Published on November 10, 2026

Finding a buyer for your business is an important milestone. However, an agreed price is only one part of a successful business sale.

For owners selling a motel, hotel, pub, caravan park, restaurant or other business, the period between accepting an offer and settlement involves several important steps. Understanding the process can help avoid unnecessary delays and keep the transaction moving.

From an offer to a signed contract

Once the buyer and seller agree on the main terms, the transaction generally moves towards a formal contract of sale.

The contract sets out the purchase price, deposit arrangements, settlement date, assets included and any conditions that must be satisfied.

Depending on the transaction, these conditions may include finance approval, satisfactory due diligence, landlord consent or the transfer of relevant licences.

Your solicitor or legal adviser should review the contract to ensure it accurately reflects the agreed terms.

Due diligence: Confirming the details

Due diligence allows the purchaser and their advisers to examine the business before proceeding, subject to the agreed contract conditions. For accommodation and hospitality businesses, this commonly includes reviewing:

• - Financial statements, BAS and trading records.
• - Lease agreements, rent reviews and remaining tenure.
• - Plant, equipment and maintenance records.
• - Occupancy rates, booking information and future reservations.
• - Employee arrangements and outstanding entitlements.
• - Licences, permits and regulatory compliance.

Having this information organised before the business goes to market can make a considerable difference.

Missing documents or inconsistencies in financial records can slow the process and create uncertainty for purchasers.

Finance and landlord approval

Where a purchaser requires finance, lenders may request additional financial information, business valuations or property assessments.

For leasehold motels, hotels, restaurants and caravan parks, landlord consent may also be required before the lease can be assigned.

The existing lease, the landlord's requirements and applicable state legislation will influence the process.

Licences and regulatory requirements

Licensed hospitality businesses can have additional requirements.

For example, the transfer of a hotel or pub in Victoria may involve Liquor Control Victoria, while businesses in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania operate under their respective licensing frameworks.

Liquor licences, gaming approvals, food registrations and other permits should be considered early, as not every approval transfers automatically with the sale.

Preparing for settlement

As settlement approaches, both parties must finalise their obligations.

This may include stocktaking, employee entitlement adjustments, transfer of business names, utility arrangements, booking systems, keys, passwords and operational records.

For motels and caravan parks, existing guest bookings and deposits also require careful reconciliation.

An agreed handover period can help the new operator understand the business and maintain continuity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Selling your business? Preparation makes a difference.

At CRE Brokers, our role extends beyond finding a buyer. We work with vendors and purchasers throughout the transaction, helping coordinate the commercial aspects of a sale through to settlement.

Whether you're selling a motel in Victoria, a caravan park in Queensland, a hotel in New South Wales or a business elsewhere in Australia, speak with your local CRE Brokers specialist.

Contact CRE Brokers on 1300 76 78 02 or visit www.crebrokers.com to discuss your business sale.

This article provides general information only and should not be relied upon as legal, financial or taxation advice. Requirements vary depending on the transaction, business structure and Australian state or territory. Buyers and sellers should obtain independent professional advice relevant to their circumstances.