FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Sellers FAQ
Why should I use a business broker to sell my liquor, gas, or convenience store?
Selling a business in the liquor, gas, or convenience store industry is complex, and one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. At LCG Brokerage, we specialize exclusively in these industries, bringing decades of expertise to guide you through the process. Our team coordinates with your professional advisors, such as attorneys and accountants, to ensure every aspect of your sale is handled professionally and confidentially.
We’ve facilitated countless transactions and know the nuances of selling gas stations, liquor stores, and convenience stores. With our deep buyer network and industry-specific knowledge, we can ensure a smoother, faster, and more profitable transaction for you.
What is my role during the selling process?
At the start, your role is to provide information, including business history and financials, for our confidential marketing materials. Afterward, your main focus should remain on running your business as if you were keeping it. Potential buyers want to see stability and growth—not a decline in performance—so maintaining strong operations is critical to achieving the best sale price.
How do you handle confidentiality during the sale process?
We understand how sensitive the sale of your liquor store, gas station, or convenience store can be. Public knowledge of a sale can impact employees, customers, suppliers, and competitors. LCG Brokerage requires all prospective buyers to sign a comprehensive non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before accessing any confidential details about your business.
Additionally, we leverage industry-leading tools to market your business discreetly, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure throughout the process.
How do you market and advertise my business?
LCG Brokerage utilizes a proven mix of internet marketing, targeted outreach, and our proprietary database of pre-qualified buyers. For over a decade, we’ve cultivated relationships with investors and business owners across Colorado, Texas, and beyond.
We also tap into referral networks, including attorneys, accountants, and real estate professionals. Our experience in liquor, gas, and convenience store sales ensures we know how to attract the right buyers while maintaining confidentiality.
How long will it take to sell my business?
The time to sell depends on several factors: business type, location, financial performance, and asking price. On average, our sales close in under six months—less than half the industry average of 12 months.
Setting a fair asking price, maintaining strong financials, and working with a specialized broker like LCG Brokerage can significantly shorten the sales timeline.
How do you determine the value of my business?
Valuing liquor stores, gas stations, and convenience stores requires a detailed analysis of financial records, market conditions, and industry trends. We’ll provide a pricing range that reflects the market, balancing factors like cash flow, inventory, and real estate (if applicable).
Terms of the sale often matter as much as the asking price. Seller financing or flexible terms can increase the final sale price and attract more buyers.
Do I need to provide financing for the buyer?
While not mandatory, offering seller financing can significantly improve your chances of selling—and at a higher price. Many buyers can’t secure traditional loans due to the unique nature of these industries, so seller financing can bridge the gap.
Studies show sellers who finance part of the sale typically receive 86% of their asking price, compared to 70% for cash-only deals. LCG Brokerage will help structure financing to protect your interests while giving buyers the confidence to close the deal.
What can I do to make my business more appealing to buyers?
- Keep Financials Clean and Up-to-Date: Buyers want clear, accurate records for at least three years. Work with your accountant to prepare detailed financials.
- Maintain Operations: Keep running the business at full capacity. Any decline in sales or performance during the sale process can deter buyers.
- Focus on Presentation: Repair signs, clean the premises, and ensure inventory is well-stocked and displayed. First impressions matter.
- Ensure Confidentiality: Avoid discussing the sale with employees, customers, or vendors. Confidentiality protects the value of your business.
- Stay Open for Business: Buyers want to see the business thriving. Cutting hours or services during the sale can harm buyer confidence.
Do you already have buyers for my business?
Possibly! We have a robust database of pre-qualified buyers actively seeking liquor stores, gas stations, and convenience stores in Colorado, Texas, and other regions. If your business matches their criteria, we can often connect you immediately.
What happens when a buyer is interested in my business?
Once a buyer expresses interest, they will submit a written offer, often contingent on reviewing financials, leases, or franchise agreements.
LCG Brokerage handles negotiations to secure the best terms and guides both parties through due diligence. After contingencies are cleared, we coordinate the final closing, ensuring a smooth transition and distribution of funds.
Do you handle real estate sales?
Yes, but only when the real estate is tied to the business (e.g., gas stations or stores with owned properties). Many owners opt to sell their businesses while retaining real estate and continuing to collect rent. LCG Brokerage specializes in structuring these deals to maximize your return.
How does LCG Brokerage get paid?
We work entirely on commission—if we don’t sell your business, you owe us nothing. Beware of brokers who charge upfront fees or inflate your business value to justify costs. Our success-based model ensures we are fully aligned with your interests.
How are negotiations handled?
LCG Brokerage manages all negotiations to protect your interests and ensure the deal closes successfully. Selling a business can be emotional, and our team acts as a buffer to keep discussions professional and productive.
A strong working relationship between you and the buyer is critical for a smooth transition period, and we strive to foster goodwill throughout the process.
Buyers FAQ
Are most businesses for sale losing money?
This is a common misconception. Most liquor stores, gas stations, and convenience stores for sale are being sold for personal reasons rather than financial distress. These reasons often include health concerns, family changes, relocation, retirement, divorce, or burnout.
Businesses that consistently lose money rarely survive for several years. However, many business owners minimize their taxable income, making it essential to analyze the true owner’s benefit to understand the business’s profitability. At LCG Brokerage, we only list businesses that are profitable and viable opportunities.
How much down payment will I need?
The required down payment depends on several factors, including the type of business, its assets, the seller’s terms, and your available liquidity. Generally, the more cash you can put down, the more negotiating power you have, often resulting in a lower purchase price.
We will work with you to determine your comfort level and match you with businesses that align with your financial capabilities. Liquor stores, gas stations, and convenience stores often offer flexible terms, making them accessible investments for qualified buyers.
Why should I buy an existing business in the liquor, gas, or convenience store industry?
Purchasing an existing business offers numerous advantages:
- Immediate cash flow from established operations.
- A trained team of employees in place.
- Established customer base and brand recognition.
- Pre-existing supplier relationships and credit accounts.
- Existing licenses and permits, which can be challenging to obtain.
- Hands-on training and support from the seller.
- The potential for seller financing, which can reduce upfront costs.
With these benefits, buying an existing business minimizes risk compared to starting a new venture.
What happens when I find a business I want to buy?
When you identify abusiness of interest, LCG Brokerage will:
- Provide detailed information and answer preliminary questions.
- Guide you through preparing an offer based on your preferred price and terms.
- Present your offer to the seller for approval, counteroffer, or rejection.
Once terms are agreed upon, you’ll enter the due diligence phase to review financials, lease agreements, and other critical documents. After all contingencies are satisfied, closing documents are prepared, and ownership is transferred.
What type of business should I look for?
Choose a business that aligns with your skills, interests, and financial goals. Pride of ownership is a key factor in success. Consider these factors when evaluating opportunities:
- Personal Fit: Can you see yourself operating this business every day?
- Financial Feasibility: Does the business generate enough income to support your financial needs after expenses?
- Growth Potential: What opportunities exist to improve operations, increase profits, or expand?
Liquor stores, gas stations, and convenience stores are particularly attractive due to their resilience, steady demand, and opportunities for optimization.
What motivates people to go into business for themselves?
Surveys reveal consistent reasons why individuals choose to own businesses:
- To control their own destiny and be their own boss.
- To stop working for someone else.
- To better utilize their skills and abilities.
- To achieve financial independence.
Investing in a business offers a pathway to independence and financial growth, especially in the liquor, gas, and convenience store industries.
How are you paid?
LCG Brokerage operates on a success-fee basis, meaning we only get paid upon the successful closing of a transaction. This ensures our interests are aligned with both the buyer and seller. We are dedicated to educating buyers, identifying the right opportunities, and guiding you through every step of the transaction.
How are negotiations handled?
All negotiations are conducted through LCG Brokerage to maintainprofessionalism and ensure the deal moves forward smoothly. This approach minimizes stress for both parties and fosters a positive working relationship for the transition period.
Our goal is to secure the best possible deal for you while maintaining goodwill with the seller. Negotiations can be complex, but our industry expertise ensures a successful outcome.