IBBA Insights Fall 2025

FALL 2025

Had expectations been managed early—with

a realistic valuation and a clear roadmap—the

business could have sold quickly and at a better

price. Instead, time and value were both lost.

FINAL THOUGHTS: EXPECTATION

MANAGEMENT IS RISK MANAGEMENT

In the end, business brokers are in the business of

managing risk—both real and perceived. Setting

correct expectations with sellers and buyers isn’t just

a courtesy—it’s a form of risk mitigation. It reduces

deal fallout, builds credibility, fosters cooperation, and

protects everyone’s time and resources.

So the next time you sit down with a new client,

ask yourself: Have I told them what they want to

hear—or what they need to know?

SARA VAZIRI | MBA, MSC, CBB, CBI

sara.vaziri@zbbcorp.com