The Art of Relationship-Driven Transactions

This chapter emphasizes the vital role of trust and communication in business dealings, particularly when buying and selling small businesses valued under $10 million. It highlights how fostering strong relationships can lead to more successful transactions, contrasting personal connections with purely transactional approaches.

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Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview business broker Jackie Hirsch (https://x.com/SMBJackieHirsch) to get the real lay of the land in the current M&A market and small business acquisition landscape.

Jackie, whose Florida business brokerage company did over $40 million in transactions last year, shares crucial insights on SBA loan changes 2024 and how new SBA 7a program rules are impacting first-time business buyers and licensed businesses like HVAC companies and survey businesses.

We dive deep into why it's always been a seller's market in lower middle market deals and discuss common, costly business acquisition mistakes, like a buyer who lost millions because of due diligence delays and poor SBA lender choices. Jackie pulls back the curtain on the kinds of cashflow-generating businesses attracting private equity and individual buyers today, from materials testing companies to underground construction and the booming private chef services market.

This business broker interview explores how AI impact on business is shaping the acquisition landscape and why, even with tariffs 2024 and market uncertainty, there are always small business deals to be made. You won't want to miss her incredible "real deal" stories about business deal interventions and sellers with criminal backgrounds, highlighting why building a strong seller relationship and business deal negotiation skills are paramount to getting any M&A transaction across the finish line.

Perfect for entrepreneurs, business buyers, search fund professionals, and anyone interested in entrepreneurship through acquisition or business valuation strategies.

Questions This Episode Answers:

What recent SBA policy changes are affecting business acquisitions and seller financing?
How can first-time buyers avoid "boneheaded mistakes" in an M&A deal and business due diligence?
What types of profitable businesses are currently attracting the most buyers in a seller's market?
How is AI automation impacting different business sectors and acquisition strategies?
Why is building a strong seller relationship so crucial for closing business deals and post-acquisition success?
What are the new SBA standby rules for seller notes and personal guarantees?
Which recession-proof businesses and AI-resistant businesses are trending in 2024 business market?