Triggering Shotgun Buy/Sell Clauses
- Gather the final signed copies of the LLC or partnership agreement and the definitive mortgage and guaranty documents. Make sure you have all amendments and side letters.
- Depending on the circumstances, case law may impose fiduciary duties on partners. If you are not a managing partner, make sure all material information on the property has been requested prior to the trigger.
- Review the terms of the prepayment, transfer and guaranty provisions of any mortgage or mezzanine loan on the property well in advance. Is consent needed with respect to either outcome? Is the release of a guaranty a condition to the closing? If so, plan for that event.
- Determine whether to discuss the possible trigger in advance with the other side. If you decide to raise the possibility, consult with us as to the steps to prevent a waiver of any beneficial provision.
- Obtain the advice of your other professionals (broker, mortgage broker, banker) as to the valuation to use for the shotgun, balancing the desire for obtaining the maximum payment if you are the selling partner vs. the ability to finance the property if you are the winning buyer.
- Consider aligning yourself with an equity partner prior to the trigger. While there may be a cost involved, the investment may be crucial particularly where there is a short closing window.
- Get us involved early. Most provisions have express time limits and conditions to the trigger. Many clauses also have ambiguities or gaps in the sequences and you will need legal counsel early and often.
PartnerTom represents owners, operators and developers in the acquisition, financing, development, ground leasing, and sale of significant properties. His experience includes office towers, commercial condominiums, industrial ...