David C. Barnett

David C. Barnett

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SMB M&A advisor and educator; teaches buying/selling/financing SMBs; frequent commentary on deal structures and pitfalls.

Fixed Costs Exist Whether You Buy or Start
SocialMar 27, 2026

Fixed Costs Exist Whether You Buy or Start

Most businesses feature fixed expenses that need to be paid whether or not they serve a customer. Buying vs Starting a Business https://t.co/W5E0qQGk0q https://t.co/aAKERkVobl

By David C. Barnett
Creating Your Own Ad Media Boosts Sales in AI Era
SocialMar 27, 2026

Creating Your Own Ad Media Boosts Sales in AI Era

Building your own advertising media to grow sales in the age of AI. What I’ve been doing since January. It seems to be working so far.. https://t.co/6JLvoZiqA8 #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/QXBIMMaGJE

By David C. Barnett
No Asking Price? It’s Usually a Red Flag
SocialMar 27, 2026

No Asking Price? It’s Usually a Red Flag

What do I think about businesses for sale with NO asking price? You’ve probably seen them: “Make an offer.” Sounds intriguing… but it’s usually a red flag.

By David C. Barnett
Use Non‑binding Term Sheets to Negotiate without Lawyers
SocialMar 25, 2026

Use Non‑binding Term Sheets to Negotiate without Lawyers

The whole point of using a non-binding offer or ‘term sheet’ is that during the negotiation process you may go back and forth several times and you don’t want to be doing this via a lawyer. - How to...

By David C. Barnett
Join the 5% Who Truly Master Small Business Deals
SocialMar 25, 2026

Join the 5% Who Truly Master Small Business Deals

The 5% who know what they’re doing- So says this SBA lender. How can you get into their ranks? https://t.co/CswqhSpjGO #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/hg5fTEhEoj

By David C. Barnett
Owner Earnings Per Sale Hidden in Commission Models
SocialMar 24, 2026

Owner Earnings Per Sale Hidden in Commission Models

How much does the owner earn on each sale they make? The problem of cost attribution in commission-driven small businesses. https://t.co/Ew74F4r3kW #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/j1k8QGvpT2

By David C. Barnett
Earn Points on Purchases to Boost Profitability by 1%
SocialMar 23, 2026

Earn Points on Purchases to Boost Profitability by 1%

“If a #smallbiz spends 30% to 50% of sales on purchases, and 1/2 those purchases can earn you points, and, on average, you earn 2% value on those points, you'll increase your businesses profitability by one percentage point.” ¬Credit Card...

By David C. Barnett
Identify Motivation Early to Avoid Wasting Deal Time
SocialMar 22, 2026

Identify Motivation Early to Avoid Wasting Deal Time

If this is missing, you’re all wasting time. The exact moment he admitted his motivation to do a real deal. https://t.co/qN0ZgLYOqF #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/mdeKboGQdn

By David C. Barnett
Gold and Silver Can't Be Printed Like Fiat Money
SocialMar 22, 2026

Gold and Silver Can't Be Printed Like Fiat Money

"Gold and silver... [are] distinct from modern forms of money or currency. Currencies such as the US Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Brazilian Real or the Euro can be created at the will of central banks. Precious metals cannot.” –Invest Local (2014)...

By David C. Barnett
New Free Guide: Quick Answers for Selling Your Business
SocialMar 20, 2026

New Free Guide: Quick Answers for Selling Your Business

I have just updated our free resource page for business owners who have questions about selling a small business. Find quick answers and links to videos that go more in-depth. https://t.co/1IbWgvLJNT

By David C. Barnett
Trim Inventory, Adopt JIT to Boost Sale Value
SocialMar 20, 2026

Trim Inventory, Adopt JIT to Boost Sale Value

“If you plan to sell in the next few years... identify excess inventory and use it up. Go to a just-in-time system if possible. Remember, we want to maximize profits while minimizing the required capital. This makes your business look...

By David C. Barnett
Integrate Broker and Proprietary Search with Unified Tools
SocialMar 20, 2026

Integrate Broker and Proprietary Search with Unified Tools

Key tools to run a broker & proprietary search simultaneously. The problem is not realizing this is a business system. https://t.co/TkOPkMEB8f #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/DwMbyj3qjL

By David C. Barnett
Buying a Business Beats Startup Hype for Profit
SocialMar 19, 2026

Buying a Business Beats Startup Hype for Profit

I’m growing a little tired of all the hype and nonsense around the word #startup... Entrepreneurship has reached a point of mass popularity... [In reality,] buying a business is the easiest way to own a profitable one." –Smarter than...

By David C. Barnett
Know Your Worst-Case to Tame Change Fear
SocialMar 18, 2026

Know Your Worst-Case to Tame Change Fear

Understanding your worst-case scenario is fundamental to controlling the fear that normally comes with any great change in life. Buying vs Starting a Business https://t.co/W5E0qQGk0q https://t.co/Kp9sYE1An1

By David C. Barnett
Small Businesses Must Adopt a Sales Mindset when Buying
SocialMar 18, 2026

Small Businesses Must Adopt a Sales Mindset when Buying

The mindset requirement that most small business searchers completely miss. When you need sales skills to buy something valuable. https://t.co/I65QEUaTVu #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/6EkB5eHA9j

By David C. Barnett
War Now Fights Both Battlefields and Minds Across Borders
SocialMar 18, 2026

War Now Fights Both Battlefields and Minds Across Borders

The Ukraine and Iran wars are the first time that I can think of where enemy nations can create and send messaging and propaganda directly to the citizens of the other country. The fight is in the battlefield and the minds...

By David C. Barnett
Turn Seasonal Shops Into Year‑Round Online Profit
SocialMar 18, 2026

Turn Seasonal Shops Into Year‑Round Online Profit

Case Study: Spotting Opportunity in Underutilized Businesses: A Seaside Retail Example I recently had an interesting conversation that highlights a great opportunity for those of you looking to buy a business rather than start one from scratch. The Situation A friend of mine...

By David C. Barnett
Defensive Mindset: Realistic, Proactive Business Fortification
SocialMar 17, 2026

Defensive Mindset: Realistic, Proactive Business Fortification

Building a Fortress Is a Mindset Shift. Thinking defensively doesn’t mean being negative—it means being realistic, proactive, and prepared. The Business Fortress: https://t.co/cgIOurdGHq https://t.co/6Xo8EFoHQK

By David C. Barnett
Join Thursday Live: Explore Deal Studio Platform
SocialMar 16, 2026

Join Thursday Live: Explore Deal Studio Platform

Live on Thursday Tech to help searchers Tune in and we'll be discussing her company’s Deal Studio platform. Set yourself a reminder on YouTube here: https://t.co/5gI4ruc4gR https://t.co/alcDSDqvmx

By David C. Barnett
Never Negotiate Face‑to‑Face—Put Everything in Writing
SocialMar 16, 2026

Never Negotiate Face‑to‑Face—Put Everything in Writing

Negotiations should never be face-to-face. They should always be in writing so that there is never any confusion about what is being tendered or asked- How to Sell my own Business? The Book is available on https://t.co/l2EObkfURN https://t.co/SpNTxtRla2

By David C. Barnett
Buyers Get Mastermind, Sellers Receive Limited Bundle Offer
SocialMar 16, 2026

Buyers Get Mastermind, Sellers Receive Limited Bundle Offer

Two Opportunities for Business Buyers and Sellers. Mastermind for buyers and a special seller bundle offer (limited availability) https://t.co/oABZ6O8WSb https://t.co/PC78ONM0nA

By David C. Barnett
Buy Profitable Businesses Burdened by Operational Issues
SocialMar 15, 2026

Buy Profitable Businesses Burdened by Operational Issues

I always tell buyers that they need to find a small business that makes money and is filled with operational problems. Learn more on How to Sell my own Business? The Book is available on https://t.co/l2EObkfURN https://t.co/61RdkEGqrU

By David C. Barnett
Tech Enables Independents to Match Franchise Consistency
SocialMar 14, 2026

Tech Enables Independents to Match Franchise Consistency

"I also believe that, with the power of the internet and computers, it is possible to deliver the same experience, consistency, and sophisticated decor in an independent business [as in a franchise]" ¬#Franchise Warnings (2015) https://t.co/l2EObkfURN https://t.co/p3i2cgIxKK

By David C. Barnett
Buying a Business Costs Less Than You Think
SocialMar 14, 2026

Buying a Business Costs Less Than You Think

How Much Money Do You Actually Need to Buy a Business? The answer is simpler—and more realistic. https://t.co/1vSKngieRj #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/8co8xWB3QJ

By David C. Barnett
Only Five Spots: Market Your Business by April 15
SocialMar 13, 2026

Only Five Spots: Market Your Business by April 15

A special deal for anyone who wants to market and sell their business in 2026. Only 5 available and only until April 15th. https://t.co/2V05ALJWUW #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/i6TXRgro9R

By David C. Barnett
Only Use Unsecured Loans when Cash Flow Covers Payments
SocialMar 12, 2026

Only Use Unsecured Loans when Cash Flow Covers Payments

“Although I caution anyone from doing unsecured loans, I have done some... To minimize risk [I make] sure that the money will be invested in a manner that will increase sales and profits at the business and also that the...

By David C. Barnett
Transparent Deal Journey: Real Client Success Steps
SocialMar 11, 2026

Transparent Deal Journey: Real Client Success Steps

Mike’s actual path to a successful deal without lies and/or hype. This is a real journey of a client spelled out step by step. https://t.co/rCbnSHUqpo #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/aObkNecA7n

By David C. Barnett
Remote Owners Face Hidden Risks in Delegated Management
SocialMar 11, 2026

Remote Owners Face Hidden Risks in Delegated Management

Case Study: Managing a Business with a Remote Owner: The Hidden Challenges Today, I want to discuss a common scenario in business ownership: when an owner spends most of their time away from the business and relies on a manager to...

By David C. Barnett
Withdraw Your Profits When Business Starts Thriving
SocialMar 10, 2026

Withdraw Your Profits When Business Starts Thriving

“Many people, even when their company achieves success, will continue to leave their profits and initial capital in the company... Once things are rolling, you need to get your money back out of the company.” – 21 Stupid Things (2016)...

By David C. Barnett
Team Up: Buying a Business Becomes Simpler
SocialMar 10, 2026

Team Up: Buying a Business Becomes Simpler

Buying a business is easier when you’re not doing it alone. Learn more: https://t.co/0Zb2oIUKUO #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/xNUHGplSQC

By David C. Barnett
AI Redefines Press Releases: Live Discussion with Mickie Kennedy
SocialMar 9, 2026

AI Redefines Press Releases: Live Discussion with Mickie Kennedy

Live Thursday What happens with press releases now that we have AI? With New Livestream guest- Mickie Kennedy. Set yourself a reminder on YouTube here: https://t.co/jsjcCovczd https://t.co/fRKaYczFaW

By David C. Barnett
Holding Dead Inventory Signals Credit‑driven Insolvency Risk
SocialMar 9, 2026

Holding Dead Inventory Signals Credit‑driven Insolvency Risk

“Poorly operating businesses like to keep un-useable inventory in stock because they need the asset to justify their bank line of credit. If this describes your case... your business will have a hard time selling because... you’re likely insolvent.” –12...

By David C. Barnett
Corporate Strengths Can Become Small Business Traps
SocialMar 9, 2026

Corporate Strengths Can Become Small Business Traps

C-Suite Skills That Can Hurt You in Small Business. Why corporate strengths can become small business traps. https://t.co/MoFjG79ZNj https://t.co/S0CdFXiYiy

By David C. Barnett
Rapidly Build Credibility and Network in New Markets
SocialMar 8, 2026

Rapidly Build Credibility and Network in New Markets

Full-speed immersion into a city and industry that is ripe for your search. Step by step on how to be taken seriously and make contacts fast. https://t.co/Dx7qWaKO4P #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/pJ9bixnjax

By David C. Barnett
Real Deal Structures Hide in Everyday Business Stories
SocialMar 6, 2026

Real Deal Structures Hide in Everyday Business Stories

I Remember years ago I read an article most readers would skim past. It wasn’t about investing. It wasn’t about finance. It was a local business dispute. But buried inside was a real-world deal structure.

By David C. Barnett
High Broker Fees Signal a Business Acquisition Attempt
SocialMar 5, 2026

High Broker Fees Signal a Business Acquisition Attempt

If a broker charges rates in line with Realtors, say 5 or 6% then they likely are trying to ‘buy business.’- How to Sell my own Business https://t.co/l2EObkfURN https://t.co/Jq7DIDeNGv

By David C. Barnett
Today's Purchases Teach Float and Discipline
SocialMar 5, 2026

Today's Purchases Teach Float and Discipline

Why today is always the day for my biggest business purchases. Float and Discipline lesson inside. https://t.co/r6DUEVnTtI #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/s6Y0EC0IKN

By David C. Barnett
Vendor Financing Aligns Seller Interest via Business Collateral
SocialMar 4, 2026

Vendor Financing Aligns Seller Interest via Business Collateral

Case Study: Effective Vendor Financing in Business Acquisitions This topic was highlighted by a question from Tomo, a follower intrigued by the mechanics behind vendor take-back notes. Challenge: When purchasing a business with vendor financing, one of the key concerns for both...

By David C. Barnett
Lease Used Equipment to Cut Costs and Risk
SocialMar 2, 2026

Lease Used Equipment to Cut Costs and Risk

"Another great way to do smaller deals and reduce risk is to do leases on used equipment. Just like cars, most of the depreciation on equipment happens in the first few years." –Invest Local (2014) https://t.co/l2EObkfURN https://t.co/X97c95CkJd

By David C. Barnett
Unlock Hidden Loan Options Through Business Brokers
SocialMar 1, 2026

Unlock Hidden Loan Options Through Business Brokers

“Welcome to my special report on how to borrow from #businessbrokers... By the end of this report, you’ll learn how you can negotiate a loan from a lender that many others have never considered.” –Borrow from Biz Brokers (2017) https://t.co/l2EObkfURN...

By David C. Barnett
Banks Fund Equipment, Not Your Business Goodwill
SocialFeb 27, 2026

Banks Fund Equipment, Not Your Business Goodwill

"Most commercial banks will lend against machines & equipment... Do you know what the bank won’t finance? Goodwill… the intangible value of the fact that you’ve built up a great clientele" –12 Things to Do Before You Consider Selling Your...

By David C. Barnett
Master the ‘Exit’ Strategy to Sell Your Business
SocialFeb 27, 2026

Master the ‘Exit’ Strategy to Sell Your Business

This small ‘E’ word secret will help ensure that you’ll be able to sell your business one day. It’s easy, but most never do it. https://t.co/riUdLIn5K2 #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/qh1kcfQ0Jf

By David C. Barnett
Add Inventory to Valuation only if Working Capital Requires It
SocialFeb 27, 2026

Add Inventory to Valuation only if Working Capital Requires It

When valuing a business using a cashflow multiple (SDE or EBITDA), do you ADD inventory on top of that price? Answer: Sometimes yes. Sometimes no. It depends on how the working capital actually functions.

By David C. Barnett
New Free Guide: Buying a Business for Beginners
SocialFeb 26, 2026

New Free Guide: Buying a Business for Beginners

We just did a bunch of work to update the free resource page about buying a business over on our website. Lots of links to further resources (videos) great place for a beginner to start... link in comment.

By David C. Barnett
Closing Short: When Business Sales Lack Funds
SocialFeb 25, 2026

Closing Short: When Business Sales Lack Funds

What happens when a small business is sold… and there isn’t enough money at the closing table? https://t.co/2PBFSkyCNC #SmallBusiness #BusinessSale #BuyingABusiness #SellMyBusiness #BusinessBroker #Entrepreneurship https://t.co/skl9JQoWaW

By David C. Barnett
Small Businesses Need Corporate‑style Risk Safeguards
SocialFeb 24, 2026

Small Businesses Need Corporate‑style Risk Safeguards

Corporate Risk Practices Are Not Applied to Small Business. Large institutions protect cash flow with layered security—collateral, personal guarantees, and cash flow analysis. Most entrepreneurs don’t think this way. The Business Fortress: https://t.co/cgIOurdGHq https://t.co/t6gGZlE72H

By David C. Barnett
Franchise Fallout: Burnt Pizzeria Exposes Family Illusion
SocialFeb 23, 2026

Franchise Fallout: Burnt Pizzeria Exposes Family Illusion

The Burnt-Down Pizzeria — And the Franchise Wake-Up Call. When the “franchise family” reveals what the relationship really is. https://t.co/1YT6sJkFQQ #SmallBusiness & Deal Making #SMB https://t.co/dvveSMhfU0

By David C. Barnett