Lewis HiceI want a car repair shop. Starting an automotive business seems fun, so I’ve been thinking of buying one.
It would be nice to contribute to the industry since I’m a huge car guy, anyway. I might as well dive deep into it and stop being a “passenger princess.”
I asked for tips and direction from my entrepreneur friends regarding this interest. However, I also wanted to do my own research so I’ve gone deep into the world of buying and selling businesses.
There are plenty of options in the market, but I’ve listed my current picks of business brokers in Jacksonville. I’ve been talking to most of them as I scout for the ideal option for me. Check these out, and you might see a good fit for you as well.
1. Transworld Business Advisors of Jacksonville
Address: 7545 Centurion Pkwy STE 406
Phone: +19049922223
Business hours:
- Mon-Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Sat-Sun: closed
Transworld Business Advisors was very professional, and as someone who hasn’t been exposed to the industry before, I really appreciated this.
They provided valuable information on how to find the appropriate business option even within the automotive industry alone.
Prior to our in-person consultation, I particularly liked how comprehensive their website is, especially their FAQs section. I already had a good grasp of the general overview of their services, and I took note of their advice like getting an attorney for the transaction.
I find the feedback to be exaggerated, though. While these may be pre-selected, they seem unrealistic in promoting the services as “world class.” Also, while the FAQs were comprehensive, I think it lacks a straightforward transaction process description.
Professional and transparent
“Bianca was the broker on a recent business deal, we were the buyers and she represented the seller’s. She was very professional and transparent and very accessible throughout the whole process. I wouldn’t hesitate to use her in the future if I ever decided to sell my business, she would be my first call.”
- Miller, Google Review
Responsive to questions
“Bianca Evans was very professional and a delight to work with. She really took the time to help explain the business purchasing process to us and was very responsive to all the numerous questions we had throughout the transaction. We look forward to working with her again in the future!”
- Robison, Google Review
2. Terri Sherman Stallworth, PA
Address: 476 Riverside Ave #106
Phone: +18889255055
Business hours:
- Mon-Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Sat-Sun: closed
Terri Sherman Stallworth has already been in the business for 14 years, and I found this impressive, as I value a broker’s experience in the industry. It shows how familiar the broker is with the market, which would be helpful in guiding me through the process.
I was intrigued to know there are no upfront fees or hidden costs for Terri. I rarely encounter a broker who states that clearly.
Don’t get me wrong; I’m willing to shell out for my dream business, but I also want to get the most value for my money.
It was somehow tricky to navigate her website’s layout, though. The business listings search page seemed outdated. Her process for valuation of a business was also vaguely described on the website.
Efficient in responding and anticipating needs
“Terri is very thorough when exploring various options and providing education about business acquisition opportunities, positioning my business for success and structuring my business properly. She is efficient in responding and anticipates needs. Her communication skills are excellent and she is a pleasure to work with. I will continue to work with her and highly recommend her to anyone looking to keep their business on track for success.”
- Latimore, Google Review
The ultimate professional
“Terri, is the ultimate professional, she is a women of integrity and high moral character, this is not something we speak enough about, and I believe this should be highlighted about Terri. Knowing that you have someone you can trust, someone that truly cares about doing what they say they are going to do, someone who genuinely cares about you and your success is critical and key and that is why I am giving Terri a 5 star rating.”
- Moon, Google Review
3. Randall Wiggins
Address: 4320 Deerwood Lake Pkwy #101-209
Phone: +19046864690
Business hours:
- Open 24 hours
I’ve reached out to Randall Wiggins because their service had positive feedback from their previous clients. I find it intriguing how they claim to have a combined experience of over 100 years, so I wanted to know more about them.
According to their clients, they have extensive knowledge of the market and can simplify even the complicated processes of the business. I’m guessing this is why they have returning clients who trust their work.
Their website and social media presence were limited, though. And since they have little information on their website, I had to reach out.
On the plus side, it’s a good thing that their contact details are conveniently indicated on the website.
Willing to go beyond
“I have the pleasure of doing business with Mr. Wiggins for over 3 years. He’s very professional, he listens to his clients, and he’s willing to go beyond his scope to provide the best service to his clients. He is definitely resourceful and knows his business market.”
- DeJesus, Google Review
Extremely knowledgeable
“It was a pleasure working with Randall and his team. They were extremely knowledgeable and made the complicated process of selling my business look easy.”
- Wiggins, Google Review
4. Quorum Business Advisors
Address: 4600 Touchton Rd Building 100 Ste 150
Phone: +19047257677
Business hours:
- Mon-Fri: 8:00am – 6:00pm
- Sat-Sun: closed
My friend Lara suggested that I take a look at Quorum Business Advisors because she had a good experience with them regarding selling her business. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly they responded even to my initial queries.
Based on Lara’s feedback, Quorum provides full guidance throughout the process whether you’re selling or buying a business. I felt excited given that I’m new to the industry, and I need someone to hold my hand through all the complicated transactions.
However, they provide full guidance only through direct queries, and their website doesn’t have a detailed step-by-step process. Their website also has limited answers to FAQs, so their services may be vague if left without direct conversation.
Gave great advice
“Anthony has helped with the purchase and sale of a business. He managed the relationship professionally and gave great advice and strong warnings about how to handle certain questions and situations. I own him a bunch through both sides of the transactions!”
- Parete, Google Review
Quick to resolve issues
“Anthony is an excellent broker. He is very knowledgable of all aspects of business acquisitions and was quick to resolve any issue that arose. It was a pleasure working with him.”
- Guthrie, Google Review
Hardworking and honest business advisor
“I’ve known Anthony for quite a while now. He is as hard working and honest business advisor you can find. He is relentless in his pursuit of the best financial benefits for his clients. As a seller, you can trust Anthony to transition your company to the new owners in the right way. As a buyer, Anthony will give you all the details and help guide you to success as you begin your journey.”
- Jones, Google Review
5. Timothy Levandowski Business Broker
Address: 4600 Touchton Rd Building 100 Ste 150
Phone: +19047636232
Business hours:
- Mon-Sat: 9:00am – 6:00pm
- Sun: closed
I’ve heard that Timothy Levandowski exceeds client expectations. He provides an easy and stress-free experience throughout the whole process because of his deep understanding of the market.
Knowledge is key in the business broker industry, after all.
Timothy was responsive to my queries, and I was impressed by his professionalism in answering even my most basic questions. He was very insightful, sharing how important it is to learn the art of negotiation.
I found out all these details upon my inquiry, though, because he doesn’t include much information online regarding his process. His website is a bit too minimalist, as it also lacks easy access to FAQs, which could’ve been helpful for a beginner like me.
Well-versed in successful business practices
“Tim is amazing. Not only does he fully understand the business buying process, but he is extremely versed in successful business practices. He will help you find what you need and help you get off on the right foot. He is very well-connected and can help you find the resources you need. Reach out, now.”
- Hartzell, Google Review
Great attention to detail
“Tim was introduced to me through a lender I was using. Since being introduced Tim guided my husband and I through a contract to purchase a restaurant ensuring every detail to protect our interest to the very end. Highly recommend”
- Edwards, Google Review
