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Writer's pictureRobbins Pellegrino

The Insider’s Guide to Business Brokerage Fees, Commissions, Retainers, and More

Updated: Apr 3

Unpack the conventional revenue streams in the business brokerage industry and know what you're actually paying for.



How a Typical Business Brokerage Gets Paid

Understanding the nitty-gritty of how business brokers make their money is crucial for both business sellers and potential buyers. Traditionally, business brokers have several avenues through which they earn their keep. Among others, these include retainer fees, hourly rates, success fees, and legal and marketing fees. Here's an overview of the common fees you may find in the compensation structure of a business brokerage firm:


  1. Retainer Fees: Retainers can be one upfront payment or a recurring monthly payment from the seller to the business brokerage, regardless of whether the business gets sold.

  2. Success Fees: Also known as commission, this is a percentage of the sale price of the business, paid upon the successful closing of a sale.

  3. Hourly Rates: Some business brokerages may charge for their services on an hourly basis instead of, or in addition to, other standard fees.

  4. Legal and Marketing Fees: A business brokerage may apply separate charges for legal services, like contract preparation, and marketing efforts, such as advertising the business for sale.


While compensation structures tend to vary, a business brokerage usually gets paid by a combination of some or all of these fees. Under this type of model, various fees can quickly accumulate regardless of the outcome.


How Robbins Pellegrino Gets Paid

At Robbins Pellegrino, we only collect a commission, a success fee, upon the successful sale of your business. This structure aligns our interests directly with yours: securing the best possible deal. It motivates us to work diligently and efficiently to find the right buyer and negotiate terms that are favorable to you.


It also means we're selective about the deals we represent. For us, selectivity isn't about exclusivity; it's about ensuring that when we list your business, we're confident in our ability to sell it. Joe explains, "We don't represent your business just for the sake of filling up our listing board. We have zero incentive to do that." When Robbins Pellegrino takes on your business, you can rest assured that we see a clear path to its sale.


In essence, Robbins Pellegrino's commission-only structure is designed to do more than just sell businesses. Aligning our success with yours ensures that every action we take is with your best interest in mind. When you choose Robbins Pellegrino, you're not just hiring a broker; you're gaining a partner in the truest sense. One who is committed to securing the value your business truly deserves.


About Robbins Pellegrino: Robbins Pellegrino is a Florida-based business brokerage firm led by Chandler Robbins and Joe Pellegrino, Jr. that is committed to redefining industry standards. We focus on creating meaningful partnerships and ensuring successful business transitions for both buyers and sellers. For more information, visit us at www.robbinspellegrino.com or call (239) 360-6273

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