Buying or selling a business? Get the contract and the handover right.
A business sale involves more than a price. We help you understand what's really being bought or sold, protect you in the contract, and manage the steps to a smooth settlement.
Talk to us about your matter
Meet online, or in person at our office (by prior appointment). We usually reply within one business day.
Buying or Selling a Business at Asher Freeman Lawyers
Asher Freeman Lawyers is a law firm in Chadstone, Victoria that helps business owners and buyers with the sale and purchase of a business, including the contract of sale, due diligence, lease assignment, employees and settlement. We act for clients across Victoria, online or in person at our Chadstone office (by prior appointment), and quote fixed fees wherever possible.
Our buying or selling a business services
Contract of sale
Preparing or reviewing the sale contract, including price, stock, equipment, goodwill and warranties.
Due diligence
Checking financials, contracts, licences, employees and liabilities before you commit.
Lease assignment
Transferring or negotiating the premises lease, including retail lease obligations.
Restraint of trade
Clauses that stop the seller opening a competing business nearby.
Employees and entitlements
Which staff transfer, and how leave and other entitlements are handled.
Business structure
Advice on buying through a company, trust or partnership, and the agreements you need.
Franchises
Review of franchise agreements and disclosure documents before you buy.
Settlement
Adjustments, stock-take, transfer of licences and registrations, and handover.
What to know before you buy or sell a business
The lease can make or break the deal
For many small businesses, the premises lease is the most valuable asset. The landlord's consent, the remaining term and the rent all affect what the business is worth.
Due diligence protects your price
Profit figures, supplier contracts, licences and debts should be checked before you sign, not after. What you find can change the price or the terms.
Plan the handover
Training, introductions to customers and suppliers, and a fair restraint on the seller help the business keep running smoothly after settlement.
Three simple steps
Meet with us online, or in person at our Chadstone office (by prior appointment).
Tell us about the deal
Share the heads of agreement, the information memorandum or the agent's details.
We review and negotiate
We check the documents, raise issues and negotiate the contract and lease.
We settle and hand over
We manage settlement, adjustments and the transfer of licences and registrations.
Rated 5.0 from 35 Google reviews
“…very professional and helped us in understanding complex material in layman’s terms. Carried out the work in a very timely manner and clarified our questions really well.”
“Even after the sale completed, she continued to follow up with the bank and the authorities on my behalf to make sure everything was in order…”
“This firm is probably the most efficient one I have ever had to use… She was also very responsive and gave me constant updates.”
Buying or Selling a Business: frequently asked questions
When should I involve a lawyer in a business sale?
As early as possible, ideally before you sign any heads of agreement or pay a deposit. Early advice helps you negotiate the right terms rather than fix problems later.
What happens to the lease when a business is sold?
The lease is usually assigned to the buyer, which normally needs the landlord's consent. We review the lease and manage the assignment so you know your rights and obligations.
Do employees transfer with the business?
Not automatically. The contract should set out which employees will be offered jobs and how their entitlements are handled. We explain the options for both buyers and sellers.
Can you give a fixed fee for a business sale?
In most cases, yes. Once we understand the size and complexity of the transaction, we'll quote a fixed fee in writing.
Last reviewed October 2026. This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Contact us for advice about your situation.
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