As we dive further into 2026, we wanted to share relevant insights with you from the most recent Market Pulse survey in Q4 of 2025. Here are the highlights:

Market Sentiment Continues to Ride for Sellers

Seller confidence continues to rise year over year as buyer participation and demand continues to grow. In the current seller’s market, we continue to see buyers competing in order to win deals, regularly driving increased values and more favorable deal terms for sellers.

Sellers Continue to Receive Multiple Offers

Buyer activity remains high heading into 2026, causing competitive environments. Sellers are regularly getting multiple offers due to continued increase in demand.

Valuation Multiples Stay Steady in 2025

Across size segments, median multiples stayed stead or slightly increased throughout the year.

Buyers are paying higher multiples year over year for quality businesses, particularly in the lower-middle market.

Deal Structure: Cash at Close Dominates

Liquidity remains robust, and buyers are leaning heavily toward strong upfront consideration.

Seller financing and earn-outs continue to play a minor role. This structure reflects high buyer confidence and capital availability, especially in smaller transactions.

Closing Timeline Rose in 2025

The average amount of time for sellers to get to the closing table increased in 2025 across all size segments. This highlights the importance of seller readiness and preparation. Strong businesses with a clear exit plan in place regularly face less deal delays from listing to closing.

Summary

The seller’s market remains strong as buyer demand continues to increase. Sellers are regularly receiving multiple offers and high multiples across industry and size sector. In order to remain competitive in today’s environment, buyers are regularly committing upfront cash and favorable terms to sellers, especially in smaller transactions. Seller preparedness continues to maximize potential and increases the odds of a successful closing in a shorter timeline.

If a further conversation on the current market and how our services and processes can help maximize a business owner’s exit would be beneficial for you or your clients, let’s schedule some time to connect.