How to Survive the Final 90 Days Before Closing

Execute critical cash flow, documentation, and transition tasks in your business's final quarter before sale closure.

1. Lock down cash flow projections weekly. Build 13-week rolling cash flow forecasts updated every Monday. Track actual vs. projected variance within 5%. Flag any week where operating cash flow drops below 1.2x your weekly burn rate. Buyers walk when cash trends diverge from projections.
2. Complete all outstanding due diligence requests. Maintain a live tracker of every buyer request with completion dates. Resolve items within 48 hours maximum. Incomplete due diligence kills 23% of deals in the final 60 days. Create standardized response templates for recurring document requests.
3. Preserve working capital targets. Monitor working capital daily against purchase agreement minimums. Typical targets run 90-120 days of operating expenses. Delay non-critical vendor payments if needed to maintain covenant compliance. Track AR aging weekly and collect aggressively.
4. Execute management transition planning. Document all critical processes in 1-2 page standard operating procedures. Record video walkthroughs for complex systems. Schedule buyer shadowing sessions for key customer relationships. Create emergency contact lists for all vendor and service relationships.
5. Coordinate closing logistics with your attorney. Schedule final walk-through 2-3 days before closing. Prepare wire transfer instructions and verify with receiving bank. Organize all required signatures and notarizations. Build 48-hour buffer for any last-minute documentation issues.
6. Plan post-closing cash management. Calculate net proceeds after all fees, taxes, and escrow holds. Set up separate accounts for estimated tax liabilities. Schedule meetings with tax professionals within 30 days of closing for quarterly payment planning.