How do I prepare a family entertainment centre for sale?

Buyers of a combined venue want to see how each part earns its keep. A seller who has that picture ready can answer a buyer’s questions more easily, and a buyer can see how each part of the venue is run, kept and recorded. Start well before you list, because tidying records and equipment takes longer than most owners expect.

Records by attraction and season

Prepare sales for each attraction, the party room, food and games, month by month over several years. Add the booking calendar for groups and parties. Note which results came from a one-off event or a change you made, so a buyer does not read a good or poor year the wrong way. Your accountant can help present them clearly.

Equipment, lease and land

Assemble an equipment list with ages, maintenance logs and a note of which games you own and which are placed by an operator. Gather the lease and any land arrangement, and read what they say about a transfer. If you have partners or family involved, talk to your lawyer about who must agree to a sale.

Timing, and whole or in parts

A buyer likes to see the venue in its busy season, so think about when to list and when to allow visits. Consider whether one buyer would take everything or whether an attraction or the land might sell separately. Selling with or without a broker is a further choice, and keep staff and customers in the dark until the time is right.