Acquisition playbook

From pre-LOI to a clean close

A module-by-module path for acquiring a business well, disciplined on fit and respectful of the owner, and fast where speed is safe. The same framework we run inside engagements.

Six modules

The path, in order

Each module has a clear purpose and a short list of what “done” looks like. Work them in sequence; the discipline early is what makes the close clean.

Hand-drawn illustration for the acquisition module, Pre-LOI and thesis fit
Module 01

Pre-LOI & thesis fit

Establishing whether a target fits the thesis before time and money go in.

Key takeaways

  • We confirm strategic and financial fit against explicit criteria.
  • We build a preliminary operating and market read.
  • We decide whether to pursue, park, or pass before the team spends more time.
Hand-drawn illustration for the acquisition module, Validation and first contact
Module 02

Validation & first contact

A prepared, respectful first conversation that earns a second.

Key takeaways

  • We validate the headline numbers and operating story.
  • We approach the owner with operating context instead of a cold pitch.
  • We assess owner motivation and appetite for a transition.
Hand-drawn illustration for the acquisition module, LOI strategy
Module 03

LOI strategy

Structuring a letter of intent that is fair, clear, and closeable.

Key takeaways

  • We align price, structure, and exclusivity.
  • We set a realistic diligence and closing timeline.
  • We protect the relationship with terms both sides can stand behind.
Hand-drawn illustration for the acquisition module, Post-LOI diligence
Module 04

Post-LOI diligence

Verifying the business efficiently, using tooling to compress the timeline.

Key takeaways

  • We work through the diligence checklist systematically.
  • We automate data-room review and financial analysis where the evidence supports it.
  • We surface and price risks early instead of waiting until the eleventh hour.
Hand-drawn illustration for the acquisition module, Deal structuring
Module 05

Deal structuring

Getting the economics and the continuity plan right together.

Key takeaways

  • We balance cash, rollover, earn-out, and financing.
  • We design a transition that preserves the team and brand.
  • We align incentives for the period after close.
Hand-drawn illustration for the acquisition module, Purchase agreement and close
Module 06

Purchase agreement & close

A clean signing and a transition that actually holds.

Key takeaways

  • We negotiate representations, warranties, and indemnities.
  • We confirm consents, permits, and change-of-control items.
  • We execute the 100-day transition plan.
If you remember three things

The whole playbook in one breath

One
Fit before effort

We pursue or pass on explicit criteria before diligence consumes the team's time.

Two
Respect the counterparty

The best deals protect the relationship, the team, and the brand.

Three
Close on continuity

A transition that holds is worth more than a dollar shaved at signing.

Put it to work

Run the playbook with support

Buyers use our diligence tooling and readiness materials to compress timelines. Owners can use the same framework in reverse to become the target buyers want to acquire.

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