My dad is self employed and is getting to the point of retiring. He runs a very successful business and is always in demand. I'm trying to find out if it's possible for him to sell his business. The problem is that aside from a few tools and stock he doesnt have any assets or an office or staff or anything. So essentially what he would be selling is his large customer database, his phone number and the name he trades under so the reputation he's built up. Is this even possible? If anyone has any experience i would be very happy to hear it. i have checked on google but the advice i found related to selling big businesses! thanks so much for your help

This is called the goodwill of the company. It's common to sell that. Try and sell before next April. Taper relief tax, currently 10%, if you own the company for more than 2 years. Is going up 80% to 18%.

where is the business based and what is it?

Yes. There are places you can try this like estate agents for business, try Daltons (paper and online), lots others.You could also try your local business link, they provide help and advice, or try contacting a trade association/organisation related to what your dad does. Good will is worth lots and a good customer list is worth far more than just a shop front and stock!