Why Buyers Are Willing to Pay More for Turnkey Operations
By Brian Cassidy
In our last article, we explored why buyers place such high value on hard assets — vehicles, equipment, and infrastructure that provide stability and reduce risk. But equally important — and often even more impactful — is how a business operates day-to-day. A company that can run smoothly without its owner doesn’t just attract more attention — it commands a higher price.
Today’s Buyers
Today’s buyers are busy entrepreneurs, private equity groups, and strategic acquirers who don’t want to rebuild what’s already working. They’re drawn to businesses with strong teams in place, clearly documented systems, and a customer base that isn’t overly reliant on the owner. When those elements are in place, the risk of disruption during a transition drops significantly — and buyers are willing to pay a premium for that peace of mind.
Thinking About Selling
If you’re thinking about selling in the next few years, now is the time to start building toward turnkey status. Begin by delegating key responsibilities, systemizing day-to-day processes, and strengthening relationships with customers and vendors. The more transferable your business is, the more leverage you’ll have when it’s time to negotiate a deal.
We Are Here To Help
At Keystone, we help owners position their companies to attract top-tier buyers and maximize valuation. If you’d like to explore what makes your business more marketable — and more valuable — we’d be happy to start that conversation.