Business brokers in Ontario typically charge success fees based on a percentage of the transaction value — a meaningful cost that reduces the proceeds of a lifetime of work. For many Ontario business owners — particularly those in the security, HVAC, manufacturing, and professional services sectors — selling directly to a qualified buyer is both possible and financially advantageous. This guide explains how the direct sale process works and what to look for in a direct buyer.
When You Don't Need a Broker
A business broker adds the most value when a business requires broad market exposure to find the right buyer — for example, a highly specialised business in a niche sector, or a business that needs to be marketed internationally. For most Ontario SMEs in the security, HVAC, manufacturing, and service sectors, there are qualified direct buyers who are actively looking for exactly the type of business you operate. In these cases, a broker is an unnecessary intermediary that adds cost and complexity without adding value.
How to Find a Direct Buyer in Ontario
The most effective way to find a direct buyer for your Ontario business is to approach buyers who are actively acquiring in your sector. CMBB is actively acquiring security, HVAC, manufacturing, and service businesses across Ontario. We are a direct buyer with committed capital, a transparent valuation process, and a track record of completing transactions without renegotiating after the letter of intent is signed. We sign NDAs before requesting any confidential information and move quickly from initial conversation to closing.
Protecting Yourself in a Direct Sale
Selling directly to a buyer without a broker does not mean selling without protection. It is essential to engage a qualified M&A lawyer to review the purchase agreement, conduct your own due diligence on the buyer (including requesting proof of funds), and ensure that all representations and warranties are clearly documented. CMBB encourages all sellers to engage independent legal counsel and will work cooperatively with your advisors throughout the process.
CMBB's Direct Acquisition Programme in Ontario
CMBB, led by Leonardo Obodoeke and supported by advisor Darie Urbanky — former President and COO of CI Financial Corp. — is headquartered in Ontario and is actively acquiring businesses across the province. Our most recent acquisition — Turnstile Security Systems Inc. — is an Ontario-based security company that we acquired directly, without a broker, in 2024. We are interested in businesses with $1 million to $10 million in annual revenue across the security, HVAC, manufacturing, and service sectors.
If you own a business in Ontario and are considering selling without a broker, CMBB would welcome a confidential conversation.
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