Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions about selling your agency
The questions Florida agency owners ask me most, answered plainly. If yours is not here, call or send a message and I will answer it directly.
FAQ
What owners and buyers ask
Who is Chance J. Sweat?
Chance J. Sweat is a licensed Florida business broker (license SL3648995) with FitzGibbon Alexander, Inc. He specializes in the confidential sale of independent insurance agencies and also represents owners of other licensed Florida businesses.
What does it cost to talk to a broker about selling my agency?
Nothing. The first conversation, including a confidential valuation discussion, is free with no upfront cost and no obligation to sell. Fees are earned on a success-fee (commission) basis under a consulting agreement, so you only pay when your business sells.
How is my sale kept confidential?
Your staff, clients, and carriers hear nothing without your approval. Buyers are screened and sign a nondisclosure agreement before they receive identifying details about your agency, and marketing materials describe the business without naming it.
What is my insurance agency worth?
Value depends on commission revenue, carrier mix, retention, book concentration, staff who stay after closing, and how clean the financials are. Most independent agencies trade on a multiple of adjusted earnings or of recurring commission income. The only way to get a real number is a valuation conversation using your actual numbers.
How long does it take to sell an insurance agency in Florida?
Most sales take a few months from listing to closing when the financials are ready and the owner is decisive. Pre-listing preparation, buyer screening, due diligence, and carrier approvals drive the timeline more than anything else.
What are the steps in the sale process?
Four steps. First, a private pre-listing conversation about your goals and timing. Second, valuation and preparation of marketing materials. Third, confidential marketing and introductions to screened, funded buyers. Fourth, negotiation, due diligence, and the closing process.
Do you work with buyers as well as sellers?
Yes. Buyers can view current Florida business listings on the Buyers page and share their acquisition criteria. Serious buyers are qualified for funding and experience before they are introduced to a seller.
What areas do you serve?
The entire state of Florida, with offices in Orlando at 11602 Lake Underhill Rd., Suite 102, Orlando, FL 32825 and in Daytona Beach at 1326 S. Ridgewood Ave, Suite 10, Daytona Beach, FL 32114.
What credentials and memberships does Chance hold?
Florida business broker license SL3648995, with memberships in the Florida Association of Insurance Agents (Associate Member, Young Agents Council), the International Business Brokers Association, and Business Brokers of Florida. He practices under FitzGibbon Alexander, Inc.
How do I get in touch?
Call (407) 538-9876, email Chance@FitzGibbonAlexander.com, or use the confidential form on the Contact page. Business hours are Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, or by appointment.