Some of the most profitable business opportunities are hidden in plain sight in industries like roofing, HVAC, plumbing and electrical contracting. These essential service businesses are stable, scalable and increasingly attractive to investors.
A 2025 Technavio report projects the global home services market will grow by $1.03 trillion between 2025 and 2029. As consolidation accelerates and valuations rise, business owners in this sector have a rare opportunity to transform years of hard work into lasting wealth.
At Florida Trust Wealth Management, our Family Office Services team assists home service business owners in navigating the strategic, financial and legal complexities of selling their company. From valuation to exit, we guide owners through every step to protect and grow what they have built.
Valuation: Why EBITDA is the benchmark
The first step in preparing to sell a business is understanding how buyers determine value. While return on investment shows operational efficiency, the market standard is EBITDA, which stands for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
EBITDA measures core profitability, removing owner-specific factors. Most small to midsize home service companies trade at three to six times EBITDA, depending on:
- Revenue diversity and customer concentration
- Geographic footprint and scalability
- Strength of management beyond the owner
- Brand reputation and operational maturity
Normalizing EBITDA by removing personal expenses and one-time costs presents a clearer and more credible earnings picture. It also helps command a stronger multiple.
Deal structure: More than just the multiple
Valuation is only one part of the process. The structure of the deal, including payment terms, legal conditions and tax treatment, often determines how much an owner ultimately receives.
Key elements to consider include:
- Escrow and holdbacks: A portion of the sale price may be withheld to cover post-closing liabilities
- Earnouts: Tying part of the price to future performance can bridge valuation gaps but adds risk
- Reps and warranties: Seller guarantees can create liabilities if breached
- Tax structure: Whether the sale is asset or stock based affects after-tax proceeds
The difference between a good deal and a great one often lies in how it is structured, not the number on the page.
Maximizing value before you sell
Buyers pay more for businesses that show growth potential, independence and clean financials. To position your company for a successful sale:
- Clean up the books: Normalize financials and remove personal expenses
- Reduce owner dependency: Build a capable leadership team and document processes
- Craft a growth story: Highlight new service lines or expansion opportunities
- Minimize red flags: Diversify revenue, resolve legal issues and formalize contracts
Strategic preparation can raise both your valuation and your leverage when negotiating a deal.
Why expertise matters
Selling a business is one of the most important financial decisions of your life. Many owners start unprepared or without the right advisory support, leaving significant value behind.
Florida Trust Wealth Management’s Family Office Services team provides experienced and objective guidance to help business owners:
- Navigate valuation, tax and legal issues
- Align deal structure with family and legacy goals
- Optimize timing and market strategy
- Maximize post-sale wealth outcomes
Florida Trust acts as your financial quarterback, coordinating with legal, tax and M&A specialists to protect what you have built and turn your success into generational wealth.
Florida Trust: Guiding Gulf Coast entrepreneurs to prosperity
Success in the home services industry is not only about profits but also about legacy.
As Florida Trust Wealth Management approaches its 25th anniversary, the firm continues to build long-term relationships with Gulf Coast families, reflected in a 98 percent client retention rate.
If you are preparing to sell your business, start the conversation today. The Family Office Services team can help you move confidently through every step from valuation to closing with clarity and strategy.
Florida Trust expands to St. Petersburg
To better serve clients in the Tampa Bay region, Florida Trust Wealth Management is expanding into downtown St. Petersburg. The new office at 100 2nd Avenue South, Suite 204N, opens in November.
Joining the new location are:
- Lucas DeVicente, CFP®, CTFA – EVP, Wealth Services
- Matt Livesay, J.D., LL.M. – EVP, Family Office Services
- April Stanton – VP, Client Services
“Our move into St. Pete reflects our long-term growth plans and our commitment to serving Florida’s most accomplished families,” said Terence M. Igo, CEO. “We are excited to bring our experience and personal approach to this vibrant community.”
Exit your business confidently. Schedule a consultation with our Tampa Bay team today.
Legal, investment and tax income
This information is not intended to be and should not be treated as legal, investment or tax advice. Readers should not rely on this information as a substitute for professional consultation.
