How should I handle my web studio’s unfinished client projects during a sale?

Begin with the status sheet. For each open project, record what has been delivered, what remains, the dates promised, the money invoiced and the money still owing. Include the awkward items: a client slow to give feedback, a change request nobody priced, a developer who has gone quiet. A buyer who finds these later will question everything else you said.

Then decide the split of work and money. Work that is almost finished may be best completed by you before closing. Projects in the middle might continue with the same team under the buyer. Agree in writing who receives each payment still to come, and how costs already spent are treated. Your lawyer and accountant should shape that agreement.

Finally, plan the client conversation. Some clients will want reassurance, some will want to change terms, and a few may want out. Decide who talks to each, and when, and whether the buyer attends a meeting. Keep the same project lead on each job if you can, because a familiar face calms nerves more than a polished announcement does. Ask the buyer which projects they would pause or decline if they owned the studio today, then discuss those openly before closing, not afterward. Changes to scope are easier to explain when they are planned.

Key takeaways

• Write a candid status sheet for every open project.
• Agree in writing who finishes each job and who receives payment.
• Keep the same project lead where possible.
• Tell important clients before the public announcement.