How long does it take to sell a business in Texas?

Most confidential business sales take 7-9 months from listing to closing, though preparation can begin 1-3 years earlier depending on readiness. Lion Business Advisors achieves a 70-80% success rate compared to the industry average of 20-30%.

What is my business worth?

Business valuation depends on financial performance, market conditions, industry multiples, and growth potential. Our valuation process benchmarks your business against current market data to establish a defensible price range. We specialize in businesses valued between $1M and $50M with annual revenues of $2M-$50M.

How do you protect confidentiality during a business sale?

We use controlled data systems, require NDAs before sharing information, vet all buyers for financial qualification, and maintain anonymity until you approve disclosure. Confidentiality is the most important ingredient in the successful sale of your business.

What makes Lion Business Advisors different from other business brokers?

We combine experienced M&A advisory with advanced valuation tools, rigorous buyer qualification, and full-cycle deal support. Our advisors hold certifications including CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) and CEPA (Certified Exit Planning Advisor). We achieve a 70-80% success rate and are recognized as M&A Advisors of the Year 2023 by Acquisitions International.

What types of businesses does Lion Business Advisors specialize in?

We specialize in owner-operated, founder-led trades and service businesses including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, construction, metal fabrication, landscaping, commercial cleaning, pest control, dental practices, medical practices, equipment rental, and staffing/recruiting firms. Our typical clients have revenues between $2M-$50M and enterprise values of $1M-$50M.

What is the 7-Step Lion Selling Process?

The 7-Step Lion Selling Process includes: (1) Valuation & Readiness Review using advanced models, (2) Preparation & Packaging with secure data rooms, (3) Buyer Targeting & Marketing with qualified prospects, (4) Negotiation & Due Diligence management, (5) Closing & Transition support. Every stage blends data-driven insights with hands-on advisory support to keep you informed and in control.

Do you work with buyers or just sellers?

While we primarily focus on seller representation (98% of our engagements), we also provide buyer representation services for qualified purchasers. We maintain an extensive buyer network reaching virtually 100% of business buyers through strategic marketing channels including BizBuySell, Axial, LoopNet, and direct outreach.

What are your fees for selling a business?

Our success fees follow the Modern Lehman formula structure, with an upfront administrative fee of $7,500-$20,000 covering valuation, preparation, and marketing. We compete on service quality and marketing expertise rather than fees, ensuring you receive comprehensive support throughout the entire transaction.

Business Valuation Services | Sellability Assessment

Professional Business Valuations

Understanding Your Business's True Value

“If you’re about to sell your business, or simply want to understand what it could be worth, you deserve more than an estimate. You deserve clarity, credibility, and a defensible value.”

When Do You Need a Business Valuation?

Understanding Your Business Value

Many business owners wonder: What is my business really worth? or Am I leaving value on the table by not knowing? For owners preparing to sell in the next 12–36 months, for advisors laying groundwork for a client, or for first-time sellers unsure of the steps ahead, understanding your value is the essential first move in a strategic exit.

Whether you’re exploring a confidential business sale, planning succession, or preparing for a financing event, understanding your business valuation is the critical first step. At Lion Business Advisors, we offer multiple business valuation methods, from quick sellability assessments to formal certified business valuations, each designed to fit your timeline and goals. Our AI-powered valuation approach combines advanced analytics with human expertise to deliver defensible numbers that withstand buyer scrutiny and maximize your exit value.

At Lion Business Advisors, we deliver valuation services built on advanced analytics, human judgment, confidentiality protocols and real-world outcomes. Whether you’re exploring a sale, succession planning or a financing event, our valuation suite aligns with your timeline and specific need.

How AI Enhances Our Valuations

Traditional valuations rely on historical data and manual comparables analysis. Our AI-powered approach goes further:

Real-time market intelligence: Our system analyzes 1,000+ comparable transactions across your industry, geography, and size range—updated continuously as market conditions shift.
Predictive scenario modeling: Instead of a single “best guess,” we model conservative, market, and optimistic scenarios showing how different buyer types, market conditions, and operational improvements impact your value.
Risk quantification: Our algorithm identifies value-eroding factors (customer concentration, owner dependency, declining margins) and quantifies their impact on your valuation.
Buyer behavior analysis: We track which buyers are active, what multiples they’re paying, and what deal structures they prefer—giving you strategic insight into your market.

Result: You get a defensible, market-backed valuation supported by data—not just an advisor’s opinion.

Contact us today to learn more about our Business Valuation Services

Certified or Non-Certified. Which Report is Right for Me?

Our Core Valuation Services

Here are the four key services we offer, each tailored to different needs and timing.

1. Sellability Assessment: Your Early Readiness Check

What it is: A high-level review that measures how ready your business is for the market in 12–36 months, assessing key value drivers and risk factors. When & Why: Ideal for owners thinking “I may sell in a few years”, who want to reduce uncertainty now, before listing. This is your foundation for strategic planning. How we deliver it: Using a proprietary scoring model, AI-based benchmarking and advisor review, we identify gaps and build a readiness plan. Confidential, fast and cost-effective. You’ll understand exactly where your business stands and what improvements matter most. Outcome: You gain a clear “Sellability Score” with prioritized improvement areas and a roadmap to strengthen value ahead of a confidential business sale. Many clients use this to guide their next 12–24 months of business decisions.

2. Broker Opinion of Value (BOV): Market-Based, Actionable Insight

What it is: A market-informed valuation report developed by our in-house team—designed for owners ready to set an asking price or test the market. When & Why: Best for those planning to list within 6–12 months, comparing brokers, or structuring internal buy-out decisions. This is your pricing foundation. How we deliver it: Using AI-enhanced scenario modeling, peer benchmark data and buyer behavior analysis, combined with advisor review and narrative. We show you not just a number, but the reasoning behind it—and how different market conditions or buyer types might shift that number. Outcome: You receive a defensible value range, positioned to maximize your exit, aligned with your timeline, and backed by our expertise as the business broker in Texas and beyond. You’ll have the confidence to negotiate knowing your number is market-backed.

3. Certified Business Valuation (CBV): Audit-Quality for Major Decisions

What it is: A formal, third-party valuation conforming to professional standards, useful for bank loans, investor negotiation, estate planning or high-stakes exits. When & Why: Necessary when you anticipate heavy due diligence, need external verification, or require “audit-quality” numbers for serious buyers or regulatory purposes. This is your institutional-grade credential. How we deliver it: Our team of certified analysts (NACVA credentialed) conducts full data review, scenario modeling, and generates documented valuation reports. We integrate our AI tools for benchmarking and comparables, ensuring your valuation is both rigorous and defensible. Outcome: Strong, credible documentation respectful of scrutiny. You can negotiate with buyers or lenders confidently, rather than leaving your value vulnerable. Banks, investors, and serious buyers trust this format.

4. Quality of Earnings (QoE) Report: Deep Dive Ahead of Sale or Acquisition

What it is: A detailed examination of financial, operational and accounting issues to provide a buyer-grade view of earnings quality and risk exposure. When & Why: Critical when you expect seasoned buyers (private equity, strategic acquirers) or when the business is complex, rapidly growing, or structurally unique. This is your defense against surprises in diligence. How we deliver it: We partner with top-tier audit and due-diligence firms who bring certified financial expertise and institutional rigor. Here’s how it works: You work with Lion to organize your financial data and business documentation. Our partner conducts the detailed QoE analysis (earnings adjustments, risk assessment, working capital normalization). Lion coordinates the entire process, translates findings into your exit strategy, and helps you use the report to negotiate confidently with buyers. Outcome: You have institutional-quality documentation that reduces buyer risk and supports premium valuation. Sophisticated buyers expect this level of detail—having it ready accelerates closing and strengthens your negotiating position.

Start the process for a business valuation

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Real-World Scenarios

HVAC contractor, 3 years out: 60% of revenue from 2 customers. Start with Sellability Assessment to identify customer concentration risk and build a plan to diversify. Revisit in 18 months with BOV.
Plumbing business, ready to list: Strong financials, recurring maintenance contracts, stable team. Use BOV to set the asking price and position for buyer outreach within 6–12 months.
Fabrication shop, PE interest: Complex operations, multiple product lines, rapid growth. Use QoE to prepare for institutional buyer diligence and negotiate from a position of strength.
Distribution business, bank financing: Seeking an SBA loan to expand. Use CBV to provide lender with audit-quality documentation and reduce financing risk.

Investment & Timeline

We believe in transparent pricing. Here’s what to expect for each service:

Service	Investment Range	Timeline	What’s Included
Sellability Assessment	$2,500	3 Business Days	Readiness score, improvement roadmap, Estimated Value Range, AI scenario modeling
Broker Opinion of Value	$5,500	3 weeks	Market comparables, valuation report, Estimated Value Range, strategy session
Certified Business Valuation	Starting at $7,500	4–6 weeks	NACVA-certified analysis, audit-quality documentation, full report, lender/investor-ready
Quality of Earnings Report	Starting at $15,000	6–8 weeks	Partner firm analysis, earnings adjustments, risk assessment, institutional-grade documentation

Investment varies based on business complexity, revenue size, and scope. All fees are discussed upfront, no surprises.

Why Choose Lion for Your Business Valuation?

You could get a valuation from an accountant, a generic online tool, or a competitor broker. Here’s what sets Lion apart:

Broker + Advisor + Analyst: We’re not just valuers—we’re M&A advisors who understand how your valuation translates into buyer interest, deal structure, and final proceeds. We see the full picture.
AI meets human judgment: Our technology processes data at scale, but our experienced advisors provide strategic context, market insight, and negotiation guidance.
Confidentiality by design: Every valuation is conducted with strict NDA protocols and secure systems—your business metrics and sale interest remain private.
Aligned incentives: As a business broker, our success depends on your success. We’re invested in delivering valuations that position you for the best outcome.
Integrated M&A expertise: Your valuation isn’t just a number—it’s the foundation of your exit strategy. We connect it to buyer targeting, deal structuring, and negotiation planning.

Why Business Owners Trust Lion for Valuations

500+ valuations completed: We’ve valued businesses across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, landscaping, fabrication, distribution, and other trades—giving us deep industry insight.
Proven accuracy: Our Broker Opinion of Value deviates from final deal price by an average of ±8% over the past 3 years—demonstrating reliability and market alignment.
25% faster time-to-offer: Businesses using our Sellability Assessment and preparation roadmap saw a 25% reduction in time-to-offer versus unprepared listings.
Award-winning expertise: Our team includes M&A Advisors of the Year (2023), NACVA-certified valuation experts, and Certified Business Intermediaries—bringing institutional-grade rigor to every valuation.
Trusted by financial institutions: Our certified valuations are used by banks, private equity firms, and institutional investors across Texas and beyond.
Confidentiality guaranteed: Secure valuation portal, NDA gating, controlled document collection, and zero public disclosure unless you direct it.

Common Questions We Hear

Q: Can I just use a simple multiple to value my business?

Multiples are a starting point—but they don’t account for unique business drivers, risks or buyer behavior. Using AI-enhanced modeling gives a more accurate, defensible number that supports your exit strategy. A 6x multiple might work for one HVAC business but miss critical value drivers in another. Our approach is tailored to your specific situation.

Q: You provide an opinion of value—why would I need certified?

If you’re preparing for serious buyer scrutiny, investor involvement, or legal/estate matters, a certified business valuation adds credibility and reduces negotiation risk. Banks and institutional buyers often require it. Think of it as the difference between a professional opinion and a court-ready document.

Q: Will the valuation trigger disclosure of my business being for sale?

No. We deliver all valuation services with full confidentiality: secure portals, controlled document collection, NDA procedures and no public announcements unless you direct them. Your business metrics and sale interest remain private from day one.

Q: Is one valuation enough?

It depends on your timeline and situation. Many clients start with a Sellability Assessment to understand readiness, then move to BOV when they’re closer to listing. If you anticipate institutional buyers or complex diligence, you may layer in QoE later. We’ll guide you on what makes sense.

Q: Which valuation should I do right now?

If you’re 12–36 months out and still preparing, start with a Sellability Assessment. If you’re closer and want to set a price and position, choose a BOV. If external parties or high scrutiny are involved, CBV or QoE may be required. We’ll walk you through what fits your timeline and goals.

Q: How long does a valuation take?

Sellability Assessment: 2–3 weeks. BOV: 3–4 weeks. CBV: 4–6 weeks. QoE: 6–8 weeks (depends on complexity). We prioritize speed without sacrificing rigor.

Ready to Understand Your Business Value?

The right valuation at the right time can make a $1M–$5M difference in your exit outcome. Let’s start with the service that fits your situation.

Still Preparing? Start Here

Schedule your Sellability Assessment

Get your readiness score, identify improvement opportunities, and chart a clear path to maximizing value. 15 minutes, instant results, completely confidential.

Schedule Your Assessment

Ready to Sell? Get Your Price

Request a Broker Opinion of Value

Understand your market value with AI-enhanced analysis and buyer behavior insights. Position yourself for confident negotiations and faster close.

Request BOV

Complex Transaction? Go Deeper

Explore Certified Business Valuations or QoE Options

For institutional buyers, financing requirements, or high-stakes negotiations, we’ll guide you to the right valuation approach.

Speak with Our Team

Questions? Call 800.525.3542

Your life’s work deserves a valuation that reflects its true value. Let’s make sure you get it.