You ask: “Can I Grow This Business – Or Is It Maxed Out?”

That’s the first question I always ask a prospective seller—and honestly, it’s the first question every buyer should ask too.

Why? Because when we’re looking to buy a business, we’re not just buying what is—we’re buying what could be. Ideally, we’re stepping into something established, but also something that has room to grow with new energy, fresh resources, and better systems.

The truth is, there are a lot of solid (but often overlooked) small businesses out there run by aging owners or operators who simply don’t have the time, energy, or know-how to take the next step. Maybe they’ve hit a plateau. Maybe they’ve even started to decline. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—it just means there’s a window of opportunity, and timing matters. Often, the best time for a seller to exit is before the downward trend accelerates.

“What if I just want to quit my job, buy a profitable business, and maintain it as-is?”

Great question. And look, there’s nothing wrong with that desire. Many people dream of walking away from the 9-to-5 grind and owning a stable, cash-flowing business. That dream is valid.

But here’s my two cents: that mindset rarely works long-term. Why? Inflation, for starters. Just keeping up with a 3% inflation rate means your business has to grow by at least that much just to stay in place. Otherwise, year after year, you’re losing ground—on paper and in reality.

Sure, some businesses grow “organically,” without much intentional strategy. But relying on passive growth is risky. And more importantly, isn’t the whole point of owning a business to be in control of your life? You don’t want to coast into a situation where your freedom starts to feel like a trap.

What I Look for as a Broker

Personally, I love working with businesses that have realistic growth potential. It gives me a sense of mission—helping match legacy-driven sellers with a new generation of owners who want to build something better.

But finding the right buyer? That’s not always easy.

A great buyer isn’t just someone with money—they’re someone with vision. Someone who can see the blood, sweat, and years that went into building this thing. Someone with the energy and skills to take it to the next level. That’s why having an experienced business broker matters. A good broker isn’t just chasing the highest offer—they’re looking for a buyer who will actually close the deal and succeed in the long run.

(And here’s a little side note: buyers who get the value and potential of a business are often the ones willing to pay a premium. The ones who don’t? They tend to nickel-and-dime everything in search of a “deal”—and often miss out.)

Final Thoughts: For Sellers & Buyers

Sellers: If you’re thinking of exiting in the next 2–3 years, now’s the time to tighten up operations and sharpen your brand, positioning your business for growth. This doesn’t just make things run smoother—it increases your valuation and makes your business more attractive to the right buyer.

Buyers: Always ask, “Can I grow this business, or is it maxed out?” And don’t stop there. Ask why. Dig deep. Look for hidden potential—because sometimes, you’ll spot something the seller never saw. And when that happens? That’s gold.

Good luck—and happy deal hunting.