Before you sign the dotted line, ask the questions that reveal who your buyer really is — and what they truly value. That's why choosing the right buyer is as much about alignment as it is about economics. Whether you're selling to a private equity firm, a strategic acquirer or a next-generation operator, here are five essential questions every founder should ask to help ensure the buyer is the right fit. The right buyer will respect what you've built, invest in its future and align with your values. To help ensure you're finding the best successor for your business, it's important to ask difficult questions and listen closely to the answers.