
Guide to the 6 Types of Sale/Transfer on Sherlok
Understanding the 6 Types of Sale/Transfer on Sherlok
When it comes to selling or transferring a business, the options can seem complex. On Sherlok, our platform offers different types of transactions to suit every need. This guide illustrates the 6 main ones, with practical examples to help you navigate.
1. Total Transfer: Business and Property Together
The Total Transfer, involves the complete sale of the business, including the real estate property. The buyer takes over both the operating business and the property in which it operates. Think of a thriving restaurant in Firenze, sold with the walls of the premises. This option is ideal when the owner wants to exit the business and the related real estate sector completely.
2. Business Transfer: Only the Business, Not the Walls
In the Business Transfer, the business as a whole is sold (goodwill, customers, equipment, contracts), but not the real estate property. For example, a successful ice cream shop in Milano could be sold, keeping the property owner unchanged. The buyer takes over the management of the business, entering into a lease agreement with the property owner. This is a frequent choice for those who want to expand rapidly, acquiring an already operational business without immobilizing capital in the purchase of a property.
3. Commercial Property Transfer: Only the Property, Without Business
The Commercial Property Transfer, concerns the sale of the property only, without the business operating within it. It involves selling a shop, a warehouse or an office, without the business. An example could be the sale of an empty industrial warehouse in the Bologna area. This option is interesting for real estate investors or for those who own a property that they no longer intend to use for their business.
4. Share Transfer: Acquiring the Company, Not the Individual Assets
The Share Transfer, involves the sale of all or part of the company shares. Instead of transferring individual assets (equipment, brands, etc.), the shares of the company are transferred. An example could be the sale of 70% of the shares of an S.r.l. operating in the software sector in Roma. This approach maintains the legal continuity of the company and is often preferred in more complex operations, where the entire corporate structure is to be acquired.
5. Business Lease: Temporary Management with Purchase Option
The Business Lease, is a temporary concession of the business, often with a possible future purchase option. The lessee manages the business for a defined period, paying a fee, and may have the right to purchase the business at the end of the period. Imagine a small hotel on the Romagna coast given on a business lease for 5 years, with a purchase option. This formula is useful for those who want to test a business before committing to a definitive purchase or for those looking for a management opportunity with growth potential.
6. Property Rental: Only the Rental of the Space
The Property Rental, refers to the rental of the property only, without the business. It involves renting an empty commercial space, without any operational activity included. For example, renting a shop in the center of Torino. This is the ideal solution for those looking for a space to start a new business or for those who need to expand their headquarters.
We hope this guide is helpful in navigating the different sales and transfer options. If you need support in evaluating the best strategy for your business, Sherlok provides tools and professionals to simplify the M&A process.


