Most deals that fall apart, fall apart at the bank.
Many Florida businesses under $5M sell to buyers using SBA 7(a) loans. That means the real price ceiling isn't what a buyer is willing to pay. It's what a lender will finance. As of October 1, 2026, SBA lenders must cap total acquisition debt at an independent business valuation and see at least 1.25x debt coverage on historical earnings. A listing priced above that line sits, or it closes after a painful retrade.
I price your business the way the buyer's lender and CPA will, before a buyer ever sees it. Then I run a confidential process built to reach closing, not just a signed LOI.
What sell-side work with me looks like
- Recast financials that survive a Quality of Earnings review, including the cost to replace you.
- A price a lender can support, tested against current SBA debt coverage and equity rules.
- Confidential marketing to screened buyers, with proof of funds before financials.
- Offer and term negotiation: working capital, seller note, standby terms, consulting period and non-compete.
- Diligence through closing, coordinated with your attorney and CPA. I'm on every call.
Already have a buyer?
A competitor, key employee or investor wants to buy. You don't need a full marketing process, but you do need someone on your side who has done this from the buyer's chair. I'll assess the offer, negotiate the terms and manage the deal to closing.
Timing
Sell-side representation begins once my Florida broker license is issued. Owners planning a sale can start the Sale-Readiness Assessment now, which is the work that most changes the final price anyway.
Best fit
Florida businesses with $1M to $15M in revenue, typically $250K to $3M in annual earnings, and an owner ready to step back within two years. Trades, home and commercial services, construction, distribution and professional services are where my operating experience helps most, but I work across industries.
Start here
Sale-Readiness Assessment
from $5,000Credited to your fee if you list with me
- Recast financials and a defensible value range
- What buyers and lenders will discount, and by how much
- A 12-month fix list, ranked by value added
- A plain recommendation: sell now or build first
FAQ
Common questions
How long does it take to sell a business in Florida?
Industry surveys put the typical sale of a business under $2M at six to eight months from listing to closing. Under the SBA rules in effect since October 1, 2026, plan on extra time for an independent valuation and, for deals of $3M or more, a lender-ordered Quality of Earnings review.
How are your sell-side fees structured?
A fixed-fee Sale-Readiness Assessment first, credited if you list. Representation is a modest retainer plus a success fee paid at closing, all in a written agreement before work starts. I'll quote it after the assessment, once I know the deal.
Will my employees and customers find out?
Not from me. Buyers sign an NDA and show proof of funds before they see anything that identifies you, and I control what is released at each stage.
Do I have to stay on after the sale?
Usually for a transition. For SBA-financed deals, the seller can stay on as a consultant for up to 24 months under the current rules. I negotiate the length, pay and duties so the transition is clear before you sign.
One advisor. A straight answer in two business days.
Send revenue, earnings and what you want to do. I'll tell you plainly whether I can help and what the first step costs.