If you’re thinking about selling, bringing on a partner, or just planning ahead, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: “What’s my business actually worth?”

Whether you’re ready to put your business on the market or simply want a clearer picture of its value, getting a proper understanding is a smart move—and at Bonza, we’re here to help.

Here’s how buyers, the market, and experienced business brokers (like us) assess what your business is really worth.

1. Understand What Buyers Are Actually Paying For

When someone’s looking to buy a business, they’re not just buying what exists today—they’re paying for what it can earn into the future.

Most businesses are valued using a profit multiple, usually based on Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE) or EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation).

Put simply:
Business Value = Profit × Industry Multiple

The multiple depends on things like:

Your industry
How much you’re involved in daily operations
Consistency of earnings
Perceived risk to the buyer

Bonza Tip: The more systemised and stable the business is, the higher the multiple it can command.

2. Get Your Financials in Order

If you’re considering a sale, good clean financials are essential. Buyers (and Bonza brokers) will want to see:

Profit & loss reports (ideally 2–3 years)
BAS and tax returns
An add-back schedule (adjustments for owner wage, one-offs etc.)
A basic balance sheet and list of assets

Bonza Tip: Presenting well-prepared financials not only builds trust but can boost your valuation. We can help you compile and tidy up this data as part of our free appraisal service.

3. Speak to a Business Broker (Yes, Like Us)

Valuing a business isn’t a one-size-fits-all exercise. At Bonza, we compare your business to thousands of similar business sales across Australia to find where yours fits in the market.

We know what buyers are willing to pay, and more importantly—why.

Bonza Tip: Our free business appraisal gives you an accurate range based on real sales data, and guidance on how to lift your value even further.

4. Check Out Similar Businesses for Sale

Looking at other listings can give you a rough idea of where you sit—but be cautious. Asking prices and actual sale prices aren’t always the same, and not all businesses are equal.

Look for:

Similar size and industry
Comparable location and lease terms
Owner involvement level

Bonza Tip: Don’t get caught comparing apples with oranges. We help you benchmark your business realistically against current buyer expectations.

5. Consider Non-Financial Value Drivers

There’s more to a great business than just the numbers. Buyers will often pay more if the business has:

Strong brand and reputation
Repeat customers or recurring revenue streams
Systems and processes in place
Skilled staff who want to stay on
Opportunities for growth or scale

Bonza Tip: These are the value boosters that can often go unnoticed. We’ll help you identify and present them properly during the sales process.

6. Use an Online Tool (But Don’t Rely on It Alone)

There are plenty of online valuation calculators that offer quick estimates based on your revenue and industry. They’re a good starting point—but they’re no substitute for speaking with someone who understands the full picture.

Bonza Tip: We combine automated insights with real market experience. Our free appraisal service goes deeper than any online calculator can.

Final Word

Knowing what your business is worth puts you in control—whether you’re planning to exit, expand, or just want peace of mind. With the right support, you can go to market fully informed and confident.

At Bonza, we’ve helped thousands of Aussie small business owners understand and unlock their business value—and we’d be happy to help you too.

Ready to find out what your business is worth?
Click below to book your free, no-obligation appraisal with a Bonza Business Broker today.

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How Do I Find Out What My Business Is Worth?