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.

The Two Dramatically Different Definitions of “Amortization.”

Posted on February 13, 2018 by William Bruce

The term amortization has two distinctly different meanings. It’s confusing to have such distinctly different meanings attributed to the same word, with both being used in the financial world.  We hope this article helps a bit to clear up the misunderstanding we frequently encounter. Continue reading →

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The 3 Financial Benchmarks All Small Business Owners Should Monitor.

Posted on September 11, 2015 by William Bruce

These three financial ratios don’t take long to calculate and should be checked frequently to monitor the health and viability of your small business. Continue reading →

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The Best and Worst Franchise Investments

Posted on June 26, 2015 by William Bruce

Forbes Magazine’s list of the best and worst franchises to buy. Continue reading →

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Types of businesses most and least likely to be approved for SBA loan

Posted on April 20, 2015 by William Bruce

By William Bruce It’s well known that some types of small to medium size businesses are more likely to receive SBA loans than others. We are indebted to George Heaslip, “The Loan Professor” for the following ranking.  George is an independent … Continue reading →

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Selling a Business: Going to Market

Posted on October 8, 2014 by William Bruce

Please keep in mind that selling a business is not an overnight project.  It takes time.  My experience has been that six to eight months is about average. Previous articles have discussed the importance of having a good reason for … Continue reading →

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How to Sell a Business: Buyer Acquisiton Financing

Posted on August 25, 2014 by William Bruce

In addressing how to sell a business, we’ll discuss in this article the issue of buyer acquisition financing.  Previous articles have dealt with being able to give a good reason for selling your business, getting your business ready to sell, … Continue reading →

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Thinking of becoming a business broker? Looking for business broker training programs?

Posted on August 22, 2014 by William Bruce

How to become a successful business broker with appropriate training. Continue reading →

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How to Sell a Business: The Critical Question of Price When Selling a Business

Posted on July 1, 2014 by William Bruce

Nothing causes the buyers and sellers of privately held businesses more anxiety than the problem of valuation. The question of selling price haunts both parties. The seller doesn’t want to price his business too cheap and “leave money on the table”. On the other hand, the buyer of the business is afraid he’ll pay too much and not get the best possible deal. Continue reading →

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Why Do Business Buy-Sell Agreements Fall Apart?

Posted on October 9, 2012 by William Bruce

There are reasons this happens, and, once understood, many of the worst deal-smashers can be avoided. Understanding is the key word. Both the buyer and the seller must develop an awareness of what the sale involves–and such an awareness should include facing potential problems before they swell into floodwaters and “sink” the sale. Continue reading →

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What is a Franchise REALLY Worth? How to Value any Franchise.

Posted on October 5, 2012 by William Bruce

What are franchised businesses really worth? This listing gives quick valuation estimates for over a hundred franchises. Continue reading →

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