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Ben KellyPosted Oct 8, 2026What to remember when a deal falls apart
Hey, it’s Ben. You find a business that looks right, submit an offer, get it accepted, and start due diligence. Then something changes — financing stalls, or the seller gets skittish — and suddenly the deal is dead.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 7, 2026The LOI terms many first-time buyers forget to nail down
Yesterday I covered the foundation of a good LOI: how to structure the purchase price and why exclusivity is so important.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 6, 2026The first two things every Letter of Intent needs to get right
Once you’ve found a business worth pursuing, the next step is putting an offer on paper.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 5, 2026How Sam bought a $1.4M outdoor lighting franchise for $90K out of pocket
Today’s story is about Sam, a former senior operations manager at Amazon working seven days a week, grinding through one of the most demanding corporate environments there is.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 2, 2026“Read the room - not every seller’s situation is the same”
Earlier this week, I told you about Prashant and Arvind - two former Microsoft executives who beat 17 other bidders on a $2.7M math tutoring company…
Ben KellyPosted Oct 1, 2026How to know when you’re ready for your second acquisition
Most of what I share about business acquisition focuses on how to find, structure, and finance your first deal.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 30, 2026How to find the right acquisition professionals and what to pay them
Yesterday I covered the three people worth having in place before you make your first offer:
Ben KellyPosted Sep 29, 2026The three people you need before making your first offer
One of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make has nothing to do with the deal itself.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 28, 2026How Prashant and Arvind beat 17 other bidders for a $2.7M math tutoring company
Both had spent careers at Microsoft and other major corporations at the executive level, and decided they wanted something more durable than a corporate salary.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 25, 2026“It certainly is possible - I can say that firsthand”
On Monday, I told you about Zach - a management consultant who spent ten months putting in one hour a day, closed on a 70-year-old sheet metal fabrication company in Los Angeles for $1.155M…
Ben KellyPosted Sep 24, 2026The two harder questions to answer before buying a business
Yesterday I covered the first two readiness questions for business ownership - whether you meet the financial baseline and whether you can commit one hour a day to build deal flow and develop your evaluation skills.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 23, 2026Two questions that tell you if you’re ready to buy a business
Many people spend years thinking about buying a business without ever actually doing it.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 22, 2026The most underrated tool in any business negotiation
I’ve recently covered what to do when sellers go quiet, how to follow up without burning the relationship, and how to tell the difference between a seller who’s worth being patient with and one who’s quietly wasting your time.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 21, 2026How Zach bought a 70-year-old LA steel company for $1.15M
He spent eight to ten years across sales, marketing, and management consulting.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 18, 2026“We’re not CPAs, but we knew what we were looking for”
On Monday, I told you about Aisha and Mark, a couple who bought a $2.4M accounting firm in small-town Indiana with no CPA credentials.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 17, 2026How to tell the difference between a slow seller and a bad one
Yesterday I shared why sellers go quiet and how to follow up without burning the relationship.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 16, 2026What’s really happening when a seller ghosts you
Sometimes, you’ll have a great first conversation with a seller.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 15, 2026More issues that can drag out your acquisition timeline
Last week I shared how analysis paralysis can considerably slow down the timeline to your first acquisition.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 14, 2026How Aisha and Mark bought a $2.4M accounting firm in Amish country
She was a senior executive at Amazon who wanted out of corporate life, and he worked in AI software sales with a business background.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 11, 2026“I knew this was different and special from day one”
Earlier this week, I told you about Adam, a commercial real estate banker who:
Ben KellyPosted Sep 10, 2026One mindset trap that keeps buyers stuck in research mode forever
Of all the things that slow down first-time acquisitions…
Ben KellyPosted Sep 9, 2026The factors that help buyers close their first deal faster
Yesterday I walked through the four phases of a first acquisition and what a realistic timeline looks like from search to closing day.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 8, 2026The four phases of closing your first business acquisition
One of the most common questions I get from people who are just getting started in acquisitions is:
Ben KellyPosted Sep 7, 2026How Adam’s acquisition instantly replaced his salary from day one
Today's case study is about Adam who spent the first six years of his career closing over a billion dollars in commercial real estate loans.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 4, 2026“The more you put yourself out there, the more people want to help”
At the start of this week, I told you about Andrew, a filmmaker watching AI close in on his industry who bought a nearly 20-year-old nail salon in Los Angeles with his wife Kelly for less than $40K out of pocket.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 3, 2026The three things every good acquisition target has in common
Over the last few days I’ve covered the margin check, the dealbreaker scan, and the quick valuation math I run on every business in the early stages of evaluation.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 2, 2026The valuation math that tells me if a deal is worth pursuing
Yesterday I covered the first two steps of my deal screening process: the margin check and the dealbreaker scan .
Ben KellyPosted Sep 1, 2026The first things I check before spending any time on a business
Here’s something most first-time buyers find out the hard way:
Ben KellyPosted Aug 31, 2026How Andrew bought an LA nail salon for less than $40K out of pocket
He was a commercial filmmaker watching AI steadily encroach on his industry, with a new wife, a baby, and a growing sense that he needed a second income stream that didn’t depend on anyone else’s algorithm.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 28, 2026“Verify everything. Don’t take their word for it.”
On Monday, I told you about Adam, a manufacturing manager who bought a 20-year-old exterior finishes company for $1.85M, structured 15% of his seller note as forgivable…
Ben KellyPosted Aug 27, 2026Where to look for hidden revenue in your first 30 days of ownership
Yesterday I wrote about why most acquired businesses have untapped revenue hiding in plain sight…
Ben KellyPosted Aug 26, 2026Many new business owners are sitting on untapped revenue
One of the most underappreciated parts of buying an established small business is what you find when you start digging into everything.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 25, 2026How I’d structure a laundromat deal to make $160K a year with $0 down
Last week I wrote about why laundromats are one of my favorite acquisition targets:
Ben KellyPosted Aug 24, 2026How Adam bought a $1.85M construction company
Today you’re going to hear a story about Adam, a manufacturing manager with a four-year background in construction franchising who wanted to add a second income stream without leaving his job.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 21, 2026“Verify everything. Don’t take their word for it.”
On Monday, I shared Shawn and David’s story - two California entrepreneurs who bought a Northern Colorado landscape installation company, navigated a seller who left a month into a six-month commitment, rebuilt the team from scratch, and landed a snow removal contract worth $350K
Ben KellyPosted Aug 20, 2026A boring business I’d buy if I were starting from scratch
If I were starting from scratch today with limited capital and wanted to build a cash-flowing asset as quickly as possible, a laundromat would be near the top of my list.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 19, 2026What happens when you buy a business outside your wheelhouse
Yesterday I wrote about why not having industry experience in a business you’re considering buying isn’t the dealbreaker most people assume it is.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 18, 2026You don’t need to know the industry to buy the business
One of the most common things I hear from people who are interested in acquisitions but haven’t pulled the trigger:
Ben KellyPosted Aug 17, 2026How two California entrepreneurs bought a Colorado landscaping company
Today I’ve got an acquisition story about Shawn and David.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 14, 2026“W2 is the worst way to build wealth”
On Monday, I told you about Kristie, a photographer and former nurse who bought a two-location drop-in daycare with 25 years of operating history for $35K out of pocket…
Ben KellyPosted Aug 13, 2026What most people will wish they’d done five years from now
Today, I want to share two quick stories, because I think they illustrate something important about what’s actually possible in the business acquisition space right now.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 12, 202613 million businesses are changing hands this decade
There’s a shift happening in the small business world right now that most people aren’t paying attention to.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 11, 2026The last two things I refuse to do in any of my businesses
Last week I shared two things I’ve deliberately removed myself from across all of my businesses:
Ben KellyPosted Aug 10, 2026How Kristie bought a two-location drop-in daycare
Today I’ve got a case study about Kristie, who spent 10 years as a labor and delivery nurse before building a successful photography business from scratch.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 7, 2026“If I really wanted to, it could take zero of my time”
On Monday, I told you about Michael, a British expat and new father who closed on a remote podiatry billing company for $2.6M…
Ben KellyPosted Aug 6, 2026Two things I refuse to do in any of my businesses
Something I’ve learned from building a portfolio of eight businesses that most people figure out too late:
Ben KellyPosted Aug 5, 2026The communication system that keeps my team aligned
In the last few newsletters, I’ve covered financial systems and operational systems - foundations that keep my portfolio running accurately and consistently.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 4, 2026The operational system that protects your business
Last week I covered the importance of financial systems and how I maintain visibility across my portfolio without being pulled into the details every day.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 3, 2026How Michael bought a remote podiatry billing company
Today I’ve got a story about Michael, a Chief Sales Officer at a fast-growing US recruitment firm, a new father, and a British expat who had never owned a business in his life.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 31, 2026“You can’t let fear paralyze you - our heads are our biggest enemy”
Earlier this week I told you about Rodrigo, a Turo entrepreneur who put both of his houses on the line with a newborn at home, almost walked away from the deal when the bank’s collateral requirements arrived, and closed anyway.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 30, 2026The financial system that keeps 8 businesses running without me
After people close their first deal, one of the first questions I get is:
Ben KellyPosted Jul 29, 2026What the rest of my day looks like after morning check-ins
Yesterday I walked through how I stay on top of eight businesses in under an hour every morning, and what I’ve deliberately chosen not to be involved in.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 28, 2026How I stay on top of 8 businesses
“If you only work a few hours a day, what are you actually doing during that time?”
Ben KellyPosted Jul 27, 2026How Rodrigo bought a $1.25M mechanic shop
He was a serial entrepreneur who had built a six-car Turo rental business from scratch, never worked in automotive repair, and had a newborn baby at home when the bank told him he’d need to put both of his houses up as collateral to close the deal.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 24, 2026“Taking the risk is paying off in multiples every single day”
On Monday, I told you about Mario, who bought a $1.8M niche Texas craft store for $25K out of pocket, is tracking 40% above the previous owner’s revenue in his first homecoming season, and is already eyeing his second acquisition.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 23, 2026What my portfolio actually looks like and what it means for my day
Yesterday I wrote about the two models most people operate from:
Ben KellyPosted Jul 22, 2026The wealth model most people never discover
There’s a belief that runs deep in most people’s careers - that income is something you earn through personal effort, and that more income requires more effort.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 21, 2026Additional reasons some acquisitions fail
Last Thursday I started walking through what separates the 5% of acquisitions that don’t work out from the 95% that do.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 20, 2026How Mario bought a $1.8M Texas party store for $25K out of pocket
He was a 12-year veteran of the CPG industry, still working his W2 in Dallas, who had never heard of a "homecoming mom" before finding one for sale. Six months after getting serious about his search, he closed on a niche Texas craft and party supply store for $1.8M — putting just
Ben KellyPosted Jul 17, 2026“This business is like a member of my family that I’m giving to you”
Earlier this week, I told you about Jessica, a cardiac surgery nurse practitioner who found a 21-year-old home healthcare agency at a networking event, won the deal over four competing offers…
Ben KellyPosted Jul 16, 2026What separates the 95% from the 5% in business acquisitions
Yesterday I shared the SBA’s data on business acquisition success rates:
Ben KellyPosted Jul 15, 2026The statistic that changes business acquisition for everyone
Most people who are interested in business acquisition but haven’t pulled the trigger yet tend to describe their hesitation the same way:
Ben KellyPosted Jul 14, 2026How businesses are valued, financed, and closed
Last week I covered the basics of small business acquisitions, including how to define your buy box and the important questions to ask every seller
Ben KellyPosted Jul 13, 2026How a nurse practitioner bought a $2.4M home healthcare agency
Today you’re going to hear a story about Jessica, a cardiac surgery nurse practitioner with 15 years in the hospital system who wanted out of the corporate grind for herself and her husband Chad.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 10, 2026“You only get as far as your mind will let you”
On Monday I told you about Alex and Dana, a couple who closed on a niche therapy practice serving adults with developmental disabilities, survived six moments where the deal nearly died, and spent less than $50K of their own money to do it…
Ben KellyPosted Jul 9, 2026A prompt that builds your deal financing structure in minutes
Finding a good business and knowing what it’s worth are two things.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 8, 2026The beginner’s guide to buying a small business
If terms like “SDE multiples,” “seller notes,” or “equity injection” sound like a foreign language, this one’s for you.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 7, 2026The prompt I use to value any business in under two minutes
Once you’ve found a business worth looking at, the next challenge is figuring out what it’s actually worth, and whether the asking price makes any sense.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 6, 2026Buying a $1.8M therapy practice for less than $50K out of pocket
Today I’ve got a story about Alex and Dana - he’s a physical therapist and she’s an Air Force veteran turned defense contractor with two businesses already under her belt.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 3, 2026“Don’t give up. The right deal will come your way.”
On Monday, I told you about Marcus, who closed on a $2.7M senior care franchise and how the seller relationship saved the deal when financing nearly fell apart.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 2, 2026The AI prompt I use to find acquisition targets in minutes
If you’re working a full-time job, finding the time to properly research acquisition targets is one of the biggest obstacles people run into.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 1, 2026What happens after your offer gets accepted
Yesterday I walked through how to identify, evaluate, and make an offer on your first acquisition.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 30, 2026The first half of the roadmap to buying your first business
I get asked constantly for a simple, step-by-step process for buying a business.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 29, 2026How Marcus bought a $2.7M senior care company
Today you’re going to hear a case study about Marcus and his first small business acquisition.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 26, 2026“You don’t need $100K sitting in an account to do this”
Earlier this week, I told you about Alex - a federal government contractor who bought a medical consulting firm serving federal agencies for $315K…
Ben KellyPosted Jun 25, 2026You don’t need tons of cash to buy your first business
One of the biggest misconceptions I run into constantly is that buying a business requires a massive personal cash reserve.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 24, 2026Business acquisition isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay
After building a portfolio of businesses generating close to $1M in annual cash flow, I want to share something that might not be what you’d expect to hear from me:
Ben KellyPosted Jun 23, 2026The competitive advantage that protects you in acquisitions
When I’m evaluating any business to buy, one of the most important questions I ask is:
Ben KellyPosted Jun 22, 2026How a federal employee bought a government contracting firm
I’m going to share a story about Alex today, a federal government employee turned private-sector contractor who had been exploring business acquisitions for over a year.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 19, 2026“It’s hard to believe this can be done... but we feel like we’ve accomplished that in spades.”
On Monday, I told you about Mark, a software engineer with no electrical background who bought a $4.56M traffic signal maintenance company for $15K out of his own pocket…
Ben KellyPosted Jun 18, 2026The revenue model that separates stressful businesses from stable ones
Today I want to cover another key piece I look for when evaluating any business:
Ben KellyPosted Jun 17, 2026The first thing I look for in any business I consider buying
When people ask me what kinds of businesses they should be targeting for their first acquisition, I usually start with the same question:
Ben KellyPosted Jun 16, 2026The industries I’d steer clear of on your first acquisition
Last week I covered the industries I think give first-time buyers the best shot at generating cash flow quickly:
Ben KellyPosted Jun 15, 2026How Mark bought a $4.56M traffic signal company for $15K out of pocket
Today’s acquisition case study is about Mark, a software engineer with no background in electrical work, no experience in municipal contracting, and no intention of spending hundreds of thousands of dollars of his own money.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 12, 2026“The first three months are the hardest - just prepare for that”
She lost her first shot at a $2M commercial cleaning company to another buyer, waited, stayed in contact, got a second chance when that deal fell through, and closed for $90K out of pocket with $200K+ projected back to her family in year one.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 11, 2026The real reason I got into business acquisitions
People get into acquisitions for a lot of different reasons.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 10, 2026The best industries for generating cash flow from day one
Before you look at a single deal, there’s one decision that will do more to determine your success as a first-time buyer than almost anything else:
Ben KellyPosted Jun 9, 2026One thing you must inspect before closing a deal
If you’re evaluating any business that depends on physical equipment to operate, think:
Ben KellyPosted Jun 8, 2026How Whitney bought a $2M cleaning company for $90K out of pocket
Today I’ve got a story about Whitney, a senior marketing executive at a major LA entertainment studio, making a good living, but craving more flexibility as her family grew.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 5, 2026“Show up. Drive the hour and a half. Meet them in person.”
On Monday, I told you about Alex, and how he beat out a private equity firm for a $6M delivery technology company, negotiated a seller note that’s now being forgiven, and is projecting $500K in cash flow in year one…
Ben KellyPosted Jun 4, 2026Never buy a business based on potential
Business acquisition done right is one of the most reliable paths to financial independence I know of.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 3, 20263 overlooked ways to finance an acquisition
That you need significant personal capital, perfect credit, and years of business experience before a lender will take you seriously.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 2, 2026Avoid these glaring red flags during a business acquisition
Knowing what makes a business worth buying is important.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 1, 2026How a cybersecurity pro bought a $6M delivery tech company
Today you’re going to hear a story about Alex, a cybersecurity professional working a full-time W2 job who stumbled across a niche delivery technology business on BizBuySell.
Ben KellyPosted May 29, 2026“Everyone told me to walk away. I didn’t.”
On Monday, I shared Brittany’s story of how she spent 9 months on a deal that 15 banks rejected, that most people told her to abandon…
Ben KellyPosted May 28, 2026How to compensate a GM so they actually stick around
Today I want to address a tricky but crucial question for the success of your acquisition:
Ben KellyPosted May 27, 2026“Even your failures can lead to ultimate success”
Last week, I told you about Darwin, a retired C-suite tech executive who closed on a 25-year-old SaaS company after 18 months, three failed deals, and one conversation on a golf course that changed everything.
Ben KellyPosted May 26, 2026How to find employee dependency before it derails your deal
Last week I wrote about employee dependency, what it is, why it’s so dangerous, and how it can quietly unravel an acquisition that looked solid on paper.
Ben KellyPosted May 25, 2026How a medical device rep bought a weight loss clinic with 100% seller financing
She was a medical device sales rep with 15 years in neurosurgery, making great money, but dealing with brutal pressure and a growing sense that it wasn’t sustainable forever.
Ben KellyPosted May 22, 2026“At worst, you might get 100% return on your investment.”
Last Monday, I told you about Chase, and how he and his brother bought an 85-year-old steel fabrication company for $1.85M, including the real estate, with no manufacturing background.
Ben KellyPosted May 21, 2026The hidden key man risk most buyers never check for
There’s a risk in business acquisitions that gets far less attention than it deserves, and it’s not about the financials, the valuation, or even the seller.
Ben KellyPosted May 20, 2026Off-market deal: Kentucky landscaping company with $820K cash flow and $1M in assets
For today’s off-market deal, I’m sharing a landscaping company in Kentucky generating $2.2M in revenue and $820K in cash flow…
Ben KellyPosted May 19, 2026You don’t need to dedicate your life to finding your first deal
There’s one huge mental block I often see in people who are serious about acquisitions but haven’t started yet:
Ben KellyPosted May 18, 2026How Darwin bought a 25-year-old SaaS company with $0 of his own money
Today I’m sharing a story about Darwin, a former C-suite tech executive who had led multinational teams and scaled businesses from zero to billions.
Ben KellyPosted May 14, 2026How to make sure your acquisition doesn't turn into a full-time job
When you close on a business, the direction your life takes as an owner comes down to one thing more than almost anything else:
Ben KellyPosted May 13, 2026Off-market deal: 30-year precious metals business with $3.2M in annual earnings
In today’s off-market deal, I’m highlighting a precious metals trading business with over 30 years of operating history generating $20M+ in annual revenue and $3.2M in earnings that just came across our radar.
Ben KellyPosted May 12, 20264 steps to protect yourself against customer concentration
Last week I wrote about customer concentration (what it is, why it matters, and why I treat high concentration as a serious red flag when evaluating any deal).
Ben KellyPosted May 11, 2026How Chase bought an 85-year-old steel company with no manufacturing background
He was the head of operations at a remote tech company who wanted to build wealth outside his W2 without leaving it.
Ben KellyPosted May 8, 2026“Buying an existing business is an awesome way to change the trajectory for your family”
Earlier this week, I told you about Leann, and how she, her husband, and their 21-year-old son closed on a $1.3M sign company in Denver seven months after joining Acquisition Ace.
Ben KellyPosted May 7, 2026Why the traditional path to building wealth is broken
There’s a version of financial success that most of us were raised to believe in.
Ben KellyPosted May 6, 2026The myth of needing to quit your day job before buying a business
One of the biggest misconceptions I run into constantly is people assuming that buying a business means leaving their job first.
Ben KellyPosted May 5, 2026The due diligence question most first-time buyers forget to ask
There’s one due diligence mistake I see first-time buyers make more than almost any other.
Ben KellyPosted May 4, 2026How a family of three bought a $1.3M sign company together
Today you’re going to hear a story about Leanne, a program manager with a background in talent acquisition.
Ben KellyPosted May 1, 2026“Get creative - there’s always a way if both sides want to get it done”
On Monday, I shared Avi and Jay’s story of how they bought a vacation rental cleaning company in Myrtle Beach, navigated eleven lender rejections, a late-stage linen crisis, and an identity theft scare two days before closing.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 30, 2026The hard truth about acquisitions
I’ve noticed a trend recently where there’s more content saying that it’s super easy to succeed in acquisitions.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 28, 2026Why I turn away “get rich quick” entrepreneurs
There’s something I’ve noticed after years of working with acquisition entrepreneurs:
Ben KellyPosted Apr 27, 2026How Avi and Jay bought a vacation rental cleaning company
One is a lawyer who had already closed his first acquisition
Ben KellyPosted Apr 24, 2026“Don’t ever think you have to have every answer before you act”
On Monday, I told you about Taggart and how he closed on Terra Engineering (a niche Porsche racing suspension company with customers in 29 countries)…
Ben KellyPosted Apr 23, 2026Why waiting for the “right time” to buy a business is costing you
Something worth talking about that doesn’t get enough recognition:
Ben KellyPosted Apr 22, 2026Off-market deal: 3-location physical therapy practice with $950K profit
For today’s off-market deal, there’s a three-location outpatient physical therapy practice in North Carolina generating $3M in revenue and $950K in adjusted profit that we just discovered.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 21, 2026The book that changed how I think about wealth and work
If someone asked me to recommend one book to anyone exploring business acquisition for the first time, my answer is always the same:
Ben KellyPosted Apr 20, 2026How a tech director bought a niche Porsche racing company for 5% down
Today I’m sharing a story about Taggart, a director of revenue operations at a tech company in Utah with a lifelong passion for cars and motorsports.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 17, 2026“Just keep shooting your shot - eventually one hits all the buttons”
Earlier this week, I told you about Troy and how he bought a doggy daycare in Washington State for less than $30K out of pocket.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 16, 2026Why MBAs are rejecting corporate to buy small businesses
There’s a trend that’s been building for a few years now, and it’s starting to get mainstream attention.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 15, 2026Off-market deal: Fast-growing accounting firm with 5,500 clients and 50%+ margins
In this week’s off-market deal, we’re highlighting a tax and accounting firm in the Chicago suburbs that has grown from 157 clients to over 5,500 in eleven years (entirely through word of mouth) that just came across our radar.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 15, 2026🔥Investor Opportunity
Just completed a $1M raise at ~ Mid $30M valuation. Open to valuation, and structuring as a convertible note or a 'SAFE'
Ben KellyPosted Apr 14, 2026The decision that separates people who build wealth from people who don’t
Today I’m going to share a story about one major decision that separates those who become successful from those who don’t.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 13, 2026How Troy bought a $600K doggy daycare for less than $30K out of pocket
Today’s case study focuses on Troy, a Washington State resident with a background in small business management who wanted to stop trading time for money.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 10, 2026“Find a good mentor and just stick with it”
On Monday, I shared how Garrett closed on a $1.7M accounting firm in Asheville, North Carolina, while keeping his day job…
Ben KellyPosted Apr 9, 2026The real reason most people fail at business acquisitions
One thing I don’t see talked about enough in acquisitions is a simple question:
Ben KellyPosted Apr 8, 2026Off-market deal: Wealth advisory firm with $1.1M profit and $1.5B under advisory
In this week’s off-market deal, there’s a California-based wealth advisory and capital placement firm…
Ben KellyPosted Apr 7, 2026How to bring a private investor into your first deal
Today, I’m getting into the nitty-gritty on how to actually find and bring on a private investor for your first acquisition.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 6, 2026How a real estate investor bought a $1.7M accounting firm
He was a real estate investor with a good corporate job who wanted to diversify his income, but had never bought a business before.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 2, 2026How I run 8 businesses in about 20 hours a week
Over the last five years, I’ve bought or passively invested into eight businesses across a range of industries:
Ben KellyPosted Mar 31, 2026How to tell if a business is actually worth what they’re asking
One of the most common and costly mistakes first-time buyers make is skipping a proper valuation.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 30, 2026How a software engineer bought a $2.1M accounting firm from across the country
He was a software engineer who had lost money in oil and gas investments and real estate syndications, and was looking for an asset class he could actually control.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 27, 2026“Bet on yourself, it’s the best return you’ll ever make”
On Monday, I told you about Josh and how he negotiated over $1M off the asking price of a business acquisition .
Ben KellyPosted Mar 26, 20265 warning signs a business isn’t worth buying
It’s not the most exciting part of buying a business, but rushing through it can land you in trouble…
Ben KellyPosted Mar 24, 2026The truth about getting approved for an SBA loan
A question that comes up constantly from people exploring their first acquisition:
Ben KellyPosted Mar 23, 2026How a consultant bought a $2.75M agency with $150K
This week’s case study deep dive is a story about Josh.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 20, 2026“Hang in there. You’ll be rewarded.”
On Monday, I shared a case study of how Kris pulled off acquiring a company for $2.6M, with only 5% out of pocket.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 19, 2026My simple rule for finding the best businesses to buy
When I started acquiring businesses, I knew pretty quickly that I wanted to build something that would last…
Ben KellyPosted Mar 18, 2026Off-market deal: 3-location chiropractic group with up to $2M in profit
For this week’s off-market deal, I found a multi-location chiropractic group in Kentucky generating $4-5M in revenue and $1-2M in profit.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 17, 2026Why your biggest risk is never getting started
If you’ve always been a more risk-averse person (possibly with a family to support), business acquisition probably sounds like the last thing you should be doing.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 16, 2026How a Chevron employee bought a $2.6M business for 5% down
This week’s case study is all about Kris - a 20-year oil industry veteran working at Chevron who had zero experience buying businesses.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 13, 2026“It’s kind of crazy to hear those numbers out loud”
Earlier this week, I shared a brief case study of how Adam closed on a $4M digital marketing agency, with zero dollars down .
Ben KellyPosted Mar 12, 2026The non-business habits that gave me huge business success
Most entrepreneurs will grind endlessly to optimize their business, while completely ignoring what makes everything possible: their bodies and minds.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 11, 2026Off-market deal: 38-year ophthalmology practice with $400K owner earnings
For today’s off-market deal, I found a well-established ophthalmology practice in Connecticut with a 38-year operating history that just hit our radar.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 10, 2026Most people quit right before their first deal closes
After being in the acquisition space for a while now, I’ve noticed most thought leaders don’t want to talk about the losses.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 9, 2026How a marketing director bought a $4M agency with $0 down
For this week’s case study, you’re going to hear about Adam, a marketing director with a stable corporate career, a side interest in personal finance, and a nagging feeling that there had to be more.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 6, 2026“It’s the best thing I’ve ever done”
Earlier this week I shared Melissa’s story about buying a pool service company with zero industry experience.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 5, 2026Why there are more businesses for sale than buyers
Right now, there’s a massive shift happening in small business ownership that most people aren’t even aware of.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 4, 2026Off-market: Electrical construction company with $1.7M profit
Today I’m sharing an off-market deal that checks all the boxes - strong cash flow, established team, and an owner willing to stick around for years after the sale.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 3, 2026The 2-paragraph cold email that gets responses
Today, you’re going to learn a simple 2-paragraph cold email I’ve seen get an insane response rate.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 2, 2026How a school superintendent bought a $995K pool company for half its value
She was a former school superintendent working around the clock and wanted out, but had no idea what came next.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 27, 2026“You don’t know what you don’t know”
Earlier this week I shared Avi’s story - the M&A attorney who bought a Bible study SaaS business in 4 months.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 26, 2026How to quickly build a list of 500+ acquisition targets
One question I keep hearing in the acquisition space is: “How do I actually start finding off-market deals?”
Ben KellyPosted Feb 25, 2026Off-market: In-home care business with $400K profit and 3-5 year transition
Not every off-market deal that comes across my desk is worth sharing, but this one caught my attention for a very specific reason.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 24, 2026Why smart buyers avoid BizBuySell
Most buyers start their search on BizBuySell, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 23, 2026How an M&A attorney bought a $310K SaaS business in 4 months
One of the biggest myths in business acquisition is that you need industry experience to succeed.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 20, 2026“It’s doable, even with a crazy year”
That’s what Zach told me after he and his partner bought a $4.5M occupational medicine clinic for just $120K down, with 100% financing from a private lender.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 19, 2026How I bought my first business with $5K
Why build something from zero when you could acquire cash flow immediately?
Ben KellyPosted Feb 18, 2026Off-market deal: Car repair business with $900K profit and full team
The owner works 30 hours per week, and the business has a full team of 8 employees (including 4 technicians) already in place.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 17, 2026Should you buy or start your first business?
But there’s another path that’s faster, less risky, and statistically more likely to succeed: buying an existing business.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 16, 2026How a physician assistant bought a $4.5M medical practice with $120K down
He wanted more financial freedom and believed medical practices function best when medical professionals lead them.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 13, 2026“We were 4 days from losing the deal”
That’s what Jason said after he and Charlie closed on a skydiving business in Maryland - their strategic play to break into the aviation industry despite having zero aviation experience.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 12, 2026The acquisition mistakes that cost buyers six figures
Between signing the LOI and actually making money, there are landmines that can destroy your investment.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 11, 2026Off-market deal: Florida dental practice with $660K cash flow
The owner works three days per week and is willing to stay on for two years after the sale.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 10, 2026How to stop vendors from raising prices after you buy
A key supplier sends their first renewal quote, and the price is suddenly 20% higher than what the previous owner paid.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 9, 2026They bought a skydiving business with no aviation experience
His real interest was breaking into the aviation industry.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 6, 2026“There is no perfect deal”
That’s what Ben told me after he and his wife Andrea closed on a $675K upscale nail salon in St. Louis, while partnering with another Army buddy and moving from North Carolina.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 5, 2026Negotiation mistakes that kill deals (and how to avoid them)
They focus on getting the lowest possible price while missing the terms that actually matter.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 4, 2026Off-market deal: High-end spa with absentee owner
The owner spends October through March in Florida and has built the business to run without him.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 3, 2026Do this when you and the seller can’t agree on price
The seller believes the business is worth $1.2M based on growth potential.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 2, 2026How an Army vet and his wife bought an upscale nail salon for $675K
His wife Andrea had run a small marketing business but wanted something more scalable.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 30, 2026“You only need one deal to change your life”
That’s what Evan told me after closing on a $1.6M janitorial company (while keeping his management consulting job).
Ben KellyPosted Jan 29, 2026The financing strategy that reduces your down payment to zero
Done right, it can eliminate your down payment entirely while keeping the seller invested in your success.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 28, 2026Off-market deal: Multi-service pet company with 50 employees (DC area)
The owner has been systematically acquiring competitors and is now 3 years into a 10-year exit plan, but she’s open to selling sooner to the right buyer.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 27, 2026How to keep your best employees from walking
If you want the business to run without you (and you should), keeping top talent is non-negotiable.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 26, 2026From management consultant to $1.6M business owner in under a year
But when he looked at people 5, 10, 15 years ahead of him, he didn’t want what they had: more work for slightly more money, but no real freedom or purpose.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 23, 2026“I did this in 6 months and 15 days”
That’s what Lindsay told me after closing on a $1M commercial carpet cleaning business while keeping her full-time tech job.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 22, 2026Why boring businesses beat flashy startups
Almost nobody pictures the owner of a plumbing company or an HVAC business.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 21, 2026Off-market deal: $1.2M grooming/nail salon near largest dog park in the area
The owner runs it hands-off while working a full-time job, and he can leave for weeks without the business missing a beat.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 20, 20263 ways to buy a business without draining your savings
Regular people with W2 jobs are closing deals every month using creative financing that requires little to no money down.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 19, 2026How Lindsay bought a $1M carpet cleaning business (while keeping her day job)
She had an Airbnb property and was considering building more rental units, but the returns weren’t fast enough and would drain her savings.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 16, 2026“You just have to do it”
That’s what Brian told me after closing on a niche trailer manufacturing company for $125K - a business originally listed at $420K!
Ben KellyPosted Jan 15, 2026The best recession-proof industries to buy businesses in
“Ben, which industries should I focus on for my first acquisition?”
Ben KellyPosted Jan 13, 20265 due diligence steps that save deals (and prevent disasters)
I’ve seen people fall in love with a business based on surface-level numbers, skip the hard questions, and end up with a disaster on their hands.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 12, 2026How Brian bought a trailer company for $125K
He’d been searching for businesses to buy for years but kept spinning his wheels without guidance or accountability.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 8, 2026How your age impacts acquisition opportunities (the truth)
I’ve worked with students in their early 20s who’ve closed six and seven-figure deals, and I’ve worked with buyers in their 50s and 60s making their first acquisition.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 6, 2026The truth about MBAs and business acquisitions
I have an MBA, and while it taught me a lot, it was practically worthless for actually buying a business.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 1, 2026The $10 trillion wealth transfer happening right now
I appreciate you being here, and if you haven’t already acquired your first business, I hope this is the year you make it happen.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 30, 20253 steps to maximize your exit valuation
At some point, you’ll want to sell, and how much you walk away with depends on the work you do between acquisition and exit.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 25, 2025The right legal structure can protect you from financial disaster
I wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas from me and the Acquisition Ace team.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 23, 20252 tax strategies that can save you six figures on your first deal
But get this right, and you could save tens (or even hundreds) of thousands of dollars.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 18, 2025Should you buy a distressed business? (the honest truth)
You swoop in, fix what’s broken, and flip it for a massive profit.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 16, 2025The first 30 days after closing (a post-acquisition checklist)
Your first 30 days are critical for setting the tone of your ownership and preventing problems down the road.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 11, 2025How to spot a great deal in under 5 minutes
You need a quick screening process to separate potential winners from obvious passes.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 9, 2025On-market vs off-market deals: which is better?
On-market deals (listed on sites like BizBuySell or working with brokers)
Ben KellyPosted Dec 4, 2025Your deal just fell apart. Now what?
You start due diligence and everything looks perfect.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 2, 20255 common mistakes first-time buyers make (and how to avoid them)
And all the ones who succeed avoid these five common mistakes 👇
Ben KellyPosted Nov 25, 2025The 3 types of sellers (and how to negotiate with each)
And understanding what motivates them gives you a massive advantage in negotiations.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 20, 2025What actually goes in a Letter of Intent?
That means writing a Letter of Intent (LOI) - the document that outlines the key terms of your deal before you move into due diligence.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 18, 2025Are you ready to buy your first business? (use this checklist)
Most are waiting for the “perfect” moment, whether that’s needing more savings or stability before going for it.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 13, 2025How to know when you’re ready for acquisition #2
But once you get things figured out and business is going well…
Ben KellyPosted Nov 11, 2025The 3 people you need before making an offer
They find a business they want to buy, then scramble to find an accountant, a lawyer, and an advisor.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 6, 2025What to do when a seller ghosts you
They respond, you have a great first conversation, and maybe they even seemed genuinely interested.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 4, 2025How long should it take to close your first deal?
Here’s the honest answer: most of my students close their first business in 6 to 9 months.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 30, 2025How to effectively screen a business in just 30 minutes
You need to look at 20-30 businesses to make 2-3 solid offers.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 28, 2025What to do during the 30-60 days between signing and closing
After the rush and excitement of signing passes, you enter a unique transition period:
Ben KellyPosted Oct 23, 2025Hidden revenue opportunities most new business owners miss
Then she spent an afternoon digging through the office…
Ben KellyPosted Oct 21, 20255 problems new business owners face (and how to fix them)
In this series, I’ve given you my ultimate guide for your first year as a business owner.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 16, 2025How to remove yourself from daily operations
Over the past few editions, we’ve covered how to stabilize your business, document systems, build your team, and grow revenue.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 14, 2025The blueprint to growing revenue after buying your first business
By this point, you’ve stabilized operations, documented systems, and built a high-performing team.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 9, 2025How to build a high-performing team after your first acquisition
Now it’s time to turn your employees into high performers.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 7, 2025What to focus on in days 30-90 after buying your first business
Your employees haven’t left, and financials are stable.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 2, 2025You just bought a business. Now what?
After helping hundreds of students complete their first deals, I’ve learned exactly what separates successful acquisitions from disasters.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 30, 2025How I’d make $100k/yr from a laundromat with $0 down
And that’s why they’re one of my top businesses to buy..
Ben KellyPosted Sep 25, 2025Don’t let “inexperience” stop you from buying a business
People imagine they need to learn how to step in as a dry cleaner, repair HVAC systems, or manage a nail salon.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 23, 2025Don’t miss this $15 trillion wealth transfer
Unlike real estate or the stock market, the government will actually help you fund your piece of it with little to no money down.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 18, 2025Read this before you apply for an SBA loan
I’ve been a part of multiple deals with SBA loans to acquire businesses and helped hundreds of students navigate this process…
Ben KellyPosted Sep 16, 2025The 4 things I refuse to do in my businesses
What you don’t work on is just as important as the work you do.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 11, 2025The 3 systems that run my businesses without me
I’ve built a portfolio of seven businesses that run without me being involved in day-to-day operations.
Ben KellyPosted Sep 9, 2025What I actually do during my 2-3 hours of work each day
Today, I’m sharing an honest breakdown of what a typical day looks like…
Ben KellyPosted Sep 4, 2025The work model I use to make $850k/yr working 2 hours a day
But as someone who owns seven businesses generating over $850,000 in annual profit (and only works a few hours a day)…
Ben KellyPosted Sep 2, 2025The shocking success rate of business acquisitions
But what if I told you that buying an existing profitable business has a 95% success rate after 5 years…
Ben KellyPosted Aug 28, 2025Mergers and Acquisitions 101
After completing seven acquisitions and helping hundreds of students buy their first businesses, here’s everything you need to know about M&A 101.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 26, 2025My AI prompt for creating zero-down financing structures
In the last two newsletters, I’ve shown you the prompts I use to find deals in 10 minutes and analyze businesses in 2 minutes using AI.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 21, 2025How to calculate exactly how much a business is worth
On Tuesday, I shared the “Deal Hunter” prompt I use to find acquisition opportunities in under 10 minutes.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 19, 2025The “Deal Hunter” AI prompt I use to find great deals fast
That used to be the biggest barrier to business acquisition. It took forever to find good deals.
Ben KellyPosted Aug 14, 2025The best opportunities for passive income
But if passive income IS important to you, I‘ve ranked 8 different strategies from most effective to least, with four key criteria:
Ben KellyPosted Aug 12, 2025The complete roadmap to buying your first business
Hundreds of students have acquired their first business using this same system…
Ben KellyPosted Aug 7, 2025The one surprising reason you shouldn’t buy a business
After building a portfolio of businesses generating almost $1M in annual cash flow, I need to be brutally honest:
Ben KellyPosted Aug 5, 2025How to buy a business on a budget
Most people think you need hundreds of thousands in cash sitting around to buy a business.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 31, 2025The best businesses to buy & automate with AI (Part 6)
Over the past few weeks, we've covered five business types that are perfect for AI automation:
Ben KellyPosted Jul 29, 2025The best businesses to buy & automate with AI (Part 5)
So far, we’ve covered 4 of the best business models ripe for automation:
Ben KellyPosted Jul 24, 2025The best businesses to buy & automate with AI (Part 4)
Today, I’m revealing the next golden business opportunity for you to disrupt by automating it with AI:
Ben KellyPosted Jul 22, 2025The best businesses to buy & automate with AI (Part 3)
Last week, I shared why accounting firms and digital marketing agencies are great businesses to buy that can be heavily automated with AI.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 17, 2025The best businesses to buy & automate with AI (Part 2)
On Tuesday, we covered why accounting firms are a great choice for a business you can buy and help automate with AI.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 15, 2025The best boring businesses to automate with AI
And implement AI to automate 90%+ of their operations.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 10, 2025These businesses will put money in your pocket on day one
And the number one fear I hear is: “What if I buy a business that drains my savings and takes years to turn a profit?”
Ben KellyPosted Jul 8, 2025A breakdown of the new SBA loan rules (Part 3)
This email is Part 3 of a short series explaining these changes and the impact they’ll have on business financing strategies.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 3, 2025A breakdown of the new SBA loan rules (Part 2)
This email is Part 2 of a short series explaining these changes and the impact they’ll have on business financing strategies.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 1, 2025A breakdown of the new SBA loan rules (Part 1)
As of June 1, the SBA has put new rules into place affecting SBA 7(a) loans.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 26, 2025The three pillars of cashflow (Part 3)
These are my core rules of thumb to tell whether a business is worth investing in, no matter the industry.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 24, 2025The three pillars of cashflow (Part 2)
These are my core rules of thumb to tell whether a business is worth investing in, no matter the industry.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 19, 2025The 3 pillars of my favorite cashflowing businesses to buy
“What kind of businesses should I buy, and what shouldn’t I buy?”
Ben KellyPosted Jun 17, 2025Trading time for money is a trap
For some people, it’s about making a boatload of money... and that’s a great goal if you want it. Nothing wrong with that!
Ben KellyPosted Jun 12, 20253 unique ways to creatively finance your next acquisition
I’ve bought and scaled 7 businesses, and my portfolio is worth $7M+ in annual revenue.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 10, 2025Banks are cracking down on SBA loans (here’s how to get around it)
The credit environment, especially from the SBA, has gotten a little tighter.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 5, 2025Buying an equipment-based business? Do this to save 6 figures
If you’re thinking of buying any business that relies on equipment or heavy machinery, today’s email is for you.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 3, 2025Warning: Never value a business based on “potential”
At this point, Acquisition Ace has helped hundreds of regular people buy profitable small businesses and successfully break free from their 9 to 5.
Ben KellyPosted May 29, 20253 non-negotiable red flags during due diligence
Then there are three major red flags you need to keep an eye out for.
Ben KellyPosted May 27, 2025The correct way to compensate your General Manager
In most cases I recommend implementing number 1 and 2 together.
Ben KellyPosted May 22, 2025An ex-Army commander’s secret to buying your first business in 6 months
I don't talk about my military days much in these emails… but looking back, it’s surprising how much of what I learned there directly applies to business acquisitions.
Ben KellyPosted May 20, 20253 ways to install a GM to run your acquisition without you
You'll either be working in the business (putting out fires and basically buying yourself a demanding job)
Ben KellyPosted May 15, 2025How to detect employee dependency before it blows up your acquisition
(When a business relies on just one or two key employees.)
Ben KellyPosted May 13, 2025Who actually runs the business you're buying?
Most buyers don’t spend nearly enough time looking for this during due diligence (assuming they even know what to look for).
Ben KellyPosted May 8, 2025Your parents’ financial advice is dead (and what to do about it)
Back in the 1970s, it sounds almost unbelievable what was possible for the middle class:
Ben KellyPosted May 6, 2025She runs a $150k/yr business with just one weekly meeting
(If you missed that email, you can read it here .)
Ben KellyPosted May 1, 2025[Deal breakdown] Lindsay’s $150k/yr, 10 hr/week carpet cleaning business
For some of my students inside Acquisition Ace, it’s just a practical way to build an income stream on the side.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 29, 2025You don’t need to quit your day job to buy a business (3 reasons why)
It’s absolutely possible to buy and run a profitable six-figure small business while keeping your day job.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 24, 2025How to protect yourself from the #1 acquisition killer
And why it’s one of the most dangerous risks you’ll come across when buying a business.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 22, 2025The #1 killer of good acquisitions
Most first-time business buyers don’t know to ask about it.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 17, 2025How acquisition influencers set you up to fail
(AKA: influencers, course creators, and YouTubers who teach how to buy small businesses.)
Ben KellyPosted Apr 15, 2025Job security is a myth (and what to do about it)
It’s a bloodbath out there — over 150,000 people have been laid off across 500+ companies, including:
Ben KellyPosted Apr 10, 2025The Proverbs 13:11 rule for building wealth
There’s a Bible verse I love that captures this idea perfectly:
Ben KellyPosted Apr 8, 2025My #1 business book (must-read if you’re new to acquisitions)
Back in 2016, I had a six-figure job at JP Morgan.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 3, 2025Why MBAs are snubbing six-figure jobs to buy small businesses
“MBAs Are Spurning McKinsey to Buy Small Companies.”
Ben KellyPosted Apr 1, 2025Life won’t wait for you to get serious
And I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how fast life moves.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 27, 2025Two more ways to do a zero-down acquisition
I’ve mentioned a few of them consistently over the course of this newsletter:
Ben KellyPosted Mar 25, 2025This couple bought an upscale nail salon for $33.5k down (deal breakdown inside)
Our subjects today are two Acquisition Ace students from North Carolina:
Ben KellyPosted Mar 20, 2025Are you learning to buy businesses for the right reasons?
No one can guarantee your success... but there is one major factor that separates the winners from the quitters:
Ben KellyPosted Mar 18, 2025My blueprint for attracting private investors
Broadly speaking, the main strategy that I (and my students inside Acquisition Ace) use goes like this:
Ben KellyPosted Mar 13, 2025Q&A: How much time does it actually take me to run my businesses?
“How active are you in the daily operations of the businesses you own?”
Ben KellyPosted Mar 11, 2025Valuation 101: My formula for finding winning businesses
Without this skill, you can easily end up overpaying by hundreds of thousands of dollars for a business that looks great on paper, but ends up being a dud.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 6, 2025How hard is it to get an SBA loan?
This is referring to the SBA 7(a) loans that I use, and that my students inside Acquisition Ace use to buy small businesses.
Ben KellyPosted Mar 4, 2025The Silver Tsunami: My predictions vs. reality
For the unfamiliar: 75M boomers will retire by 2030. Boomers own 45% of all US small businesses, which means $10 trillion in assets will have to change hands to the next generation.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 27, 2025Major red flags to look for during your first acquisition 🚩
Well, frankly... because doing due diligence on deal after deal is exhausting.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 25, 2025“If my grandma wouldn’t understand it, I’m not buying it”
And it didn’t take long to realize that if I wanted to build generational wealth, I had to make sure all my future acquisitions were not only recession-proof... but also AI-proof.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 20, 2025How Bryan bought a $420K business for $125K (without SBA loans)
As one of only a handful of Canadians inside Acquisition Ace, he didn’t have access to SBA loans like US buyers do.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 18, 20254 things I wish I’d known before buying an accounting firm
I bought my first for $0 out of pocket. Now, it pays me $45k every year, and I barely spend any time on it (just a biweekly meeting).
Ben KellyPosted Feb 13, 2025Why I’m buying 20 accounting firms by 2027
Over the next 2 years, I’m going to buy 20 accounting firms.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 11, 2025Acquisition advice for a risk-averse family man
“How does a risk-averse person with a growing family start doing acquisitions?”
Ben KellyPosted Feb 6, 2025The daily habits that let me acquire 8 businesses without burning out
They’ll spend all their time obsessing over optimizing their business... while totally neglecting their health.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 4, 2025Your first acquisition will be hard (and that’s a good thing)
It’s never a straight line. It’s always a zigzag the whole way through.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 30, 202543.5% of America’s GDP is up for grabs
Did you know that “boring” businesses make up 43.5% of America’s entire GDP?
Ben KellyPosted Jan 28, 2025Andrew’s acquisition: from finance 9-5 to accounting firm owner
In early 2023, Andrew and his wife had just enrolled their son in private school.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 23, 2025The simple cold email script I use to find off-market deals
I’m going to walk you through the final step of sourcing off-market deals:
Ben KellyPosted Jan 21, 2025How to find off-market leads (3 easy steps)
Today, I’m going to show you how to actually get started with off-market sourcing.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 16, 2025The subtle art of off-market acquisitions
There are a ton of successful companies whose owners have never thought about selling.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 14, 2025My first acquisition (the full story)
I first started learning about acquisitions while I was working at JP Morgan.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 9, 2025The 5 best recession-proof businesses to buy for 2025
Here are five tried-and-true businesses that will thrive even if the rest of the world is falling apart.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 7, 2025Why I abandoned a prestigious six-figure job at JP Morgan
Years ago, I was fresh out of the military and looking for a new career. I earned an MBA and quickly scored a cushy job with JP Morgan.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 2, 2025She left a 6-figure school job to buy... a pool company?
She managed 500 employees as a school superintendent, but the stress (and office politics) was crushing her.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 31, 2024The pros and cons of buying vs. starting a business
But if you're reading this, you're probably dreaming of something bigger.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 26, 2024Do one deal, retire forever? Here’s the math...
We’re going to look at a case study from Will, one of my students inside Acquisition Ace.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 24, 20244 hidden pitfalls that can sink an acquisition before it starts
If you’ve got experience and resources, buying a business is usually a far better decision than starting from scratch.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 19, 2024Protecting your bottom line from price-gouging vendors
Let’s say you’ve finally bought a business, and you’re getting settled in as the new owner.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 17, 20246 essential negotiation steps for rookie business-buyers
And to make the most money possible, you’ll need to master negotiation.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 12, 2024The seller says your offer is too low. Now what?
So far, it’s the perfect deal… except for one big problem:
Ben KellyPosted Dec 10, 2024How to convince sellers to pay for their own acquisition
This is where the seller funds some (or all) of the business’s purchase price, “becoming the bank” and taking on the risk of the transaction.
Ben KellyPosted Dec 5, 20243 ways to retain A-player employees after an acquisition
If your goal is to transform your acquisition into a source of passive income (with managers handling daily operations without you), nailing this step is essential.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 26, 2024Can a 20-year-old buy a business?
“Is it possible for a 20-year-old to start acquiring businesses?”
Ben KellyPosted Nov 21, 2024“Do I need to go to business school to be good at business?”
“Do I need to go to business school to be good at business?”
Ben KellyPosted Nov 19, 2024The boring business goldmine
Or, they think of underdog businesses making their big break on Shark Tank.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 14, 2024$250k in passive income from ONE acquisition (a deal breakdown)
In 2023, Kris was working for Chevron in Northern California.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 12, 2024How to buy a business with NO money
This might sound too good to be true... but it’s actually not!
Ben KellyPosted Nov 7, 2024The biggest business acquisition opportunity in history is here
And, that they’re retiring at a rate of 11,000 every single day ?
Ben KellyPosted Nov 5, 2024How to command maximum price when selling an acquisition
If you’re planning on acquiring a business for a “quick flip,” selling it six months later for a seven-figure profit, think again.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 31, 2024My favorite business structure for acquisitions
“What’s the best legal structure for a business acquisition?”
Ben KellyPosted Oct 29, 2024Demystifying taxes for first-time business buyers
Taxes are usually an arcane subject... but not in this case!
Ben KellyPosted Oct 24, 2024The most promising industries for business acquisitions in 2025 and beyond
“Ben, what types of industries are showing the most promise for business acquisitions right now?”
Ben KellyPosted Oct 22, 20245 risk-reduction steps before buying any business
You’d be shocked at how many people buy businesses “sight unseen,” and jump headfirst into a bad deal.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 17, 2024Pros and cons of buying a distressed business 🤔
We're talking high risks, but potentially (if you know what you’re doing) big rewards.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 17, 2024One Person’s Normal Is Another Person’s Extreme (Find Your People)
Pete Carroll, former Seattle Seahawks football coach has said about Goggins: “ In my pursuit to understand and learn from the greatest competitors in the world, David Goggins is one that sets the standard.” Carroll knows a thing or two about elite performance and I would agree wi
Ben KellyPosted Jun 10, 2024The Gordian Knot Mentality For Business Acquisition
As the story goes, there was an unbelievably complex knot tied to an oxcart in the city of Gordium. It was decreed that whoever could untie the knot would go on to rule Asia. Alexander was challenged to untie the knot in 333 BC. He examined it briefly but instead of trying to unt
Ben KellyPosted May 20, 2024What One Of The Best Debut Albums Of All Time Can Teach Us About Business
Every song on that album was considered a hit at the time even though “Sweet Child of O Mine” was somehow the only track that hit number one as a single. The album as a whole did hit number one and was the 7th best-selling album of all time in the United States. Rolling Stone ran
Ben KellyPosted May 6, 2024Theory Says White Holes Are Out There (But Stay Practical To Win In Business)
The idea here is that a white hole would be the opposite of our event horizon causing friends. Instead of crushing everything within its grasp, it would spit out matter like a giant interstellar water hose. Has one of these anomalies ever been directly observed? Nope. But neither
Ben KellyPosted Apr 26, 20241 Man, 40 Million Trees (Persistence Wins)
Sounds impossible, right? Maybe even a bit crazy? Well, here is the thing. Jadav proceeded to plant around 40 million trees over the next 30 years, creating what is now known as the Molai forest. It is 1,360 acres with Bengal tigers, Indian rhinoceros, deer, and rabbits prowling
Ben KellyPosted Apr 19, 2024They Shot 6 Missiles At His Plane! (And How Principles Are Always There For You)
While he was dodging anti-aircraft fire during his mission the Iraqi defenses fired not one, not two, but six surface-to-air missiles at his plane. Incredibly, he dodged all six missiles even though his flares and chaff countermeasures failed to deploy even one time.
Ben KellyPosted Apr 10, 2024An Unfortunate Fortune (Craft A Steward’s Mindset)
She maxed out her credit cards to be able to buy as many $100 raffle tickets as possible. In a classic case of being careful what you wish for, she won the house. On the surface, this seemed an amazing turn of events. Ms. Tanner is disabled, cannot work, and at the time was on a
Ben KellyPosted Apr 1, 2024A Career In Tagging (And The Beauty Of The Unexpected Acquisition)
Sounds fancy. Like it wouldn’t look bad on the old resume right? The first responsibility listed is to “objectively analyze, tag, research and write about movies and series with attention to detail, while also understanding the underlying creative intent.” Put another way, you ge
Ben KellyPosted Mar 26, 2024The Silliest 60k Women’s Handbag And The Worst Side Hustle (Ever)
Louis Vuitton Virgil Abloh Ebene Monogram Coated Canvas Airplane Bag
Ben KellyPosted Mar 18, 2024The Man Who Has More Tanks Than Most Countries (Does Your Why Need To Pivot?)
During an interview with Forces News, Tim said the quiet part out loud stating that his dad had a “hobby that went wildly out of control.” So much so that it pushed the family to near bankruptcy. When Tim was in charge of the collection he either had to make a change or sell ever
Ben KellyPosted Mar 11, 2024The Best Player On The ‘92 Dream Team (How To Find Greatness For Acquisitions)
This included the Olympics, where our college basketball players routinely crushed the rest of the world. Over time, however, other countries (who basically fielded professional teams) started to catch up. This being America we didn’t appreciate that so we decided to send the Dre
Ben KellyPosted Feb 26, 2024The First Real Iron Man And How To Change Any Game With Consistency
Even if you don’t like baseball, you have probably heard of the streak. What a lot of non-baseball fans may not know is that besides being an ironman, he also changed how his position was played. At the time, most shortstops were small and fast. Ripken, coming in at 6’4” and 225
Ben KellyPosted Feb 19, 2024The Pitfalls Of Acquisition (And How To Avoid Them)
Pitfall Harry had to avoid all sorts of problems on his way to the gold but all of the dangers were known, so it could be done. Similarly, the first step to avoid the pitfalls in business derail you, is to know about as many of them as possible so you can be prepared.
Ben KellyPosted Feb 12, 2024Curly’s Secret To Life And Business Acquisition
Billy Crystal’s character then spends the rest of the movie trying to figure out what matters most to him. It is a good film, with a great lesson. Did you know that in the business acquisition game, you can apply the same principle?
Ben KellyPosted Feb 1, 2024John Wooden’s Letters (And Setting The Conditions To Succeed)
Chances are you have heard about Wooden and his principles before. But have you heard about his letters? Did you know that after his wife died, he wrote a letter to her every month for 24 years? 288 times he sat down and organized his thoughts about his love for her and how she h
Ben KellyPosted Jan 24, 20249 Trillion Gallons of Water (And How Buying A Business Provides Shelter From The Storm)
There is a saying that every cloud has a silver lining and there is one very cool story that emerged out of the chaos. A young couple was stranded in their home like a ton of other people that day. Annie and Greg Smith were more concerned than most, however, because they were exp
Ben KellyPosted Jan 16, 2024When High Demand Is Bad
Back in 1982, toy company Coleco introduced the Cabbage Patch Kids. The dolls were so popular that riots broke out at malls around the country. Over 2.5 million units were sold in the first year.
Ben KellyPosted Jan 10, 2024Fool’s Gold Adjacent (How To Find The Best Deal For You)
However, there is an interesting fact that most people don’t know about the mineral. It is often a great way to find actual gold because the two minerals are formed under very similar conditions. This means that although it may seem on the surface you don’t have what you want, if
Ben KellyPosted Jan 3, 2024How To Win Friends And Influence People Seller Financing (The #1 Way To Buy A Biz)
Did you know that the self-help book category did an astounding $10.5 billion worth of business in 2020 and it is projected to grow to $14 billion dollars by 2025? We take for granted that you can get dozens of books to improve upon every area of your life, from fitness to mental
Ben KellyPosted Dec 28, 2023Old-Fashion Businesses Can’t Scale (Until Acquired That Is...)
The Shop has also gotten international notoriety for one very specific old-school thing that it still does the same way from its first day of business. What is that you ask? How they serve Coca-Cola. They mix the syrup and seltzer water by hand, and top the drink with a scoop of
Ben KellyPosted Dec 18, 2023You Don’t Have To Believe In Miracles To Acquire Your First Business
As winter is about to officially kick off in the next couple of days, December 21st this year, it makes me think about hockey. The “Miracle on Ice” to be exact. On February 22, 1980, a ragtag bunch of college kids defeated what was basically a professional Russian squad. The stor
Ben KellyPosted Dec 11, 2023The Most Expensive Missed Detail In 2003
During preparations for launch on September 6, 2003, a team of inspectors rotated the craft without checking the bolts that secured it to the platform as required by the standard operating procedures. Suddenly, NOAA-19 crashed to the ground. This definitely ruined someone’s day (
Ben KellyPosted Dec 4, 2023The Most Famous Business Course Correction Of All Time (And A 250k Passive Income Pivot By One Of My Students)
Seeing the digital writing on the digital wall, the heads of the company decided to make a pivot to a new offer. Two employees, Jack Dorsey and Biz Stone, came up with the idea of changing the app to a status-updating micro-blogging platform. On July 15, 2006, Twitter was born. I
Ben KellyPosted Nov 27, 2023How Research Helps You Avoid “Chlorophyll” In Business Acquisition
In 1957, Albert Camus was the second-youngest recipient of the Nobel Prize of literature at 44 years old. I am not a huge fan of his philosophical takes (avoid) but there is a quote of his that is really good about this time of year. He said, “Autumn is a second spring when every
Ben KellyPosted Nov 20, 2023What Sailing Around The World Can Teach Us About Business Acquisition
During her journey of 27,000 miles, she encountered bad weather, equipment failures, and had to sail through areas infested with pirates. But most of all, she had to handle being by herself. Many people have given up similar attempts due to sheer loneliness. It is worth observing
Ben KellyPosted Nov 13, 2023A Simple Mindset Shift That Makes Success Inevitable
One of the most popular series of all time was The West Wing. It aired for 7 seasons from September 22, 1999, to May 14, 2006. The show is ranked at the 10 spot on The Writers Guild of America’s 101 Best-Written TV Series list. Yes, the show is overtly political at times (OK, all
Ben KellyPosted Nov 6, 2023Wilhelm Von Rosenberg > Ron Burgundy (Build A Moat, Don’t Jump Into One)
There is a very funny scene in the movie Anchorman where Ron Burgundy jumps into a bear pit at the zoo to save Veronica Corningstone. He then whispers the famous line: “I immediately regret this decision.”. This scene is hilarious because every person watching the movie would fee
Ben KellyPosted Oct 30, 2023Fail On Your Own Terms (How To Escape The System)
I am excellent at “systems”. I can look at the entry points, analyze the rules, and operate inside them as well (or better) than anyone. The most popular system that people know about is the traditional career path. There are three different ways to start on that journey: college
Ben KellyPosted Oct 23, 2023The Easily Acquired Superpower That Makes Acquiring A Business Frictionless
When talking about the military, people like to focus on its hard edges. Logistics. Tactics. Things that go boom. Stuff like that. The United States armed forces are very good at these things. Most people don’t know that there is a whole other set of soft skills that help our men
Ben KellyPosted Oct 16, 2023The End Of “The Golden Age” Of Business Acquisition (Don’t Wait To Start)
My two older kids are in what many people call the “fun phase”. Old enough to be somewhat independent, but young enough that they still think daddy can move mountains (I can, by the way). Everything they experience still seems new. They haven’t been around long enough for outings
Ben KellyPosted Oct 9, 2023The Zero Dollar Funding Method That Builds Freedom And Abundance
In the military, everyone has a role that requires a very specific skill set. People start in the same place but focus, experience, and continued training are some of the reasons for different career outcomes. What you think the job is all about in the beginning, becomes somethin
Ben KellyPosted Oct 2, 2023Deal Sourcing SOP: The “In-Laws” Method To Finding Your First Boring Business
When I was in the service, I was stationed in Germany. One of the best things about living in Europe is that there are so many cool places to visit. People will hit you up when they are on vacation to meet them. It makes for great memories. Sometimes it wouldn’t work out because
Ben KellyPosted Sep 25, 2023Boring Businesses Are The Ultimate Time Hack (Only Two Skills To Master)
My wife and I recently welcomed a new addition to the family. Our first two kids arrived in this world without a hitch. The pregnancy, delivery, and first few months were pretty standard. Selah, on the other hand, decided she wanted to make an entrance and add a level of complexi
Ben KellyPosted Sep 18, 2023I've been silent...let me explain
Because of this, I had to take a step back to help with the new baby and navigate these challenges. Many of the projects and obligations I had took a backseat and I spent all my free time helping my family get to a healthy place and ready to thrive.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 11, 2022It is not as hard as you think
From where you are sitting, it might seem an impossible task, but I promise you that it is the key to achieving freedom.
Ben KellyPosted Nov 4, 2022How acquiring a business can make you wealthy (with one purchase)
Business acquisition is the fastest path to building generational wealth...bar none.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 28, 2022How to build systems in your business (step-by-step)
Your employees started out following it but then quickly abandoned ship.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 21, 20224 steps to systematize your company (use it)
I felt for them. The anxiety that grips you when you are uncertain of where you will be by the end of the year is constant and draining.
Ben KellyPosted Oct 12, 2022A terminal diagnosis
The Rub : Every single one I looked at had the same terminal diagnosis.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 26, 2022The Millionaire Side Hustle
Summary Points: The fastest way to build wealth while working a 9-5 is buying cash flowing businesses.
Ben KellyPosted Jul 6, 2022The 12 Week Challenge
We are just getting started and I cannot wait to have you all along for the ride.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 21, 2022Every Business is for SALE
Summary Points Finding profitable businesses for sale is the hardest part of being a successful acquisition entrepreneur
Ben KellyPosted Jun 14, 2022Market crashing? Buy a business.
Summary Points: The market is headed to bear territory and the best place to invest your money is in cash-flowing assets.
Ben KellyPosted Jun 7, 2022The $10 Trillion Tsunami
Summary Points: 99% of startups fail completely or never make more than $1M in revenue
Ben KellyPosted May 31, 2022Finding the RIGHT business for YOU
Article Summary: 3 criteria to choosing the correct business to buy
Ben KellyPosted May 24, 2022Buying your First Business
While it is something that happens everyday/everywhere in this country, most entrepreneurs have no idea how to begin their acquisition journey.
Ben KellyPosted May 17, 2022The 800 pound gorilla
Summary A NYT article published this past weekend exclaimed “shock” that the majority of wealth in the US is held by people who own assets.
Ben KellyPosted May 10, 2022The Kingdom Mindset
Today’s Main Points A kingdom mindset is a focus on building generational wealth and influence through buying cash-flowing assets and investing intentional time into building relationships.
Ben KellyPosted May 6, 2022Coming soon
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