How do I find a mortgage brokerage for sale in Canada?

Some mortgage brokerages are never advertised at all. An owner may want staff, clients and lenders to hear about a sale only after it is settled. That means a search works best on several fronts at once. Start broad, then narrow as you learn which firms fit your size, location and the kind of clients you want to serve.

Listings and business brokers

Browse business-for-sale listings and set alerts for the terms sellers use, such as mortgage broker, brokerage or financial services. A business broker can also tell you what is coming to market. Ask whom the broker acts for. Ask whom a broker acts for, and check what you are told yourself. The article on whether a broker represents the buyer or the seller explains the difference.

Industry contacts and direct approaches

Lender representatives, brokerage network contacts, accountants and lawyers who serve the sector often know owners thinking about retirement. A short, polite note saying what you are looking for can open doors. Be clear about your background and your plans for the staff and clients. Some owners care about a buyer who will look after the people who built the firm.

Keeping enquiries confidential

Many sellers ask for a confidentiality agreement before sharing a firm’s name or numbers. Do not contact its staff, lenders or clients on your own. Word can travel quickly in a small industry and harm the sale. Ask your lawyer to review any agreement before you sign, and read how to find a business to buy for the wider search.