You’ve spent years: maybe decades: crawling through hot Florida attics or troubleshooting complex electrical panels in South Tampa commercial buildings. You’ve built a crew, a fleet, and a reputation. That alone is worth a nod of respect. 👏
But now, it’s 2026, and the Tampa Bay market is shifting. You’re starting to think about what life looks like without a pager or a dispatch board running your schedule. You’re ready for the "next chapter," but the thought of how to sell my business in Tampa feels like trying to fix a burst main with a roll of duct tape.
Here’s the unfiltered truth: Selling a service business in today’s market isn't just about finding a buyer; it’s about strategic positioning, absolute confidentiality, and knowing exactly what those national private equity groups are hunting for.
At Lobo Business Sales LLC, we’ve spent over 15 years helping owners in the $200K to $2M net profit "sweet spot" exit on their own terms. Let’s dive into what you need to know to get the deal you deserve.
If you own a plumbing or electrical shop in Hillsborough County right now, you are sitting on a gold mine. The "North Tampa Gold Rush" isn't just a headline; it's a reality driven by massive residential growth and a commercial sector that refuses to slow down.
Buyers: ranging from local competitors to out-of-state giants: are flooding the market. They want "recession-resistant" assets. People might skip a vacation, but they won’t live without working toilets or electricity.
Don't rely on "gut feelings" or what your buddy at the supply house said he heard. In 2026, valuations for plumbing and electrical businesses are driven by clear, documented data. While every business is unique, here is the breakdown of what we’re seeing in the Tampa Bay area:
| Metric | Smaller Shops (Owner-Operator) | Established Mid-Sized | Large/Regional Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Net Profit | $100K - $300K | $300K - $1M | $1M - $2M+ |
| SDE/EBITDA Multiple | 2.0x - 3.0x | 3.0x - 4.5x | 5.0x - 7.0x+ |
| Primary Value Driver | Owner’s technical skill | Staff & recurring revenue | Management layer & scale |
If you are wondering, "sell my business in Tampa for the highest price," you need to move from the left column to the right. Buyers pay a premium for businesses that don't fall apart when the owner goes on vacation for two weeks.
Many talented tradesmen make the mistake of trying to DIY their sale or, worse, hiring a residential real estate agent. Selling a business is not like selling your house. If your employees or customers find out you’re selling before the ink is dry, your value could plummet overnight.
Smart owners treat their exit like their most important project. They hire a Tampa business broker who understands the local landscape and has a proven process.
At Lobo Business Sales LLC, our approach is different. We operate on a success-based model. That means no upfront fees, no marketing retainers, and no "consulting" charges. If we don’t sell your business, we don't get paid. This keeps us 100% aligned with your goal: getting the maximum value for your hard work.
You wouldn't show up to a multi-million dollar commercial bid with a rusty truck and a handwritten estimate. Don't show up to your sale unprepared.
Separate your personal expenses from the business. If the business is paying for your personal truck, your boat, and your family's cell phone plans, we need to "recast" those earnings to show the buyer the true profitability.
Buyers are terrified of "key man risk." If your best master plumber is going to quit the day you leave, the business is worth less. Ensure your key employees are happy and, if possible, have stayed with you for 3+ years.
Most buyers we work with are hunting for businesses with $200K to $2M in net profit. If you’re currently at $150K, it might be worth staying on for another year to push through that $200K ceiling: it can drastically change the multiple a buyer is willing to pay. Check out our guide on staying in the "sweet spot".
When you work with Lobo Business Sales LLC, you aren't getting a faceless corporate entity. You’re getting Dave Britton, a licensed Florida Business Broker with over a decade and a half of boots-on-the-ground experience.
Dave understands that your business is more than just a P&L statement. It’s your legacy. His "no pressure" approach means he’ll give you the unfiltered truth: even if that truth is that you should wait six months to list. He’s your exit strategist, your confidential advisor, and your connector to the right buyer.
"Selling your business is likely the biggest financial transaction of your life. You’ve worked too hard to leave money on the table or risk your reputation with a leaked sale." : Dave Britton
Selling your business isn't a decision you make overnight. It starts with a conversation. Whether you want to sell in three months or three years, knowing your current market value is the first step toward freedom.
Don't let your hard work dissolve into a "fire sale" because of poor planning. You’ve built something great. Now, let’s make sure you get to enjoy the rewards.
Contact Lobo Business Sales LLC today. Let’s get you from the job site to the finish line.
Lobo Business Sales LLC
Phone: (813) 395-9552
Website: LoboBusinessSales.com