Small Business Brokers

Is there any difference betwee "big business" brokers and small business brokers?

It depends on your definition of “small”. While definitions vary, small business brokers, sometimes called “main street business” brokers, typically sell business for less than $1M. Usually much less, on the order of several hundred thousand dollars. They typically work on a commission basis, charging 10-15%, often with a minimum. Many small business brokers behave much like a real estate broker, and in fact, often times they are!

Brokers that sell larger businesses don’t like to be called brokers. Instead, they are often called intermediaries or investment bankers. The process they use is very different, the fees can reach into the millions, and they operate on a different level.

So who do you contact if you are selling your business? If you have to ask, you probably need a small business broker!