Buying a business isn’t just about the numbers…it’s about understanding the documents and decisions that protect you at the closing table.

In this episode of The Deal Factory, host Jeff Harkness sits down with Nick Bramblett, COO of 3PG Advisors, to unpack the real-world mechanics of buying a business in the trades and service industries.

Nick shares his journey from corporate finance and law to M&A advisory, and together they break down the must-know governing documents, common pitfalls, and the difference between asset and stock purchase agreements.

Whether you’re looking to scale your landscaping company or acquire a pool business, this episode gives you the inside track on what it takes to be a smart buyer.

Key Discussion Points:

• The difference between asset deals vs. stock deals

• Why the Letter of Intent (LOI) sets the tone for a successful close

• The “big three” governing documents

• How rollover equity and operating agreements work in buy-side deals

• Non-compete and non-solicit agreements: what’s “market” and why it varies

• Business realities of asset deals: rehiring employees, benefits, truck titles, and insurance

• The importance of having an M&A attorney vs. a generalist

• Legal costs: what buyers should realistically budget

• Growing role of labor compliance and immigration (H2B, I-9s) in diligence