SMAILL BUSINESS SALES SLOW SLIGHTLY
There was an 8.6% decline in small business sales compared to the same period last year according to the BizBuySell Insight Report.The reduction in sales continued through 2019.
While sales are still high historically-speaking, a challenging environment looms. International businesses will bear the most significant challenges, mostly in manufacturing and agricultural sectors. According to contributing business brokers, the onus may lie with the seller to adjust their price in today's market. Most brokers agree that is is now a Buyer's Market. In addition to valuation decreases, most brokers agree they see more buyer hesitation to enter new opportunities feeling the economy may suffer based on the impeachment hearings and unknowns surrounding the 2020 election.
On a positive note, the average revenue of small business sales was up 4.5% last year and cash flows were up 7.5%. Sales averages however, were flat over the same quarter last year.
In summary, for Buyers willing to take a chance on the market, lower prices and increased cash flows of current listings might provide bigger rewards sooner, rather than waiting another 12-18 months to move.