I am looking to better understand options and creative ways deals have been put together using seller notes, performance guarantees, equity retained and balloon payment timelines. It could be as simple as a percentage breakdown of purchase into the various buckets. e.g. 50% of the purchase price paid up front, 10% seller's note, 40% of purchase tied to performance guarantee over two years - revenue growth required for payout X%.

For context, I am working with a seller who wants a high multiple (accounting for future performance of the company). The only way I see a deal happening is with buyer-friendly terms with performance hurdles. Curious how others have handled this situation.

Thank you!