Sales Timeline: 18 months

List Price: Private

The Background

Located in the Twin Cities metro, this was not your typical RV lot. Where you might imagine pop-up tent trailers going for $15–20K, the owner and his team specialized in high-end adventure vans, or “Class B” RVs, ranging between $100–200K.

When Transworld contacted the owner in 2021, his business was seeing great returns with 100 preordered units. But, after five years of owning the RV dealership, the owner was ready for a change. He wanted to pass the business on to someone who appreciated it as much as he did. By early 2022, the owner had entrusted us here at Transworld to start looking for a buyer.  

The Challenge

The natural choice to take over the business was a larger RV dealer. However, our team soon realized that this business was more niche than the typical dealership. Rather than selling a high volume of RVs at lower prices, we needed a buyer who understood how to move lower volume at a higher price. With the listing price in the millions, we also needed to find a well-capitalized candidate.

As our team began combing through our network for an ideal buyer, the economy was changing rapidly. Ukraine was invaded, and economists were worried about a recession. Though we did find a buyer willing to move forward, they pulled out after three months because of economic uncertainty. Back at square one, we needed a plan to close quickly without compromising on value. 

The Solution

Our Transworld team worked quickly to get this RV dealership back on the market. We contacted the 100+ buyers who had previously inquired about taking over the business. And to help combat feelings of economic uncertainty, our team highlighted how the 100 preordered units would pay for a large part of this unique business. 

Soon, three more offers followed the first. 

The Result

After selecting an offer, the deal was closed in just two months. This successful RV dealership sold after receiving four serious offers. Best of all, the owner was able to find a good fit for both his business and his employees. 

The Key Takeaways

In addition to finding a buyer, Transworld helped the owner by providing: 

• A unique, third-party perspective —  The owner had never sold a business before. And the buyer had never purchased anything of this size. When it comes to making big decisions, emotions can run high, which can ultimately jeopardize a deal. But thanks to our team at Transworld, the process was smooth. Both the buyer and seller came out ahead. 

• Market knowledge and confidence — It can be hard to know how much your business is worth — especially in an uncertain economy. After the first buyer pulled out, some owners may have cut the price of their listing. However, Transworld helped the owner see the value in his business and ultimately secure the true value.. 

• Personalized, confidential advertising — It just takes one buyer. But to find one buyer, you need to reach a lot of people. Transworld helps sellers first position their businesses to fetch the maximum price. Then, we use our robust network of lenders, bankers and databases to confidentially advertise your business. 

The Transworld Advantage

At Transworld, we do more than facilitate transactions. We are trusted business advisors who understand the changing world of business, its challenges and its opportunities. We have the expertise, networks and resources to help any business owner sell their business for the best price — helping them reach their goals.

When you choose Transworld as your partner, you can expect unwavering expertise and confidentiality every step of the way. Don't just take our word for it — experience the advantage of working with our team as your trusted business advisors.