Category Archives: Business Valuation & Appraisal

A discussion of the issues involved in valuation / appraisal of a business by William Bruce, president of the American Business Brokers Association.

An Insider’s Report: What’s the Condition of the Business-for-Sale Marketplace?

Whether you’re buying or selling a privately held business, or just want to keep up with what’s going on in the market, this article contains timely information on the condition of the business-for-sale marketplace. The most authoritative source of accurate … Continue reading

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What is Business Goodwill?

As the owner of a business advisory firm, I’m often asked about goodwill.  My firm is involved in valuing and assisting clients in the transfer of ownership of small to medium size businesses.  Goodwill is an issue we encounter in … Continue reading

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EBITDA Valuation Multiples Are Rebounding for Privately Held Businesses

By William Bruce This latest information on the EBITDA valuation multiples comes to my office from DealStats Value Index Digest, which is one of our most authoritative resources. The DealStats database contains the larger transactions where Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, … Continue reading

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The Federal Reserve Lowers Interest Rates. What Does This Mean?

Updated October 8, 2024. Interest rates are in the news.  Last month, the Federal Reserve Bank lowered the Federal Funds Rate by one-half point, which was more aggressive than the predicted quarter point.  The rate is now at 4.75 percent. … Continue reading

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Why Some Small Businesses Don’t Sell

As a business broker for over 35 years, I’m often asked why some small businesses don’t sell.  It’s a sad situation when a business owner reaches retirement and can’t find a buyer for their business.  Too many times, they just … Continue reading

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Seven Reasons to Retain A Business Broker When Selling Your Business

You’ve probably spent years building your business.  And so, when it comes time to exit, how can you increase the chances of a successful transition? Retaining an experienced business broker is a good place to start. Our friends at Hatchit.us … Continue reading

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Small Business Valuation Multiples Explained

In the complex area of small business valuations, are you confused about which earnings valuation multiple to use?  There are at least six earnings computations, including: SDE – Seller’s Discretionary Earnings EBIT – Earnings Before Interest and Taxes EBITDA – … Continue reading

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Should You Sell Your Business Now or Wait?

We’re living in strange times with the pandemic, a record number of hurricanes and a change of residents in the White House.  So if you’re considering exiting your business, it’s natural to wonder if you should sell your business now … Continue reading

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What Are the Differences Between EBITDA and Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE)?

Updated July 18, 2025 The differences between EBITDA and Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE) cause confusion.  Sometimes the two terms are incorrectly viewed as interchangeable, but there are important differences. First, some definitions.  Both are business performance benchmarks that are widely … Continue reading

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Considering Buying a Business? Here Are the 6 Most Frequently Asked Questions.

The most frequently asked question by individuals who are considering buying a business and answers by William Bruce, President, American Business Brokers Association. Continue reading

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