IBBA Insights

In “IBBA Insights Perspectives on Buying and Selling Businesses,” Mike Finger discusses the importance of preparing small businesses for sale and why some businesses may not be sellable. Finger, who has personal experience with the challenges of selling a business, emphasizes the significance of business owners having ongoing conversations with brokers and focusing on making their businesses attractive to buyers. He stresses the importance of documenting results, building trust with brokers, and being prepared to sell at any time. Finger also shares stories of successful sales and the importance of professional representation, including lawyers, accountants, and business brokers. Overall, Finger encourages business owners to take a proactive approach to selling their businesses and to seek out the advice and expertise of industry professionals.

In the “IBBA Insights: Donatella Arpaia,” a celebrity chef is seen on Iron Chef America, Guy Fieri’s Tournament of Champions, and many more. Donatella Arpaia shares her inspiring journey from growing up in the restaurant business to defying her parents’ expectations and building a successful career.

Born to immigrant parents, Arpaia was initially discouraged from entering the industry but followed her passion despite facing challenges as a young, beautiful former attorney in a male-dominated field. Her success came from her deep understanding of the restaurant business, her willingness to be different, and her thick skin, allowing her to overcome criticism and obstacles.

Arpaia discusses her experiences transitioning from a local neighborhood favorite to a renowned figure in the food industry, the importance of family meals, and the challenges of being edited for television. She also reflects on the role of women in business, particularly in the male-dominated industry of business brokers, and the importance of women supporting each other.

Arpaia emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and focusing on what’s important in life and the challenges facing the restaurant industry, including the rising cost of goods, digital marketing, and labor shortages. Throughout the interview, Arpaia shares her experiences, insights, and passion for the culinary industry.

In this episode of IBBA Insights, the host discusses how the 2024 U.S. election cycle could impact businesses with Emmy award-winning journalist Tim Boyum. The conversation explores various business-related concerns such as inflation, interest rates, taxes, immigration, energy costs, and consumer confidence. Tim also shares insights on his career in political journalism and the role media plays in shaping public perception. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparing for potential economic shifts post-election and offers advice for business owners to navigate the uncertainties in this politically charged climate.

In the “IBBA Insights Perspectives on Buying and Selling Businesses,” business coach and entrepreneur David Barnett shares his expertise on the sale of businesses from a seller’s perspective. Barnett discusses the importance of empathy for buyers and sellers during the transaction process, preparing a business for sale, and hiring the right people, including business brokers, to ensure a successful sale. He emphasizes the unpredictability of personal plans and the need for a well-prepared business, as well as the importance of trust between buyers and sellers. Barnett also advises sellers to be cautious when dealing with high engagement fees from brokers and to choose industry-focused brokers for better results. Throughout the conversation, Barnett stresses the importance of preparation, understanding cash flow, and working with qualified professionals to navigate the complexities of buying and selling businesses.

In this episode, Holly Magister, a seasoned CPA specializing in business sales, provides actionable insights into tax planning for entrepreneurs gearing up to sell their businesses. Gain a better understanding of the intricate tax implications discussed and discover how to proactively strategize to maximize sale proceeds while minimizing tax burdens. This episode serves as a practical guide for business owners, empowering them to make informed decisions and optimize their financial outcomes when navigating the complexities of business exits. Don’t miss it!

Host: Cress V. Diglio

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In this edition of IBBA insights, Cress V. Diglio and Evan Ottaviano of Bennett Thrasher CPAs discuss the importance of quality of earnings (QoE) reports in the sale of businesses. They discuss what a QoE is, why it is important, and how it impacts business buyers, sellers, lenders, and the M&A process. They also cover the various levels of QoE reports, approximate time to complete, related costs, factors that contribute to a good QoE report, the impact of current economic conditions and industry trends, as well as red flags to look out for in financial statements. Evan provides insights into the necessary documentation and confidentiality of QoE reports and how they are used by stakeholders. This podcast is a must-see for business owners considering the sale of their business to be prepared for the potential of a QoE report.

Host: Cress V. Diglio

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Learn from Joel Goldstein how goal planning and setting can be incorporated into your business and your life to change your mindset and create freedom in more ways than you can imagine.

Host: Cress V. Diglio

Understanding add-backs can be the difference between a business selling for a premium and taking a haircut on the price. Whether you’re a business owner or a business broker, this episode promises real-world insights into adjustments and add-backs in Main Street transactions.

Industry professionals Steve Mariani and Jeff Snell join us in this discussion to help brokers get the most out of their listings and help sellers get the highest value. Don’t miss it!

Host: Cress V. Diglio

Working capital is what it takes to keep a business going. Historically, working capital wasn’t a significant topic for Main Street business brokers. Still, as deal sizes have gotten larger and private equity groups have added on acquisitions, it’s more important than ever for brokers to understand.

CPA Monty Walker joins in a discussion defining working capital and its importance in a business’s sale. Listen to this informative lesson for tips and tools to understand this component.

Host: Cress V. Diglio

Lawyers are often perceived as professionals who can advocate for the deal or be the deal killer. However, the reality is that buyers and sellers should both engage the services of an attorney to ensure their best interests are protected.

In this episode, we discuss the role of lawyers in dealmaking, the risks of representing yourself, and how brokers and attorneys can work together to get deals done. Whether you’re a business broker or thinking about buying or selling a business, take advantage of these insights into the value of working with a business attorney.

Host: Cress V. Diglio

Guest: Deborah Carman, Esquire, Founder of Carmen Law Firm