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Become a Business Broker FAQs

Do you want to be a part of a growth industry with tremendous upside potential? Demographic trends in the UK, and around the world, suggest that business brokerage is just such an industry. An aging baby-boomer population, corporate downsizing/outsourcing and globalisation are all augmenting the desirability of owning a small business. Most people, however, have little or no experience in buying or selling a company. So they need help. Each business broker at Sunbelt of UK provides valuable services to both business sellers and buyers, most of whom are undertaking the most significant financial and emotional transaction of their lives. Becoming a business broker means:

• Working in conjunction with fellow executive decision makers.

• Helping business sellers transition their invested capital into new opportunities.

• Assisting business buyers in achieving their dreams of owning and operating their own business.

• Serving as a trusted adviser to both parties during the business sale process.

• Having significant earnings potential.

The information presented below is designed to answer many of the questions you may have about this exciting industry. Please feel free to contact us if you need additional information on how to become a business broker.

Is there prerequisite training, licensing, education or experience needed to become a business broker?

Sunbelt business brokers are former accountants, solicitors, small business owners and from many other professional backgrounds. Contact us today to find out if your background and career goals are a match for our office.

Does Sunbelt of UK provide new broker training?

Yes, the Sunbelt network offers new broker training sessions throughout the year in various major towns and cities. Additionally, the we offer a training program which includes DVD and CD training materials which have been produced by Sunbelt’s Corporate office.

Are there additional opportunities for professional development and training?

Yes, there are multiple opportunities for each business broker to pursue professional development and training. Sunbelt hosts an annual convention that typically features 20 or more hours of continuing professional education. Additionally, we encourage all Sunbelt brokers to participate in training programmes which are sponsored by the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA). The IBBA offers a professional certification and designation programme known as the Certified Business Intermediary (CBI). Lastly, there are various other forms of professional licensing, training and designations that you may elect or need to obtain (depending on the nature of your practice). 

What is a typical compensation programme for a Sunbelt of UK business broker?

The typical broker is retained as an independent contractor and works on a commission-only basis. There are typically no advances or draws against future commissions. The standard business broker commission is 10% of the transaction value, with 50% going to the broker(s) and 50% going to the office owner. By way of example, if a business is sold for £400,000, commission would be £40,000 with 50% going to the broker(s) and 50% going to the office owner. High producing brokers may be offered a higher commission split. Obviously, if a business broker does not produce, his compensation will be £0; however, a highly successful broker can make between £100,000 and £500,000 per year.