Your Community Brokers on the Coast of Maine
What Sellers Should Knox About Buyers
  • Nearly all are first time buyers who are looking to replace a job ~ a paycheck.
  • 90% don't know what kind of business they want.
  • Most end up buying a completely different business than the one they inquired about initially.
  • Most know nothing about how to buy a business, and are intimidated by the process.
  • 90% have less than $100,000 in liquid funds, and require owner or bank financing.
What Sellers Should Know About Selling a Business
  • Most small businesses sell for 75-80% of the asking price.
  • Sellers who hold out for all cash receive only 70% of the asking price.
  • Sellers who accept financing terms receive 86% of the asking price.
  • The lower the down payment, generally 20-35% of the purchase price, the quicker the sale.
  • Small businesses are usually financed by sellers over 3-5 years.
Questions a Seller Should Ask
  • How do I determine what my business is worth?
  • How do I find a qualified buyer?
  • Will I have to help finance the purchase?
  • How long will it take to sell?
  • I don't want my customers to know I'm selling, how can I keep it a secret?
  • Are real estate brokers also business brokers?