Believing that you must sell your entire veterinary practice (100%) upon retirement is a common misconception that ensnares many first-time practice owners. You've dedicated decades to building a reputable and successful practice — it is your legacy. Why then should you relinquish complete control and sell it all? The truth is, you shouldn't have to, nor is it always the most beneficial route financially. A capital divestiture that integrates a partial sale strategy can often be far more lucrative. It enables you to capitalize on your practice's current market value by liquidating just a part of your stake, while still maintaining a vested interest in the continued success of your business. This not only provides immediate financial relief but also allows you to benefit from the practice's ongoing distributions and potential for future appreciation in value. By retaining a share of your practice, you continue to reap the rewards of your lifelong investment without completely stepping away. This approach affords you financial security, continued involvement at a level that suits your new lifestyle, and the assurance that the practice you've worked so hard to build will continue to flourish under your founding principles. Consider your options carefully. A partial sale can offer the best of both worlds: a well-deserved payout and an ongoing stake in a business that means more to you than just profits. It's not just a transaction; it's about making a strategic decision that acknowledges the full worth of your professional journey.