Not sure which valuation method fits your service business? This post breaks down SDE multiples, DCF, and revenue multiples with a worked example for a consulting firm — no jargon, just practical math you can actually use.

In Part 1 of this series, we talked about the nuts and bolts of a business offer. We covered how to read between the lines and why the headline price isn't always what ends up in your bank account. If you haven't read that yet, I’d suggest starting there because today we’re going a layer deeper. I’ve spent years as a business broker and valuation specialist, and I’ve seen hundreds of valuations cross my desk. If there is one thing I’ve seen, it’s a business owner who thinks t

Buying out a partner is a massive life event. Learn how to use SDE and market multiples to find a fair price that respects your "sweat equity" and the market reality—without the $10k certified valuation fee.

Thinking of selling your business in 2026? Discover how rising interest rates and changing market conditions can impact your business sale—and get practical tips to help you make the most of your exit. The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Business.

Most business owners don’t have an exit strategy until they’re already burnt out. Don’t wait until you’re "done" to start planning. Discover how Julian and Elena navigated the transition from operator to seller, and how to build a business that is actually sellable.

Don't fall for the "Magic Number Trap." Whether you're in HVAC or tech, discover the most accurate ways to value your business for sale and why revenue isn't the whole story.

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.

Curious about your business's real-world value? From SDE to owner dependency, learn the five key factors that determine what a buyer will actually pay for your company.

Discover what makes your business more attractive to buyers—from solid systems to steady growth and a balanced customer base. Get practical tips to boost your business’s value before you sell.

Buying a business often feels like a catch-22: you need money to make money, but getting that money usually requires already having money or jumping through endless loan hoops. If you've been building up your 401(k) for years, you might wonder if those retirement funds could help you become a business owner today. The good news? Yes, you can use your 401(k) to buy a business. The even better news? There are legitimate, IRS-approved ways to do it without getting hammered by ta

Not knowing your business value can cost you. Discover the risks, missed opportunities, and practical reasons every small business owner should know their numbers.

Learn practical ways to minimize taxes when exiting your business—timing, capital gains tips, and planning strategies, explained simply for small business owners

Capital gains tax for business sales, explained simply. Learn how it works, what matters for your sale, and practical steps for small business owners in 2025

Learn the tax implications of selling your business in 2025—capital gains, state taxes, and planning tips explained simply for small business owners.

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

The Ultimate Guide to Timing Your Business Sale: Interest Rates, Market Conditions, and Your Bottom Line| Decipher Your Value

Get your business financials buyer-ready with simple, practical steps. A stress-free guide for small business owners preparing for a sale

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

Learn how a business valuation can help you plan your retirement, set financial goals, and explore transition options—explained simply 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.