Listen & Learn Podcast ™
It may take a while for the audio to play because of numerous street smart tips. It’s worth the wait.
Play the audio above to hear “The Street-Smart Way to Buy a Business.” You will discover how we do what we do and you will glean dozens of facts, tips and strategies you can use to advise clients or to buy a business. Please contact us if you might want to join our group or if you want us to help you buy the right business the right way.
Our Code of Ethics is our foundation that earns praise from clients and professionals.
(This webpage, About Us, is about our mission.)
Ted J. Leverette
The Original Business Buyer Advocate®
(Founder of “Partner” On-Call Network LLC)
Book Reviews Posted on Amazon
“How to Prepare Yourself and Find the Right Business to Buy: You Can’t Buy It If You Can’t Find It”
Moses
Learning about Yourself
Verified Purchase
I wanted to know more about Ted Leverette so I decided to purchase this book to learn more about his teaching style and his methods. The book is very dense and has a TON of information, but what I mostly learned is how to ask questions not just to brokers, sellers, etc. But, to ask questions to yourself so you can get more clarity about what you’re really looking for. Owning and running a business is NOT for everyone and his book teaches you more about yourself than anything else. That’s the 1st step if you want to run a business safely and profitably. I recommend Ted, and look forward to working with him as an advisor in the future. Thanks Ted!
Dan P.
Here is the Roadmap
Verified Purchase
If you want to buy a business, and want to know how to prepare to start, buy this book. I am searching and have been complimented for my approach and preparedness continually. Other searchers ask me what I did to get prepared. I didn’t have a clue until I read this book and implemented Ted’s suggestions.
Lance Jaeckel
Tons of Great Tips & Advice
Verified Purchase
This book is a must read for anyone who is interested in buying a business. Loaded with tons of advice to help guide you through the process.
Jason Rivera
Great Book On M&A
Verified Purchase
I first heard of Ted on Jon Stoddard’s Top M&A Entrepreneurs podcast on YouTube and thought the episode was so fantastic I picked up not only this book but his other book How To Buy The Right Business The Right Way. Both books are filled with fantastic information. When I read books like this and I want to really remember stuff I take copious screenshots and notes. For this book, I took what will likely end up being 10 to 20 pages of notes after I transcribe them all into a Google Doc. If you’re new to the M&A game and looking to buy your first company – as I am as of this writing – this is a fantastic book to increase your knowledge fast. And not just in theory. Many of the things in this book and Ted’s other book I put directly into my due diligence checklists and financial models to make sure I’m working to buy a great deal.Great stuff from Ted. And I highly recommend the book.
Warren Heckendorn
Genuine Advice to find the right business for you
Verified Purchase
I had been searching for businesses to buy on-line for quite some time, but found I did not know how to determine what is the right business for me. Ted’s book provides information that is easy to read and to understand on what to do and not do when determining the best business or businesses for you.
Kindle Customer
Wow one of the best books ever.
Verified Purchase
Wow! I loved this book Mr. Ted takes you step by step on how to buy a Business, this book helped me mediate what buying a business will look like, I’m now looking for a “(Business Buyer Advocate)”, and a “(advisory team this)” book is so good I had to take notes.
Oscar A Perez
Must read for business buying strategy
Verified Purchase
VERY worthwhile book. It reinforced, and then added to the reasons why I’m pursuing the business search journey. It also opened my eyes to the fact that my seller outreach strategy is likely flawed. This insight allowed me to pursue the necessary corrections to increase my chances of making a connection. Thank you for sharing these insights.
Goldmacaw
Good advice on how to avoid buying a business the ‘wrong way’.
Verified Purchase
This was a very informative book about the buying process. Ted goes into the importance of how and why you need to do your business search the correct way so as to avoid buying a business the ‘wrong way’. Definitely recommended to anyone who has a degree of anxiety on how to go about buying a business.
“How to Buy the Right Business the Right Way: Avoid Buying the Wrong Business or the Right Business the Wrong Way”
Jon Stoddard
Stays on the desk for reference
Verified Purchase
This book is detailed. I learned more from this book than I did from my last two acquisitions. This is one of those books you want to keep on your desk, arm’s length, for ready reference.
Mark Brown
Better to know by reading than experience
There are so many things in Ted’s books that you need to learn by reading, not by experience because a wrong business or wrong deal could have a huge negative impact. They say experience is the best teacher, but that is not the case here for sure.
Lance Jaeckel
Great Tips & Advice
Verified Purchase
While I’m only half way through this book, so far it has been a great follow-up to Ted’s book “How to Prepare Yourself and Find the Right Business to Buy”.
Jason Rivera
Great Book On M&A
Verified Purchase
I first heard of Ted on Jon Stoddard’s Top M&A Entrepreneurs podcast on YouTube and thought the episode was so fantastic I picked up not only this book but his other book How To Prepare Yourself And Find The Right Business To Buy. Both books are filled with fantastic information. When I read books like this and I want to really remember stuff I take copious screenshots and notes. For this book, I took what will likely end up being 10 to 20 pages of notes after I transcribe them all into a Google Doc. If you’re new to the M&A game and looking to buy your first company – as I am as of this writing – this is a fantastic book to increase your knowledge fast. And not just in theory… Many of the things in this book and Ted’s other book I put directly into my due diligence checklists and financial models to make sure I’m working to buy a great deal. Great stuff from Ted. And I highly recommend the book.
KG
Actionable and thought-provoking book
Verified Purchase
This is a great book for anyone considering a business acquisition. The book is written in a very easy to read and actionable way–it is almost like a detailed checklist of all things to be considerate of before purchasing a business. Having read many books on acquisitions that cover the process from a high level, Ted’s book is the one you want to read when you are truly ready to pursue an acquisition, have a specific business in mind, and need to make sure you are not missing anything–it gets into the details that other books gloss over. He brings up many points financially, operationally, and emotionally that I may have otherwise not thought of. I bookmarked many important points so I could come back to them prior to any future acquisitions.
Edgar F
Great book for the price point
Verified Purchase
I wish that I would have read this book before my last failed deal.
Austin
A great tool for your business buyer toolbox
Ted is very experienced and has shared a great tool to add to the business buyer toolbox!
Brandon
Advanced Knowledge in this book
Reviewed in the United States on August 6, 2022
Do not start the process of buying a business without reading this book at least 3 times. Save yourself time, money, and stress. This book will give you the knowledge to not let your dream turn into your nightmare.
“How to Get ALL the Money You Want For Your Business Without Stealing It”
(USA and Canadian Versions)
I hope all is well and thank you for all the information that you offer. I purchased two of your books (How to Buy the Right Business the Right Way & How to Get All the Money You Want For Your Business Without Stealing It) when I started buying business and was looking for more information. It gave me more insight into where I could find a higher number of possible businesses to purchase and how to get the funds to do so. At least once a quarter I read through the points that I highlighted as reminders of what to do and warnings of what to look out for. It definitely helped in giving me more confidence to get more deals done. I look forward to your next book you put out.
Nathan Edelen, Business Investor
Amazing, I read down the list and saw many of the techniques I have used over the years and currently. Some, or most, probably came from reading your tips over the years. Good work and very helpful to those of us who follow you. I currently have investors interested in our technology company and asking for financial performance history. You have given me a well-defined yellow brick road to follow. Thanks!
Dave McLeroy, CEO, Owner, AuditorSoft, SaaS Solutions
Ted Knows More Than Me. There, I Said It
I’ve been a small business owner for 25 years, with the last 15 being immersed in the “sell a small business” space. It’s been a passion and a discipline for me, and I know I’ve learned a lot.
- I was just reminded how much more I have to learn.
- I started reading the section called Starting, Buying or Selling a Business in Ted Leverette’s book How to Get All the Money You Want For Your Business Without Stealing It.
In a few short minutes I read insights that I know would have saved deals that I saw die in the past. At Exit Oasis we stress that small business owners need to Learn to Leave. Ted’s book can help you do that. Real world items, clearly explained, that provide direct value.
Mike Finger, exitoasis.com
Ted is a knowledgeable source of information on all aspects of business.
Tom West, President, Business Brokerage Press
Even people who know some of the points gain by learning even one new approach. Well worth the cost.
Wally Stabbert, President, Institute of Certified Business Counselors
If there was a “Pulitzer” for the small businessman, you have earned it! A must read for all business owners or those preparing to start or buy a business.
Anne R. Whitney, KeyBank, VP, Private Banking & Investing
Contains techniques that even I, Ms. Know-It-All, had not thought of. We see businesses on the market with stifled growth as a result of cash flow problems. The book illustrates this need never be the case.
Lori King, CPA, CEO, Business Exchange Center, Inc.
Other Testimonials
Absolute privilege to discuss some pertain M&A points with Ted Leverette, a quality advisor in the space of searching for good business to buy globally. If they’re out there, Ted Leverette can find them. I cannot recommend seeking early advice from him enough if you want to source good deals.
Akbar Ali (London England), Corporate Lawyer Specialist in Buying and Selling Companies
From an executive working for a billion dollar international company who wants to buy a business with a transaction value up to $7 million:
“Hi Ted, I couldn’t wait to get out of the office today and review my notes from our conversation this morning. I’ve been in the corporate world 19 years and I don’t recall a conversation as productive as that one. This is my first business purchase, so I am very happy with all the tips that you shared with me. I need to review my 5 pages of notes this weekend, and start in on your book, “How to Buy the Right Business the Right Way.” Given your comments, I will postpone reading your other book, “How to Get ALL the Money You Want For Your Business Without Stealing It” for the time being. In the meantime, I will start a simple project timeline, using the syllabus and book as reference. I will stay in touch with you as I continue my preparation, and am very much looking to learn more from you during this process. Again, thanks for your time and willingness to share your knowledge.”
It’s like fishing with dynamite, thanks to your evaluation and suggestions to refocus and improve my search methodologies.
Robert Connelly, Business Buyer
Ted, thank you for conducting the Searcher and Search Evaluation on my current efforts. You delivered both strategic and tactical value that will change my search process. Strategically, your explanation of the need to ensure congruity of all parts of my search process was invaluable. I now understand that my search is a multi-targeted marketing campaign. Further, that each tool in my search process and every contact with owners either builds upon the next success or tears down the effort.
Tactically, you delivered practical, but blunt feedback on each of the search steps where I provided information and I appreciate your delivery. I now know what aspects won’t work and can make the appropriate changes to match the strategy. Finally, at each step today, you provided insightful commentary that has served as seasoned advice to help me become better informed. Thanks Ted!
Terry Morehouse, Business Buyer
Ted is a knowledgeable source of information on all aspects of business.
Tom West, President, Business Brokerage Press
The money I paid you for your system has been earned many times over, and will serve me well in the future. I now have two part-time Associates and just added one fulltime Associate who has thirty one years in the banking business. I brought in the Associates because I literally cannot handle all of the leads. I plan to open another office in another city. I have modified some of your initial materials to fit my specific needs, but I utilize probably 80% of the base materials that YOU developed. We currently have three INDIVIDUAL buyer clients and two CORPORATE buyer clients. Your “Business Buyer Advocate” consulting system has been central to us obtaining these clients and we follow the trail map that you developed. Your system works! I have two seller clients and use the “Business Seller System” extensively. The process of “Assess, Value, Prepare, and Market” is central to our process and clients/prospects find the “system” very attractive; and, it relieves a lot of stress in their minds. I expect a number of seller clients in the near future.
Bob Biggerstaff, Strategic Advisors, LLC
Ted is not only a man of his word but he goes way beyond his obligations to help his colleagues become successful. His experience and knowledge in the “business transfer world” is the best I have come across. If you are considering a business relationship, do not hesitate.
Bill Ranieri, President, Ranieri Business Consulting
You have done an outstanding job putting together a first class program.
Keith McLeod, Business Centre
In 1996 I began using the system of consulting created by Ted Leverette. The system, training and support enabled me to start and enjoy my own fun and lucrative consulting practice. My experience with you as my mentor and guidance counselor is unmatched by anyone I’ve worked with in my long career. Your skill and experience and your desire to help your teammates succeed shows up when you bring people on board into your organization. Your honesty and integrity means more than your skills (which are huge) into your relationships. I recommend you and your services to any enterprising person who wants to excel as an entrepreneur and as a consultant. Please use me as reference if you wish.
Gene Pepper, ABC Alliance Business Consultants, Inc.
I have known Ted for over 20 years and he is a person of high integrity and has tremendous drive. He often works harder for others than they do for themselves. Follow Ted’s advice and you will be better off than you were.
John Martinka, Martinka Consulting
I want to tell you about a company that you should contact which specializes in buyer side advisory work, and has truly perfected the search process for businesses not listed publicly for sale.
I rarely recommend third parties in our industry so rest assured these folks are top-notch.
The name of the firm is “Partner On-Call Network” (POCN) and they offer a tremendous service called Business Buyer Advocate. The head of POCN is a gentleman named Ted Leverette. For over 35 years he has focused on the buy-side of deals. In the past few years, he has assembled a team of professionals who are truly dedicated to assisting buyers.
Ted and I have spent a considerable amount of time together and I like what I see. I believe in his philosophy and approach, and above all, he shares my unrelenting commitment to helping prospective business buyers.
Besides their search work, they provide buyers with an advocate who wants to make sure you buy the right business, not just any business.
No matter had badly you want to buy a business; first you have to find one. A POCN Business Buyer Advocate can introduce you to some of the best businesses for sale that you cannot find on your own.
And don’t forget the importance of timing. The longer you spend looking, the more it costs you, especially if you need the income.
Richard Parker, Diomo Corporation
Ted brings a unique and proprietary system to buy-side engagements that allows business buyers to maximize their confidence through target selection, due diligence and closing.
Jeff Snell, ABI, CBI, Principal Broker & Founder, ENLIGN Business Brokers
Ted is one of the most experienced and qualified individuals there is when it comes to assisting and representing business buyers.
Toby Tatum, Business Broker, The Russell Group
Ted is truly a unique resource in the Mergers & Acquisition arena! From one perspective, he is a pioneer in this industry – Ted created the concept of the Business Buyer Advocate®, which is the foundation of success for his nationwide business consulting firm, “Partner” On-Call Network ®. From another perspective, he continues to test new and innovative strategies – Ted is committed to exploring Best Practices, and nurturing his “Partners” for success. I recommend Ted and his firm as a resource for someone seriously interested in business acquisition, growth strategies, and/or succession planning.
Lori K. Smith
Thank you for helping me launch my consulting business. I had been trying to shift my focus from listing and selling businesses to working for buyers for the last three years. I had some success but could not understand why I was struggling.
After being a business broker for over 20 years, I thought I had a good system to work with clients. Thanks to your guidance and the 30 plus years that you put into the Business Buyer Advocate ® client reference manuals, I understand how to do this right. I am now building my business and looking forward to the future.
Since this is a very different approach to working with business buyers, I would be happy to talk to business brokers who are interested in adding your system to their practice. You constantly amaze me with your understanding of our industry and how to improve business for a colleague. You have the ability and experience that leads to better decisions every day.
John Halstvedt, President, BizResources, Inc.
Ted is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to working with a buyer throughout the business buying process. He is a seasoned business buyer advocate and essentially wrote the book on the buyer advocate concept. Ted is the ring leader of “Partner” On-Call Network, which is a great resource for anyone interested in making an acquisition and doing it the right way.
Dan Pellegrino
Ted helped me understand the complex dynamics of the business-for-sale market that helps me explain it to my clients on a daily basis.
Steven Beal, Beal Business Growth Consultants, Inc.
I have worked with Ted for over 9 years and have never met a person who works harder for others as Ted does. He is constantly trying to help each of his “Partners” achieve the success that he knows they can achieve. His knowledge and skills in the areas of Mergers and Acquisitions is unparalleled. I would be more than happy to speak to anyone about Ted Leverette and how he can help you be successful.
Jeffrey Smith
If you are seeking expertise in the business buy/sell/value/improve arena, look no further. Ted is one of the most knowledgeable I know in this business.
Mike Zitterman