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SBA Change of Ownership Valuations: What Lenders Require and How to Prepare
Key Takeaways When an SBA 7(a) loan is being used to finance a business acquisition, valuation becomes one of the most important parts of the deal process. Buyers want confidence they are paying a fair price. Sellers want the transaction to move forward without unexpected issues. Lenders need support that the value of the business…
Read MoreESOP Valuations: What Owners, Trustees, and Boards Need to Know
For closely held business owners considering succession, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) offers a path to liquidity that few other structures can match: meaningful immediate proceeds, ongoing seller-note cash flow, federal income tax deferral or elimination depending on entity choice, and a transition that preserves the company’s culture, workforce, and independence. The same federal…
Read MoreMachinery and Equipment Valuations: Methods, Use Cases, and Pitfalls
Key Takeaways For many businesses, machinery and equipment represent a significant portion of total assets. Manufacturing companies, construction firms, logistics operations, and industrial businesses often invest heavily in physical assets that support daily operations. Because of this, M&E valuation becomes an important part of financial planning, lending, transactions, litigation, and reporting. Whether a company is…
Read MoreWhat Increases or Hurts Your Business Value? Key Factors Owners Overlook
Key Takeaways Many business owners assume value is mostly based on sales, assets, or how much effort they have put into the business over the years. In reality, business value is shaped by a broader set of factors. Two companies with similar revenue can have very different values depending on profitability, risk, growth trends, management…
Read MoreHow Much Does a Business Valuation Cost — and What Drives the Price?
Key Takeaways If you’re exploring a business valuation or equipment appraisal, you probably want a straight answer on pricing before committing to a phone call. We get that — and we believe you deserve it. At BGH Valuation, we quote most engagements on a fixed-fee basis and share indicative pricing upfront so you can evaluate…
Read MoreHow Much Is My Business Worth? A Practical Guide for Business Owners
Key Takeaways Understanding the Basics of Business Valuation Whether you’re preparing to sell, planning your estate, onboarding investors, or simply measuring your company’s performance, asking “How much is my business worth?” is a critical step. However, determining business value is rarely simple. A proper valuation considers not only the numbers on your balance sheet but…
Read MoreOnline Business Valuation Calculators vs. Professional Valuations: What’s the Difference?
Key Takeaways If you’ve ever searched “online business valuation” or tried a “business valuation calculator,” you’ve likely received an instant estimate of your company’s worth in under five minutes. But how accurate are these tools? For business owners preparing to sell, bring in investors, resolve a dispute, or plan their estate, understanding the difference between…
Read MoreWhen Do You Need a Business Valuation? 7 Common Situations Business Owners Face
Key Takeaways Many business owners assume they only need a valuation when they’re ready to sell. But the question isn’t just “How much is my business worth?” — it’s often “When do you need a business valuation?” The truth is, valuation timing can significantly affect negotiations, tax exposure, legal outcomes, and financial planning. Waiting until…
Read MoreValuations for Partner Buyouts: How to Avoid Conflict and Reach Fair Agreements
Key Takeaways Business partnerships are built on shared goals and trust. However, when a partner exits or a dispute arises, financial disagreements can quickly escalate into legal conflict. In these moments, a defensible, independent business valuation becomes essential. A properly structured partner buyout valuation establishes an objective economic baseline—reducing emotional bias and supporting fair resolution…
Read MorePurchase Price Allocation Explained: Why It’s Crucial After an Acquisition
Key Takeaways After the excitement of closing an acquisition fades, the technical accounting work begins. For CPAs, finance teams, and private equity sponsors, one of the most critical post-transaction requirements is Purchase Price Allocation (PPA) under ASC 805 – Business Combinations. ASC 805 requires the acquirer to measure and allocate the purchase price to identifiable…
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