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Get the most value for your business with First Choice Business Brokers. Start here.
Confidential Listing Services for Business Owners who wish to sell.
Expert Valuation Services are offered at all First Choice Offices.
Our Sales Professionals guide business Buyers through the business purchasing process.
Finding the right business for your interests, income requirements and location
“I had a very pleasant experience with Shawn Ko and Amit Wadhera. From my transaction I am convinced they are the perfect team. They sold my first business that I poured my heart and soul into over the years, FAST and while getting me a fair and profitable price.These two took the headache out of the process and always communicated with me and remained very professional. I highly recommend these two well versed, educated, attentive, and professional agents if you are looking to sell your business.“
“Amit Wadhera has been such an amazing individual to work with! From start to end, he was there for every question I had. I was very happy to have worked with him and most likely will be moving forward with Amit for all new business deals.“
“Just finished closing my deal as a seller. If you need a Good Agent that’s on your side and protects your best interest please give Amit Wadhera a try first. Very knowledgeable, professional and well connected in the market with lots of potential buyers. You will not be disappointed. I can honestly say he stood out from the other agents I had in mind when I decided to hire him. Thank you Amit “
“In November 2019, I listed my medical billing company with Sean Seaman and FCBB, with the closing taking place in May 2020. This was a clean and productive process, despite the fact that it took place during the most difficult part of the COVID pandemic. Sean acted very professionally, always guiding me through the many details that such a transaction requires. When disagreements arose, as they always do, he was instrumental in bridging the difference between the buyer and I. If I had to do it all over again, I would choose Sean and FCBB with a clear conscience. “
“I reached out to FCBB out of curiosity to see how much is my business worth. I spoke to Sean Seaman. He explained to me the process, he prepared the valuation and said he has a buyer that is interested in my business. Well it turned out he was very serious. He knew exactly how to price it. He explained how he came up with the numbers and what are the next steps we need to take. He introduced me to the buyer via a phone call. He was very professional. Extremely patient. Very knowledgeable. He obviously handled many sales transactions. We closed escrow 2 months after signing the listing agreement. It takes longer to close a deal on a residential sale… unbelievable!!! The buyer decided they want a stock sale instead of an asset sale. I had no idea what that was. Sean explained to me the pros and cons and walked me through the day to day concerns. I had a million questions and he helped me navigate through the challenges. After we closed escrow, he continued to help me with collecting funds from buyer. Clear any misunderstanding between me and the buyer. Selling your business is like giving away your baby. You want to let go but not really. So at times it’s difficult and you do need a pro that will be there for you that has lots of experience to put you at ease and can speak to both sides. You have to be open minded and trust your agent. I felt that Sean was fair in his dealings to both sides. When I asked for something not realistic he explained to me how things are… I highly recommend Sean Seaman in the sale of your business.“
“It was a pleasure working with Amit Wadhera. He is very knowledgeable and very proficient in what he does. During the whole process of selling my business I found him very dedicated and committed. He has done a wonderful job. “
“Amit Wadhera is absolutely the most uniquely gifted business consultant that I have ever met. He is a truly genuine person with a great deal of integrity. He is professional, knowledgeable, and has a great understanding of business. He is a true example of what support really looks like and his impact has moved me forward. I am so thankful for the time and attention he dedicated to move me ahead. I would highly recommend Amit Wadhera to anyone who wants to get strategic advice to make an impact in their life. “
“Amit is a pleasure to work with, he is a dynamic and engaging public speaker. Amit is equally engaging during his one to one consulting engagements. He possesses a rare ability to quickly assess his client’s needs. He is able to make strategic recommendations, as well as very specific suggestions to make immediate impacts. When I need strategic B-to-B advice and consultation, Amit is one of the first people I call!” He was very detailed and through in explaining us everything about the business. We liked his strategic way of planning and execution. Amit is one of the very best business sales consultants available. He gave us great counsel that is already helping us in our business. His process was streamlined and very organized. He was a great listener and was open to answering all our questions. He has a great understanding of the business, he was able to provide us great insight on his experience. Amit’s expertise and knowledge of business helped us make critical decisions. His consulting proved to be absolutely accurate for us. We are really looking forward to work with him in the future again.“
“I have nothing but great things to say about you. You have been a great help to me and my family with finding our business. Right off the bat you have been a very honest, kind and patient person, which helped me feel safe working with you. Throughout our search for a business, you put a lot of work into finding me plenty of options and potential business investments while staying very patient with us. When we decided to continue looking for businesses, you made sure I understood everything I was getting myself into which allowed for me to be readily prepared for whatever came ahead. And you didn't stop after I bought the pizza shop; you continued to come in and check up on how I felt about my purchase. I will definitely be working and continuing my good relationship with you for future business purchases or sales. Thank you again for the effort and honesty!“
“I had the absolute pleasure of working with Sean Seaman and Dustin Sigall during the process of selling my business. With Sean and Dustin as my brokers, I was able to concentrate on running my business as they saved me countless hours of time and undue stress. Selling a business during a pandemic was surprisingly seamless with their invaluable services. From beginning to end of the sale process, Sean and Dustin offered a welcome peace of mind. Their knowledge and attention to detail were key contributors to my successful sale. Throughout the course of selling my business, Sean and Dustin were always quick to respond to any of my questions and concerns. They navigated a very complex transfer of ownership with my franchisor. Additionally, they helped keep the deal confidential, which was much appreciated as it allowed me to tell my employees and colleagues at the right time. I was glad to work with Sean and Dustin throughout the entire sale process, as they easily overcame the many obstacles that we encountered on the way to completing the sale. I highly recommend Sean and Dustin if you are selling your business, they are the types of brokers that anyone would be happy to work with. “
“Thank you so much for all your help during the sale of my medical billing business. I was truly blessed to be introduced to you back in 2016, but wasn't quite ready to sell at the time. Patiently you checked in with me every year until the timing was right for me and my family. Through all of your patience, knowledge and kindness I experienced beyond exceptional service. I wish everyone could have the support from a broker that I experienced from you. I truly love my business and staff and wanted the best person possible to take it over, which you were able to find for me. Now I can start a new chapter of enjoying the rewards from all of my hard work over the years. Words can't fully describe what professional and kind gentlemen you are. I am confident that you will be a blessing to many others. I was VERY lucky to have you in my life during a very stressful time. “
“I had an excellent experience selling my business through Todd Bell and First Choice Business Brokers. The selling process was easy to understand due to good communication. Todd did research on the industry and cared about my concerns for the business and my future.“
“I recently purchased a business and am most appreciative of Todd Bell. I was well informed through ongoing communication and all the questions that I had were answered in a timely fashion. I would use Todd and First Choice Business Brokers in the future should I decide to sell my current business or purchase another one.“
“From my first contact, I found Todd to be very professional, knowledgeable, and engaging. He has a unique ability to explain complex concepts in a clear understandable manner. This was my first time selling a medical practice, it was important that I trust my broker. I trusted Todd and always felt he was looking out for my best interest. He was very responsive to my calls and questions. Todd made the process understandable and manageable. I felt comfortable in sharing all of my needs and concerns with Todd, who did an outstanding job of negotiating them with potential buyers. Todd was always positive and encouraging, even when potential sales fell through. I found Todd to be open, honest and hard working. I would recommend him highly.“
“I had an overwhelmingly positive experience with First Choice Business Brokers and Todd Bell. I found him to be honest, knowledgeable, and attentive to the needs of both buyer and seller. By setting realistic expectations and using his expertise in business brokerage, Todd brings incredible value; facilitating successful transactions which maximize value for sellers, while simultaneously setting up a buyer for long-term success. Having the unique experience of working with Todd and First Choice, I would not hesitate in recommending him to anyone who is seriously considering selling a business.“
“Thank you so much for patiently working with me to find the right business. As a first-time buyer, the entire process went smoothly. I was well informed with ongoing communication and all the questions I had were answered in a timely fashion. I would absolutely use Todd Bell of First Choice Business Brokers in the future should I decide to sell my current business or purchase another one.“
“As a business owner, I know the passion and work ethic required to run a successful business. Then I met Todd Bell of First Choice Business Brokers. Todd was by far the most positive and committed of the many business brokers I consulted with when listing my business for sale. His integrity and professionalism were top-notch and his representation in the sale of my business was invaluable. In the world we live in today that is worth its weight in gold.“
“Todd, Jen and I sincerely thank you for all the hard work and diligent effort you put into helping us sell our business. We couldn't have done it without you and we appreciate you so much!“
“I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate all the hard work and effort that Todd Bell put into selling my business. His professionalism and experience were very apparent and the net result was finding an excellent, qualified buyer. I am extremely pleased with his services and would highly recommend him and First Choice Business Brokers to anyone looking to sell their business.“
“Todd was a consummate professional all the way through the purchase of our business. It seemed like no matter what complication came up, he was there to help guide us. There's no way we could have bought this business without him on our side.“
“It was a pleasure listing my Board and Care as well as my property with Todd Bell at First Choice Business Brokers. Within two weeks, there were multiple potential buyers who were qualified financially to purchase. Todd communicated quickly and efficiently and found the buyer that was not only qualified, but who also had an affinity for Seniors. When issues arose, Todd's patience and experience made the sale go through. I have tried other brokers and have never experienced the quality of buyers that I did working with Todd. I am highly recommending him to my friends in the industry who are interested in selling their businesses.“
“The best decision I made when selling my business was to list it with First Choice. From the very beginning to after the sale of my business, Sean Seaman and his team at First Choice were extremely helpful and insightful. I leaned heavily on the advice and guidance that Sean gave me and I was glad that I did. His knowledge and understanding of the landscape was so valuable to me and facilitated a very quick and profitable sale. I know that when the time comes to sell another business First Choice will be my broker.“
“When you receive good service from a Company, you rarely feel obligated to write a thank you letter. On the other hand, when the Company goes the extra mile and provides a superior service, there is no way that you can dismiss this urge of sitting down, and giving them the proper credit they deserve. The outstanding and professional services that Chris Seaman and his team have demonstrated in this Business transaction is beyond what we call "good customer services". This Business Broker had done everything possible, in a fair-and-square manner, to avoid any mistakes or delays to help in completing the transaction. Chris Seaman and his team are a great asset to the business community of San Diego. Without any doubt in my mind, they have surely set a higher standard of excellence that others will have to strive to compete against. Thank you and congratulations on a job well done!“
“Hi Chris, Thank you again for all of your help purchasing ColorTechs! You and your team did a great job of educating Evencia & I with the entire process. The escrow company that you chose also made the paperwork signing and the legal documentation gathering as easy as possible. I would recommend First Choice to any of my friends who are looking to buy or sell a business.“
“Chris Seaman and the team at First Choice did an excellent job in all areas of my business purchase. They made sure I had all of the necessary information and that I felt comfortable throughout the entire process. The First Choice Team is very professional and knowledgeable and I would highly recommend them to anyone interested in selling or buying a business.“
“Dear Chris, When I decided to sell my business, I jokingly mentioned that I needed a broker that can "Sell ice cubes to Eskimos". Well you did it! Despite all the obstacles due to unforeseen circumstances, you found a buyer. You appropriately named your company First Choice. You did an amazing job.“
“Hi Chris, Thank you very much for all of your help to close the deal in a timely manner. All of your services were very professional starting from day one to the close of escrow. I will not hesitate to let my friends to avail your services whenever they are in the market for buying or selling a business. Once again thank you very much for all your help.“
“Chris, Thank you so much for all your assistance selling my business, POWAY SMOG. I will highly recommend anyone interested in a business sale, or purchase, to come to you in the future. You explained, in detail, how the business was valued: a very precise, step-by-step analysis. It gave me the confidence that I was getting full, fair value. And also for the buyer that they were buying a business that was fully vetted and knew what they were paying me all that money for. Your finding multiple qualified buyers also put me in the enviable position of having a choice of qualified buyers to ensure I received the best overall deal. I also appreciated your experience putting the deal together. You fully explained all steps of the process so that I felt comfortable with every step along the way. I even appreciated the escrow company you work with. Very experienced in business transactions. Every detail was taken care of to ensure all the legalities were covered. Once again, thanks! FIRST CHOICE will definitely be my "first choice" for any buy or sell in the business arena. If you ever have a client that wishes to contact me personally, please feel free to call.“
“Chris Seaman assisted me in purchasing my current business, Emory Plumbing. Chris was extremely thorough and efficient during the process and answered any questions or concerns that I had. Because of his professional manner in handling this purchase, I have come to trust him with other business dealings. I am currently listing my night club with him. His diligent work ethics and professionalism is outstanding and I feel he will give his best effort in selling the night club. If you are looking to sell or purchase a business I highly recommend Chris Seaman.“
“It was a pleasure to work with Chris during our purchase of White Light Studio. Chris provided a detailed valuation which included reference data from similar purchases to give us the confidence to go forward with the transaction. Chris continued to offer us advice throughout the process and was available at all times to discuss situations that arose. His calm and professional demeanor helps alleviate stress that built up and we felt that Chris provided honest assessments when faced with go no go decisions. We would highly recommend Chris for any business purchase. David and May Garrett, 2013 Chris Seaman made the entire process of selling my business stress-free. He is extremely thorough and follows through with everything he says. He was able to sell my business much faster than I had anticipated. I appreciate that he is an honest broker and makes sure that my questions and concerns as the owner are answered. I have dealt with other business brokers before, and compared to them, Chris is the most attentive and honest one I’ve worked with. I highly recommend his services to anyone looking to sell or buy a business.“
“I am very glad I had Chris Seaman as our business broker to sell our business. He promptly responded to my phone calls and emails. He made the entire process of selling my business easy and fast, from material preparation, appointment setting up, interview, negotiation to closing. He is honest and experienced. He is always on time. I really appreciated his service and recommend him to anyone to sell or buy a business.“
“I worked with Sean and Dustin to sell my business. It was an excellent experience. They did not rush through the financial statements but helped me to accurately reflect my business and its earnings. They took their time to go through all facets of selling the business, always maintained confidentiality and diligently worked to find a financially qualified buyer. Within a couple months they produced a very well qualified buyer. From that point forward they helped negotiate the price, terms and really helped both parties overcome the small problems most deals encounter. Both of them were polite, professional and got the job done. I sincerely believe the price I sold the business for would have been much less without the proper preparation and advice Dustin and Sean guided me with. I would use them again in a heartbeat and would recommend them to anyone who is considering the potential sale of their business.“
“One of the best decisions I made when I determined that it was time to sell my business was to choose Chris Seaman at First Choice Business Brokers of San Diego to assist me. Chris worked side by side with me in valuing my business and always made me feel like my concerns and questions were respected and heard. We listed my business on a Friday and had an offer on the following Monday! Chris is professional, experienced, realistic and has a calming presence when things get hectic. He guided me throughout the entire process and earned my trust quickly. I recommend him and First Choice Business Brokers highly.“
“Hi Patrick, I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate your professionalism and patience with us during the entire process. It was a scary and exciting time for us as first time business owners. But you helped us thru the process by answering our questions and providing us with valuable insight. Your prompt and caring attention to our needs was greatly appreciated. Thanks again for everything and we look forward to working with you again in the near future. Take care.“
“Mark and Dylan, I wanted to send you this note thanking you for selling my business, Kardia Fitness. I have to admit there was so much more involved than I ever anticipated. Thank you again for guiding me away from the first buyer. He would have been very difficult to work with and the conditions he was asking for were just not acceptable. Mark came in at a very fair price and he has been very easy to work with. I will highly recommend you to anyone I come across who may be selling their business. I'm sure you will give them the same great service and guidance you provided me.“
“Dylan, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, you have just been incredible. I don’t know how we could have sold our business without you. You have been a professional, a gentleman, and a very caring broker. I am glad that we had you to make this a smooth transaction. Thank you so much."“
“Sean and Dustin at First Choice Business Brokers delivered on their promise to connect me with a large number of qualified buyers and simplify the process of the sale. The team at FCBB turned a very complex transaction into a simple, professional and valuable outcome for all parties.“
“Chris, Thank you so much for all your help in the selling of my business. It was a real pleasure working with you, and knowing that if ever I needed to talk with you, you were always available. I would gladly recommend you to anyone who either wanted to buy or sell a business.“
“I can't thank First Choice Business Brokers enough. FCBB had continued faith in the sale of our business and helped us make it happen with the right buyer. Patrick Marsch. is a great broker, and really made us comfortable with our decisions. I wouldn't change our experience for anything. Really, Patrick, thank you so much for your patience and resilience is getting this done. We are very happy with the end product and the perfect buyer!“
“When I decided to sell my business, I contacted several brokers. From the beginning, Sean and Dustin stood out. They were so knowledgeable and prompt in responding to any phone calls or emails. With their help, I was able to reach an appropriate asking price for my medical billing company, which was higher than what I expected. In a very short time, they found the perfect buyer for my business. The process happened exactly as they stated it would. I am amazed how quick and smooth it all happened. It really is like a dream come true. I would highly recommend Sean and Dustin at First Choice Business Brokers.“
“Selling a business is unlike any other exercise one might try. It is emotional, at times confusing, and often occurs slower than optimal pace. As a hunter and fisherman, I liken it to a long trek through a forest or diving in unknown waters. Such a journey can be perilous without a proper guide who knows the lay of the land, has good judgment and knows how to communicate. I recently sold my dietary supplement business with First Choice. My experience with the broker was exceptional; she was the perfect proverbial guide. She found several interested parties, helped both sides understand the needs and wants of the other, clarified confusion and took the deal across the finish line. I would recommend their services to anybody thinking of selling their business.“
“When we originally bought our business “Four Seasons Candy Company”, we didn’t use a business broker. Needless to say, that was a costly mistake. So when we decided to sell our business, for sure, we were going to use a business broker even with the commissions. Finding a good business broker is as important as finding a buyer. This time we were lucky because we found Patrick Marsch with “First Choice Business Brokers”. Thanks to Patrick, we found the right buyer for our business. As a team player, Patrick assisted us with a precise, step-by-step analysis that provided us with the confidence that we were offering our business at a full and fair value. Equally important, with patience and resilience, Patrick found us numerous potential buyers and helped us identify the most qualified buyer. With this precise, step-by-step analysis we felt comfortable that the buyer received the best overall deal. If we should ever buy another business or if any of our family or friends should decide to buy or sell a business, we would, without hesitation recommend Mr. Patrick Marsch Jr. with First Choice Business Brokers.“
“I had listed my business for sale with another broker for six months that was hard working and professional but produced only unqualified buyers. I contacted Sean and Dustin at First Choice Business Brokers and what a difference! Sean and Dustin took the right approach that marketed my business correctly from the start. They found a qualified buyer within days from a resource of buyer contacts that they had on file. I received the price that I wanted and the process from start to finish was very quick and smooth. They were always available within a short period of time to answer my questions and coach me through completion. I would highly recommend Sean and Dustin to anyone looking to sell their business. Thanks again Sean and Dustin. I am sure you will have continuous success with your knowledge, confidence, and professionalism.“
“It was a great pleasure to work with 1st Choice Business Brokers. Sean and Dustin are professional, knowledgeable and kind. I cannot say enough good things about Sean Seaman. He is professional, thorough and very patient with all questions, taking time to explain the entire business buying process from start to finish. He always picks up his phone and follows through with his word. My spouse and I wanted to buy a business but it was already in contract. It fell out of escrow and he informed us immediately to see if we were still interested and we are so grateful he did. His expertise and ability to act swiftly sealed the deal for us. He is also very honest and has the helpful talent of seeing both sides objectively. We are very thankful to have found him and look forward to working with him again. Highly recommend! Thank you kindly, Sean and team!“
“We recently purchased a small business that was brokered by Dustin and Sean. Although Dustin’s original relationship was with the Seller, he did a great of representing both parties in the transaction. They were responsive to our many questions and phone calls. I most of all appreciated the time they took to meet with us and the Seller to bring all of us closer to an agreement. They were very patient and creative in helping us develop good provisions for the transfer and transition of the business.“
“I recently purchased a very good business utilizing the services of Chris Seaman, who was exemplary. He wasn't the things that people hate about sales people – pushy, aggressive, and fake. He wasn't in my face, he didn't constantly call me to push the business, he didn't oversell the idea. He was the things that good sales people are – a great listener, patient, providing information that was needed to make decisions. He volunteered information that he thought I would need, but was not intrusive. From the first day I heard about the business to the day we closed was approximately three months, which is a pretty condensed timeframe for a business transaction. Chris was entirely professional during the entire process, referred me to valuable sources that helped the transaction proceed in a timely fashion, engineered and oversaw the whole documentation gathering and dissemination procedure, and was generally the invisible hand that guided the transaction to its comfortable conclusion. I highly recommend Chris Seaman, and when I go to sell my business, he is the first person I intend to call.“
“Chris and the team at First Choice, Thank you for finding a buyer for our business in a timely manner. From the start, you were professional and knowledgeable with the process. With your massive advertising power, we had interested buyers the first week. You only introduced us to qualified buyers and attended every meeting when we met after hours, hearing our story and answering questions to all parties. You made yourself available anytime day or night. Communication was excellent! You matched us with the perfect buyer to take over our small business. We are thrilled with your services! Thank you!“
“Hi Chris, Just a little note to say thank you for listing and selling my business. How happy I am to have found you. You worked diligently and with great professionalism. You made yourself available at all times and your hard work and patience paid off. You did for me what three other experienced brokers couldn't do and I wish I had found you sooner. I will be recommending your company to my friends and family. Thanks again, wishing you all the best for the future.“
“The Mind Masters Star Award for Focus, awarded to Maggie Pound I have worked with Maggie Pound as she has worn many hats over the years. In 2015 she made a commitment to one thing that has kept her focused like never before. She is dedicated to matching businesses with the right sellers and buyers. She is a connector and realized this was her way of strengthening the business community. She started a local network, GADS to keep local businesses sharing relevant information for the area’s success while getting the word out for anyone wanting to sell their business. She found her calling and is doing it her way! Barbara Eldridge, Founder, Mind Masters: an organization for supporting business owners that encourages, challenges and stimulates business development, financial growth and personal and professional change. I am so pleased that I had Ricardo Gomez representing me to sell my business, Silver Dollar Cocktail Lounge. He is one of the best agents I have ever had the pleasure to know. Very informative, he kept me aware of what he was doing on my behalf in selling the business. I am most grateful for his help.“
“I have to hand it to you Chris, your follow through and tenacity certainly paid off in the arrangement you brokered between myself and the buyer of my business. Your insight and experience showed in the advice you were able to give us both. As with any business sale there are numerous details that have to be negotiated to keep them from becoming roadblocks to what otherwise would be a good deal to both parties. I appreciate the professionalism and care that you exercised in handling each detail as it arose. A job well done Chris, thank you.“
Choosing the right business sales service becomes paramount, not just to fetch an optimal price, but also to ensure a smooth and efficient transaction.
Read MoreIn this article, we will explore the significance of advanced technology in preparing to sell a business in San Diego, highlighting how streamlining operations and leveraging technology can improve outcomes and maximize the value of your business.
Read MoreBy the end of this blog post, you will have a solid foundation to begin your journey of finding the right buyer for your business in San Diego.
Read MoreBy the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of the San Diego business market, the reasons for selling your business, and the process of selling a business. Let's get started.
Read More
Company Overview
First Choice Business Brokers was established in 1994 and has had a presence in beautiful San Diego County since 2007. We offer unsurpassed experience and exceptional service that focuses on business brokerage, M & A Advisory and Practice Sales. We provide expertise in business transactions across a variety of industries and transaction sizes of $50,000 to $50 million.
With offices across the United States we offer local service with national exposure providing sellers with the largest audience of qualified buyers and we offer buyers the largest inventory of businesses for sale.
The San Diego office is owned and operated by Bryan Gonzales, JD-MBA. Mr. Gonzales has more than 25 years as a Broker, Business Owner-Operator and Attorney. In this time, Mr. Gonzales has been involved with hundreds of successful transactions for businesses of all sizes in several industries.
Let our significantly experienced, highly trained and seasoned professionals assist you in your business venture whether buying or selling. Our passionate team and our comprehensive processes and systems will get the job done!
If you’re looking to buy or sell an existing business or franchise, you've come to the right place. We offer regional San Diego knowledge and world class service.
When it comes to selling your business, you’ll want to work with a professionally trained, San Diego based business broker associated with a national company.
We are a full-service business brokerage offering:
Business Brokerage – Confidentially Listed San Diego Businesses that are currently for sale.
Business Valuation – Expert Valuation Services are offered at all First Choice Offices.
Access to our large database of potential Buyers, not just in California but around the globe.
Buyer Representation – First Choice Business Sales Professionals guide business Buyers through the business purchasing process.
Large selection of listings not just in California, but across the country.
1. One-On-One Relationship
Sole owners selling their business typically manage this transaction and make business decisions independent of employees. Support from family and friends is helpful with your personal choices and emotions, but where do you get the help you need to make business decisions?
A business broker's role is to offer guidance, reassurance, and confidence in final business decisions.
First Choice Business Brokers aim to build trusted relationships with each client. As your advisor, we offer honest, transparent interactions while we provide actionable advice about the sale of your business and recent developments in the market. We adhere to the industry Code of Ethics and value the highest standards of ethical behavior.
2. Professional Experience And Expertise
People attracted to a career in Business Brokerage arrive with various post-graduate education in business, then become certified Business Brokers. One such prestigious designation is the Certified Business Intermediary offered by the International Business Brokers Association, to those who have proven professional excellence through verified education and exemplary commitment to the industry.
3. Keep Your Interests First
You can take important steps to focus on your current and future interests when you decide it is time to sell. Professionals who have been around the block and seen it all can help you protect yourself. Getting expert help will go a long way to avoiding common pitfalls and distractions to your interests.
First Choice Business Brokers in San Diego accesses a team of lawyers, bankers, accountants, real estate, and insurance brokers to keep your interests first and foremost.
4. Managing The Entire Process
The process of selling your business is anything but simple in a market saturated with companies for sale. The right expertise will manage the sales process from valuation through finding the right buyer to a smooth negotiation and transition.
The FCBB - San Diego will guide you through the process:
● Preparing for sale
● Valuation
● Due diligence
● Finding the right buyer
● Legal documentation
● Negotiation
● Transition of ownership
You are the central player in selling, and our team are the workers who manage the entire process for you.
5. Access To A Network
The simple rule for the sale of any business is to ensure that the maximum number of people see it. With decades of collective experience in the business brokerage sector, FCBB has one of the most extensive networks in the San Diego area. As our client, you can access a comprehensive database of qualified buyers and investors for the best chances to negotiate satisfying conditions of your sale and the right sale price.
6.No Up-Front Fees
Every Business Broker has its method of charging clients for their services. Fees typically connect to the total enterprise value. You can still compare fees when you understand the terms of the broker's listing or engagement agreements. Those vary widely and can be tricky to navigate, but be assured most fees work out to be very similar.
Almost all sellers will pay an upfront valuation or marketing fees. And it's not unusual for business owners to be required to pay a monthly retainer fee.
First Choice Business Broker - San Diego is different from its competitors, with zero upfront fees to start your sales process. You pay a success fee once the business is sold. We will gladly discuss costs in more detail at your first free consultation in our San Diego office.
The first thing to work on is getting your team ready. Teamwork is your top priority when you decide to sell. A business sale requires expertise from different professions, including attorneys, accountants, bankers, real estate and insurance brokers, and business brokers. The team member who will do the most for you giving you the best value is your business broker. They can coordinate and manage the whole process.
First Choice Business Broker in San Diego has access to a professional team for legal advice and documentation.
2. Prepare Your Documents
When you want to sell your business, ensure you do everything right to the letter and avoid future repercussions. Check that all documentation conforms to local laws. Your business broker does not provide legal advice but will point you in the right direction when legal advice and documentation are required. You can save a lot of time working with a FCBB - San Diego.
3. Decide On The Pricing
Pricing is often a source of disagreement in business sales. Owners may have an inflated perception of their business value. While buyers are out looking for a deal. An incorrect valuation can sour opportunities for sale to qualified buyers and do irreparable damage to prospects. While having a number in mind is good, owners should know that they might be wrong given market conditions and other factors. Pricing a business too low leaves you with less money. Too high a price and you might not sell your business fast enough. Consulting a business broker will significantly improve the accuracy of your initial sale price, avoiding disagreements and delays.
4. Finding The Right People
Finding the right people to buy your business requires advertising and a marketing plan. If you don't have access to either, then the best advice is to get in touch with a business broker with these resources. They have proven marketing plans to choose from and a vast network of prospects that improves your chances of selling your business to the right people.
5. Handle Negotiations With Diligence
Having a prospective buyer at the table does not indicate the end of the sale process. Being at the table together is an opportunity for due diligence. Both parties will assess the potential of each other to close the deal and transition to successful ownership.
To close the sale, you must be savvy in the art of negotiating a deal. Having a First Choice Business Broker on your side can be an advantage for your negotiation strategy, with considerable experience in San Diego businesses and proven success to achieving negotiation with satisfying results.
6. Aim To Complete The Process Efficiently
Owners, be wary of the timing of your business sale. Moving too quickly may deprive you of optimal value. While being on the market for extended periods may signal to potential buyers that something is wrong.
Experienced business brokers will push through the process quickly and effectively. Timing and efficiency matter!
While this might be a simple question, the answer is much more complex. Many variables are examined closely by a potential buyer and become involved in setting the right price for a business:
● Management beyond you, who can run the company when you are not there?
● A clean set of financials, accrued income statement, and balance sheet, with high net profit margins
● Recurring streams of revenue, like subscriptions, are favorable
● Competition in the industry
● Barriers to entry into the industry
● Tangible assets such as cash on hand, equipment, machinery
● Intangible assets such as branding, reputation, or service innovation
● Current economic cycle.
Calculations including these factors are challenging and overwhelming if you don't have the experience. Brokers choose valuation tools that support their sales strategies.
First Choice Business Brokers can help. We create an accurate number for your business using a combination of successful valuation formulas and our experience in the niche.
2. How Quickly Can I Sell My Business?
The more emphasis, time, and money you invest in your business sale, the more opportunity for a reasonable sale period between 6 months and -2 years. Following the advice from professional advisors will minimize the time it takes to sell.
Consult with First Choice Business Brokers to estimate a sales period for your business in today's marketplace.
3. Will My Employees And Customers Find Out If I'm Selling My Business?
People knowing if you're selling your business has much to do with your approach to the sale. Selling under strict confidentiality is best practice, but it might be challenging for an owner to accomplish independently. You might not be able to coordinate the sale and keep it confidential at the same time.
First Choice Business Brokers ensures confidentiality by taking all phone calls and negotiations off the business site and in the San Diego office.
We draft a legally binding Non-disclosure Agreement, signed by the buyer at the correct time. Most buyers favor an NDA because confidentiality is also in their best interests. Any changes to the employee structure or customer contracts significantly impact the valuation.
4. What's The Best Time To Sell My Business?
Answering "Why" you want to sell your business will help to address "When" is the best time. At the same time, remember to keep track of market trends and sell when you can make a profit. But there are also other scenarios to consider.
5. How Important Is It To Hire A Business Broker?
Without the skill set of a business broker and access to professional advice and documentation, a sale is at risk of failing.
Having a business broker on your side has several benefits:
● An accurate valuation
● Knowledge of market conditions and comparables
● The timely, efficient sales process
● Access to a large pool of buyers
● Successful negotiations
● due diligence and risk management
● Successful transition of ownership
6. Can A Business Broker Help Me Sell My Business?
Yes, business brokers are professionally trained and certified to handle business sales, avoiding common pitfalls with proven successful experience.
FCBB is your valued team in San Diego, with the authority to sell your business. We have been in the niche since 1994 and have considerable experience getting you the right buyer.
7. Are Business Brokers Expensive?
Most brokers work on a commission paid upon the successful sale. The rate of commision is calculated according to the sale price. For example, if your sale price is $500,000, the commission of 10% means the broker fee is $50,000. Sales below this range may be subject to a minimum commission of $10,000 - $15,000.
FCBB -San Diego has no initial or up-front costs to start your business engagement. We only get our payment when you have closed your sale.
Visit our San Diego office for a free valuation and advice on broker fees.
8. How Can I Handle Documentation Related To Selling My Business?
Selling a business is a complex transaction that involves a lot of documentation. Consider hiring a professional business brokerage agency to assist you. If you are in San Diego, stop by the office of First Choice Business Brokers for a consultation about the specific documentation required for your business sale.
9. Will My Payments Be One-Time Or Multiple Payments Over Time?
Most often, a seller is credited the whole $ amount at the time of sale. There are cases when sellers opt for financing options which means taking the payments over time.
10. How Do I Move On After Selling My Business?
Consider your options before putting your business on the market. Speak to family and friends to help you through personal and emotional issues.
● Do you plan to leave the industry and move on to a new venture?
● Do you want to stay involved with the business in a different role than the owner?
● Do you want to retire? And hope that selling your will provide financial security.
Speak to a business advisor who will guide you through the correct sales process depending on your plans following the sale.
First Choice Business Brokers in San Diego looks forward to long-term business advice to help you in future endeavors following the sale of your business.