---
title: Buy Side Transaction Process
description: With careful planning and an understanding of the buy side transaction process, acquirers can find and win quality targets.
---

[M&A, ESOP and Valuation Resources ](https://www.pcecompanies.com/resources)

# [Buy Side Transaction Process](https://www.pcecompanies.com/resources/buy-side-transaction-process)

 Written by [Michael Poole](https://www.pcecompanies.com/resources/author/michael-poole) | September 09 2021

 

With careful planning and an understanding of the buy side transaction process, acquirers can find and win quality targets.

## Determine M&A Strategy

- Management objectives
- Market analysis
- Competitive analysis
- Investment hypothesis
- Alignment with business model

Timing: 1-4 weeks

## Identify Targets

- Research & develop criteria
- Size
- Industry
- Geography
- Provide preliminary target list
- Solicit interest from selected targets

Timing: 2-4 weeks

## Vet Interested Targets

- Financial performance-past & forecasted
- Customer attractiveness/concentrations
- Vendor concentrations
- Systems & processes
- Capital expenditures
- Explore synergies
- Determine targets to move forward

Timing: 4-8 weeks

## Pre-LOI Due Diligence

- Determine deal structure and price
- Identify financing sources
- Negotiate key terms
- Hold management meetings
- Tour facilities
- Perform detailed valuation analysis
- Investigate integration costs
- Execute LOI

Timing: 3-4 weeks

## Post-LOI Due Diligence

- Evaluate quality of earnings
- Review operations
- Review human resources
- Assess environmental issues
- Draft transaction documents
- Plan integration

Timing: 6-12 weeks

## Close

- Execute agreements
- Wire proceeds
- Announce to employees
- Begin integration process

[View full post](https://www.pcecompanies.com/resources/buy-side-transaction-process)

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