No. Identify the actual stage of each material arrangement. A conversation, proposal and executed agreement establish different facts.
Keep forecasts transparent
Explain assumptions without presenting uncertain revenue as already earned.
A signed purchase agreement with an escrow that releases the funds to the seller upon E-2 approval and binds the buyer to close, together with bank records showing the money has left the buyer's control and entered escrow or the business. Multi-period financial statements showing a growth trend, signed or pending client contracts, and a business plan with revenue projections tied to specific, named scaffolding opportunities. Collect the executed facility agreement, the schedule of reserved hours, invoices and payment records, storage and equipment arrangements, insurance, and the permissions each party holds. Collect the executed leases with every amendment, the assignment or consent documents, current rent ledgers, deposit receipts, any guarantee signed personally, and correspondence with each landlord about renewal. A signed lease with rent already paid, invoices marked paid for calibration standards or vehicles, a bill of sale with the funds released, insurance policies in force, business licences issued and the first payroll run all show a business that has started. The second half traces commitment: the signed purchase agreement, escrow instructions if used, the closing statement, wire confirmations, and receipts for deposits, equipment, licences, insurance and pre-opening costs.