From M&A to Main Street: Thinking About Buying a Home Services Business — Advice Welcome

searcher profile

April 27, 2025

by a searcher in St. Louis, MO, USA

Hi everyone, I have a background in M&A (PE) and finance — I've worked on acquisitions across industries like solar, distribution, manufacturing, and consumer services. I’m strong on sourcing, deal structuring, SBA financing, and scaling businesses. Now I’m looking to either buy or start something in home services (roofing, general contracting, HVAC, residential cleaning, etc.). I want something essential, recurring if possible, and less cyclical, given the current economy. I don’t have hands-on operational experience (I’m not a roofer or plumber), but I know the finance, customer acquisition, and systems side. I also have a friend who can help drive marketing/SEO. I’m bilingual (English/Spanish), which gives me an edge for recruiting and building crews. I have substantial savings and strong SBA lender relationships. I'm open to starting from scratch, buying a small business, or partnering with someone who has more trade/operational expertise. I'm located in the midwest. If you’ve gone down this road — or are thinking about it too — I’d love to swap notes, hear any advice, or connect. Thanks! EDIT: Would also love to connect with any business brokers or anyone that has leads into any targets
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commentor profile
Reply by an intermediary
in Virginia, USA
I co-founded, grew and operated a "trades" business for about 15 years. If I were you I would acquire not start. Being bilingual English/Spanish yes, big advantage, I'm not, and we were in South Florida, so this was a disadvantage. I hired bilingual staff. Finding skilled labor is going to be your biggest challenge, so that is why, in my opinion, you should start acquiring as you'll have a team[s] ready to go. Hope this. helps.
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Reply by a searcher
in Cambridge, UK
You should check out the Owned and Operated podcast, which focuses on home services, particularly HVAC. It's highly practical.
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