Timelines and Stages for a Florida Exit
The most common question Tampa owners ask is: “When will I get my check?” On average, the transactional phase takes 6 to 11 months, but the total journey often spans two years.
The 2026 Exit Timeline
| Stage | Duration | What to Expect |
| Preparation | 6–12 Months | Cleaning books, de-risking operations, and management training. |
| Marketing | 2–6 Months | Finding and vetting buyers; conducting “showings” after hours. |
| Due Diligence | 1–3 Months | The buyer’s “deep dive” into your records; expect intensive scrutiny from accountants. |
| Financing/Closing | 1–2 Months | SBA loan approval (adds ~30 days) and finalizing legal docs. |
The “Tampa Factor”: If you own a seasonal business (like a beachside café or landscape company), timing your listing is crucial. Selling just before your “peak season” can often justify a higher multiple because the buyer sees immediate cash flow.
Michael Shea represents the Tampa Florida Transworld office. In business since 2005, he has established a reputation as a trusted business broker across Florida’s key markets- from Tampa to Orlando, Melbourne, and more. Over the past two decades, Michael and his team have closed over $1 Billion in sold business volume and presided over more than 450 transactions. His credentials include the IBBA Certified Business Intermediary®, and most recently, the prestigious Certified Exit Planning Advisor® (CEPA) credential.