Selling a Business: What Owners Need to Know Before Going to Market with Blake Johnson (Ep. 7)

Thinking about selling your business someday? The decisions you make years before a transaction can have a major impact on value, buyer interest, and your options when it's time to move on. What separates a smooth transaction from a frustrating one? And what can business owners do today to prepare for a future sale? In this episode, Jon Meyer sits down with Blake Johnson, President of SealedBid Marketing, to discuss the business sale process from preparation through closing. They explore why owners should start planning years before a transaction, how buyers evaluate risk, and the importance of building a strong management team. Blake also explains common deal challenges, valuation considerations, working capital, quality of earnings reports, and how advisors can help owners align personal goals with financial outcomes. The conversation also covers current buyer activity and what sellers should expect in today's M&A market. Key takeaways: Why reducing owner dependence can increase buyer confidence and improve business value How customer concentration and supplier reliance can affect valuation during a sale Why assembling advisors years before a transaction can improve outcomes and preparation How deal terms often matter as much as purchase price when evaluating offers Why quality of earnings reviews can uncover issues before buyers gain negotiating leverage And more! Connect with Jon Meyer: BGM http://bgm360.com LinkedIn: Jon Meyer   / jontmeyer   [email protected] Schedule a Meeting https://calendly.com/bgmwealthjmeyer Connect with Blake Johnson: LinkedIn: Blake Johnson   / blake-johnson-0a03b120   Website: SealedBid Marketing https://sealedbid.com/ Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: For nearly two decades, Blake Johnson has worked closely with sellers, buyers, and advisors to successfully guide M&A transactions in the lower middle market. He guides clients in their exit and succession planning strategies to optimize outcomes and maximize value. Before joining SealedBid, Blake earned his undergraduate degree from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN, and gained Sales and Marketing experience with public and start-up companies. He also holds a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in corporate finance from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. When not at work, Blake enjoys a busy family calendar, weekends at the cabin, and the occasional round of golf.