When you have spent decades building a company, you understandably want a clean break and a full payout on closing day. But dismissing the idea of carrying a note outright can severely limit your buyer pool and, honestly, leave a lot of money on the table.
The reality is that the lending landscape has shifted a bit over the last year. With tighter credit standards and the new SBA rules that took effect earlier in 2026, it can be harder for buyers to secure traditional bank loans right now. Offering to finance a portion of the sale bridges that gap and maintains momentum.
Beyond just getting the deal done, carrying a small note sends a powerful signal. It shows you have real confidence in the future of the business you built. When a buyer sees you are willing to keep some skin in the game, it reassures them that the company won’t plummet the moment you walk out the door. That confidence usually leads to a smoother due diligence process and potentially even a higher overall purchase price.
With everything, it’s important to note that yes, there is always risk. You need to work with a qualified attorney and a seasoned broker to structure the note properly and protect your interests.
