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.
Can You Sell an Unprofitable Company? (How to Avoid a Distressed Exit)
Worried your company's unprofitable and unsellable? You can sell it, but you probably won't like the outcome. Here's what to do instead to get back in control.
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.
The Million Dollar Business Exit Guide: Part 4
Learn how to market your $5M–$50M 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.
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 $5M–$50M business owners make informed M&A decisions.
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 $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.