The 2026 operator's guide to small business valuation. Based on real deals, real multiples, real data — not generic internet advice.
Real acquisition multiples, deal structures, buyer platform data, and a fill-in worksheet. The specifics no free LLM can give you.
Real BizBuySell multiples for 5 categories: SaaS, e-commerce, services, local, consulting. Why "3–5× EBITDA" doesn't apply under $500K.
Asset approach, DCF (with real small-business discount rates), market comps, and revenue multiple — when to use each, with worked examples.
Revenue growth, recurring revenue %, customer concentration (the >20% rule), owner dependence, systems depth — scored and weighted.
Two different valuation frameworks. Why solopreneurs get 0.5–1.5× and owner-replaced businesses get 2–4×. The $100K ARR rule.
BizBuySell, MicroAcquire, FE International, Shopify Exchange, Empire Flippers — typical deal size, time to close, structure, and due diligence timeline for each.
Mixed finances (30–40% discount), customer concentration, no SOPs (−0.5× to −1×), short contracts, tax issues, owner dependency, and timing. Each with a fix.
4-step fill-in worksheet: pull your numbers, apply your multiple, apply discount factors, get your range. The same framework advisors use in preliminary conversations.
Do I need a broker? What taxes will I owe? How long does a sale take? How do I increase my multiple in 12 months? Answered with real numbers.
Revenue multipliers are the fastest way to get a ballpark range — and they vary dramatically by industry and business model. Here is what buyers are actually paying in 2025-2026:
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The difference between a successful exit and a failed deal often comes down to one thing: knowing what you're actually worth.