Question 1

How is Haycock Capital different from private equity firms or business brokers?

Accepted Answer

We're operators first, finance experts second. Our team has founded and sold companies—we've been in your shoes working the warehouse, doing deliveries, and wearing whatever hat was necessary to get the job done. Unlike traditional PE firms that focus on cost-cutting and asset stripping, we preserve what made your business successful and invest in growth. We bring a deep bench of experts in real estate, marketing, technology (including AI), operations, and sales to take your company to the next level. We also put employment incentives in place for key employees so they get a piece of the pie and stay motivated after the transition.

Question 2

Do you charge any upfront fees?

Accepted Answer

No. We don't charge retainers, success fees, or any upfront costs. We earn our keep by growing the business and recouping our investment from excess cash flow. If we don't succeed, we don't get paid.

Question 3

What types of businesses are you looking to acquire?

Accepted Answer

We focus on home and consumer services businesses in the Mid-Atlantic region (New Jersey to Georgia) with $3M+ in EBITDA. Ideal candidates have been operating for 15+ years and have proven they can weather different economic conditions. We'll consider businesses with $1M+ EBITDA if they've been operating for over 5 years and are in a growing market with strong fundamentals.

Question 4

How long does the process take from initial conversation to closing?

Accepted Answer

Typically 90-120 days. This includes initial discussions, due diligence, negotiation, and closing. We move efficiently because we respect that uncertainty is hard on you and your team. Once we commit to a deal, we don't drag our feet.

Question 5

Will I have to stay involved after the sale?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your goals and the business needs. Some sellers want to exit completely after a transition period, while others prefer to stay on in a reduced capacity or advisory role. We're flexible. What matters most is ensuring a smooth transition and setting the business up for continued success. We'll structure the deal around what works for you.

Question 6

How do you structure deals?

Accepted Answer

We only do majority buyouts (51%+), but we're flexible on how we structure the consideration. Options include seller notes, earnouts, rolled equity, or a combination. The key is that sellers need to have some skin in the game—whether through a note, earnout, or equity rollover. You know your business better than anyone, and aligned incentives ensure we're working together to grow the company post-close.

Question 7

Do you provide the capital, or do I need to find financing?

Accepted Answer

We bring all the capital needed to close. However, we do require sellers to maintain some financial stake in the business through a seller note, earnout, or rolled equity. This aligns our incentives and ensures you're invested in the company's continued success.

Question 8

What happens to my employees?

Accepted Answer

Your team is one of your most valuable assets, and we treat them that way. We implement employment incentives for key employees to ensure they're happy, motivated, and sharing in the company's future success. We're not here to gut the team—we're here to invest in them.

Question 9

How do you maintain confidentiality during the process?

Accepted Answer

We understand that discretion is critical. All initial conversations are confidential, and we sign NDAs before any detailed financial information is shared. We work carefully to protect your relationships with employees, customers, and vendors throughout the process.

Question 10

I'm generating good cash flow now. Why should I sell instead of waiting a few more years?

Accepted Answer

That's a great question, and the answer depends on your personal goals. Market conditions change, key employees age out, regulatory environments shift, and competitive pressures increase. The businesses that command premium valuations are the ones sold at their peak—not after revenue has started declining. If you're thinking about selling someday, now might be the right time to at least have a confidential conversation and understand your options. There's no obligation, and you'll walk away with a clear picture of what your business is worth and what an exit could look like on your terms.

Question 11

What if my business needs improvements before it's ready to sell?

Accepted Answer

That's exactly why we offer consulting services. If you're thinking about selling in the future but know there are operational, financial, or strategic improvements needed first, we can help. As business buyers ourselves, we know exactly what metrics matter and can work with you to turn red flags into strengths before you go to market. Whether it's improving sales force efficiency, cleaning up financials, or redesigning processes, we've done it all for small businesses.

Seller Readiness Is Becoming the Differentiator in Lower Middle Market M&A

Understanding Your Business Sale Payout: Cash, Seller Notes, Earnouts, and Rolled Equity Explained

Haycock Capital
1104 West Broad St. #1161
Falls Church, VA 22046

+1 (202) 780-7026
info@HaycockCapital.com

Email | LinkedIn | Phone

Seller Readiness Is Becoming the Differentiator in Lower Middle Market M&A

Understanding Your Business Sale Payout: Cash, Seller Notes, Earnouts, and Rolled Equity Explained

Haycock Capital 1104 West Broad St. #1161 Falls Church, VA 22046

+1 (202) 780-7026 info@HaycockCapital.com

Email | LinkedIn | Phone

Haycock Capital
1104 West Broad St. #1161
Falls Church, VA 22046

+1 (202) 780-7026
info@HaycockCapital.com