Where to Find Businesses for Sale.

Good morning Buyers!

Finding the right business to buy is half the battle. With so many options out there, knowing where to look can be the difference between finding a hidden gem and spinning your wheels.

This week, we’re diving deep into Where to Find Businesses for Sale—from brokers to online marketplaces to off-market opportunities.

“Opportunities don't happen. You create them.” — Chris Grosser

Deal Tip of the Week: Cast a Wide Net

When you understand the terminology, you communicate better, negotiate smarter, and move faster.

•  Business Brokers: These professionals often have exclusive listings and can help you navigate the process, but expect to pay a commission.
  

• Online Marketplaces: Websites like BizBuySell, BizQuest, Flippa, and Empire Flippers have thousands of listings across different industries.
  

• Off-Market Deals: Many of the best deals never get listed. Networking with business owners, attending local business events, and working with M&A advisors can help you uncover these hidden opportunities.

The broader your search, the higher your chances of finding the perfect business.

🔍Key Places to Find Businesses

Some terms come up in every deal. Here are the top ones to master:

📝 Checklist:

• BizBuySell & BizQuest: Ideal for Main Street businesses with clear financials.

• Flippa: Perfect for digital assets like e-commerce sites and apps.

• LoopNet: Focused on commercial real estate and business opportunities.

• LinkedIn & Local Chambers: Great for off-market leads and networking.

Consider setting up alerts and checking listings regularly.

🗯Expert Soundbite 

“The best deals are often the ones nobody knows are for sale. Build relationships and ask the right questions.” — Ryan Snow, Author of The Miracle Morning for Salespeople

💰 Hidden Opportunities to Consider

Sometimes the best opportunities are a bit harder to find:

• Owner Retirements: Many older owners would rather sell quietly than list publicly.

• Family-Owned Businesses: Often passed down, but sometimes up for sale under the radar.

• Underperforming Gems: Businesses with potential that just need fresh vision and management.

Mini Market Watch

• Revenue Declines: According to the Intuit QuickBooks Small Business Index, revenue decreased in nine of the 12 sectors tracked, with education and health services experiencing the fastest decline at 3.04%.

• Regional Impact: All eight U.S. regions saw revenue declines, with the Far West experiencing the steepest drop at 2.32%.

• Operational Changes: A Chase survey revealed that half of U.S. small business owners have altered their business operations in response to economic pressures, including inflation and tariffs.

Even in challenging economic conditions, well-run small businesses tend to be more adaptable, leveraging local connections and niche markets to weather downturns.

Additionally, business acquisitions often come with experienced staff, supplier relationships, and brand recognition—all of which can significantly reduce the risks typically associated with startups.

For those looking to take control of their financial future, owning a small business remains a smart and strategic choice.

What’s Next

Next week: “How to evaluate a Business’s Industry & Market Potential”

Forward this to a friend thinking about buying a business—or hit reply and send us your biggest buying questions.

Until next week,

— The Practical Buyer Team 

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_{Keep in Mind: Practical Buyer is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. While we strive for accuracy, all content is provided "as is" and may not reflect the most current industry practices or regulations. Always consult with a qualified attorney, accountant, or advisor before making any business acquisition decisions.}

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