Selling a Business in Arlington — What You Need to Know
Arlington's business sale market operates at the premium end of the Virginia spectrum. Amazon HQ2's arrival has layered a massive technology employer onto an already extraordinary base of federal agencies, defense contractors, and professional services firms clustered around the Pentagon, Rosslyn, and Crystal City. The result is a professional workforce with exceptional income levels, analytical sophistication, and capital — creating individual buyers who are among the best-qualified in the Mid-Atlantic.
Federal contracting is Arlington's highest-multiple acquisition category. Businesses with active GSA schedules, cleared personnel, and DoD or civilian agency contracts command extraordinary premiums from strategic acquirers who understand that federal revenue is among the most defensible in any market. The Pentagon's presence alone creates a specialized defense technology ecosystem that generates acquisition targets with national buyer appeal.
Arlington's Clarendon, Ballston, and Columbia Pike corridors have developed into vibrant neighborhood business districts with restaurants, boutique retail, and personal services businesses that attract buyers who want exposure to Arlington's affluent, urban-professional consumer base. Property costs are high, but so are revenues — businesses here operate at price points unavailable in most comparable markets.
Most Active Business Categories in Arlington
Federal & Defense Technology Services
IT services, cybersecurity, defense consulting, and government technology businesses with active Pentagon or civilian agency contracts command the highest multiples in the Arlington market. Cleared personnel and active contract vehicles are the most valuable assets in any federal services acquisition — strategic acquirers pay significant premiums for established relationships.
Professional & Business Services
Management consulting, staffing, financial advisory, and professional services firms serving Amazon HQ2, defense contractors, and federal agencies generate exceptional revenue quality. Amazon's arrival has specifically elevated demand for technology-adjacent professional services that support its growing Northern Virginia operation.
Healthcare & Medical Practices
Management consulting, staffing, financial advisory, and professional services firms serving Amazon HQ2, defense contractors, and federal agencies generate exceptional revenue quality. Amazon's arrival has specifically elevated demand for technology-adjacent professional services that support its growing Northern Virginia operation.
Thinking About Selling Your Arlington Business?
A confidential, no-obligation valuation. Understand what your business could sell for in today's market before you commit to anything.
Schedule Your Free ValuationYou Keep More of What You've Built
Most business brokers in Arlington charge 10% to 12%. On a million-dollar sale, that's $100K to $120K out of your pocket before you see a dime. John Salony charges 6% — which means on that same sale, you keep an extra $40K to $60K.
That's possible because of two things most brokers don't have: an AI-powered approach to CIM preparation and data gathering, and a 20-year network of serious buyers across the Southeast — including Arlington — who are ready to move when the right opportunity comes along.
And John only gets paid when you do. No upfront fees. No retainers. If the deal doesn't close, you owe nothing.
Who Buys Businesses in Arlington?
Understanding your buyer pool directly impacts how your business is positioned, priced, and marketed. Arlington's economy attracts federal technology strategic acquirers, Amazon and Pentagon individual executive buyers, PE platforms targeting NoVA's highest-income market.
Private Equity Groups
PE firms acquiring businesses as platform investments or add-ons to existing portfolio companies. They typically pay the highest multiples and bring institutional resources.
- ✓ Highest multiples (3.5×–5.0×+)
- ✓ May offer equity rollover
- ✓ Often want owner to stay 1–2 years
- ✓ Focused on EBITDA $500K+
Strategic Acquirers
Larger companies in your industry looking to expand geographically, add capabilities, or acquire customers. They understand your business and can often close faster.
- ✓ Strong multiples (3.0×–4.5×)
- ✓ Fastest due diligence
- ✓ Value customer base & territory
- ✓ May absorb into existing brand
Individual Buyers
Qualified individuals — often corporate executives or experienced operators — using SBA financing to acquire and run their own business.
- ✓ Solid multiples (2.5×–3.5×)
- ✓ SBA 7(a) financing typical
- ✓ Want transition support
- ✓ Looking for stability & cash flow
Who John Salony Works With in Arlington
John works best with business owners who are serious about getting a transaction done — not just exploring. If any of the below describes you, a confidential conversation makes sense.
A free, confidential valuation estimate based on your actual financials and the current Arlington buyer market. No cost, no pressure.
Get My Free ValuationWhy Arlington Business Owners Work With John Salony
ABI Certified + MBA
Certified Business Intermediary with an MBA and 20+ years of experience in business sales and M&A advisory across the Southeast.
6% — Not 10–12%
The most competitive fee structure in the market. On a $1M sale you keep $40K–$60K more than you would with a traditional broker.
Complete Confidentiality
Blind listings, NDA before any details are shared, and careful buyer screening. Your employees and customers won't know until you're ready.
Dual CRE + Business Expertise
If you own the real estate too, John handles both. No need for two advisors, two timelines, or two sets of fees.
