Surveying

Selling a Surveying Business

If you are considering selling a surveying business, Viking M&A’s comprehensive brokerage and advisory services are here to expertly guide you through the process.

When selling a surveying business, understanding your company’s true market value is paramount. With our extensive experience working with surveying businesses, we can thoroughly and accurately assess your company’s value. We recognize that each surveying business comes with its unique considerations, such as employee & organizational structure, geographic and customer footprint, and technological advances in equipment. Whether you operate a land surveying company specializing in residential properties, commercial developments, or infrastructure projects, we work closely with you to identify your objectives and priorities. Our goal is to connect you with motivated buyers and assist you in achieving the best possible outcome, all while maximizing the value of your business through our tailored business brokerage solutions.

Valuation Multiples in the Surveying Industry

Valuation multiples for surveying businesses can vary based on many factors, like geographic location, the size of operations, and the scope of services offered. One type of multiple is the EBITDA multiple, which calculates a company’s value based on its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. So, for example, if surveying businesses are selling for between 4 and 7 times their EBITDA, a small surveying company with $1 million in EBITDA might sell for $4 million to $7 million. A larger surveying company with $10 million in EBITDA might sell for $40 million to $70 million.

Disclaimer: These are examples. Consulting M&A professionals (like ours at Viking) is essential for the most accurate, up-to-date, and specific data. We have access to reputable industry reports, financial databases, current transaction comps, and experience providing accurate and customized valuations.

Factors Influencing Valuation Multiples

Technological Integration: Surveying firms that have adopted and integrated modern technological tools like drones, GIS, and laser scanning typically fetch higher valuations due to enhanced efficiency and accuracy.

Client Contracts: Established long-term contracts, especially with government or large-scale developers, add substantial value due to the promise of consistent revenue streams.

Reputation and Expertise: Companies known for precision, timeliness, and expertise can command higher valuations. Any awards, certifications, or recognized projects can significantly enhance a firm’s standing.

Geographic Presence: Firms operating in high-growth areas, urban centers, or regions with robust infrastructure development often see higher valuation multiples.

Diversified Services: Surveying companies that offer a broad spectrum of services, from topographical surveys to construction staking, tend to be more attractive as they can cater to diverse clientele.

Financial Health: A strong balance sheet with consistent profitability and minimal debts invariably supports a higher valuation.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all operations align with regional and national regulations reduces potential liabilities and strengthens a firm’s position during a sale.

At Viking Mergers and Acquisitions, our advisory approach prioritizes our client’s best interests. We leverage our industry knowledge to ensure favorable outcomes and seamless transitions for all parties. We are committed to assisting you through the entire process of selling a surveying business, from the initial valuation to the post-closing transition. We have built our reputation on transparency, integrity, and customer satisfaction. Contact us today to explore how we can help you achieve your goals.

For potential buyers exploring surveying businesses for sale, we specialize in matching sellers and qualified buyers. The surveying industry offers diverse opportunities, from specialized topographic surveyors to geodetic surveying firms, so we focus on providing the information and insight needed to make well-informed decisions throughout the acquisition process. Contact us for more information about surveying businesses for sale or sign up for our buyers email list.