BLS Consulting

What does a Minnesota business broker actually do?

A business broker manages the confidential sale of a privately-held company end-to-end: business valuation, marketing to qualified buyers under NDA, vetting offers, negotiating Letters of Intent, coordinating due diligence, and guiding the transaction to a successful closing. At BLS Consulting, James Benincasa brings 30+ years of experience and elite M&AMI, CBI, and ABI credentials to Main-Street and lower-middle-market transactions across Minnesota.

How much does it cost to sell a business with BLS Consulting?

Most traditional brokers charge 10–12% commission. BLS Consulting offers tiered programs designed around the size and complexity of your business, typically resulting in significantly reduced fees while delivering the full service of a credentialed M&A intermediary. We also offer a For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO) program for owners who want to lead their own sale with expert tools and coaching.

How is a business actually valued?

We apply the three widely-accepted approaches — asset, income, and market — with our market approach grounded in actual SBA-closed comparable transactions for businesses of similar size and industry. The output is a written, defensible valuation you can use for sale, exit planning, partner buyouts, estate planning, or financing.

How long does it take to sell a business in Minnesota?

Most Main-Street businesses sell in 6–12 months from listing to close, while lower-middle-market transactions typically run 9–15 months. Preparation matters: businesses with clean books, documented processes, and a recasted financial package consistently sell faster and at higher multiples.

Will my employees, customers, and competitors know my business is for sale?

No. Confidentiality is foundational to everything we do. Buyers receive a blind teaser only, then sign an NDA before reviewing your Confidential Business Review. Listings are coded to industry websites without identifying your company, location, or owner.

What areas does BLS Consulting serve?

BLS Consulting is headquartered in Burnsville, Minnesota and serves business owners throughout the Twin Cities, Greater Minnesota, and the Upper Midwest. Through our M&A Source and IBBA networks we also reach qualified buyers nationally and internationally.