What does a business broker charge to sell a business in Florida?

Most Florida business brokers charge a success fee of 8–12% of the sale price for smaller transactions, paid only at closing. If the sale doesn't close, there's no fee. For larger deals ($2M+), the percentage typically decreases on a sliding scale.

Can I sell my business without a broker in St. Augustine?

Yes, but it comes with significant risks — most owners overprice or underprice without market data, struggle to maintain confidentiality, and lack experience negotiating with buyers. For most sellers, the broker's commission is offset by a higher sale price and faster, smoother transaction.

How does a business broker maintain confidentiality during the sale?

A professional broker markets your business without revealing its name or specific details publicly. Potential buyers sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before receiving any financial information. This protects your employees, customers, and vendors from learning the business is for sale prematurely.

Should I Use a Business Broker to Sell My St. Augustine Business?

ryancwinterdev on May 13, 2026

Should You Use a Business Broker to Sell Your Business?

It’s one of the most common questions I hear from St. Augustine business owners: Do I really need a broker, or can I sell my business myself? It’s a fair question — broker commissions can feel significant. But the more important question is: what does it cost you not to use one?

What a Business Broker Actually Does

A good broker brings valuation expertise to price your business correctly, confidential marketing that doesn’t alert employees or competitors, buyer qualification to screen out tire-kickers, deal structuring to negotiate price and terms, due diligence management to keep the process organized, and closing coordination through attorneys, accountants, and landlords.

The Risk of Selling Without a Broker

Business owners who try to sell on their own frequently run into problems. They overprice or underprice the business without access to comparable transaction data. They struggle with confidentiality — in a small community like St. Augustine, word getting out that a business is for sale makes employees nervous and customers uncertain. And they often sit across the negotiating table from experienced buyers without professional representation.

What Does a Broker Cost?

Most business brokers charge a success fee of 8–12% of the selling price for smaller transactions, only paid at closing. If a broker helps you sell for $50,000 more than you could achieve on your own — or saves you months of wasted time — the commission more than pays for itself.

When Might You Not Need a Broker?

If you already have a known buyer — a family member, a key employee, or a competitor who has expressed interest — a broker may be less critical. Even so, I’d recommend working with an M&A attorney to ensure the deal is structured correctly.

The St. Augustine Advantage

Working with a broker who knows the St. Augustine market specifically — local buyers, local industries, local deal dynamics — gives you an edge. I’ve worked with business owners throughout Northeast Florida and understand the unique mix of tourism, service, and growth that defines this region. Let’s have an honest conversation — no obligation, no pressure.

Curious What Your Business Is Worth?

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