Selling a Business in Maryland — What You Need to Know
Maryland's business sale market benefits from proximity to Washington, DC. The state's Montgomery and Prince George's counties are home to thousands of government contractors, professional services firms, and technology companies that attract both strategic and financial buyers. Federal spending creates a stable economic foundation that insulates many Maryland businesses from cyclical downturns.
Baltimore's economy is driven by healthcare (Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical), manufacturing, and logistics. Home services businesses in the Baltimore metro are increasingly attractive to PE consolidators, while healthcare practices benefit from one of the largest hospital systems in the Mid-Atlantic.
"Maryland is a market I know well. If you're thinking about selling, the best first step is a confidential conversation — no pressure, just an honest look at what your business could be worth and whether the timing makes sense."
For sellers, Maryland's dual metro buyer pool — Baltimore and the DC suburbs — is a significant advantage. Businesses in the I-95 corridor between Baltimore and DC access buyers from both markets, creating competitive dynamics that drive valuations higher than similar businesses in single-metro states.
Most Active Business Categories in Maryland
Government Contracting & Professional Services
Maryland's proximity to DC makes government contracting and professional services the dominant business sale categories. IT services, consulting, staffing, and cleared defense contractors command premium multiples from strategic acquirers.
Home Services & Trades
Maryland's high median income and aging housing stock create strong demand for home services businesses. HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and electrical companies in the Baltimore and DC suburban markets attract PE consolidators paying 3.5×–5.5× SDE.
Healthcare & Medical Practices
Maryland's concentration of major health systems — Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland, MedStar — drives healthcare M&A activity. Medical practices, dental groups, and specialty clinics attract both PE platforms and health system acquirers.
Thinking About Selling Your Maryland 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 Maryland charge 10% to 12%. On a million-dollar sale, that's $100K to $120K out of your pocket. 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 a 20-year network of serious buyers across the Southeast — including Maryland.
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 Maryland?
Understanding your buyer pool directly impacts how your business is positioned, priced, and marketed. Maryland's economy attracts Strategic acquirers in government contracting, PE consolidators in home services and healthcare, DC-area search funds, individual SBA buyers.
Private Equity Groups
PE firms acquiring businesses as platform investments or add-ons to existing portfolio companies. They typically pay the highest multiples.
- ✓ 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.
- ✓ Strong multiples (3.0×–4.5×)
- ✓ Fastest due diligence
- ✓ Value customer base & territory
- ✓ May absorb into existing brand
Individual Buyers
Qualified individuals 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 Maryland
John works best with business owners who are serious about getting a transaction done. 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 Maryland buyer market. No cost, no pressure.
Get My Free ValuationWhy Maryland 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 with a traditional broker.
Complete Confidentiality
Blind listings, NDA before any details are shared, and careful buyer screening. Your employees 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.
