Move on shareholder changes with clarity
Independent, HMRC-aware valuations for buy-outs, share transfers and succession. Fixed fee from £2,200, draft report in 5-7 working days.
- Buy-outs, transfers, succession
- Multi-method, defensible range
- HMRC-aware documentation
- Adviser-ready report pack
Why owner-directors choose Optival
Defensible numbers, delivered on time, at a price you can budget for.
Defensible Methodology
Independent reports built on recognised techniques (earnings multiples, DCF, NAV) with transparent assumptions and a clear audit trail.
Predictable Turnaround
Draft report typically within 5-7 working days of receiving your information, so shareholder decisions can move forward without delay.
Adviser-Ready Reports
Written in plain English, suitable for boards, solicitors, accountants and HMRC. We coordinate directly with your existing advisers.
From brief to signed report in 5-7 working days
A straightforward four-step engagement, run by a senior valuer from day one.
Scope & Engagement
Define the purpose, valuation date, and share class. Agree timeline and fixed fee.
Information Gathering
Collect financial statements, management accounts, forecasts, and business information.
Analysis & Valuation
Apply appropriate methodologies, adjust for normalising items, and determine value.
Report Delivery
Comprehensive written report with clear methodology, supporting analysis and follow-up support.
Shareholder Valuation - From £2,200
Independent fair value, full written report and adviser coordination. Draft delivered within 5-7 working days.
What is Fair Market Value?
In the UK, fair market value represents the price at which shares would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, acting knowledgeably and without compulsion. This standard underpins valuations prepared for HMRC and for private shareholder transactions.
For SMEs, determining fair market value requires careful consideration of illiquidity, control premiums, and the impact of key individuals on business performance. Our valuations provide the clarity and documentation needed for regulatory compliance, informed decision-making, and stakeholder confidence.
When is a Valuation Required?
Shareholder Transactions
Independent valuations for buy-outs, exits, and internal share transfers between shareholders.
HMRC Compliance
Valuations prepared to HMRC standards for tax reporting, share scheme compliance, and regulatory submissions.
Corporate Finance
Valuation support for strategic transactions, funding rounds, and corporate restructuring.
Strategic Planning
Value assessments to inform business strategy, exit planning, and performance benchmarking.
Valuation Methodologies
We select the most appropriate methodology based on business characteristics, available data, and the purpose of the valuation.
Related Valuation Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SME business valuations in the UK.
Related scenarios
Specific situations where this service applies - each with a dedicated guide.
Strategic Valuation
Board-level valuations to track value creation, prepare an exit and steer the business.
Read guideProbate / IHT
Open-market share valuations for HMRC IHT400 submissions and estate administration.
Read guideTax (HMRC)
Tax-driven valuations for share schemes, restructurings and post-transaction rulings.
Read guideRelated insights on SME valuations
SME Valuation UK: Methods & Pitfalls
A comprehensive guide to understanding how SME valuations work in the UK, covering the main methodologies, step-by-step process, and common mistakes to avoid.
Read articleValuation MethodsWhen Do You Need an SME Valuation? Key Contexts in the UK
From share schemes to shareholder exits, discover the most common situations where UK SMEs require a professional business valuation.
Read articleCase StudiesShareholder Valuation Disputes: A Guide for UK SMEs
Practical guidance for UK SMEs on resolving shareholder valuation disputes - from articles and shareholder agreements to independent expert determinations.
Read articleReady to move on a shareholder change?
Get a fixed fee in writing and a defensible valuation in 5-7 working days.
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