LOI/Purchase Agreement Checklist
How to Set the Stage for a Strong Offer and a Smooth Close
This is where the game begins.
When a buyer is ready to move forward, your job as the broker shifts into high gear. This stage—whether it starts with a Letter of Intent (LOI) or jumps straight to a Purchase Agreement—is where structure matters most.
In this video (and post), we break down how to review and shape a buyer’s offer so it’s clear, complete, and built to close. The goal isn’t just to get an offer—it’s to get the right offer that protects your client and leads to a successful closing.Why This Stage Is Critical
As a broker, you’re not just handing over paperwork. You’re guiding the entire negotiation and ensuring your seller isn’t exposed to vague terms, unnecessary risks, or avoidable delays.
Skipping steps or missing key elements in the LOI or Purchase Agreement can lead to confusion, renegotiations, or worse—deals falling apart.Most Common Mistakes at This Stage:
How to Set the Stage for a Strong Offer and a Smooth Close
This is where the game begins.
When a buyer is ready to move forward, your job as the broker shifts into high gear. This stage—whether it starts with a Letter of Intent (LOI) or jumps straight to a Purchase Agreement—is where structure matters most.
In this video (and post), we break down how to review and shape a buyer’s offer so it’s clear, complete, and built to close. The goal isn’t just to get an offer—it’s to get the right offer that protects your client and leads to a successful closing.Why This Stage Is Critical
As a broker, you’re not just handing over paperwork. You’re guiding the entire negotiation and ensuring your seller isn’t exposed to vague terms, unnecessary risks, or avoidable delays.
Skipping steps or missing key elements in the LOI or Purchase Agreement can lead to confusion, renegotiations, or worse—deals falling apart.Most Common Mistakes at This Stage:
- LOIs missing timelines or deadlines
- Financing terms left unclear or assumed
- No mention of seller involvement post-close
- Assets or IP not clearly included/excluded
- No clarity on deal structure (asset vs. equity sale)
LOI/Purchase Agreement ChecklistUse this checklist to ensure every offer or agreement you receive is structured properly and includes all critical terms:
- Purchase Price – Total price the buyer is offering
- Down Payment – Amount paid upfront
- Financing Details – SBA loan, seller note, or other funding sources
- Contingencies – Due diligence, financing, lease transfer, etc.
- Timeline – Target dates for each phase (due diligence, contract signing, closing)
- Training/Transition Period – Will the seller stay on temporarily?
- Inclusions/Exclusions – What’s included (inventory, equipment, IP, real estate)?
- Earnest Money Deposit – How much? When due? Refundable?
- Non-Compete Terms – If required, define the radius and duration
- Structure of Sale – Asset sale vs. stock/membership interest sale
Final Thought
A well-structured LOI or Purchase Agreement doesn’t just protect your client—it builds momentum and confidence in the deal. Clarity now means fewer roadblocks later, and a smoother path to the closing table.
Download the Full LOI/Purchase Agreement Checklist
Make sure every offer checks all the right boxes before it hits your seller’s inbox.
A well-structured LOI or Purchase Agreement doesn’t just protect your client—it builds momentum and confidence in the deal. Clarity now means fewer roadblocks later, and a smoother path to the closing table.
Download the Full LOI/Purchase Agreement ChecklistMake sure every offer checks all the right boxes before it hits your seller’s inbox.
