If you own a business in Georgia, this is the market you’ve been waiting for. Buyers are lining up for certain types of small businesses, and many of these deals are closing in under 90 days. If you’re even thinking about exiting in the next 12 to 24 months, getting a valuation now could save you time, position you better with buyers, and maximize your outcome.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 5 fastest selling types of small businesses in Georgia, what kind of multiples they’re getting, and why SBA buyers are ready to move fast.
1. Home Services (Landscaping, HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical)
Why it sells fast: Predictable revenue, recession proof, strong repeat business, and easy to understand. In Georgia’s suburban and high growth metro areas, demand for home services continues to outpace supply.
Typical buyers: Corporate execs leaving jobs, private equity aggregators, and trade buyers looking to grow.
Valuation multiple: 2.5x to 3.5x SDE. High performing HVAC or recurring contract businesses are closer to 4x.
SBA fit: These are asset light businesses with strong cash flow. Lenders love recurring revenue and low customer concentration.
Example: A Gwinnett HVAC company with $1.1M in revenue and $320K SDE sold in 71 days for $1.05M. Another with $2.6M revenue and $700K SDE sold for $2.45M with 85 percent SBA financing and 10 percent seller note.
Why get a valuation now: Multiples are strong, but buyers want clean books. A valuation helps you identify add backs, normalize earnings, and present a bank ready package.
2. Healthcare and Senior Services (Home Care, Therapy Clinics, Wellness Centers)
Why it sells fast: Aging population, high insurance reimbursement, and strong SBA history. Non medical home care is booming in Metro Atlanta.
Typical buyers: Healthcare professionals, franchise investors, and rollups.
Valuation multiple: 3x to 5x SDE depending on payer mix and team structure.
SBA fit: Clean license history, long term staff, and documented billing make these very fundable. Some franchises are pre approved.
Example: A senior care agency in Cobb with $675K SDE and $2.2M revenue sold for $2.9M. A pediatric therapy group with $3.8M revenue and $1.1M SDE sold for $4.8M with SBA and mezzanine backing.
Why get a valuation now: Buyers pay top dollar for stable operations. If your margins or staffing need work, a valuation helps you prep.
3. Logistics, Routes, and Delivery
Why it sells fast: FedEx routes, Amazon contractors, and medical couriers are hot because of e commerce growth and Georgia’s logistics hub status.
Typical buyers: New entrepreneurs and experienced fleet managers.
Valuation multiple: 2x to 3.5x SDE. Higher if real estate or exclusive zones are included.
SBA fit: SBA loves steady contracts and assets like vehicles. Most deals include seller training.
Example: A South Georgia FedEx operation with $230K SDE sold for $675K in 64 days. A medical courier with $2.9M revenue and $800K SDE sold for $2.8M with SBA and $200K seller financing.
Why get a valuation now: Margins and driver turnover matter. A valuation highlights where you can improve.
4. Professional Services (Accounting, Marketing, Tech Support)
Why it sells fast: Sticky client relationships, high margins, and no inventory. Georgia has many well run firms with good systems.
Typical buyers: Rollups, execs from the industry, and strategic buyers.
Valuation multiple: 3.5x to 5x EBITDA depending on contracts and client mix.
SBA fit: Recurring revenue and clean books are very attractive. Add backs are usually easy to document.
Example: An accounting firm in Sandy Springs with $1.3M revenue and $410K profit sold at 4.7x. A marketing agency with $4.2M revenue and $1.2M EBITDA sold for $5.9M with SBA and partner capital.
Why get a valuation now: These deals depend on relationships. A valuation helps you plan for transition and growth before listing.
5. Auto Repair and Specialty Shops (Tire, Transmission, Body)
Why it sells fast: Georgia drivers keep these shops busy. Most have loyal customers and strong reputations.
Typical buyers: Former mechanics, owner operators, and franchise buyers.
Valuation multiple: 2.5x to 3.5x SDE. Higher if the shop owns property.
SBA fit: Lenders prefer clean financials, solid equipment, and steady income.
Example: A Forsyth tire shop with $185K SDE sold for $525K with SBA and $75K seller note. A specialty collision center with $2.5M revenue and $680K SDE sold for $2.3M with SBA and real estate bundled.
Why get a valuation now: Rent, staff, and margins all impact value. A valuation gives you a clear picture now.
What SBA Lenders Want in Georgia Businesses: • 3 years of tax returns with consistent SDE • Verified payroll and expenses • Low customer concentration • Normalized books and fair owner salary • Clean license history • Smooth transition plan with staff in place
Final Thought: A Valuation is Strategy
This isn’t about listing right now. It’s about understanding your number, seeing what buyers will pay, and fixing anything before you go to market. A valuation puts you in control.
If you own a Georgia business, let’s talk. We’ll give you a real number, real insight, and a plan to help you exit on your terms.
Let’s talk value before buyers come knocking.