Top Vancouver Business Brokers

Top Vancouver Business Brokers

When selling your business, choosing the right business broker is one of the most critical decisions you'll make. The broker you select will influence the type of buyer your business attracts, the chances of a successful sale, and, most importantly, the final price you achieve.

To help you make the best choice, we've curated a list of top business brokers in Vancouver specializing in businesses valued between $500K and $5 million. These professionals operate within large real estate firms, mid-sized brokerages, or as independent agents, often focusing on a select number of clients annually. Whether you're aiming for maximum profit, or a quick sale, this guide will connect you with the right broker to navigate the complexities of selling your business.

What you'll learn about in this article:

What is a business broker?

A business broker works directly with the business owners to help them navigate the process of selling their business. They help prepare the business for sale by providing:

  • Education: Explaining the stages of selling a business, so you know what to expect at every step.
  • Business Valuation: Assessing the value of your business to help determine a fair and competitive asking price.
  • Marketing: Promoting your business through their professional network, conducting targeted outreach, and using anonymous online listings to attract the right buyers.
  • Confidentiality: Managing communication with prospective buyers while protecting sensitive information about your business.
  • Negotiations: Representing your interests and helping negotiate the best possible terms and final price.
  • Due Diligence: Guiding and supporting you through the buyer's due diligence process, ensuring transparency and alignment.
  • Closing: Coordinating the final steps of the transaction to ensure a smooth and successful sale.

What makes a great business broker?

While business brokers come in all shapes and sizes, the exceptional ones share certain defining characteristics. Here are the most important traits to look for in a great business broker:

  1. Trustworthiness: Integrity is non-negotiable. Great brokers act in their client's best interest, avoid unethical practices, and handle transactions with the utmost honesty and confidentiality.
  2. Commitment to Client Goals: Outstanding brokers focus on achieving the best possible outcome for their clients, whether it's securing top dollar for a seller or finding the ideal opportunity for a buyer.
  3. Proven Track Record: A history of successful transactions and satisfied clients speaks volumes. Look for brokers with experience in your industry and a portfolio of past deals that align with your goals.
  4. Organization and Attention to Detail: Great brokers are meticulous, managing documents, valuations, and processes with precision to minimize errors, avoid delays, and keep the sale on track.
  5. Master Facilitator: Coordinating attorneys, accountants, and other stakeholders is a skill that separates good brokers from great ones. They ensure smooth communication and proactively resolve obstacles to keep the transaction moving forward.
  6. Support and Guidance: The best brokers provide steady guidance throughout the sale process, helping navigate complexities and addressing unexpected challenges. They reduce stress, minimize errors, and keep everyone focused on closing the deal.

The Top Vancouver Business Brokers

Delon Cheung
NAI Commercial
Website: www.naibusinesses.ca
Email: dcheung@naicommercial.ca

Delon brings over 20 years of expertise in starting, operating, and selling small to medium enterprises (SMEs) across diverse industries. With a client-focused approach, he ensures mutually beneficial outcomes through skillful negotiation and honest dealings. His services include business brokerage, valuation, leasing structuring, and financial analysis, with added proficiency in Cantonese.

Andrew Brown
Pacific Mergers & Acquisitions Inc.
Website: www.pacificmergers.com
Email: abrown@pacificmergers.com

Andrew brings over 20 years of global sales, marketing, and leadership experience, managing operations and transactions exceeding $50 million. He has driven growth in technology companies, led a digital media startup to 300% expansion, and launched a successful global consumer goods business. He is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) and the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA).

Mike Lenz
Chinook Business Advisory
Website: www.chinookmabb.com
Email: mike@chinookmabb.com

Mike, a seasoned entrepreneur, founded two companies and purchased three before becoming a business intermediary in 2005. His most notable venture was transforming a small Toronto print shop into a $5M operation with 25 staff. He now helps clients buy, sell, and enhance their businesses by analyzing operations, identifying value drivers, and developing growth strategies.

Michael Hickey
Your Business Broker
Website: www.yourbusinessbroker.ca
Email: michael@yourbusinessbroker.ca

Michael Hickey is an experienced business intermediary with a background in business ownership, sales, and negotiation. Specializing exclusively in business sales, he helps owners assess market value, create marketing materials, and achieve successful transactions. With 20 years of experience as a business owner, Michael understands the challenges of selling a business and is committed to guiding clients through the process.

Scott McKenzie
National Mergers & Acquisitions Group Inc.
Website: www.nationalmagroup.com
Email: smckenzie@nationalmagroup.com

Scott McKenzie is a results-driven professional with expertise in business start-ups, strategic development, and systems implementation. With extensive experience in real estate as both an agent and investor, Scott has developed a vast network of industry contacts. He is passionate about helping businesses succeed, driven by honesty, integrity, and a systematic approach.

Jens Sigrvardt
Omnium Business
Website: www.omniumbusiness.com
Email: jens@omniumbusiness.com

With over 30 years of international business and M&A experience, Jens specializes in facilitating the sale of Canadian businesses with revenues between $1M and $50M. His background includes scaling businesses, leading international expansions, and founding successful ventures. He is dedicated to delivering win-win solutions for business owners and entrepreneurs through effective succession planning.

Jason Brice
Website: www.jason-brice.com
Email: jason@jason-brice.com

Jason Brice is a Vancouver-based business broker known for his honesty, integrity, and exceptional customer service. With a background in entrepreneurship and over 18 years of experience, he expertly guides clients through every stage of the business sale process, from valuation to transition. A former entrepreneur and active community member, Jason brings a wealth of experience and dedication to every client he serves.

Alex Zus
Iciconic
Website: www.iciconic.com
Email: alex@iciconic.com

Alex leverages 15+ years of experience in commercial refrigeration, building automation, and project management to guide clients through business transitions. Alex provides exceptional insights for growth and investment and his extensive industry network makes him a trusted advisor for achieving business success.

John-Erik Grain
Website: www.leevancouver.com
Email: jegrain@gmail.com

John-Erik Grain is a seasoned business broker with over a decade of experience, specializing in strategic business sales and acquisitions exceeding $1M in Western Canada. He has completed over 50 deals worth up to $5M, is an industry leader in sectors like manufacturing, industrial processes, and wholesale distribution. A member of the IBBA and REBGV, John-Erik is known for clear communication, expert negotiations, and a client-focused approach.

Maxwell Webster
Vamos M&A Advisors
Website: www.vamosco.com
Email: maxwell@vamosco.com

Maxwell Webster, founder of Vamos M&A Advisors, is an experienced entrepreneur and award-winning professional named to BC Business' Top 30 Under 30 in 2018. With a background in owning and selling multiple businesses, he brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by both buyers and sellers. Known for his commitment to transparent communication and exceptional client service, Maxwell ensures a smooth transaction process

How to choose the right business broker to sell your business

Selecting the right business broker is a critical step to ensure you successfully sell your business. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right business broker to work with:

Market Understanding

A good broker should have a deep knowledge of your industry and the market trends. They should possess a network of potential buyers and a proven ability to assess the value of your business accurately.

Tip: Ask about their market analysis methods and how they determine business valuation.

Experience

It's important to find a broker with a track record in selling businesses similar to yours. Review their existing listings, and have a frank discussion about their experience selling similar companies.

Tip: Ask for references and speak with previous clients about their experience working with the broker.

Qualifications

To become licensed as a business broker in British Columbia, individuals must complete the Broker's Business Planning and Financial Management Licensing Course and satisfy an experience requirement. Verify their credentials and affiliations, such as certifications from the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA) or similar organizations.

Organization and Preparation

Choosing a broker who demonstrates strong organizational and preparatory skills, will increase the likelihood of a smooth and successful transaction, with fewer surprises along the way. Ensure the broker has a structured approach to paperwork, due diligence, and legal requirements.

Tip: Ask about their process and review examples of paperwork like CIM's, financial statements, legal documents, and contracts.

Fees and Costs

The most common fee structure for business brokers is a success-based commission, typically a percentage of the final sale price. Some brokers charge upfront fees for marketing or valuations, which may be deducted from the final commission. It's crucial to clarify all fees upfront and ensure they align with the broker's scope of services and your expectations.

Tip: Avoid brokers requiring large upfront fees without clear deliverables.

Interview and Compare

Speak with multiple brokers to compare their approaches, credentials, and personalities. Focus on how well they listen to your goals and how comfortable you feel working with them.

Tip: Speak to a minimum of 3 business brokers before deciding on the one to represent your business.

What to expect during the business broker process

Step 1: Initial Consultation
Discuss your goals, timeline, and expectations while evaluating the broker's services. If the fit is right, sign an engagement agreement to proceed.

Step 2: Business Valuation
The broker assesses the business's financials and market trends to determine its value. A valuation report and pricing strategy are provided.

Step 3: Preparing the Business for Sale
Gather financial, legal, and operational documents and create a marketing package. Ensure the business is ready for potential buyers.

Step 4: Marketing and Buyer Outreach
Confidentially market the business to qualified buyers using the broker's network and platforms. Screen buyers for seriousness and financial capability.

Step 5: Buyer Meetings and Negotiations
Facilitate discussions with interested buyers and present the business. Negotiate price and terms to secure a letter of intent (LOI).

Step 6: Due Diligence
The buyer reviews financials, operations, and legal documents to verify the business's condition. Address any concerns and finalize the agreement.

Step 7: Purchase Agreement and Financing
Draft the purchase agreement and assist the buyer in securing financing if needed. Finalize all terms for the transaction.

Step 8: Closing the Sale
Complete ownership and fund transfers, finalizing the sale. The broker receives their commission.

Step 9: Transition and Post-Sale Support
Facilitate the handover process and provide guidance during the transition. Ensure a smooth transfer to the new owner.

Conclusion

Choosing the right business broker is key to successfully selling your business. The brokers in this guide have the skills and experience to help you navigate the process, find the right buyer, and secure the best deal.

A great broker will act as your partner, guiding you through every step and making the journey smoother. Take the time to find someone who understands your goals and priorities.

With the right broker by your side, you can approach the sale with confidence and look forward to the next chapter of your journey.

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Nick Johansson
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Nick has over 20 years of business and marketing expertise. He co-founded a web agency, helping 40+ clients rebuild and optimize their websites. In 2018 he joined a Vancouver tech firm where he grew organic traffic by 1500% and increased software downloads by over 11,000%. In his last role he was Vice President of Marketing at a private equity-backed tech company where he implemented marketing strategies for newly acquired companies.