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.

Why 2026 Could Be the Perfect Moment to Sell Your Staffing Firm

If you’ve been considering selling your staffing or recruiting firm, 2026 might be the ideal time to make your move. The U.S. staffing industry is poised for steady growth, with forecasts predicting a 2–5% expansion next year. Certain sectors, like technology, healthcare, and contract staffing, are expected to see even stronger demand. This creates a prime opportunity for owners who want to capitalize on favorable market conditions and attract motivated buyers.

In this post, we’ll explore why 2026 could be your best window to sell your staffing firm, what’s driving buyer interest, and how you can prepare now to maximize your firm’s value.

A Growing Market with Targeted Demand

The staffing industry has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in recent years. Looking ahead to 2026, labor market trends suggest continued demand for flexible workforce solutions. Technology firms will keep needing contract and permanent placements to keep pace with innovation. Healthcare staffing remains critical amid ongoing workforce shortages. And contract staffing is gaining traction across various sectors as companies seek agility.

This sector-specific growth means buyers, especially private equity firms and consolidators, are actively seeking staffing firms with strengths in these verticals. Firms that combine stable margins, clean operations, and niche specialization are particularly attractive acquisition targets.

Why Buyers Are Focused on 2026

Private equity and strategic buyers plan their acquisition strategies well in advance. Q4 is often when they review portfolios and allocate capital for the upcoming year. By early 2026, they’ll be ready to engage with sellers who present well-prepared, high-quality firms.

For staffing firm owners, this means early 2026 offers maximum leverage. Buyers are motivated, financing options are still accessible, and competition among buyers can drive up valuations.

What Owners Should Do Now to Prepare

If you’re aiming to sell in 2026, preparation is key. Here are some practical steps to take well before you list:

Refresh Your Valuation: Market conditions shift, so updating your firm’s valuation ensures you understand your current worth and can set realistic expectations.
Revisit Key Client Contracts: Review and, if necessary, renegotiate contracts to ensure favorable terms and reduce client concentration risks.
Strengthen Your Recruiter Bench: Buyers want to see a strong, stable team. Document recruiter productivity, retention rates, and any incentive programs that keep your top talent engaged.
Finalize 2025 Financials Cleanly: Accurate, audited financial statements for the past three years are essential. Clean books build buyer confidence and reduce due diligence surprises.

The Emotional and Strategic Benefits of Early Planning

Selling your staffing firm is not just a financial decision, it’s an emotional milestone. Preparing early gives you control over the process and peace of mind. You can pace your exit strategy, communicate clearly with your team, and ensure a smooth transition for clients and recruiters alike.

Moreover, starting your preparation now positions you to capitalize on the market’s momentum. Waiting too long could mean facing economic headwinds, tighter financing, or less buyer interest.

In Summary: Why 2026 Is Your Window

The staffing industry is forecasted to grow steadily in 2026, with strong demand in key verticals.
Private equity and consolidators remain eager buyers, fueling robust M&A activity.
Early 2026 offers sellers maximum leverage with motivated buyers and competitive valuations.
Preparation now, updating valuations, contracts, recruiter data, and financials, sets you up for a successful sale.
Early planning minimizes stress, protects your team, and maximizes your exit value.

Ready to Position Your Staffing Firm for a Successful 2026 Exit?

If you’re thinking about stepping back or transitioning, now is the time to act. Preparing early not only improves your valuation but also ensures a smoother sales process.

Schedule a confidential consultation with our staffing M&A experts today. We’ll help you assess your firm’s readiness, identify preparation gaps, and develop a tailored exit strategy for 2026 success.