runSDE Insights

Deal-level analysis for the search & SBA world.

Essays, field notes, and benchmarks on underwriting SBA deals — written for searchers, brokers, and the investors backing them.

Mastering SBA Deal Structuring: A Guide for First-Time Buyers
Featuredsba

Mastering SBA Deal Structuring: A Guide for First-Time Buyers

Navigate SBA deal structuring with confidence using our comprehensive guide, tailored for first-time small-business buyers.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
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15 posts
Exploring Common Deal Structures for First-Time Buyers
deal structures

Exploring Common Deal Structures for First-Time Buyers

Understand the various deal structures available to first-time business buyers and how each can impact your investment strategy.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
Understanding Market Dynamics: The Impact of Rate Drops
M&A

Understanding Market Dynamics: The Impact of Rate Drops

Explore the implications of decreasing interest rates on the M&A landscape and small business buying strategies.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
Mastering SMB Underwriting Like a Private Equity Buyer
underwriting

Mastering SMB Underwriting Like a Private Equity Buyer

Learn how to effectively underwrite small businesses like a private equity buyer with these actionable steps.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
Brokered vs Off-Market Deals: Which is Right for You?
small business

Brokered vs Off-Market Deals: Which is Right for You?

Explore the differences between brokered and off-market deals to make informed decisions in your small-business acquisition journey.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
Underwriting Success: A Laundromat Acquisition Case Study
acquisition

Underwriting Success: A Laundromat Acquisition Case Study

Explore a detailed case study on underwriting a laundromat acquisition and the lessons learned for future buyers.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
6 Reasons Small Business Deals Fall Apart Before Closing
small business

6 Reasons Small Business Deals Fall Apart Before Closing

Discover the common pitfalls that can derail small business transactions before closing and how to avoid them.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
Navigating a Perfect Small-Business Acquisition
acquisition

Navigating a Perfect Small-Business Acquisition

Discover how a hypothetical small-business acquisition passed every test, from underwriting to first-year outcomes.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
Understanding DSCR: What It Is and Why It Matters
dscr

Understanding DSCR: What It Is and Why It Matters

Discover what DSCR is and why it’s crucial for first-time business buyers. Learn how it impacts financing and investment decisions.

runSDE Team·Apr 17, 2026
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SMB acquisitions

Smart Buyers Capitalize on Emerging Trends in SMB Acquisitions

Discover how savvy buyers are navigating the SMB acquisition landscape to secure profitable opportunities amidst changing market dynamics.

runSDE Team·Apr 14, 2026
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financial-analysis

Quickly Spot a Bad Deal from Financials Alone

Learn how to evaluate financials to quickly identify bad deals in small businesses, ensuring your investment choices are sound and strategic.

runSDE Team·Apr 14, 2026
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recession

Understanding Recession-Resistant in Acquisition Entrepreneurship

Explore why 'recession-resistant' is misused in acquisitions and what to consider when evaluating businesses amidst economic uncertainty.

runSDE Team·Apr 13, 2026
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business acquisition

Can a Great Operator Rescue a Bad Deal? Usually Not

Explore a case study that illustrates why even the best operators struggle to salvage poorly structured business acquisitions.

runSDE Team·Apr 12, 2026
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small business

Navigating Small Business Acquisitions: A Case Study

Discover the nuances of small business acquisition through a detailed case study that explores challenges and rewards.

runSDE Team·Apr 12, 2026
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business buying

Why First-Time Buyers Overpay for Cash-Flow Businesses

Discover the common pitfalls first-time buyers face when purchasing cash-flow businesses and how to avoid overpaying.

runSDE Team·Apr 12, 2026
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business buying

Essential Steps Before Quitting Your Job to Buy a Business

Thinking about leaving your job to buy a business? Ensure you're prepared with key insights on underwriting, financing, and due diligence.

runSDE Team·Apr 12, 2026