BizBuySell just dropped their Q1 2026 Insight Report, which draws on data from ~2.3K transactions closed in Q1, as well as surveys of business brokers and buyers across the US.
My 3 takeaways:
1. Service Businesses Are Up
Service businesses saw a 13% increase in the median sale price, against an 8% increase in SDE, implying ~5% multiple expansion. Demand is starting to pool in service-based businesses—especially in home services.
For business owners: If you operate a quality service business, your stock is rising. Buyers are competing harder and premiums are starting to show up in the data.
2. Almost 50% of Buyers Are “Corporate Refugees”
Up from 44% just last quarter. White-collar labour—which would traditionally have found its place on the corporate ladder—is increasingly looking at small business ownership as a hedge against job insecurity, and a ticket to lifestyle flexibility and financial freedom.
For business owners: The buyer pool is getting more sophisticated. Likely better capitalised, but also more selective. I’d expect tougher diligence, and a lower tolerance for messy books.
3. Financing Is Getting Tighter
With the SBA tightening 7(a) guidelines (e.g. 5% seller down max with full stand-by, and citizenship rules that exclude green card holders) and a cautious rate environment, financing conditions have understandably become less favourable. 45% of brokers surveyed would agree.
For business owners: You should vet financing early. Loan pre-qualification and buyer vetting matter more in tighter environments.