How Long Does It Take to Sell a Franchise Business?

One of the most common questions franchise owners ask is how long it takes to sell a franchise business. While timelines vary based on brand, performance, and market conditions, understanding the typical process helps owners plan realistically and avoid unnecessary pressure.

Selling a franchise is not an event—it is a process. Owners who understand the stages involved are better positioned to navigate timing, valuation, and execution successfully.

Typical Timeline for Selling a Franchise Business

Most franchise sales fall within a six- to twelve-month window from preparation to closing. However, timelines can be shorter or longer depending on several key factors.

Preparation and Valuation

The process typically begins with a valuation and initial planning. This stage includes reviewing financials, understanding value drivers, and preparing the business for market. Owners who address this early often experience smoother and faster transactions.

Marketing and Buyer Outreach

Once a franchise is positioned for sale, the business broker begins buyer outreach. This includes exposing the opportunity to qualified buyers, evaluating interest, and managing initial discussions. Strong buyer demand can significantly shorten this phase.

Buyer Qualification and Due Diligence

Franchise buyers are typically well-informed and selective. This stage involves reviewing financials, operations, lease terms, and franchisor requirements. Buyer diligence and franchisor approval timelines play an important role in overall duration.

Contracting and Closing

After an offer is accepted, the transaction moves toward closing. This phase includes final due diligence, financing, franchisor approval, and legal documentation. Coordination and execution are critical to maintaining momentum.

What Impacts How Long It Takes to Sell a Franchise?

Several factors influence the timeline of a franchise sale:

• Financial clarity and organization

• Brand strength and buyer demand

• Unit economics and profitability

• Lease terms and real estate complexity

• Franchisor approval process

• Buyer financing requirements

Businesses that are well-prepared and priced appropriately tend to move more efficiently through the process.

The Role of a Franchise Business Broker

An experienced franchise business broker helps manage timelines by preparing the business properly, targeting qualified buyers, and maintaining structure throughout the process.

Highwater Partners is a national business brokerage and M&A advisory firm specializing in the sell-side representation of franchise owners and independent multi-unit operators. Our role is to guide owners through valuation, buyer exposure, and transaction execution with clarity and discipline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it usually take to sell a franchise business?

Most franchise businesses sell within six to twelve months, depending on preparation, buyer demand, and franchisor requirements. Some transactions move faster, while others take longer based on complexity.

Why do some franchise sales take longer than others?

Sales often take longer when financial records are incomplete, pricing is unrealistic, buyer financing is delayed, or franchisor approval timelines extend the process.

Can a franchise sell faster if it is performing well?

Yes. Strong financial performance, clean records, and favorable market conditions typically attract more qualified buyers and can shorten the sales timeline.

Does franchisor approval affect how long a sale takes?

Yes. Most franchisors require buyer approval, which can add time to the process depending on their review procedures and requirements.

Can I speed up the process by working with a business broker?

Working with an experienced franchise business broker can help reduce delays by preparing the business properly, targeting qualified buyers, and managing the process efficiently.

Request a Complimentary Franchise Valuation

If you would like a clear, market-based understanding of your franchise’s value—or want to discuss timing and expectations—we invite you to connect with Highwater Partners.

Schedule a Complimentary Valuation