Will my employees find out I'm thinking about selling?

No. Confidentiality is one of the biggest priorities in our process. We sign an NDA before any numbers are shared, and the deal is structured so your team, customers, and suppliers stay in the dark unless you decide otherwise.

What if I'm not ready to sell yet? Is it too early to talk?

Usually, that is the best time to talk. Owners who start planning 18 to 24 months ahead often get better valuations, cleaner closings, and more options.

How do you determine what my HVAC business is worth?

We value HVAC businesses the same way serious buyers do: adjusted earnings multiplied by a market-based multiple. For Chicagoland commercial HVAC service businesses, that usually lands somewhere between 3x and 7x adjusted EBITDA depending on recurring service revenue, customer mix, owner dependence, and operational quality.

How long does the whole process take from first call to close?

Most deals close in 6 to 12 months. That includes the initial conversation, review of financials, a written LOI, focused due diligence, legal drafting, and transition planning.

Can I stay involved after the sale closes?

Yes, if you want to. Some owners want a clean break. Others want to stay involved for 6 to 24 months in an advisory or operational role.

Who is Michael Mayes and why should I trust him?

Michael is a Chicago entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience building, operating, and exiting businesses, including a prior company he sold for 20 million dollars. He is the actual buyer and operator.

HVAC M&A Archives

The Founder’s Guide to HVAC Business Acquisition

June 23, 2026April 17, 2026 by Michael Mayes

The Founder’s Guide to HVAC Business Acquisition How to choose the right buyer, plan your succession, and sell on your terms. A practical, decision-stage guide for US HVAC owners exploring an exit. Furthermore, this guide names the actual acquirers, breaks down deal structures, and lays out the succession paths most founders never get explained clearly. … Read more