Welcome to the marvellous world of business brokers. Some are saints. Some are snakes. And some well, some should be legally banned from using the word "deal" unless it’s in reference to a lunchtime meal.

You see, the buyers haven’t disappeared. They’ve just lost interest in nonsense. They’re no longer entertaining inflated valuations, shaky numbers, and businesses that rely on one person

We’re not talking about accepting monopoly money or dodgy IOUs. Structured deals – the ones with deferred payments, earn-outs, or vendor financing – are normal, and often the smartest route.

If your business depends on you being the glue, the genius, and the general dogsbody—it’s not really a business. It’s a job. And buyers don’t want to buy your job, they want to buy your system.

You’d be surprised. There’s a buyer for almost every business — but not if you don’t show up to the dance.

Of course, not all brokers are equal. Some just want your signature and a few quid upfront before vanishing into a client manager Bermuda Triangle.

Your business isn’t bricks and mortar. It’s blood, sweat, spreadsheets, and sleepless nights. It’s your reputation, your relationships, and your retirement all rolled into one complicated transaction.

“My mate reckons you can buy a business for a quid. ”Ah yes, classic pub wisdom. And technically, he’s not wrong

Ah, the classic pub proclamation. Right up there with “I would’ve gone pro if it weren’t for my dodgy knee.”