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Blackland Advisors Blog Posts

5 Dangerous LOI Clauses in Middle Market M&A Deals

by: Chapman SymePublished on: 03/31/2026

The LOI is non-binding on price but binding where it matters. Learn five gotcha clauses that cost sellers millions after they’ve granted exclusivity. Chapman Syme from Blackland Advisors.

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The Institutional M&A Sale Process: Timeline & Phases

by: Chapman SymePublished on: 03/14/2025

Selling a business takes seven distinct phases — from setting goals and preparing financials to managing due diligence and closing. Here's what to expect at every step and how to protect your outcome. Chapman Syme from Blackland Advisors.

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Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Blackland Advisors provides M&A and succession planning services to business owners across the Southeast.