Stop guessing what your company is worth. From SDE multiples to EBITDA, this guide breaks down how to value a small business using real-world data, helping you move from a "magic number" to total negotiation clarity.

I get this question a lot. I’ll be sitting in a coffee shop in Santa Monica or a warehouse in Commerce, and an owner will lean in and ask: “Peter, I’m in LA. Doesn’t that mean my business is worth a premium compared to some guy in the Midwest?” After eight years as a business broker and performing over a hundred valuations, I’ve learned that the answer is a classic "yes and no." But mostly, it’s about understanding the "LA Multiplier", the invisible force that either pads you

If you’re looking to sell your business, there’s a high probability that your buyer is going to walk through the door with an SBA 7(a) loan application in their hand. In my eight years as a business broker and after performing over 100 valuations, I’ve seen this play out in every industry from machine shops in the Valley to boutique retail in Santa Monica. The Small Business Administration (SBA) doesn’t actually lend the money; they guarantee a portion of the loan for the ban

Learn the actual 2025-2026 EBITDA multiples for small businesses. Find out how to de-risk your operations and close the "Public Gap" for a life-changing exit.

Rising interest rates are changing the way buyers and sellers approach small business sales. Learn how rate hikes affect business values, deal flow, and what strategies can help you navigate today’s market.

The Role of Owners: Why You Need to Become Replaceable Before Selling

When business owners think about selling, they often focus on boosting revenue or cutting costs. But here's what really moves the needle: your valuation multiple. This single number — how many times your annual earnings a buyer will pay — can make the difference between a decent exit and a life-changing one. Multiples are how buyers translate confidence and risk into price. After working with over 100 business valuations, I've seen firsthand how the right moves can push a bus

Discover why a clear business valuation is key for smooth succession planning—helping with fairness, tax planning, and setting expectations for small business owners.

"7 Simple Ways to Boost Your Business Value Before You Even Think About Selling"): Simple, practical tips for small business owners to boost their business value—no sales talk, just straightforward advice anyone can use.

7 signs your business is ready for valuation—explained simply. Practical tips for small business owners, even if you’re not planning to sell.

Common business valuation mistakes—explained simply. Learn how small business owners can spot and avoid these pitfalls for a more accurate valuation.

Learn how industry benchmarks shape your business’s value. Discover practical ways small business owners can use benchmarks to gauge market position and risks.

What documents do you need for a business valuation? Here’s a practical checklist for small business owners, making the process clear and stress-free.

Learn the difference between business value and sale price. Get practical insights for small business owners about what really determines your business’s worth.