Websites that list companies for sale?

Seeking Help/Advice Forum
1

In my city, I’ve been searching for a small firm to purchase. The top three or so business buying/selling websites all essentially have the same postings, with maybe six to ten firms in my price range that I can afford and no new listings in the last month or two.

Would you guys be able to recommend some websites to me for purchasing a business?

2

Stuck finding a small business to buy locally? Here’s how to broaden your search:

  • Go national! Websites like BizBuySell list businesses all over.
  • Target your industry! Look for industry-specific buying/selling platforms.
  • Think “outside the box”! Business brokers often have off-market deals.
  • Network! Chat with other business owners - you never know what you might find.

These tips will open up a wider pool of potential businesses to choose from. Happy hunting!

3

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4

Alternative Avenues Beyond Traditional Business Buying/Selling Websites:

Industry-Specific Resources:

  • Associations and Publications: Many industries have specific associations or publications that cater to mergers and acquisitions. Look for online directories or classifieds within these resources.

Business Brokers:

  • Specialized Brokers: Work with a business broker specializing in small businesses within your target industry. They can leverage their network and expertise to find off-market deals that aren’t publicly listed.

Networking Events:

  • Industry Conferences: Attend industry conferences, trade shows, or local business networking events. Engage with people in your desired field and express your interest in acquiring a business.

Strategies to Uncover Unlisted Businesses:

Direct Contact:

  • Reach Out Directly: Identify companies in your preferred niche and contact the owners directly to express your interest in a potential acquisition.

Professional Advisors:

  • Leverage Your Network: Talk to your accountant, lawyer, or financial advisor. They might know of businesses looking for potential buyers but haven’t formally listed themselves for sale.

Additional Tips:

Expand Your Search Criteria:

  • Flexibility: While staying focused on your ideal industry, consider being flexible on factors like location or revenue range. This might open doors to new possibilities.

Refine Your Online Search:

  • Advanced Search Features: Utilize advanced search features on business buying/selling websites to target listings that closely match your criteria.

Consider a Startup:

  • Higher Growth Potential: If you’re open to the idea, explore acquiring a startup instead of an established business. This can offer higher growth potential but also comes with inherent risks.
5

When I was searching to purchase a small firm, I encountered a similar challenge with limited and overlapping listings on major business buying/selling websites. I eventually expanded my search by exploring niche marketplaces and local business broker websites. In addition to BizBuySell, BusinessBroker.net, and LoopNet, I found success on sites like Flippa for digital businesses and MicroAcquire for smaller tech startups. Engaging with local chambers of commerce, attending industry networking events, and connecting with business brokers directly also helped me discover opportunities that weren’t listed online. Broadening your search to include these avenues might increase your chances of finding a suitable business to purchase.