How do I find a pressure washing business for sale?

Most pressure washing businesses are owned and run by one person with a small crew. Many are sold by word of mouth, and some are never listed at all. That means a search takes more than one tool. Begin with a clear idea of what you want, such as home work or commercial contracts, and the area you can serve. The wider steps are in how to find a business to buy.

Listings and brokers

Search business-for-sale sites, and set alerts for terms such as pressure washing, exterior cleaning and power washing. Many service businesses are also described as property maintenance or cleaning. A broker who sells service businesses may know of owners who are not yet advertising. Tell the broker what you can afford and how soon you could move, so you are taken seriously.

Approaching owners directly

Owners nearing retirement, or tired of the work, may be open to a quiet conversation. Write a short, polite letter or call, and say who you are and what you are looking for. Equipment dealers, chemical suppliers and insurance brokers see many operators and may pass your name along. Expect many to say no. Keep a list and follow up in the off-season.

Screening what you find

Some listings are really equipment for sale with a business name attached. Ask how many customers return, how much work comes from commercial accounts, and what the owner does that a buyer would have to take over. If the seller cannot show job records or customer lists, treat the listing as an equipment purchase and weigh it that way.

Before you go further

• Ask for a one-page summary and a signed confidentiality agreement.
• Compare the equipment list with what you would need to buy new.
• Read what to check before buying.