If you're a business owner in Tampa—or anywhere in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, or Hernando Counties—who's thinking about selling, this post is for you.
Whether you're looking to retire, relocate, or just cash out and move on, selling your business is a big decision. And chances are, you’ve Googled at least a few of the questions below.
Here’s a no-fluff guide based on what local Tampa business owners are actually searching—with real, value-added answers to help you prepare.
🔍 What Tampa Business Owners Ask Before Selling
1. 💰 “How Much Is My Business Worth?”
This is the #1 question I get—and it’s the foundation of the entire selling process.
The truth? Your business is worth what a qualified buyer is willing to pay… backed by financials, market trends, and deal terms.
📌 Pro Tip: The SBA highlights three primary valuation approaches:
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Asset-Based (best for asset-heavy businesses)
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Market-Based (based on recent sales in your niche)
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Income-Based (typically using SDE or EBITDA multiples)
→ Reference: SBA.gov – Business Valuation Guide
If you want a custom valuation done right, I offer full valuation services—plus a free intro call to help you understand where you stand.
2. 📄 “What Documents Do I Need to Sell?”
Preparation is everything. Clean records = confidence from buyers.
Here’s your short list:
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Last 3 years of tax returns
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Profit & Loss statements
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Balance sheets
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Lease agreements
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Equipment/asset list
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Payroll summary
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Vendor & supplier details
✅ The IRS provides a solid closing checklist, and I can walk you through gathering everything buyers will ask for during due diligence.
3. ⏳ “How Long Will It Take to Sell?”
On average, it takes 6 to 12 months to sell a small business. But that can shrink dramatically if:
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Your financials are clean
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The business is priced properly
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The deal allows for seller financing
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You work with a licensed local broker (👋)
Businesses with recurring revenue or owner-operator potential often move faster in the Tampa market.
4. 📅 “Is Now a Good Time to Sell?”
Yes—and here’s why:
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Tampa Bay’s population growth continues to drive demand
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Interest rates are stabilizing
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Many Baby Boomers are exiting businesses, which means buyers are hunting now before competition tightens
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Florida remains tax-friendly with no state income tax
📈 Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce – Business Exit Planning
5. 🤝 “Do I Really Need a Business Broker?”
If you're asking this, you're already ahead of the game.
Here’s what a licensed local business broker like myself brings to the table:
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Confidential marketing (no employees or customers alerted)
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Pre-qualifying serious buyers
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Accurate valuation + pricing strategy
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Deal structure, negotiation, and paperwork
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Coordination with your CPA and attorney
📌 In Florida, business brokers must be licensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
→ myfloridalicense.com – Verify Broker
📍 Why Work With a Tampa-Based Broker?
National brokers don’t know Tampa. I do.
As the owner of Lobo Business Sales LLC, I work face-to-face with business owners from Ybor to Spring Hill, helping them prepare their business for market and negotiate strong, clean exits. I focus on brick-and-mortar businesses earning $250K+ annually and digital-based companies nationwide.
🗓️ Let’s Talk – Free Initial Consultation
Not sure where to start? I offer a free 15-minute consultation—no pressure, just info. Whether you want to sell in 6 months or 2 years, having the right plan makes all the difference.
👉 Click here to schedule your free consultation
💼 Business Brokerage Services Provided By:
Business Broker Dave
📍 Licensed Florida Business Broker
Lobo Business Sales LLC | Tampa, FL
📧 info@lobobusinesssales.com
📞 (813) 395-9552
🌐 www.LoboBusinessSales.com
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