FAQ
Questions, answered.
Straight answers to the questions owners, buyers and agents ask most.
For business owners
How do you keep my sale confidential?
Your business is marketed without its name or location. Buyers see a blind summary first and receive identifying details only after we have screened them and they have signed a non-disclosure agreement. There are no signs and no public listings that point to you.
What is my business worth?
Most established businesses are valued on their true owner earnings, adjusted for one-time and personal expenses, then multiplied by a factor that reflects risk, growth, industry and how much the business depends on you. Real estate, equipment and inventory are considered alongside. We will walk you through the numbers line by line.
How long does it take to sell?
Most sales take six to twelve months from the day we go to market, sometimes longer for larger or more complex businesses. Preparation before that can take a few weeks.
What does it cost?
Our fees are discussed openly in the first conversation and agreed in writing before anything goes to market. Business sales are typically compensated at closing, when the sale succeeds.
Do I need perfect financials?
No. You need financials that support the value of the business, and we will help you organize them. If there are gaps, we will tell you early and suggest how to close them.
What if my business includes real estate?
That is common and often adds value. Property can be sold with the business or leased to the buyer. Any real estate in a transaction is handled by a licensed real estate broker.
I worked with a LAER agent on my home. Can they be involved?
Yes, and we encourage it. Your agent stays in the relationship from the first conversation to the closing table.
For buyers
Do you publish a list of businesses for sale?
Not publicly. Owners trust us with their privacy, so opportunities are shared with registered, screened buyers first. Register your criteria and we will reach out when something fits.
What will you ask me before sharing details?
Your background, what you are looking for, how you intend to finance the purchase and, for serious conversations, a personal financial statement or proof of funds. Then a signed non-disclosure agreement.
How are business acquisitions usually financed?
Most combine buyer equity with bank financing, often an SBA 7(a) loan, and sometimes a seller note or earn-out. Down payments commonly start around 10 percent for SBA-backed deals and more for conventional loans. Your lender will confirm what applies to you.
Can I buy the real estate too?
Often, yes. Some businesses are sold with their property, others with a long-term lease. The structure is part of the negotiation, and any real estate is handled by a licensed real estate broker.
Who do you represent?
We represent the seller. We work hard to make the process fair, organized and efficient for buyers, because that is how good deals close.
Do I pay a fee as a buyer?
No. Buyers do not pay LAER Business to register or to review opportunities.
For LAER agents
Do I need business brokerage experience?
No. You learn the process on a real deal alongside people who do this every day.
Does it cost anything to participate?
No.
How do I get paid?
You are paid at closing based on your involvement in the deal. Compensation is agreed in writing before any listing goes to market.
Do I keep my client?
Yes. You stay in the relationship from the first conversation to the closing.
Is my client’s information kept confidential?
Yes. Owner and business details are shared only with the team evaluating the opportunity.
What if the business includes real estate?
Great. The real estate component is handled by a licensed real estate broker as part of the transaction.
Can I refer a buyer?
Yes. Send them to the buyer registration page and ask them to mention you, or share their details with us directly.
Still have a question? Contact us or email info@laerbusiness.com.
