The Perfect Match: Finding the Right Buyer for a Long-Time Business Owner Who Was Ready for Retirement
For Danny Hill and brothers Phil and Randy West, the sale and purchase of this lawn and pest control business felt like a great match.
Mr. Hill, the long-time owner of Tri-Hill Lawn & Pest Control, had reached a point in his life where he was ready to do something different. He and his wife own a farm and they were ready to retire there and spend time building a home, gardening, and letting the sounds of nature rock them to sleep each night. He knew it was time to sell.
But when it came to selling his business, he had been there before and understood the challenges. Finding and interviewing potential buyers, distinguishing between real interest and “tire kickers,” answering questions, and providing detailed information about the business, all take time. He knew he just wanted to spend his time focusing on the day-to-day operations of his business and working on a future project at the farm.
He realized that he had no desire to put the effort that’s necessary into selling his business so he began to look for a company that he believed could not only sell it but would also work to get the best deal possible. He wanted someone who would focus on his needs as the seller but would also work with the buyer to ensure a smooth transition.
After learning about REP’s process and experience and discovering that one of our team members, Jay Richardson, is an industry expert who previously worked in the pest control industry, Mr. Hill decided we were the best team for the job.
So, Jay went to work. He received multiple offers, but ultimately found buyers, Phil and Randy West, of West Termite, Pest, and Lawn, who were looking to expand their business. Both Mr. Hill and the Wests were well known within the industry, and they knew of one another. They had a mutual respect and operated their businesses very similarly. It was a perfect match.
In the end, Mr. Hill walked away with a sales price he was comfortable with, and he was able to work with the Wests to help with the transition. And to top it off, because of this acquisition, West Termite, Pest, and Lawn is now the largest company in this industry in the River Valley.
Taking the leap to sell a business can seem overwhelming. However, by choosing right team to take care of the details for you, it can be a smooth and easy process. We would love to have the opportunity to be that team for you. If you have any inquiries or questions regarding your own company’s future or valuation, please give us a call at 479-784-9522, or visit our website at ResolutionEP.com.