By ORDENNE · Published 8 November 2026
The practical answer
Deal output: a coherent preliminary commercial document and an agreed list of matters requiring further work.
Record the commercial understanding clearly
Describe the buyer, seller, interest offered, indicative price and payment structure. State the information and assumptions underlying the proposal. Keep included assets, working capital, debt and deposits visible so that an attractive price does not conceal a different transaction perimeter.
Set out the proposed process
Identify diligence workstreams, key conditions, expected responsibilities and a working timetable. Where exclusivity or confidentiality is proposed, be clear about the scope and duration being discussed. The document should help the parties coordinate work rather than imply that every open matter is resolved.
Have the actual wording reviewed
Do not assume a document is entirely non-binding because it is described as preliminary. Ask qualified legal advisers to explain the effect of the specific provisions and the applicable framework. Align the financial model and next-step checklist with the terms that are actually agreed.
Your working checklist
- Define parties and perimeter
- State price assumptions
- Outline diligence workstreams
- Identify proposed conditions
- Obtain legal review of the wording
Use the guide with a live opportunity
For a buyer, record the listing reference and the questions that could change your decision. For an owner, use the checklist to prepare a consistent response and identify which information is suitable for public presentation. Share identifying or sensitive material only through an agreed confidential process.
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- Building an integration plan for a UAE acquisition
- Calculate business cash yield
ORDENNE editorial transaction framework. Process suggestions are general preparation guidance, not a universal legal procedure, completed-transaction claim or personalised advice. Confirm the activity-specific requirements and agreed terms for the actual transaction.