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How to Approach a Business Broker for the First Time (And Actually Get a Response)

Most buyers contact brokers before they're ready. Here's what brokers actually look for, and how to show up as the buyer they call back.

The Best Tools for Buying a Small Business (An Honest Breakdown)

There are more tools for buying a small business than ever. Most buyers use the wrong ones in the wrong order. Here's what actually helps.

Red Flags When Buying a Small Business (Including the One Nobody Talks About)

Most red flags lists tell you the obvious stuff. This one covers the flags buyers miss after they've already fallen in love with a deal.

How to Calculate Seller Discretionary Earnings (And Why the Number on the Listing Is Wrong)

The SDE on a listing is the seller's version of the number. Here's how to calculate it yourself, which add-backs are legitimate, and what to do when your number is different.

How to Write an LOI for a Small Business (With an Annotated Template)

An LOI is not just a legal document. It's a first impression. Here's what to include, how to structure the deal, and what your terms signal to the seller.

The SBA Loan Timeline for Buying a Business (What Nobody Tells You Until It's Too Late)

SBA financing takes 60 to 90 days. Most buyers don't start the process until after they sign an LOI. Here's the full timeline and how to not lose a deal to slow financing.

Why 91% of Business Buyers Never Close a Deal

91% of buyers who intend to close a deal within two years never do. The reason isn't what most people think.

How to Buy a Small Business Step by Step (A First-Timer's Guide)

A step-by-step guide to buying a small business — from deciding if it's right for you to closing day. Written for first-time buyers, not MBA programs.

Small Business Acquisition Due Diligence Checklist (What to Verify Before You Close)

A practical due diligence checklist for buying a small business — organized by financial, operational, and legal, with the items that actually kill deals.