How We Compare
The step before traditional due diligence.
Northscope is not a replacement for professional advisors. It is the step before CPA and legal that tells you where to focus them, so you spend less and close faster.
Side by Side
Northscope vs. Traditional DD
| Northscope | Traditional DD | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $3,000 per analysis | $15,000–$50,000+ |
| Timeline | Typically under 1 hour | 4–8 weeks |
| Analytical Frameworks | 4 independent, adversarial | 1 (single firm perspective) |
| Output | Risk report + pricing scenarios + bridge plan + verification checklist + seller-ready email | Findings memo or management letter |
| Negotiation Tools | Included: anchor, target, and walk-away pricing with scenarios | Not typically included |
| Verification Guidance | Included: ranked seller requests with impact scoring | General recommendations |
| Independence | Never influenced by any party to the transaction | Varies. Often retained by one side |
| Deal Types | Business, property, and business with real estate. One analysis | Business only (property requires separate specialist) |
| When to Use | Before LOI or early LOI. Early risk triage | After LOI, during formal diligence period |
Timing depends on document completeness; complex deals may take longer.
How They Work Together
Northscope tells you where the risks are and what they cost. Your CPA and attorney verify and protect. Together, you spend less and close faster.
Buyers who run Northscope before hiring advisors typically cut their CPA and legal scope in half, because the report tells them exactly which areas need professional verification and which ones do not.
The Process
How experienced buyers use both
1. Northscope First
Submit documents, receive risk analysis and negotiation positions typically under an hour once documents are complete. Identify exactly where the risks are.
2. Negotiate Informed
Use the bridge plan and pricing scenarios to structure the deal. Resolve what you can before engaging expensive advisors.
3. Focused DD
Hand your CPA and attorney a focused scope. They verify the specific areas Northscope flagged instead of reviewing everything from scratch.
Get Started
Know the risks before you commit.
Independent risk analysis, negotiation positions, and a verification scope. Typically under an hour once documents are complete.