M&A insights for business owners
Valuation multiples, buyer guides and exit planning for owners of $5M–$50M revenue businesses. Written by the team that runs the deals.
Quality of Earnings for SBA Loans: New 2026 Rules Every Buyer Must Know
The SBA now mandates an independent quality of earnings report for 7(a) change-of-ownership loans of $3 million or more. Here is what the new rule means for buyers, sellers, and lenders, and how to prepare before it takes effect on October 1, 2026.
Quality of Earnings Report Cost: What to Budget for a QoE in 2026
Wondering what a quality of earnings report costs? Here's what sellers and buyers in the $2M-$20M range actually pay, what drives the price, and how to avoid overspending on diligence.
Quality of Earnings vs Audit: What's the Difference and Which One Does Your Deal Need?
A financial audit confirms your books follow accounting rules. A quality of earnings report tells you whether the business actually makes what the seller claims. Here is how they differ, and which one your deal really needs.
Buy Side Quality of Earnings: What Every Business Buyer Needs to Know Before Closing
A buy side quality of earnings report is the single most important piece of financial diligence a buyer can commission before closing. This guide explains what it covers, what it costs, and how it protects you from overpaying for a business.
How to Prepare for Due Diligence When Selling Your Business: The Seller's Complete Checklist
Due diligence is where deals survive or die. This guide walks business owners through exactly what buyers will scrutinize and how to prepare every document, process, and answer before the questions start.
Quality of Earnings Report (2026 Guide): What Buyers Need to Know Before Closing
A Quality of Earnings report helps buyers confirm “real” EBITDA, uncover risk, and protect purchase price before closing an acquisition.
How to Conduct Due Diligence When Buying a Business
Buying a business can be a fast track to growth, or a costly mistake. This guide walks through practical due diligence steps across finance, legal, and operations so you can separate solid acquisitions from painful surprises and move forward with confidence.