Austin Hunter on When to Consider Transitioning Dental Practices

September 2025, Ep. 020

Posted on 9/12/2025 by WEO Media

In this conversation, Joseph and Austin Hunter discuss the critical aspects of preparing for the sale of a dental practice. They emphasize the importance of starting the transition process early, understanding the valuation of practices, and navigating the complexities of offers and deal structures. Austin shares insights on common misconceptions and stresses the need for dentists to have a plan in place for their future, especially in light of unforeseen circumstances. In this conversation, Austin Hunter discusses the intricacies of selling a dental practice, emphasizing the importance of timing, preparation, and understanding the market landscape. He highlights common mistakes dentists make, such as waiting too long to sell or misunderstanding the transition period post-sale. The discussion also covers the role of confidentiality during the sale process and the growing influence of Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) in the market. Hunter stresses the need for early action in preparing a practice for sale to maximize its value and offers insights into the consulting support available to dentists looking to transition their practices.

Takeaways

•	It's never too early to prepare for the sale of your practice.
•	Understanding the selling process can help you make informed decisions.
•	Valuation is based on profitability or EBITDA.
•	Different deal structures can affect the final sale price.
•	Having a plan in place is crucial for unexpected events.
•	Common misconceptions can lead to poor decision-making.
•	Creating a competitive bidding environment can increase offers.
•	The transition process can be time-consuming and complex.
•	Dentists should consider their retirement plans early.
•	Protecting your investment is essential for your future. Many dentists wait too long to sell their practice, missing out on potential value.
•	Selling a practice often requires a commitment to stay on for several years post-sale.
•	The process of preparing a practice for sale can take several months.
•	Confidentiality is crucial to maintain staff morale during the sale process.
•	Most buyers today are DSOs, which can offer higher valuations than individual dentists.
•	It's important to educate oneself about the DSO landscape before selling.
•	Early preparation can significantly impact the eventual sale price of a practice.
•	A full 12 months of financials is necessary to accurately value a practice.
•	Consulting support can help dentists maximize their practice's value before sale.
•	A brokerage can secure a higher sale price than a direct sale to a buyer.

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