A new report from BizBuySell shows that 91% of people planning to buy a business expect to do so within the next two years. That’s a strong signal that the market for small business sales is heating up. For Main Street businesses, this could mean more buyers competing for good opportunities, and for entrepreneurs, it’s a sign that now might be a great time to take the leap into ownership. This diverse set of buyers brings fresh ideas, energy, and ambition to the businesses they hope to run.

Timeline to Ownership

The process of buying a business typically takes one to two years, from the initial search phase to final closing. Once a buyer identifies the right opportunity, completing the transaction often takes an additional 90 to 120 days. The BizBuySell report also notably found that 59% of surveyed buyers are first-time entrepreneurs, many of whom are looking to transition away from traditional employment into business ownership.

The most popular sectors include service-based businesses (61%), followed by retail (31%). Around one in four buyers are still undecided about which industry to pursue. Manufacturing also continues to be an attractive option, drawing interest from about 20% of buyers—particularly as U.S. trade policies support reshoring and domestic production.

Choosing to Buy Instead of Build

Rather than starting from scratch, many buyers are turning to existing businesses as a path to ownership. Their reasons are clear: a desire for more independence, greater control over their careers, and the potential for financial freedom. Nearly 45% of respondents surveyed cited wanting to take charge of their future as their primary motivation for buying a business. Others emphasized the appeal of owning their own company rather than managing someone else’s.

Buyers leaving corporate roles often view entrepreneurship as a more stable and fulfilling alternative. According to the report, 78% of these individuals are motivated by financial opportunity, 72% are drawn to the autonomy of ownership, and 54% are looking to improve their work-life balance. As one aspiring buyer put it, “Being my own boss is my retirement plan.”

Buyer Preferences in Today’s Market

When evaluating opportunities, most buyers are drawn to businesses that are seen as resilient and recession-proof. Three-quarters of those surveyed said they are specifically seeking stable companies that can withstand economic fluctuations. Additionally, 54% are targeting profitable businesses with strong track records, while 25% are interested in purchasing existing franchise locations.

The pending retirement of a large number of Baby Boomers is also fueling the market. As seasoned business owners look to transition out, the next generation of entrepreneurs is stepping in to acquire these turnkey operations.

Benefits of Buying an Existing Business

Acquiring an established business comes with built-in advantages. Buyers gain access to a recognized brand, loyal customer base, experienced staff, and proven operational systems. Additionally, lenders are often more willing to finance purchases of existing businesses with documented revenue and lower the financial barriers to enter.

What This Means for Business Sellers

If you’re thinking about selling your business, these trends point to a strong window of opportunity. With more motivated buyers entering the market, many of them being first-time entrepreneurs, there’s greater demand for well-run, established companies. This increase in buyer activity means sellers may have more leverage when it comes to price, deal structure, and finding the right fit to carry their business forward.

Buyers today are looking for businesses with reliable cash flow, recession-resistant models, and room to grow. That makes it more important than ever to have clean financials, clear operating procedures, and a strong value proposition. Sellers who take time to prepare—whether by updating their documentation, streamlining processes, or investing in growth—will be in the best position to attract higher offers.

With the right preparation and timing, sellers can benefit from this active market while handing their business over to someone eager to build on what they’ve created. If you’re thinking about selling a business, the demand is there. It’s time to separate your business from the pack and make it stand out.

Whether you’re considering buying a business, or selling one, don’t do it alone. Leveraging the experience of an M&A professional, such as a business broker, helps you to avoid costly mistakes and ensures that both parties walk away with a deal that’s fair, smooth, and successful. Brokers understand the market, know how to properly value a business, and can help navigate everything from preparations to negotiations to contracts. Corporate Investment Business Brokers (CIBB), headquartered in Fort Myers and Sarasota, has been working with business buyers and sellers in Southwest Florida for nearly 40 years. Contact us today to see how we can support your business search or sale.