Today we discuss why involving accountants, attorneys and financial planners early matters; how tax and entity structure can dramatically affect net proceeds and business valuation; examples of misreported profits and multi-entity complications that change sale outcomes; and how deal structure (cash, seller notes, earnouts) impacts value and post-sale life.

In this episode of the Apex Business Advisors Podcast, Andy and Doug discuss the real-time impacts of a multi-week government shutdown on SBA-backed business closings. They share examples of delayed deals, explain the importance of SBA numbers and IRS tax transcripts, and contrast private funding with bank/SBA funding. Doug and Andy lay out actionable steps for buyers and sellers: push your lender to request SBA numbers and tax transcripts, complete your closing checklist, and maintain urgency so you don’t end up at the back of the line—especially critical for seasonal businesses.

Andy and Doug discuss when to sell your business and why timing the market is less important than being prepared. They cover key topics such as cleaning up financials, documenting operations, building succession plans, how banks view seller expenses, and the reality of seller financing. Using real seller stories and examples, the episode explains how life events can force a sale, why planning early (even in your 30s or 40s) matters, and how a well-prepared business can close in months rather than years. Practical takeaways include talking to advisers, removing the owner from day-to-day operations, and considering your post-sale plans.

Today we walk through a recent closing of a bakery production business that faced months of delays. We discuss why the sale paused after a confidentiality breach, how buyer financing choices (refusing SBA) created extra hurdles, and the role of seller financing and property collateral in getting the deal done. The episode covers concrete complications — slow or nonresponsive appraisers and attorneys, title adjustments, additional collateral requests, and the five-month timeline from offer to close — plus how the team kept momentum by staying patient, communicative, and focused on the mutual goal of completing the transaction. Key takeaways include advice on operating the business during long sale periods, the importance of clear communication across external partners, planning for post-close expansion, and Apex’s approach to marketing and handling complex or “weird” deals.

Andy has moved into a different drop down box on the IBBA experience category. In this episode, he is here to share the wisdom of a grizzled old vet.  Key topics include managing multiple deals (he describes having six deals under contract), teaming up versus representing both buyer and seller, handling client emotions and conflict, building systems and teams to scale, and the “thousand day” advice for new brokers. Practical takeaways cover attending conferences, joining professional organizations like the Exit Planning Institute, staying credible by treating advisory work as a business, and leaning on colleagues to share stress. The episode blends real-world tips with light-hearted moments and personal anecdotes.

Today, we recap two recent closings that included returning buyers who chose Apex to re-sell their companies, how seller financing accelerated one transaction to about 60 days, and how bank/SBA rule changes stretched another closing past the typical 90-day target. Key takeaways: deals rarely follow a linear Gantt chart, seller financing can speed closings, bank rules can cause unexpected delays, and persistence pays off — Apex handles roughly 35–50 closings a year and keeps a culture of celebrating wins (yes, tacos included).

In this episode of the Apex Business Advisors podcast, Andy and Doug discuss the difference between good and bad seller financing, why bank scrutiny and rising interest rates make seller financing more relevant, and how creative deal structures can help transactions close.   Topics covered: unbankable businesses, dirty books and ad-backs, the impact of interest-rate changes on debt service and buyer affordability, structuring seller carry (partial financing, balloons, amortization), and how sellers can earn attractive returns by financing deals.

Episode featuring returning guest Valerie Vaughn, premier and award-winning business broker, discussing a seven-year succession plan where parents prepared to sell their established business to their son. Topics include team-based planning with a wealth manager, accountant, and attorney; preparing the company for sale; SBA lending and financing hurdles; and the son’s transition from top salesperson to owner (including getting a contractor’s license).Key points: the value of long-term planning and objective valuation, operational changes that doubled company value, family dynamics and intermediaries’ roles, lender interactions and timing challenges, and the successful closing and lessons for business owners considering internal or third-party exits.

Today, we're talking "seller limbo"—the anxious stretch after an offer when financing, appraisals, and bank underwriting seem to stall a business sale. We discuss real examples, SBA rule impacts, equipment appraisal problems, banks’ increased scrutiny, and the growing role of seller financing and higher buyer down payments.

On this episode of the Apex Business Advisors Podcast we discuss one of Apex’s core value—"success is not accidental." Andy and Doug walk listeners through the practical and psychological challenges that arise in buying and selling businesses.  Topics covered include common transaction roadblocks, lender expectations (EIN, operating agreements, closing checklists), timelines and typical delays, and the importance of buyer readiness and organization. The hosts explain how advisors help remove obstacles while requiring buyers and sellers to take responsibility for key tasks. Key points emphasize mindset—staying positive, collaborating as a team, knowledge transfer from seller to buyer—and real examples of process hiccups (appraisers, underwriting timelines). Listeners will learn what to expect, what to prepare before financing, and how to keep deals moving toward a successful close.

Today we explore how buyers and sellers can move from constant negotiation to a collaborative team during due diligence, closing and the post-close transition. Topics include ride-alongs to build rapport, prepping buyers for lender interviews, common attorney roadblocks, and why engagement and transition planning matter. Key takeaways: foster trust through joint communication and shared goals, coach buyers before lender interviews, vet attorneys early to avoid delays, and create a clear training/employee-transition plan to ensure day-one success.

Today we're talking about the evolving world of business lending resulting from the recent SOP changes by the SBA. Effective since June 1st, the banks are trying to re-define their lending criteria, particularly in the wake of economic uncertainty. The conversation covers how debt coverage ratios are pivotal in lending decisions and how banks are now scrutinizing buyer backgrounds and financial strength more than ever. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, this episode provides essential tips on navigating the lending landscape, understanding the role of SBA lenders, and finding the right partners to secure business acquisitions. Don't miss expert advice on improving your lending prospects in this challenging economic climate.

In today's episode of the Apex Business Advisors Podcast, Andy and Doug discuss the real life impacts (and consequences) of going around an NDA. We talk about the importance of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and the role they play in safeguarding business transactions.

 In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of engagement agreements and their role in business sales. Learn why maintaining accurate information is crucial when entering into engagement agreements and how these documents have evolved over time to safeguard both sellers and buyers. Join us as we explore the main components of engagement agreements, including the exclusive right to sell, commission structures, and the importance of providing truthful information.  If you're considering buying or selling a business, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of business transactions. For more resources and information, be sure to visit the Apex website and explore their knowledge hub.

In this episode of the Apex Business Advisors podcast, Andy and Doug discuss the complications that arise when business owners mix personal expenses with company finances. The episode sheds light on the impact of excessive personal add backs, a common issue in the business sales process, and how it affects potential deals. Listeners will gain insight into a current case where a business is facing valuation challenges due to high personal expenses run through the company. With banks increasingly scrutinizing such practices, the episode underscores the importance of transparency and clean books for successful business transactions. Andy and Doug also discuss solutions like formal valuations and offer advice to business owners on cleaning up financial records for future sales.

In this episode of the Apex Business Advisors podcast, Andy and Doug dive into a unique business transaction that saw the closing of the same business twice within a few years. The business's new journey unfolds as the owners found it necessary to sell again due to lifestyle and professional changes. The discussion offers insight into the complexities of such transactions, highlighting critical factors including the importance of having legal representation early on to avoid last-minute complications. Andy and Doug emphasize the need for trust building between buyers and sellers, especially during renegotiations, as illustrated by a detailed analysis of a situation that could have derailed over minor financial discrepancies. Listeners can expect to gain knowledge on the processes involved in smaller business sales, especially the potential pitfalls of contentious negotiations and the role of attorneys in representing client interests. Discover how buyer and seller united through proactive roles in legal discussions to ensure smooth closure and transition.

The conversation dives deep into the benefits of IRS-approved structured installment sales as a simple, straightforward method for deferring taxes, compared to the more complex and risky deferred sales trusts. Andy and Doug explain how these financial arrangements can help sellers defer taxes, the required conditions for setting them up, and the potential pitfalls of deferred sales trusts if not properly structured. Listeners can also learn about the new features of the Apex Business Advisors website, designed to provide valuable resources and streamline contact with advisors for buying and selling businesses. This episode is a comprehensive discussion for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of business sales and deal structuring.

In this best of episode of the Apex Business Advisors podcast, Andy and Doug dive deep into the often misunderstood world of tax management strategies within business transactions. The discussion unravels the complexities of end-of-year equipment and inventory purchases used to minimize tax liabilities. We share real-world anecdotes on how these seemingly beneficial decisions can backfire, affecting net income, business valuation, and deal success.

Today, we introduce you to the newest member of our team, Dave Pilcher. Dave joins Apex with a diverse background in business management and subprime lending, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in dealing with businesses and potential buyers. In this episode, Dave talks about his transition into the advisory role and his passion for helping business owners prepare for a sale. With insights gathered from years of experience, Dave shares how he leverages his presentation skills, honed during his 'Good to Great' presentations, to connect with both sellers and buyers, offering them valuable guidance. We also discuss the importance of building relationships and how Dave is focused on the Iowa region, driven by personal ties and a desire to provide accessible advisory services. Andy and Doug praise Dave's early successes and express their excitement for his future contributions to Apex.

Today we're talking about the various waves of marketing in business sales, from leveraging existing contacts to targeted outreach and industry buyers. The episode also explores the importance of engagement agreements, the role of advisors, and the dynamics of buyer interest changes. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or simply interested in the business sales process, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the strategies used by APEX to connect buyers and sellers effectively.