If you’re looking to buy an HVAC installation and service business in the Charlotte area, now may be the best time to invest. The $93 billion industry is steadily growing, and VR Business Brokers of Charlotte is here to help you prepare for a successful transaction. Consider these six questions before you buy an HVAC business in Charlotte, NC.
MUST-ASK QUESTIONS BEFORE YOU BUY AN HVAC BUSINESS IN CHARLOTTE, NC
Before you sign on the dotted line, refer to the following questions on how to buy an HVAC business in Charlotte, NC to ensure you make a well-informed investment.
1. WHY IS THE CURRENT OWNER SELLING THEIR HVAC BUSINESS?
HVAC contractors sell their businesses due to several reasons. Retirement, illness, new opportunities, and burnout are all common answers. When talking with the current owner, ask why he or she is selling the HVAC business. If their answer is due to financial reasons, do your research to see if purchasing the business is a wise investment. Sometimes new ownership can turn a contracting business around but don’t sign any agreements before doing additional research.
2. ARE REAL ESTATE AND EQUIPMENT INCLUDED IN THE DEAL?
From a shop to tools and transportation, expenses can add up quickly when it comes to opening a Charlotte HVAC company. Talk with the owner to determine whether or not the sale includes HVAC equipment and real estate. If these essential elements are not part of the deal, consider the cost of purchasing them in addition to the sizable investment of the business itself.
3. WHAT ARE THE AVERAGE OPERATING EXPENSES OF THE BUSINESS?
If you’re considering purchasing an HVAC business in Charlotte, NC or the surrounding area, ask the current owner to disclose financial documents, cashflow, contracts, taxes, and utility bills. This information will help you estimate the average operating expenses.
4. WHAT DIFFERENTIATES AN HVAC BUSINESS?
While most HVAC services are similar, a few key factors can help one stand out. Consider the following when looking at a specific HVAC business to determine what they currently do to differentiate themselves:
- Does the business have a good reputation?
- What are the current practices for seasonal production?
- Does the business cater to energy-efficiency needs?
- How large is the existing company’s customer base? Are any ongoing service agreements included in the sale of the business?
- Does the business specialize in any specific areas of the HVAC industry, such as HVAC system installation for new construction, residential HVAC repairs, or commercial HVAC maintenance? Or are they full-service HVAC installers?
If the current owner provides a negative answer to any of these questions, consider whether you will be able to turn things around. Always keep in mind efforts to stand out among competitors can largely impact the success of the business.
5. WHAT IS THE ASKING PRICE?
If the HVAC business seems to be a wise investment, look into the owner’s asking price. Ask the owner if they enlisted the help of a business broker or another professional to have their business properly valuated. If the owner received a professional valuation, you can likely assume the asking price will be firm during negotiations.
If you’re ready to buy an HVAC service company in Charlotte, North Carolina or explore HVAC franchise opportunities, contact the experts at VR Business Brokers of Charlotte! Our team has more than 20 years of experience negotiating the best deals for business buyers and helping business owners’ dreams come true. Contact us to get started on making your business dreams a reality!