How to Sell Your Handmade Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to move on? Here's what to consider when selling your handmade business and where to list it.

Selling a handmade business isn’t just about posting a listing and hoping for the best—it’s a mix of preparation, strategy, and knowing where to find the right buyers. Whether you're scaling into a new venture or taking time to recharge, selling your business can be a profitable and rewarding process when done right.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through key considerations, platforms to list your business, and tips from my personal experience as someone who’s bought, sold, and listed multiple businesses. Ready to cash out on all your hard work?

What to Consider Before Selling Your Business

Selling a handmade business requires thoughtful preparation. Here are the most important factors to address before you list:

1. Determine Your Business Valuation

How much is your business worth? Platforms like Shopify’s Exchange Marketplace offer a free business valuation tool to give you a quick estimate. Empire Flippers also an app for Shopify users. Valuations are often based on revenue, profit margins, customer databases, and growth potential.

2. Get Your Financials in Order

Serious buyers will ask for clear and organized financial records. Make sure your profit and loss statements, sales reports, and expenses are updated. If you're unsure how to present these, consult an accountant or use a financial tracking tool.

3. Evaluate Your Business's Strengths

Ask yourself: What makes your business attractive to buyers? Is it a strong customer base, consistent revenue, or great branding? Highlight these unique selling points in your listing.

4. Decide If You’ll Stay Involved

Some buyers prefer the original owner to stay on for a few months to ease the transition. Decide if you’re willing to do this, and include it in your pitch.

Where to List Your Handmade Business for Sale

There are several platforms designed to connect business owners with buyers. Each one caters to different types of businesses and audiences, so it’s important to choose the right fit.

1. Empire Flippers

Empire Flippers specializes in established online businesses with consistent revenue. They vet buyers and sellers carefully, ensuring a secure transaction. While they take a percentage of the sale, the professionalism and support can be worth it.

2. Shopify Exchange Marketplace

If your handmade business operates on Shopify, Shopify Exchange Marketplace is a convenient option. The platform connects Shopify store owners with buyers, and their free valuation tool helps you set a competitive price.

3. Flippa

Flippa is one of the most popular platforms for selling online businesses of all sizes. It's beginner-friendly and allows you to auction your business, which can attract competitive offers.

4. Private Listings

Sometimes, the best buyer is closer than you think. You can privately reach out to your network, post in industry groups, or hire a broker to find a buyer. This method often works well if you have a niche product or a loyal community.

My Personal Experience with Selling Businesses

Having bought and sold several businesses myself, I’ve learned a few things along the way:

• Highlight your unique value. When I sold my beauty website, I emphasized its strong SEO ranking, aged domain, strong branding, large email list and a recurring customer base. Buyers loved the steady, predictable revenue.

• Be realistic. Overpricing can scare off buyers. Use valuation tools and study similar listings to set a fair price.

• Prepare for questions. Buyers often ask about growth potential, operations, and why you’re selling. Be transparent but strategic.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I offer 1-on-1 coaching sessions to guide you through the process. Click here to schedule a call.

Tips for a Successful Sale

1. Optimize Your Listing: Use high-quality images, clear financials, and a compelling description.

2. Negotiate Wisely: Be flexible but firm—know your bottom line before entering discussions.

3. Protect Your Business: Use contracts and escrow services to ensure a safe transaction.

Conclusion

Selling your handmade business is a big step, but with preparation and the right platform, it can be a smooth and profitable process. Whether you choose Empire Flippers, Shopify Exchange, or Flippa, remember to present your business as the valuable asset it truly is.

Got questions or need personalized advice? Schedule a 1-on-1 call with me today! Let’s make your business sale a seamless success.