Every buyer enters the process with a different lens. Some are chasing growth, others security, and others just care about the numbers. Understanding these motivations ahead of time puts you in a far stronger negotiating position. It can help you avoid surprises that can cause headaches and potentially derail a deal. Here’s a practical look […]
Buying or selling a business isn’t just about revenue, customers, or brand value. When a lease is involved, the real estate side of the deal can quickly become one of the most important and complicated pieces of the puzzle. For location-dependent businesses like restaurants, salons, or retail stores, the physical space is often inseparable from […]
Many people wonder whether they are truly “cut out” to own a business. While it’s true that entrepreneurship isn’t the right path for everyone, it’s also true that most business owners are not born overnight. The skills, mindset, and confidence required to succeed are often developed over time through experience, learning, and persistence. If you’ve […]
When business sales don’t go through, often the reasons are major, while other times they’re small or even personal. In some cases, the sale doesn’t happen because of specific disagreements on terms or misalignments in expectations between the buyer and seller. Let’s take a closer look at some of the issues that can interfere with […]
Purchasing an existing business offers a level of predictability and stability that launching a startup simply cannot provide. No matter how innovative or well-researched a new business idea may be, it will always involve uncertainty. Even with meticulous planning and support, new ventures often fail. In contrast, an established business has a documented operating history […]
Understanding the process of buying a business along with potential challenges upfront can increase your chances of success. Whether you’re buying a small business or an established company, here are the critical steps to keep in mind to ensure a smoother acquisition. Understand the Process and Protect Confidentiality From the outset, you’ll be asked to […]
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital storefront. It tells your professional story before you ever say a word. Business owners who present themselves with clarity and professionalism immediately earn the trust of others. A polished profile should highlight your expertise and showcase your achievements. If you’re preparing for a sale, your profile can convey your […]
As the old saying goes, first impressions matter. This is true regardless of whether it’s a personal interaction or a business transaction. Just as people judge you based on your initial interaction with them, the same is true for your company. Whether you’re meeting a new customer, handling an inquiry, or responding to feedback, putting […]
For many business owners, the idea of retiring can feel far off. However, at some point, the time will come to step away from your business. Planning for this transition is crucial. By preparing ahead of time, you can make the sales process smoother and more profitable. At the same time, this will help ensure […]
Securing funding to start or grow a small business can be daunting, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. Fortunately, the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers valuable support through its lending programs. Whether you’re looking to buy a business, expand an existing one, or purchase a franchise, SBA loans can help make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality. Here’s […]
In the world of buying and selling businesses, one factor that is often overlooked but is crucial for long-term success is employee engagement. But when you think about it, your employees are the lifeblood of your organization. They enhance customer experiences and drive performance. That’s why understanding the importance of employee satisfaction and engagement […]
When it comes to mergers and acquisitions (M&A), myths and misconceptions can be costly, especially since significant amounts of money are involved during these transactions. Many business owners, especially those new to the process, may fall prey to these common myths, which can undermine their chances of success. Understanding these misconceptions and how to deal […]
The idea of owning a business often sounds somewhat glamorous. People sometimes equate it with freedom, flexibility, and financial gain. But behind that polished image is a reality that many don’t see until they’re already in the thick of it. Being your own boss isn’t just a career move. Instead, it’s a lifestyle shift […]
When it comes to passing on or selling a family business, the process can be emotionally and financially complex. But whether you’re planning to keep the business in the family or hand it off to an external buyer, careful planning is crucial. Below are some considerations for family-owned businesses when preparing for succession or a […]
When buying or selling a business, the question of price is often the most contentious point. Sellers typically aim for all-cash transactions, hoping to receive the full value upfront. However, in middle-market business deals, it’s common for partial seller financing to be a necessary element. Interestingly, sellers who insist on an all-cash offer may end […]
When starting a business with a partner, whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague, people often find that it’s tempting to skip formalizing things with a written agreement because there is a level of trust already in place. However, even the best relationships can face challenges when money and business decisions come into play. […]
When it comes to mergers and acquisitions (M&A), there are several common misconceptions that can impact the success of a deal. These misunderstandings often stem from oversimplified assumptions about the process. However, navigating the complexities of a deal requires careful attention to detail. Below are five important considerations to keep in mind during a mergers […]
Selling a business is rarely a simple transaction. It is a long, often emotional process that includes uncertainty, negotiation, and periods of stress or silence. Even the most successful deals can have rough patches. That’s why it’s so important to stay alert and recognize when something doesn’t feel right. Here are a few common signs […]
If you’re planning to sell your business, now’s the time to think like a buyer. What would impress you if you were on the other side of the table? That mindset is key. Buyers are looking for stability, opportunity, and value. As a seller, part of the goal is to show them that your business […]
In this article, we’ll ask the question, can businesses foster accountability in remote teams while maintaining a positive and supportive work environment? Let’s take a closer look at what must be overcome to accomplish that goal. Embrace Flexibility and Trust Trust is the foundation of any successful remote team. Micromanagement or constant monitoring can lead […]
Call TM Business Brokers Today! 412-580-3399 – Cris Maragos, Certified Business Broker The sale of a business is often seen as the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, but for many, the process doesn’t go as planned. While the goal is always to reach a successful transaction, the reality is that many […]
Buying a business is a significant investment that requires careful consideration. To make an informed decision and reduce risks, you need to ask the right questions. Below are seven essential questions every buyer should ask before finalizing any deal. These will help you understand the business’s true value along with potential risks. 1. What Are […]
As remote work continues to evolve, businesses must adapt to this new way of working. What was once a temporary solution during the global pandemic has now become a permanent part of the modern workforce. While the flexibility of remote work offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges. This can be particularly true when it […]
Your employees are more than just part of your team. Employees are the driving force behind your business’s success. If you want your company to thrive, the happiness and satisfaction of your employees should be a top priority. An unhappy workforce can lead to negative energy that makes its way into customer interactions. Ultimately, your […]
Call TM Business Brokers Today! 412-580-3399 – Cris Maragos, Certified Business Broker When it comes time to sell a business, ensuring confidentiality should always be the top priority. A breach of confidentiality is one of the quickest ways to undermine a business sale. Once this trust is broken, it can be incredibly difficult to contain […]
If you’re not entirely familiar with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), you are not alone. While this word is getting used more and more often, many people are still not familiar with the concept. Yet, CSR has become a critical focus for businesses of all sizes. As a result, understanding its key elements is essential for […]
When buying or selling a business, the initial meeting between the buyer and seller can be a critical turning point. This meeting often sets the stage for the future of the deal. After all, the buyer’s first offer typically arrives right after this pivotal discussion. Ensuring that the conversation is positive, professional, and productive is […]
Purchasing a business abroad involves unique challenges and factors. There are considerations to keep in mind that you typically won’t face when buying a local business. The decision to invest internationally is complex and influenced by various elements. Let’s take a look at some of the best practices for anyone looking to buy a business […]
When people dream of becoming business owners, they often picture launching their own venture. They may picture building something from nothing, and the fulfillment of turning a concept into a company. While exciting, this path comes with plenty of hurdles, which include creating brand awareness, finding customers, hiring a team, and generating consistent income. Keep […]
When considering the purchase of a business, asking the right questions is essential. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned entrepreneur, you’ll want to avoid unpleasant surprises down the line. One way to do that is to be proactive and diligent when you’re making your evaluations. Below are some critical areas to explore […]
The concept of combining businesses is a tried-and-true strategy. A classic example of this strategy is the tailor next to the dry cleaner. This is a combination that has been part of commerce for a long time. Today, however, this partnership model has evolved into a modern strategy called co-branding. Particularly popular among franchises, co-branding […]
As we step further into the 21st century, the landscape of business is changing. While there are always new challenges on the horizon, the core principles of achieving success in business remain largely unchanged. Have you considered how well you’re preparing for both the new and enduring demands of entrepreneurship? Let’s take a look at […]
Businesses can face various challenges, and many issues that arise are not always immediately obvious. However, there are common signs to look for when a company is in trouble or headed in that direction. Recognizing these signs early is crucial, as they can help business owners make informed decisions about the future of their business. […]
Once the deal is sealed and the closing is complete, many business owners might think their job is done. However, ensuring that the transition to the new owner goes smoothly is crucial not only for the business’ continued success, but also for protecting your own ongoing interests. First and foremost, even after the sale, most […]
In today’s business world, effective communication is paramount, and the telephone remains one of the most essential tools for engaging with clients, prospects, and partners. Automated answering services, voicemail systems, or hold music can significantly impact your company’s image and customer satisfaction. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the telephone is a productive sales tool […]
One of the most critical questions for prospective buyers, investors, and lenders is understanding a business’s true income. However, it should come as no surprise that the party most invested in uncovering this information is the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Why is determining a business’s real income so difficult? While financial records should provide a […]
When it comes to buying or selling a business, we often get asked two common questions: “How many businesses are for sale?” and “What percentage of businesses on the market actually sell?” To get a sense of the market, it’s important to break things down by business category. The industries that make up the majority […]
Entrepreneurs are typically dynamic and driven individuals who play a critical role in driving innovation. However, to succeed, they must leverage their strengths while being mindful of their weaknesses. By understanding both, entrepreneurs can maximize their potential and build more sustainable businesses. Strengths of Entrepreneurs Flexibility and Positive Attitudes Entrepreneurs are highly resilient and maintain […]
Many businesses have a product or service that’s performing reasonably well, perhaps even thriving, but doesn’t quite align with the company’s core offerings. It’s often called an “orphaned” product—a good or service that is disconnected from the company’s main focus. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. It’s more common than you might […]
If your business interacts with customers, it’s inevitable that at some point, you will receive customer complaints or negative feedback. The key to turning these situations into opportunities is how you handle them. Ignoring or dismissing customer complaints can damage your brand’s reputation and customer loyalty. However, addressing these issues effectively can improve your operations, […]
Before delving into the specific steps that benefit business owners who are looking to sell quickly, it’s crucial to understand the buyer’s viewpoint. For many buyers, purchasing a business is a once-in-a-lifetime event, often involving significant personal and financial risk. Therefore, sellers must take proactive steps to ensure their business is as appealing and risk-free […]
While learning that you have a serious buyer for your business may feel like a cause for celebration, it’s important to hold off on the champagne. The journey from a buyer expressing interest to a finalized sale involves several steps, and your business broker or M&A advisor will play a crucial role in guiding you […]
As a business owner, one of your ongoing priorities should be finding ways to save money. Ultimately, this will boost your bottom line and make your business more attractive to buyers. Let’s take a look at some strategies to run a more efficient and cost-effective business. 1. Consolidate Services for Better Deals There are many […]
Most business owners fret about whether they are asking too much or not enough for their goods or services. This dilemma keeps many prospective sellers up at night. Ask too much, and you may fail to attract enough customers; ask too little, and you’re cutting yourself short. In this article, we’ll examine how to determine […]
For many business owners, deciding to sell their company is one of the most significant financial decisions they will ever face. This choice not only alters their financial situation but also impacts their lives as a whole. Life after selling a business can be vastly different, so it’s essential for owners to consider what their […]
Business owners are constantly seeking ways to cut costs and boost profits to make their businesses as attractive as possible to buyers. Fortunately, there are many surprisingly simple strategies to save money across various aspects of your business. 1. Embrace Digital Solutions One effective way to save money is by going digital. Just as you […]
If you, as the seller, want to receive the best price for your business, it’s essential to understand that your adjusted or normalized EBITDA will serve as the foundation for the purchase price. This EBITDA will be used as a multiple to negotiate the final price. Every dollar counts; for example, if your EBITDA […]
Selling a business is rarely as straightforward or fast as business owners would like. Unless you’ve sold a business before, there will be unforeseen obstacles. Even if you’ve sold a business before, you will likely run into hurdles along the way. The fact that every business is different, and this impacts the variables associated with […]
As a business owner, you gain freedom and the potential to earn more than you might otherwise earn. If you are ready to tackle the hard work involved in business ownership, you may be prepared to take the next step. Two main advantages to being a business owner include forging ahead with more freedom and […]
Selling your business is a significant decision. You’ve invested considerable time, money, and effort into building and running it—perhaps it even represents your life’s work. Now that you’ve decided it’s time to sell, getting the best professional advice is crucial. This is where working with a professional business broker can be the key to not […]
Every business has a story to tell. In fact, selling a business involves the art of storytelling as you must pique interest and enthusiasm in the mind of the buyer. Through storytelling, you can convey not only the history of a business, but also its future. Good business brokers and M&A advisors are storytellers who […]
The lessons learned through hands-on experience are often irreplaceable. When it comes to selling or transferring ownership of a business, inexperience can be particularly troublesome. Many business brokers and M&A advisors have observed firsthand the jeopardy business owners can face when they either attempt to sell their business on their own or engage someone without […]
Determining an accurate valuation for a company is far from straightforward. It involves a range of complex, and often rapidly changing, factors. The challenge is compounded by the fact that some aspects of valuation are inherently subjective. This means that different professionals might ultimately arrive at different conclusions. Despite these challenges, we can establish ways […]
Family businesses are quite common. Estimates suggest there are more than 5 million family businesses in the United States alone. While family businesses are prevalent, this does not diminish their unique nature, as a family business often plays a central role in the family’s identity. Family members are typically deeply attached to the business and […]
One of the worst mistakes any business owner can make is neglecting their business during the sales process. It is quite common for sellers to become overwhelmed, lose focus, and see their business suffer as a result. The last thing any business owner wants is for their business to encounter problems right before it is […]
Having a player mindset when selling a business can be a real gamechanger. The goal with this approach is to steer clear from coming across as desperate or highly motivated to sell. Instead, a seller who embraces a player mindset operates from a position of strength. It’s all about realizing you have something of value […]
Negotiation can evoke a range of feelings: some people thrive on it, others dread it, and many fall somewhere in between. Regardless of your stance, the ultimate goal remains the same: to emerge successfully from the negotiation. Mastering effective negotiation methods and tactics can give you an edge where others might falter. The objective is […]
Term sheets are invaluable in that they can serve as a point of orientation during negotiations. Thanks to term sheets it is possible to keep everyone involved, focused and on target. What is a Term Sheet? These nonbinding agreements detail the basic terms and conditions of a deal. It is different from a legally binding […]
At some point, the odds are exceptionally high that you’ll need to sell your business. Today, fewer businesses are being passed on to the next generation, increasing the likelihood that you will be selling yours eventually. Regardless of your business’ stage of life, the time to prepare for its eventual sale is now. Many believe […]
LinkedIn is a crucial platform for professionals serious about business. Its versatility allows business owners to harness its potential in numerous ways. By implementing the following tips, you can enhance your LinkedIn profile to attract more leads and expand your network rapidly. 1. Send Connection Requests Initiate by actively sending connection requests. Most LinkedIn users […]