all levels, investors, and students can use when determining the value of a business. It contains a solid framework for valuation, including advice on analyzing historical performance, evaluating assets and income value, understanding a company's financial statements, estimating the cost of capital, business valuation models, and how to apply those models to different types of businesses.

Business Valuation For Dummies takes you step-by-step through the business valuation process, explaining the major methods in an easy-to-understand manner with real-world examples. Inside you'll discover:

• The value of business valuation, including when it's necessary
• The fundamental methods and approaches to business valuation
• How to read a valuation report and financial statements
• The other players in the valuation process
• How to decide you're ready to sell -- and the best time to do so
• The three stages of due diligence: the meet and greet; the hunting and gathering; the once-over
• How to decide you're ready to buy -- and find the right business for you
• What due diligence means on the buying side of things
• When to call in the experts: divorce; estate planning and gifting; attracting investors and lenders

This is an essential guide for anyone buying a business, selling a business, participating in a merger or acquisition, or evaluating for tax, loan, or credit purposes. Get your copy of Business Valuation For Dummies to get the information you need to successfully and accurately place a value on any business.

Lisa Holton is a former business editor and reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times. Today, she heads The Lisa Company, a writing, editing, and research firm. She’s a writer for corporations, colleges, and nonprofits nationwide, and has written more than 13 books.

Jim Bates is Vice President, Transaction Support, for the Christman Group, a middle-market investment banking firm based in Palatine, IL