After starting and selling two small businesses, I pursued financial trading and later worked in Real Estate private equity. This journey taught me about markets, liquidity, fundraising, investing, and managing assets. I realized the traditional approach of business brokers was backwards. Most brokers, often real estate agents, lack financial markets and private equity knowledge. They typically post your business online and wait for calls. I created Near Sail to bridge the gap for small businesses underserved by boutique investment banks.

Near Sail offers more than traditional business brokerage firms. We provide free educational tools, exit tools for small business owners to exit on their own if they wish, small business financing through qualified lenders, honest and transparent brokers who are fiduciaries to the seller, financial modeling and analysis for small businesses, and comprehensive exit planning tailored to your unique business needs.

Yes, you want both. A CPA will help dive deeper into your numbers, and an attorney will ensure your asset is protected during due diligence and throughout the entire sale process.

A broker's opinion of value is just that, an opinion. What matters more is understanding who your key buyers are and how to pitch your business to them. It's more important to show your potential buyer the value in purchasing your business for the structure offered.

It depends on your exact situation. Your competitors could be your best option for exiting. This varies depending on the industry and the specifics of your business.

If you find yourself reducing your price for a cash offer, it means you did not plan well before going to market. Understanding the type of offer you expect before going to market is crucial. A clear financial model and plan will help avoid unnecessary price reductions.

This depends on the type of offer you are looking for. If you want an all-cash offer, reducing owner involvement in daily operations is more important. Focus on creating passive income rather than increasing personal earnings, as all-cash offers seek minimal risk with passive income.

Most small businesses need a specialized private equity group or a solid operator. Lists of thousands of buyers are often ineffective. Your buyer is most likely within 50 miles of your business, and operator capability often matters more than financials.

Yes. Any broker who claims to be better than a registered investment bank or says investment banks aren't worth their fee should be avoided. Investment banks offer more in-depth services and must receive FINRA certification, providing significant value for businesses that meet their criteria.

No. A well-designed financial analysis would separate all assets, ensuring that the valuation is optimized for each piece of the puzzle. It's about your business's terminal value, not just seller discretionary earnings.