Are you planning to sell your boutique in Mount Pleasant, your restaurant on King Street, or your dental practice in West Ashley? No matter the type of business, selling in the Charleston market requires more than just finding the right buyer, you need the right legal documents to protect yourself and close the deal cleanly.
At Buxton & Collie, LLC, we’ve helped business owners across the Lowcountry from Downtown Charleston, Daniel Island, Summerville, and beyond navigate the legal side of business sales with confidence. Here’s what you need to know before listing your business:
This is the backbone of your transaction. Your Business Sale Agreement spells out key terms like the purchase price, payment schedule, assets included in the sale, and any post-sale obligations. Whether you’re selling a salon near Shem Creek or a distribution company in North Charleston, we draft clear, enforceable agreements that protect your interests and help you avoid future conflicts.
Charleston’s tight-knit business community means word can travel fast. If you’re meeting with potential buyers for your Sullivan’s Island café or West Ashley day spa, you’ll want strong NDAs in place. These agreements keep your financials, client lists, and trade secrets from being misused or leaked.
An LOI helps both parties get on the same page early. If you’ve been approached about selling your real estate investment company on Daniel Island or your e-commerce brand based on James Island, we’ll help you draft an LOI that clearly outlines expectations like pricing, structure, and timelines before you move into formal negotiations.
Buyers will want to see everything: tax returns, leases, customer contracts, employee info, and more. We’ll help you get your paperwork in order, whether you’re selling a brick-and-mortar retail store in Avondale or a food truck operation based on Johns Island. Organized, accurate records help build trust and move the sale forward faster.
Charleston businesses often operate with location-specific permits, think DHEC health permits for restaurants, or liquor licenses for bars and breweries. If you’re selling a tavern in North Charleston or a bakery on Spring Street, those licenses may need to be transferred or re-applied for. Our attorneys will walk you through what’s required based on your industry and location.
Will your staff stay on after the sale? If so, you may need to provide written agreements, update employee handbooks, or draft non-compete clauses. From longtime bartenders in Park Circle to medical assistants at a Summerville clinic, we’ll help ensure employee transitions are handled legally and respectfully, minimizing disruption and liability.
If you’re preparing to sell your Charleston-area business, don’t go through it alone. From license transfers to final signatures, Buxton & Collie, LLC offers experienced legal support every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and make your business sale a smooth success.
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