Pre-Listing Checklist for Dentists

Maximize Value. Minimize Surprises. Transition Smoothly.

Thinking of selling your dental practice in the next 1–3 years? Use this checklist to ensure your practice is financially strong, operationally ready, and strategically positioned for a successful transition.

Practice Performance & Financials

• Maintain Full Hours of Operation. Avoid reducing your schedule in the years leading up to retirement.
• Sustain or Increase Productivity: Keep up clinical volume and prioritize profitable procedures.
• Review P&L Statements (3–4 years). Ensure clean, accurate financials with a healthy net profit margin.

• Control Overhead

  • Staff wages at 24%–26% of revenue
  • Supplies at 6%–8%
  • Lab fees at 6%–7%
• Update Your Fee Schedule Adjust fees to reflect current market rates and boost net income.
• Eliminate Personal Expenses from Business Accounts Avoid blending personal or non-practice-related expenses in your books.

Facility, Equipment & Technology

• Assess Office Aesthetics Fresh paint, flooring, lighting, or cabinetry updates can enhance appeal.
• Upgrade Outdated Equipment Replace any visibly aged or non-functional equipment if feasible.
• Implement Modern Technology Ensure digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, chartless systems, etc., are in place.

Real Estate & Lease Management

• Own the Property? Decide whether you will include it in the sale or lease it back.

• Lease the Property?

  • Review lease terms
  • Ensure assignment is allowed
  • Renegotiate if near expiration
• Consult a Real Estate Attorney Make sure your lease or sale terms are aligned with transition goals.

Staffing & Human Resources

• Review Staff Roles & Compensation Ensure all roles are productive and compensation aligns with industry benchmarks.
• Limit Major Changes to Staff Before Sale Buyers value continuity—avoid layoffs or restructuring without a plan.
• Plan for Family Member Transitions Have a clear succession plan if a spouse or relative will exit with you.

Transition Planning & Legal Readiness

• Meet with Your Accountant Understand tax implications and prepare historical financial data.
• Consult a Financial Advisor Confirm you’re personally ready for retirement or semi-retirement.

• Organize Legal Documents

  • Entity documents
  • Tax returns
  • Employment agreements
  • Vendor contracts
  • Lease or title documents

Patient Communication & Marketing Assets

• Maintain a Clean, Updated Website Ensure your site reflects a modern, professional image.
• Secure Your Patient Records Ensure your software and backups are up to date and HIPAA-compliant.
• Prepare for Patient Communication Craft a positive transition message for email, letters, and in-office signage.

Talk to a Transition Consultant

• Schedule a Practice Valuation Understand your practice’s fair market value.
• Identify Timing & Exit Strategy Set a transition timeline that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
• Develop a Confidential Marketing Plan Work with a broker to attract ideal-fit buyers discreetly and efficiently.

Ready to Begin?

This checklist is your roadmap to a profitable, low-stress practice transition.The earlier you begin preparing, the more options—and value—you’ll have.

Need help evaluating your readiness or boosting your practice value before listing?Let’s schedule a consultation and create your custom transition plan.