Breakwater M&A Blog: Expert Insights for Buying & Selling Businesses
Explore valuable articles, guides, and strategies tailored for entrepreneurs preparing to sell businesses in the $2M-$20M revenue range.

How to Sell a Business with $2M–$5M in Revenue: A No-BS Guide for First-Time Sellers
A no-BS guide for first-time sellers with $2M–$5M in revenue. Learn how to prepare, value, and market your business to North American buyers with confidence.

Should I Use a Business Broker to Sell My Business?
Thinking of selling your business? Discover why working with a business broker or M&A advisor can increase your sale price by up to 25%—even if you already have buyers.

The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide: Part 5
Learn how to negotiate the sale of your business to maximize value—not just price. Understand key M&A deal terms like earn-outs, seller financing, and risk allocation. Breakwater Advisors helps founders secure better outcomes with higher cash at close and lower risk.

How to Sell an IT MSP Company
Learn how to sell your IT Managed Service Provider (MSP) business for maximum value. Discover valuation methods specific to MSPs, preparation strategies, and how to work with M&A advisors to achieve the best exit outcome.

How to Sell a Tech Company - Founder's Exit Guide
Selling your tech company is a major milestone—but it requires more than a good product and solid revenue. This guide walks founders through every step of the tech M&A process, from valuation and exit planning to buyer outreach and due diligence. Ideal for founders with $2M–$20M in revenue and $350K+ EBITDA.

How to Sell a Landscaping Company - Complete Guide for Business Owners
Discover the essential steps to successfully sell your landscaping company. From understanding EBITDA multiples to preparing for due diligence, this guide helps owners navigate the sales process and maximize their exit value. Whether you're planning for retirement or capitalizing on market opportunities, learn how to position your landscaping business for a profitable sale.

The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide: Part 4
Learn how to market your $2M-$20M business to the right buyers, from strategic acquirers to private equity firms. Understand different buyer types and how to position your company for maximum value.

How to Sell a Plumbing Company - Complete Guide for Business Owners
Learn how to sell your plumbing company for maximum value. Discover valuation methods specific to plumbing businesses, preparation strategies, and how to work with M&A advisors to achieve the best exit outcome.

The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide: Part 3
Learn how to structure your business sale—asset vs. stock sale—to minimize taxes, reduce risk, and maximize value. This guide helps $2M–$20M business owners make informed M&A decisions.

How to Sell a Digital Agency - Complete Guide for Agency Owners
Learn how to sell your digital agency for maximum value. Discover valuation methods specific to digital agencies, preparation strategies, and how to work with M&A advisors to achieve the best exit outcome.

The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide: Part 2
What is your business really worth? In Part 2 of The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide, we break down the 7 key drivers of valuation and how to position your company for a premium exit—even before going to market.

Why SaaS Founders Are Buying Brick & Mortar Businesses
With AI disrupting SaaS margins, savvy tech founders are acquiring brick & mortar businesses to diversify. Learn why service-based companies with $2M–$20M revenue are the smart hedge—and how to avoid the myths around SMB acquisitions.

The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide: Part 1
Thinking of selling your business? Start with a strong foundation. In Part 1 of The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide, learn how to increase value, reduce risk, and prepare financially and operationally for a smooth, high-value exit.

The Truth About Buying Businesses with $0 Down
Discover the truth about "$0 down" business acquisitions and learn how independent sponsors actually structure deals to buy companies without using their own capital. While social media influencers promote unrealistic expectations about no-money-down business buying, this article reveals the legitimate path of independent sponsorship. Learn about working with SBIC lenders, structuring deals, and achieving successful exits like Chris Edwards' 24x return. Perfect for aspiring acquisition entrepreneurs seeking to understand the realities of modern business buying strategies.

Selling a Home Services Business: How to Maximize Your Exit
Discover essential strategies for selling your home services business, including valuation methods, exit planning, and maximizing your company's worth for a successful transition.

Selling a $5M Revenue Company: How to Maximize Value
Thinking about selling your $5M revenue company? Discover what really drives value beyond top-line numbers—like profitability, EBITDA, buyer types, and deal structure. Learn how to prep, price, and position your business for a successful exit. Breakwater M&A helps you maximize your outcome with expert, aligned advisory.

Buy a Business or Start One? Why Buying Often Wins
Should you start a business or buy one? For most entrepreneurs, acquisition is the smarter move. Learn why buying a business offers faster growth, lower risk, and a clearer path to exit—plus how to know if you're cut out for acquisition entrepreneurship and where an M&A advisor fits in.

Selling a Services Business? Read This Before You Sign Anything
Thinking about selling your digital agency, accounting firm, or other high-margin service business? This guide breaks down how to value, prepare, and sell a professional services business the right way. Learn how to reduce owner dependency, avoid costly mistakes, and maximize your exit with expert M&A insights.

How to Find the Right M&A Advisor
Finding the right M&A advisor is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to sell their business successfully. This blog explores the key traits to look for in an advisor, common misconceptions about their role, and essential questions to ask before hiring. From industry expertise and negotiation skills to transparent fees and strong networks, learn how the right advisor can maximize your business's value and ensure a smooth sale process.

How to Sell a Business with $500K in EBITDA or more
Selling a business with $500K+ EBITDA is a life-changing opportunity, but preparation is key. Start 6-24 months early by cleaning up financials, updating contracts, and planning taxes to avoid costly mistakes. Engaging an M&A advisor can boost sale value by up to 25%, ensuring competitive offers and favorable terms. Success isn’t just about price—it’s about achieving your financial goals and a smooth transition.