Can I Sell My Business Online?
Yes, you absolutely can sell a business online…
Many platforms specialise in connecting business sellers with buyers. Depending on your business type, size, and industry.
Below you have several options:
Business-for-sale marketplaces: Websites like BizBuySell
General marketplaces: Platforms like eBay
Industry-specific sites: Some industries have niche platforms for business sales.
Social media and professional networks: LinkedIn or Facebook groups dedicated to entrepreneurs and business sales.
Your own website: You can list your business for sale directly and attract buyers who already know your brand.
However, we would recommend avoiding selling online and to use an M&A advisor such as Entrepreneurs Hub if any of the following apply:
Business Size and Complexity
An M&A advisor can draw out and capitalise on what makes your business unique better than any online platform. Especially if your business is making profits of over £300k, if it is complex or has multiple divisions, and if your business has financial intricacies or regulatory considerations.
High Valuation
For businesses valued in the millions (typically £1M+), using a professional advisor is often beneficial. They can filter out the time wasters and attract serious, qualified buyers, negotiating better terms.
Confidentiality
If you want to keep the sale discreet (to avoid unsettling employees, customers, or suppliers), an M&A advisor knows how to market your business confidentially to vetted buyers.
Specialised Industry or Buyer Targeting
If your business operates in a niche market or you want to reach strategic buyers (e.g., competitors, private equity), advisors have networks and experience to find those buyers effectively.
Deal Structures
Any serious deal is rarely offered as 100% of the consideration upfront… so an advisor adds significant value in helping you understand and negotiate the deal structure to get what you need from the deal.
Maximising Sale Price
Advisors help maximise value through professional valuation, competitive bidding, and strategic negotiation.
Limited Time or Experience
Selling a business is a time-consuming activity, even if you use an advisor to do a lot of the heavy lifting for you. Online platforms often leave a lot of the really difficult and time-consuming work to you, which can negatively impact your business performance.