BizBuyPro is your partner in smart business transactions. We provide expert guidance to help you buy, sell, or value a business with confidence, backed by decades of industry experience. Our commitment is to your long-term success and peace of mind.
Get your FREE audiobook now and don’t let fear or costly mistakes stop you. Get the roadmap to freedom and safe business ownership today.
BizBuyPro, led by 30-year veteran Paul Lajoie, provides expert guidance for one of life’s biggest financial decisions: buying or selling a business. We uncover true value others miss and stand apart for our honesty, even advising against bad deals. Our mission: empower you with knowledge and support to make confident, transparent decisions for lasting business success.
OUR SERVICES
BizBuyPro offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support you at every stage of your business acquisition journey. From initial discovery to post-acquisition support, we provide clear, expert guidance to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions and build a thriving business from day one.
Get your FREE audiobook now and don’t let fear or costly mistakes stop you. Get the roadmap to freedom and safe business ownership today.
Your Journey, Our Roadmap
Your Partner in Profitability
Your Plan, Our Process
WHY CHOOSE US?
Your Vision, Our Expertise
BizBuyPro helps aspiring entrepreneurs turn assets into ownership. We simplify business acquisitions with clear strategies and expert guidance, so you avoid costly mistakes like overpaying or hidden liabilities. Partner with us to build a profitable, secure future.
Paul Lajoie: 30+ years of experience navigating complex deals.
Uncover Hidden Risks
Our meticulous approach reveals hidden costs and protects investment.
Maximize Your Investment
Accurate valuations ensure the right price for profitable growth.
Break Free From the Corporate Grind and Build a Life of Financial Independence.
In his exclusive audiobook, The Exit Plan, veteran entrepreneur and former CFO Paul Lajoie shares the no-fluff guide to acquiring, scaling, and exiting a profitable business. This isn't just a book—it's a tactical blueprint packed with real-world wisdom. Paul reveals his personal journey and provides a clear roadmap to help you trade corporate comfort for entrepreneurial freedom. Whether you're dreaming of your escape or ready to take the next step, this is the essential guide to confronting your fears and creating the life you've always imagined.
Break Free From the Corporate Grind and Build a Life of Financial Independence.
In his exclusive audiobook, The Exit Plan, veteran entrepreneur and former CFO Paul Lajoie shares the no-fluff guide to acquiring, scaling, and exiting a profitable business. This isn't just a book—it's a tactical blueprint packed with real-world wisdom. Paul reveals his personal journey and provides a clear roadmap to help you trade corporate comfort for entrepreneurial freedom. Whether you're dreaming of your escape or ready to take the next step, this is the essential guide to confronting your fears and creating the life you've always imagined.
OUR SERVICES
Your Journey, Our Roadmap
BizBuyPro offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support you at every stage of your business acquisition journey. From initial discovery to post-acquisition support, we provide clear, expert guidance to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions and build a thriving business from day one.
Stop trading time for a paycheck. BizBuyPro offers an actionable blueprint to acquire, scale, and exit businesses with confidence. Learn to build real wealth, but beware: a poorly chosen business can lead to legal and financial pitfalls. Our guide helps you navigate these dangers.
Provide Clear Financial Analysis
Uncover Hidden Risks
Maximize Your Investment
Holistic Post-Acquisition Support
Expert Guidance for Freedom Through Successful Business Acquisition
Finding a Business
We help you identify and vet businesses that align with your goals, skills, and financial criteria, giving you access to curated opportunities that fit your unique profile.
Business Valuations
Our in-depth valuation services go beyond the numbers to analyze the true profitability and potential of a business, giving you the clarity and confidence to negotiate effectively.
Buying a Business
We guide you through the entire buying process, from due diligence and financing options to strategic negotiations, ensuring a seamless and stress-free transaction.
Closing
We handle all the final details of the closing process, coordinating with legal and financial professionals to ensure a secure and seamless transition into business ownership.
Straightforward Answers You Can Trust
What services does BizBuyPro offer?+
BizBuyPro provides comprehensive services for business buyers and owners, including business acquisition support, setup guidance, performance improvement, strategic consulting, exit planning, and post-acquisition support. Our goal is to support you through every stage of your business journey, from identifying opportunities to ensuring long-term success.
How does BizBuyPro help with buying a business?+
We assist buyers through every step of the acquisition process, from sourcing potential business opportunities and conducting due diligence to negotiating terms and planning a seamless transition. Our team works closely with you to ensure that the business you acquire aligns with your goals, skills, and financial expectations.
What is involved in the due diligence process?+
Due diligence is a thorough review of the business’s financials, operations, market position, legal standing, and more. BizBuyPro conducts an in-depth assessment to uncover potential risks and confirm the business’s value, helping you make an informed decision and negotiate effectively.
How can BizBuyPro help me improve my new business’s performance?+
Our performance improvement services include operational analysis, financial management, advanced tax strategies, and marketing development. We help identify and implement strategies that enhance productivity, increase profitability, and position your business for sustainable growth.
FAQs
CASE STUDIES
Case Study #1: Purchase of a Rural Trash Collection Service
A client engaged BizBuyPro to provide valuation services and advisory support for the acquisition of a business.
Key Numbers:
Purchase Price: $1.2 million
Revenue: ~$2.0 million
Owner's Discretionary Income (ODI): ~$350,000
Purchase Price Multiple: 3.5x
The business owned several assets, including trash trucks, roll-off dumpsters, and vehicles.
Its rural location meant minimal competition, and the financial records provided were generally clean, with reasonable owner addbacks.
Due Diligence:
As part of our due diligence, the buyer provided:
Income statements and balance sheets for the past two years
Corporate tax returns for the past two years
Key questions included worker classification and whether hazardous waste was handled.
The seller disclosed workers were 1099 contractors and hazardous waste hauling was included.
Key Findings:
Insurance Deficiency: Adequate coverage would raise costs from $12,000 to ~$112,000.
Worker Reclassification: Converting contractors to W-2s added ~$50,000 per year.
Revised ODI: Dropped to ~$200,000, cutting value to ~$600,000.
Outcome:
The client withdrew from the $1.2M transaction. This avoided overpayment and potential financial losses.
Conclusion:
This case highlights the importance of thorough due diligence. Without it, the buyer could have overpaid and faced bankruptcy.
Sometimes the best deals are the ones you don’t make.
Case Study #2: Purchase of Plumbing Contractor
The client hired BizBuyPro to find, value, and close on a business acquisition.
Service-based businesses are often attractive due to steady demand and growth opportunities.
Key Numbers:
Purchase Price: $3.5 million (includes $1M real estate → business value ~$2.5M)
Revenue: ~$6 million
Owner's Discretionary Income (ODI): ~$800,000 (3.0x multiple)
What I Liked:
Real Estate: Adds flexibility for future sale/leaseback.
Location & Services: Growing area, offering installation, maintenance, and warranties across residential and commercial clients.
Established Track Record: 30+ years in business with experienced staff and technicians.
Room for Improvement: Margins were ~13.3% ($800k), below the expected 20% ($1.2M).
Update:
Two years later, profitability increased to ~$1.1M, while sales stayed stable around $6M.
Key Takeaway:
It's crucial to remember that we never buy businesses with the expectation that we can outsmart the current owners or drastically increase sales and margins.
We always base our decisions on current performance and never overpay for the hope of future improvements.
BizBuyPro’s Role:
As BizBuyPro was involved from the beginning, we were able to guide the process smoothly.
We secured SBA financing via our lender network, facilitated the creation of pro forma financials and loan packages, and assisted with setting up the accounting software, payroll system, sales tax permits, and legal entity.
We also supported the due diligence process and stayed involved throughout the closing.
Overall, this was one of my favorite transactions. In fact, it was such a good deal that I almost wish I had bought the company myself.
Conclusion:
This deal demonstrates how strong fundamentals, experienced staff, and the right financing can create a smooth acquisition with long-term stability.
Case Study #3: Purchase of Electrical Contractor
The client hired BizBuyPro to find, value, and close on a business acquisition.
Service-based businesses are attractive for their constant demand and scalability.
Key Numbers:
Purchase Price: $800,000
Revenue: ~$2.0 million
Owner's Discretionary Income (ODI): ~$80,000 (10.0x multiple — high for industry)
Included: $100k accounts receivable, $250k inventory, poorly managed company with upside
What I Liked:
Seller Financing: The entire purchase was financed at a below-market rate with only 10% down.
Upside Potential: Mismanagement left efficiency and growth opportunities. The buyer expanded with solar and generators, boosting sales by 50% in three years.
Update:
2.5 years later, the buyer’s ODI exceeded $300k, up from the initial $80k.
BizBuyPro’s Role:
We sourced the off-market deal, negotiated the seller note, and reconstructed two years of financials due to messy records.
Our hands-on due diligence ensured the deal was viable.
The buyer’s success shows the value of structured support.
Conclusion:
This became one of the most rewarding deals for all parties, showcasing the power of combining financing creativity with operational improvements.
Title: Purchase of a Rural Trash Collection Service Short Description: Client engaged BizBuyPro for valuation and advisory. During due diligence, hidden liabilities (insurance + worker classification) were uncovered, which significantly reduced true profitability. Buyer ultimately withdrew, avoiding potential losses. Key Numbers:
Title: Purchase of Plumbing Contractor Short Description: BizBuyPro assisted in acquisition of a plumbing company with real estate included. Business was profitable, had strong market presence, and room for operational improvements. Buyer has since increased profitability. Key Numbers:
Purchase Price: $3.5M (includes $1M real estate → $2.5M for business)
Title: Purchase of Electrical Contractor Short Description: BizBuyPro guided a client through the acquisition of a mismanaged electrical contractor. Despite a high multiple, seller financing and service expansion (solar + generators) allowed strong post-acquisition growth. Key Numbers:
Purchase Price: $800K
Revenue: ~$2.0M
ODI: ~$80K initially → $300K+ after 2.5 years
Purchase Price Multiple: ~10x
CASE #3
What services does BizBuyPro offer?
+
BizBuyPro provides comprehensive services for business buyers and owners, including business acquisition support, setup guidance, performance improvement, strategic consulting, exit planning, and post-acquisition support. Our goal is to support you through every stage of your business journey, from identifying opportunities to ensuring long-term success.
How does BizBuyPro help with buying a business?
+
We assist buyers through every step of the acquisition process, from sourcing potential business opportunities and conducting due diligence to negotiating terms and planning a seamless transition. Our team works closely with you to ensure that the business you acquire aligns with your goals, skills, and financial expectations.
What is involved in the due diligence process?
+
Due diligence is a thorough review of the business’s financials, operations, market position, legal standing, and more. BizBuyPro conducts an in-depth assessment to uncover potential risks and confirm the business’s value, helping you make an informed decision and negotiate effectively.
Show Video
How can BizBuyPro help me improve my new business’s performance?
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Our performance improvement services include operational analysis, financial management, advanced tax strategies, and marketing development. We help identify and implement strategies that enhance productivity, increase profitability, and position your business for sustainable growth.
What is seller financing (or seller carry), and how does it work?
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Seller financing (or seller carry) is when the seller agrees to finance part of the business purchase price, allowing the buyer to make payments over time. This can make the acquisition more accessible and increase the business’s attractiveness to buyers. BizBuyPro can help you determine if seller financing aligns with your goals and assist in structuring the terms.
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What legal structure should I choose for my business?
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The right legal structure depends on various factors, including liability protection, tax implications, and long-term business goals. BizBuyPro provides guidance on different entity types, such as LLCs and corporations, helping you choose the structure that best aligns with your needs.
How do I decide whether to classify workers as employees or independent contractors?
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Classifying workers correctly impacts taxes, benefits, and compliance obligations. We clarify the differences between employees and 1099 contractors, helping you determine the best approach based on your business’s operational needs and regulatory requirements.
What are advanced tax strategies, and how can they benefit my business?
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Advanced tax strategies help you minimize tax liabilities, optimize deductions, and improve cash flow. Our team works with you to identify and implement strategies, including capital gains planning, expense deductions, and entity structuring, ensuring your business is tax-efficient and compliant.
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How should I pay myself as a business owner?
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Determining the best way to compensate yourself depends on your business structure, tax considerations, and cash flow needs. BizBuyPro provides guidance on options such as salaries, dividends, and profit distributions, helping you choose a method that aligns with both your personal and business goals.
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What types of insurance should I consider for my business?
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BizBuyPro helps you evaluate essential insurance options, including general liability, Keyman insurance, and property insurance. We assist in selecting coverage that protects your business from risks, ensuring stability and peace of mind.
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What is estate planning, and why is it important for business owners?
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Estate planning involves preparing for the transfer of your assets, including your business, in the event of retirement or other life changes. BizBuyPro advises on estate planning strategies, such as trusts and asset protection, to secure your legacy and ensure a smooth transition of ownership when the time comes.
How does BizBuyPro support post-acquisition success?
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Our post-acquisition support includes integration planning, financial management, marketing strategies, team alignment, and performance tracking. We work with you to ensure your new business is set up for success, offering ongoing guidance to help you achieve your long-term goals.
What is involved in exit planning, and how can BizBuyPro help?
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Exit planning prepares your business for sale or succession, focusing on maximizing its value and ensuring a smooth transition. BizBuyPro assists with goal setting, business valuation, tax planning, finding buyers, and preparing for due diligence, helping you achieve a successful and profitable exit.
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How can outsourcing and virtual assistants benefit my business?
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Outsourcing and virtual assistants allow you to manage resources efficiently, access specialized skills, and reduce costs. BizBuyPro advises on when and how to use these resources, helping you streamline operations and focus on core business activities.
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How do I schedule a consultation with BizBuyPro?
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You can schedule a consultation by contacting us directly through our website. Our team will discuss your business goals and explore how we can support your journey to successful business ownership.
How can I determine if a business has strong recurring revenue?
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We assess recurring revenue by analyzing customer retention rates, contract structures, and subscription models. Recurring revenue is a good indicator of stability and long-term potential, so we focus on understanding the sources and consistency of revenue streams.
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What factors should I consider before deciding to buy a business in a specific industry?
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Industry selection involves assessing market trends, competition, entry barriers, and your personal experience or interest in that field. BizBuyPro helps evaluate these factors, along with growth potential and operational challenges, to ensure you’re entering a field that aligns with your strengths and goals.
How do I evaluate the value of a business’s intellectual property (IP)?
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We evaluate IP by examining patents, trademarks, copyrights, and proprietary technologies that may add unique value to the business. This assessment includes determining the IP’s market relevance, legal standing, and potential to provide a competitive advantage.
What is the difference between a stock purchase and an asset purchase?
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A stock purchase involves buying the ownership shares of a company, including liabilities, while an asset purchase involves buying specific assets and liabilities. Each has pros and cons based on tax implications, risk tolerance, and legal considerations. BizBuyPro helps you evaluate which option is best for your situation.
How do I assess the quality and retention of a business’s customer base?
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We analyze customer data, including purchase history, loyalty metrics, and retention rates, to determine the quality of the customer base. Understanding customer relationships and satisfaction is essential for predicting revenue stability and identifying growth opportunities.
What is ‘Owner’s Discretionary Cash Flow,’ and why is it important?
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Owner’s Discretionary Cash Flow (ODCF) is a measure of cash flow that includes net income plus owner-specific expenses like salary, perks, and non-essential expenses. This metric helps you understand the actual cash available to a new owner, providing a realistic view of profitability.
How do I know if the current staff will stay after I acquire the business?
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Employee retention is influenced by factors like company culture, compensation, and leadership transition plans. During due diligence, BizBuyPro helps you assess staff stability and advises on strategies to retain key employees, such as clear communication, incentive programs, and culture alignment.
What role do environmental and regulatory factors play in evaluating a business?
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Environmental and regulatory compliance can impact a business’s operations, costs, and legal standing. We review these factors as part of due diligence, identifying any compliance risks or necessary permits and helping you understand ongoing regulatory obligations.
How can I avoid overpaying for a business?
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We help you avoid overpaying by conducting a detailed business valuation, comparing similar sales in the industry, and examining growth potential. BizBuyPro’s valuation methods are designed to give you a realistic, data-driven view of the business’s worth, ensuring that you invest at a fair price.
What is Keyman insurance, and when is it necessary?
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Keyman insurance provides financial protection if a critical team member (such as an owner or senior executive) can no longer work. This coverage is especially important for businesses dependent on specific individuals for success. We help you assess if Keyman insurance is needed for your business.
What are typical Ad-backs, and how do they impact the business’s valuation?
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Adbacks are expenses added back to net income to show the business’s true cash flow, such as non-recurring expenses, owner perks, and one-time fees. Correctly identifying Ad-backs is essential for an accurate valuation, as they reflect the business’s actual profitability for a new owner.
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Should I consider outsourcing certain business functions right after acquisition?
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Outsourcing can be an efficient way to reduce costs and streamline operations, especially in areas like IT, customer service, and accounting. BizBuyPro helps identify which functions can be outsourced effectively and introduces you to reliable service providers to support a smooth transition.
How do I know if I should rebrand the business post-acquisition?
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Rebranding depends on the current brand’s reputation, alignment with your vision, and customer loyalty. We assess brand equity and customer perception, advising you on the potential impact of rebranding or retaining the existing brand identity.
How should I handle personal and business expenses separately as a new owner?
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Keeping personal and business finances separate is crucial for tax and legal reasons. We guide you in setting up financial systems, such as dedicated bank accounts and bookkeeping practices, that ensure clear separation and simplify tax reporting.
What are the potential risks of buying a business that has been struggling financially?
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Acquiring a struggling business comes with challenges, such as cash flow issues, low customer retention, or operational inefficiencies. BizBuyPro helps you assess if the turnaround potential justifies the investment and develop a strategy for revitalizing the business if you proceed.
How important is a marketing plan after acquiring a business?
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A strong marketing plan is essential for growth and brand positioning. We assist in evaluating the existing marketing strategy and developing a plan that reaches your target audience, improves customer loyalty, and supports revenue goals post-acquisition.
What should I do if the business’s actual performance doesn’t meet initial expectations?
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If the business underperforms, we can help you diagnose the issues, adjust your strategy, and implement changes to improve operations. BizBuyPro provides ongoing support to ensure you have the resources and insights needed to address challenges and optimize the business.
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Short, powerful reels where Paul shares practical advice for future business owners.
