Acquiring a trail book or business can be a rewarding investment opportunity, but it requires careful planning and diligence. By understanding the high-level steps involved in the acquisition process and the potential timeline, you can navigate the journey more effectively and minimise risks along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a newcomer to the field, comprehending the acquisition timeline is imperative for ensuring a smooth and prosperous transaction. If you need help, the experts, TrailBlazer, are always on hand.
In this blog, we’ll delineate the high-level steps involved in acquiring a trail book, offering professional insights into the timeline and potential challenges that may arise along the journey.
Step 1: Identifying the target
The journey begins with identifying the target asset – whether it’s a trail book, business, or company. This involves entering into a commercial agreement for the acquisition. However, keep in mind that this step is often subject to subsequent stages, such as due diligence or obtaining funding.
Step 2: Due diligence or obtain funding
Step two may involve conducting due diligence or securing funding for the acquisition. Due diligence is critical for assessing the target’s financial health, potential risks, and compliance with regulations. It’s also essential to address any outstanding issues, such as removing existing security or resolving legal matters before proceeding further.
Step 3: Legal contract stage
Once due diligence is complete and any necessary funding secured, the next step is the legal contract stage. This involves drafting or reviewing legal documentation to reflect the commercial terms of the transaction. Working with specialist advisors or lawyers can ensure that the contract provides the necessary protections, including warranties and indemnities.
Step 4: Settlement stage
The settlement stage marks the actual transfer of ownership. Any issues identified during due diligence are addressed, and final preparations are made for the transaction. This may include preparing necessary documentation, meeting with clients or staff, and finalising payment arrangements. Settlement can vary depending on the nature of the assets involved, but it typically involves the transfer of funds once legal requirements are met.
Step 5: Handover
After settlement, the focus shifts to post-settlement activities, including the handover process. This may involve transitional consultations with the vendor to ensure a smooth transition of ownership. Collaboration and cooperation between the parties are essential during this phase to address any remaining concerns or facilitate a seamless handover.
While deals can sometimes be rushed through, especially if they are straightforward and the parties are experienced, attempting to expedite the process without proper preparation can lead to complications and delays. Transactions involving third parties, such as aggregators, franchisors, or legal and financial advisors, may take longer to finalise.
It’s important to recognise that the acquisition timeline can vary significantly based on various factors, including the complexity of the transaction, regulatory requirements, and the cooperation of all parties involved. While some transactions may be completed in a matter of weeks, others may take several months to finalise.
Ensure to seek expert guidance when necessary and approach the process with diligence and patience to guarantee a favourable outcome. For finance professionals gearing up for an acquisition, our team provides discreet consultations customised to your specific needs. Alternatively, delve into our extensive eBook, “Acquisition Ready,” to delve deeper into the acquisition process and arm yourself with indispensable knowledge for achieving success.
Navigating the process of buying or selling a mortgage trail book doesn’t have to be overwhelming. To streamline the process and enhance the certainty of a successful sale, consider these top 10 golden rules.
1. Identify Approval Requirements Early
Determine early on which approvals are needed from key stakeholders, including directors of the selling entity and the trail book’s owner. This proactive approach will set the stage for a smoother transaction.
2. Understand Your Duties Under the Aggregation or Licensee Agreement
Before finalising the sale, confirm your obligations under the aggregation/licensee agreement, as the sale often depends on aggregator approval. Knowing these requirements in advance will help avoid delays.
3. Clarify Included Clients
Ensure you have a clear understanding of which client files are part of the sale. A well-documented client database is crucial, so review the records carefully before proceeding.
4. Draft a Comprehensive Deed of Assignment
Create a Memorandum of Agreement or Heads of Agreement outlining key terms before engaging legal services to draft the Deed of Assignment. This preparation can save both time and money by addressing essential terms upfront.
5. Obtain an Independent Valuation
Book valuations are complex and influenced by various factors. To achieve the best sale price or mitigate purchase risks, consider getting an independent valuation. Trailblazer Finance offers expert valuation services to help you accurately assess the value of your book.
6. Identify Loan Originators
Ensure you know who wrote the loans being bought or sold. Implement strong agreements with employees and contractors to prevent client poaching and protect your newly acquired asset.
7. Negotiate Clawback Costs and Retention
Discuss and agree on how future clawbacks will be handled and what retention forms part of the consideration. Addressing this issue early in negotiations is crucial for setting a fair purchase price.
8. Understand Paperwork and Fees
Be aware of the paperwork and fees involved in the transfer process. Consult with the aggregator about associated costs and approvals to ensure a smooth transaction and to allocate responsibilities between buyer and seller.
9. Determine Required Insurance
Ensure the vendor provides run-off PI insurance cover if exiting the industry. Agree on the coverage amount and duration in advance to meet any aggregator or funder requirements.
10. Choose Your Advisors Wisely
If you’re new to the trail book market, seek the assistance of experienced advisors. Their expertise can guide you through the process or manage it from start to finish.
To get started on the right foot, use Trailblazer Finance’s free trail book valuation calculator to estimate the value of your book. For more personalised advice and expert guidance, contact our team at 1300 139 003. Our professionals are here to ensure a successful buying or selling experience
In the arena of acquisitions, mistakes can be costly and detrimental to the success of the transaction. At Trailblazer Finance, we’ve witnessed a multitude of errors over the years, ranging from avoidable missteps to unforeseen challenges. These mistakes often fall into distinct categories, but with the right approach and expert guidance, they can be navigated effectively. Let’s explore the most common pitfalls and how Trailblazer Finance can assist you through each stage of the acquisition process.
1. Poor Due Diligence
One of the primary mistakes we’ve observed is the failure to conduct thorough due diligence. Without a comprehensive understanding of the target asset, subsequent actions may be based on incomplete or inaccurate information, leading to unfavourable outcomes. At Trailblazer Finance, our team emphasises the importance of meticulous due diligence, ensuring that our clients have a clear picture of the opportunities and risks associated with the acquisition.
2. Inappropriate Restraints
Inadequate or absent restraints from the vendor can pose significant challenges post-acquisition. Without appropriate safeguards in place, vendors may seek to undermine the integrity of the acquired business, jeopardising client relationships and revenue streams. Trailblazer Finance assists clients in negotiating and implementing robust restraints to protect their investments and uphold the integrity of the acquired entity.
3. Ineffective Legal Contracts
Legal contracts that fail to confer clear title or are overly vague can create uncertainty and render agreements unenforceable. This leaves purchasers vulnerable and without recourse in the event of disputes or breaches. Our team at Trailblazer Finance ensures that legal contracts are meticulously drafted, providing our clients with the necessary protections and legal clarity throughout the acquisition process.
4. Clawbacks
Failure to account for clawback provisions, particularly in mortgage trail books, can result in significant financial losses for purchasers. Without appropriate safeguards in place, purchasers may find themselves liable for clawback repayments, further exacerbating the impact of lost revenue. Trailblazer Finance advises clients on mitigating the risks associated with clawbacks, ensuring that contractual agreements adequately address these provisions.
5. Misunderstanding Client Relationships
Understanding the origins of client relationships is paramount in acquisitions, particularly when key staff members hold significant client portfolios. Failure to recognise and address potential client retention risks can lead to post-acquisition challenges and revenue loss. Trailblazer Finance provides strategic guidance to help clients navigate client relationship dynamics and mitigate potential risks associated with staff turnover.
While acquisitions present lucrative opportunities, they also entail inherent risks and complexities. By engaging with Trailblazer Finance, clients can benefit from our expertise and guidance throughout the acquisition process. From conducting thorough due diligence to negotiating robust legal agreements, we are committed to helping our clients avoid common pitfalls and achieve successful outcomes in their acquisitions.
Reach out to the experts to discuss your financial needs. Call us now 1300 139 003
Download our free eBook Acquisition Ready covering 10 topics that have been specifically chosen because it covers an area that is absolutely essential for a successful acquisition but often overlooked or poorly understood.
In the world of acquisitions, there are three fundamental questions every prospective buyer should ask themselves before engaging in any transaction. At TrailBlazer Finance, we specialise in guiding clients through the acquisition process, leveraging our vast experience to ensure optimal outcomes. Let’s delve into these crucial questions and how TrailBlazer Finance can assist you at each step of the journey:
Capacity Assessment:
Before diving into an acquisition, it’s essential to assess your capacity to manage and maximise the value of the acquired assets. Many trail book buyers, especially brokers and planners, overlook the importance of nurturing and transitioning acquired clients. At TrailBlazer Finance, we offer expert guidance to help you evaluate your capacity and develop strategies for effectively managing and growing your newly acquired assets.
Timing Evaluation:
Timing is everything in acquisitions. It’s crucial to assess whether you’re at a stage in your personal career and business development where you can capitalise on the acquisition. Our team at TrailBlazer Finance can help you evaluate the timing of your acquisition and determine whether it aligns with your goals and objectives. With our specialised knowledge and insights, we ensure that each acquisition translates into the greatest potential for client conversion, upselling, and the acquisition of recurring revenue.
Skill Suitability:
Acquiring a book requires more than just financial resources; it demands the right skills and expertise to effectively service acquired clients. Whether you’re dealing with sophisticated property investors or first-time homebuyers, having the appropriate experience is crucial. TrailBlazer Finance provides personalised support to help you assess your skill suitability and bridge any gaps in expertise. With our guidance, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the acquisition process and ensure a seamless transition for your clients.
By evaluating capacity, timing, and skill suitability, you can approach acquisitions with confidence and maximise opportunities while mitigating risks. At TrailBlazer Finance, we are committed to empowering our clients with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed in their acquisitions. Whether you’re exploring trail book acquisitions or opportunities in other domains, our team is here to support you every step of the way. For those interested in trail book acquisitions, try the FREE Trail Book Valuation Calculator to assess the potential value of your investment and make informed decisions.
From conducting due diligence to negotiating agreements and securing financing, TrailBlazer Finance offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your unique needs. With our expertise by your side, you can navigate the acquisition landscape with confidence and achieve your business goals.
So, if you’re a professional who’s looking for support from a funder that understands your business and is willing to back you while so many are turning their backs, then reach out to the team at TrailBlazer for a free confidential discussion about your circumstances. Click here to make an enquiry.
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In an excerpt from his recent interview with Stuart Donaldson at the Mortgage Business Commercial Masterclass, M&A specialist and TrailBlazer Finance Managing Director, Jeff Zulman, explains why brokers who can hold on through the current cycle will emerge stronger.
Adapting Geoffrey’s Moore’s Crossing the Chasm, which taught the start-up community how to leap the chasm between early adopters and the early majority, Jeff applies this model to the mortgage broking industry in a COVID-19 landscape.
He surmises that the Australian mortgage broking industry has experienced its halcyon stage, growing its market share from 18% in 2002 to a high of 60% in 2019 to hover around 55% in 2020 (Source: MFAA). Along the way it has suffered a litany of setbacks – the GFC, increased regulation and then the threat of abolition of trail – and finally finds itself in the COVID-19 chasm, the “valley of death”.
For those brokerages with the strength and resilience to survive this current phase – those that can demonstrate their ability to transcend cycles, build value and sustainability and come out the other side – steady, mature growth awaits, and, with it, tremendous opportunities from an M&A perspective.
Watch the short interview: M&A expert Jeff Zulman tells mortgage brokers to hold on
Crossing the COVID-19 chasm
If you are looking for advice around acquiring or selling trail books or need a cash flow boost, contact us today for a confidential conversation.
It goes without saying that large and small businesses alike are facing unprecedented challenges in the current environment. Brokers are certainly well-versed in how to hand tough times. What we know from those times is that where there are challenges there are invariably opportunities. Sometimes it’s simply a question of finding a partner to help you realise those opportunities when they present themselves.
In 2014, Chris Booth caught wind of an unmissable opportunity. At the time, he and his other business partners were running a successful full-service financial advisory business, Announcer Mortgages (now Infocus).
When they were offered the chance to buy an undervalued client book, an acquisition that would allow them to increase their footprint and further diversify their business, they decided to try to pull together the funds to make it happen. Knowing the book would eventually appreciate, they hoped to engage, convert and grow as many clients as possible before selling the book at a higher multiple.
Chris Booth, Head of Lending, Infocus
Finding funding
Having pooled their income streams, Chris and his partners shopped around for lenders to fund the purchase. Unhappy with the options available to them, Chris spoke to the Executive Director at his aggregator who facilitated an introduction to TrailBlazer Finance’s Managing Director, Jeff Zulman. Using a specialist trail book loan from TrailBlazer, Chris and his partners were able to borrow against Announcer’s mortgage trail book, rather than risk personal assets, in order to free up the capital to buy the book.
“In the end, we proceeded with the loan purely because of Jeff and the team. They made themselves physically available to us throughout the process and it gave us great confidence, both personally and professionally, that we were making the right decision with the right lender.”
Making growth happen
At the time of purchase, Chris was working with another part-time broker. While the business didn’t convert quite as many clients as they’d bullishly projected, they did manage to sign on around 500 fee-paying full-service clients from that book alone. By the time he and his partners decided to sell the business three years later, Announcer had increased in size to three full-time brokers, their client roster had more than doubled and the business had grown by almost 130 per cent in terms of the underlying trail. They subsequently sold the business to Infocus in 2017, repaying any remaining debt and banking a tidy sum.
Words of advice for brokers looking to grow
While Chris is the first to admit the industry is in a very different place in 2020, post-Royal Commission and mid-COVID pandemic, he would do it all over again. As a small business success story, does he have any advice for other brokers seeking to grow their business through acquisition?
“Using borrowed money is a good way to acquire clients and build your business quite quickly. You have a warm opportunity to call which makes it so much easier than building a book from scratch. Would I buy a mortgage book right now? Absolutely yes, the multiples are good, even though the market has some unknowns after the Royal Commission.
Acquisitions done properly absolutely work. However, be ready for it to take far longer than you’d expect to work a client book effectively. Ultimately, you still have to win the hearts and minds of the clients. One of the biggest learnings from the financial planning industry is that they didn’t try to win the clients. You have to call and build relationships, be proactive and be positive. Building those relationships is everything.”
Let us help
If you would like to find out about how we can help your business grow with our unique loan products for brokers and other white-collar professionals, please contact us on 1300 139 003 or at info@trailblazerfinance.com.au
