If you’ve been asking, “What can I do to sell my business in 2026?” -you’re not alone.
Every week, I talk to business owners across Tennessee who aren’t necessarily ready to list their company tomorrow but want to start preparing the right way.
The good news? You don’t need to predict the market to get ready. You just need to take the right steps at the right time – and 2026 is a great year to do that.
In this post (Part 3 of my blog series on how to sell a business in 2026), we’ll cover:
- The top 3 things to do if you’re aiming to sell
- The top 3 things you should know about your business
- The 5 core steps that always help when preparing for a sale
If you’re based in Tennessee and you’ve searched “sell my business” — this one’s for you.
Top 3 Things To Do to Sell Your Business in 2026
Whether you’re planning to sell this year or just starting to explore your options, here are the most actionable steps you can take right now:
1️⃣ Plan for Inflation and Recession Risk
2026 isn’t a certainty-driven year. That means you need flexibility in your plan – and cash reserves if you’re going to wait out a downturn. Know how economic pressure could impact your business this year.
2️⃣ Be Strategic with Capital Projects
If interest rates drop, reinvesting in the business might be tempting. But be careful. Avoid major projects unless the ROI is clear and fast. If you plan to sell soon, that big investment may not pay off in time.
3️⃣ Use AI to Create Efficiency – Not Complexity
AI can streamline admin, quoting, scheduling, and more – but buyers are wary of unproven tech investments. Use tools that lower costs or improve operations, but don’t overhaul your business for the sake of buzzwords.
As a Nashville business broker, I’ve seen well-prepared sellers increase value just by tightening up these three areas.
Top 3 Things You Should Know About Your Business in 2026
These aren’t major projects — they’re basic, critical knowledge points that will come up in any deal conversation.
1️⃣ How inflation and tariffs are impacting your margins
Buyers will ask: “Why were profits up/down?” You need to know if and how your costs have changed – and explain it clearly.
2️⃣ What’s going on with your insurance premiums
Inflation has hit insurance hard. If you haven’t reviewed your coverage in years, now’s the time. Buyers will see your increased costs, and you should know what’s behind them.
3️⃣ How AI could improve your business (even if you’re not using it yet)
You don’t have to implement everything. But understanding where AI could be useful shows buyers the future upside – and that can improve your valuation.
Top 5 Things You Can Always Do to Prepare for a Sale
These apply in 2026 — and every year. If you’re thinking, “I want to sell my business, but I’m not sure when,” this is your checklist.
✅ 1. Get your books in order
Good bookkeeping isn’t optional. It’s the difference between a confident buyer and a red flag. Clean financials help you explain performance, costs, and trends – and defend your asking price.
✅ 2. Build a management layer
If everything runs through you, buyers get nervous. Start delegating. Hire or promote a general manager. A business that runs without you is more valuable – and more sellable.
✅ 3. Get a valuation
You don’t have to list your business today. But knowing what it’s worth (and why) helps you make smart decisions in the meantime.
✅ 4. Talk to a broker
Not to “sell you,” but to educate you. A good Tennessee business broker will help you understand timing, process, value drivers, and potential exit paths – long before you list.
✅ 5. Understand your buyer
Most buyers are looking for growing, organized businesses with upside. Think through what would excite a buyer about your company – and what could concern them. Fix what you can.
The Bottom Line
If you’re wondering how to sell your business in 2026, you don’t need a crystal ball — you need a plan.
Markets may shift. Rates may drop. AI will keep evolving. But your ability to prepare – operationally, financially, and personally – is what sets you up for success.
Whether you’re planning to exit soon or just want to get things cleaned up for the future, a conversation with a Nashville business broker who knows your market can make a big difference.