Small business sales are surging: Is now the time to sell your business?

Want to sell your business? Now might be a good time. The market is hot!

New data shows that sales of small businesses are way up. Way, way up.

In the first three months of 2025, over 2,300 businesses were sold in the U. S. That’s a total of $2 billion changing hands. Up 9% from last year!

What’s Driving the Surge?

One expert said things feel “energized and productive. ” Sounds good, right? Prices are up. Cash flow is up. Revenue? You guessed it, up!

The average selling price hit $349,000. Not bad!

Businesses are making more money too. Average cash flow jumped to $160,000. Revenue is up to $700,000.

But, It’s Not Always Easy

Hold on. It’s not all sunshine and roses.

Things slowed down a bit in February and March. Why? Deals are taking longer to close.

Businesses are sitting on the market for about 198 days. That’s almost a month longer than last year.

Tariffs: A Bit of a Roadblock

Tariffs are causing some headaches. These are taxes on goods coming into the country.

If you own a candy store and the price of sugar goes up, you have to charge more for your candy.

These tariffs make things uncertain for buyers and sellers.

Nearly 40% of business owners say tariffs have increased their costs. Some are even having trouble getting supplies.

Most buyers? They just want a stable business.

Which Businesses Are Doing Well?

Some businesses are doing better than others. Manufacturing is booming!

Sales are up. Prices are way up. Like, over $1 million!

The government is trying to help manufacturing. More loans are available. They also want to train more workers.

Retail and Restaurants? Not So Much

Retail and restaurant businesses aren’t doing as well.

Fewer people are buying these types of businesses. Restaurant deals are down. Retail deals are down even more.

What’s on Owners’ Minds?

What are small business owners worried about? Inflation and revenue.

Most owners still say their business is doing okay. But it’s something to keep an eye on.

Should You Sell?

Is now the right time to sell your business? It depends.

The market is hot. But do your homework. Talk to a professional. Make sure it’s the right move for you.