The Art of the Exit: How to Sell Smart and Buy Right with Broker Nathan Hulls

What does it really take to sell your business for the best possible price—or to buy one without getting burned?

In this episode of Built to Sell | Built to Buy, I sit down with Nathan Hulls, a seasoned business broker and exit advisor with Link Business Brokers. Nathan’s journey spans from starting his first lawn mowing business at 12, to running companies across tech, retail, and fitness, and now guiding business owners and buyers through the high-stakes world of acquisitions.

With his unique blend of real-world business ownership and brokerage expertise, Nathan reveals:

• Why being “exit ready” matters more than wanting to exit—and how to prepare your business years before you sell.
• The psychology of the deal: how motivation, storytelling, and empathy shape both buying and selling outcomes.
• The biggest mistakes sellers make (and how to avoid becoming a “dumpster fire” listing).
• How buyers can protect themselves—from red flags in due diligence to spotting when emotions cloud judgment.
• Why culture and fit can outweigh the financials in making a business sale stick.
• The one surprising sale that smashed expectations—going from a $5M appraisal to a $12M deal.

Whether you’re a business owner eyeing an exit or a buyer chasing your dream acquisition, Nathan breaks down the numbers, systems, and human factors that truly drive value.

👉 If you’re planning to sell in the next 12 months, his number one piece of advice could save you years of regret.
 👉 If you’re buying your first business, his due diligence checklist will keep you from making an emotional mistake.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Exit success starts with preparation—years before you plan to sell.
• Buyers don’t just buy profit; they buy confidence in the future.
• Culture, systems, and owner-independence drive valuation far beyond the P&L.
• The right broker doesn’t just list a business; they connect people, stories, and strategies.

📬 Connect with Nathan Hulls

• LinkedIn: Nathan Hulls

• Email: [email protected]

If you want to work directly with Sam, head to sampenny.com/action