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.

What Buyers Are Looking For in 2025

The business-for-sale landscape is evolving, and buyers in 2025 are more strategic, data-driven, and risk-aware than ever. Whether your business is already on the market or you’re preparing for a future sale, understanding what buyers are prioritizing this year can help you position your business to attract the right offers, and the best value.

Here’s a breakdown of the top factors today’s buyers are looking for in 2025:

1. Financial Transparency & Profitability

Buyers are doing deeper due diligence and expect complete transparency. In 2025, clean, accurate, and verifiable financials are table stakes. What they want:

At least 3 years of financial statements, tax returns, and P&Ls
Strong EBITDA or SDE (Seller’s Discretionary Earnings)
Realistic add-backs with documentation

Pro tip: Clear financials not only build trust, they can boost your valuation.

2. Recurring & Predictable Revenue

Revenue models matter. Buyers are putting a premium on predictable income streams like contracts, subscriptions, and recurring service agreements. What they want:

Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) or long-term client contracts
Low client turnover and strong customer retention
Evidence of customer lifetime value and repeat business

More predictability = less perceived risk = higher buyer interest.

3. Owner Independence

Buyers are looking for businesses that can operate without the owner’s constant involvement. They want to invest in a system, not a job. What they want:

Documented SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)
A trained management team or key staff in place
Minimal owner involvement in day-to-day operations

If your business can run without you, buyers will see more long-term value.

4. Market Position & Growth Potential

In 2025, buyers are strategic. They’re not just buying for today—they’re looking for future upside. What they want:

Unique value proposition and competitive advantages
A defined market niche with room to grow
Clear opportunities for expansion (geographic, product lines, new markets)

Be ready to show how a buyer can grow the business post-sale.

5. Tech-Enabled Operations & Digital Presence

Buyers expect modern operations and a digital footprint—even in traditional industries. What they want:

Use of CRM, ERP, or project management tools
Efficient, tech-supported processes
Solid online reputation, website, and social media presence

Outdated systems and no digital visibility? That’s a red flag in 2025.

6. Industry Resilience & Trends

Some industries are heating up, while others face disruption. Buyers are paying close attention to macro trends, economic shifts, and industry resilience. What they want:

A business that performed well during recent market fluctuations
Industry tailwinds (growth sectors > declining ones)
A track record of adapting to change

Buyers aren’t just buying your business—they’re betting on your industry.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning to sell your business in 2025 (or even 2026), the best thing you can do is start preparing now. Aligning your business with what buyers are actually looking for can:

✔ Increase buyer interest ✔ Shorten the time on market ✔ Boost your final sale price

Ready to make your business more buyer-ready? Contact Lion Business Advisors for a strategy session and customized exit roadmap.