What is my business really worth?

Understanding Your Business Valuation with Agent Local

If you’re asking yourself, “What is my business really worth?”—you’re not alone. Whether you're planning to sell, seek investment, or simply want to understand your business’s position in the market, knowing its true value is critical. At Agent Local, the UK’s trusted business sales agency, we help thousands of business owners uncover the real value of their business every year.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors that influence your business valuation, the methods professionals use to assess value, and how Agent Local can provide you with an expert, tailored valuation—free of charge.

A business valuation isn’t just about selling—it’s about understanding where you stand. Knowing your business’s value helps you make informed decisions, whether you’re considering selling now or preparing for a future exit. It also supports important processes such as raising finance, attracting investors, succession planning, or even handling legal matters like divorce or inheritance. Many owners underestimate or overestimate what their business is really worth. Without expert insight, you risk undervaluing your hard work or pricing yourself out of the market entirely. This is where professional support from Agent Local becomes essential.

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How a Business Valuation Works

There’s no single formula to determine how much your business is worth. Instead, valuers use a range of professional methods depending on the type and size of your business, as well as its current performance and future potential. One approach is asset-based valuation, which focuses on the value of everything the business owns minus any liabilities. This method is often used for asset-heavy industries such as manufacturing or construction.

Another common method is income-based valuation. This considers your business’s ability to generate profit now and in the future. Figures like EBITDA or seller’s discretionary earnings may be used to gauge financial performance. The third major method is market-based valuation, which compares your business to similar businesses that have recently sold. It’s especially useful for identifying how buyer demand and industry trends impact pricing. At Agent Local, we don’t rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. We combine these methods with real-time market data and local buyer insight to produce a detailed, accurate valuation tailored specifically to your business.

What Affects Your Business’s Value?

Several key factors can significantly influence your business valuation. These include your current turnover and net profit, your customer base, the strength and reputation of your brand, your team and leadership structure, and whether you own or lease your premises. Market conditions, competitive position, and future growth potential also play a crucial role.

Even seemingly small factors like your online presence or the length of client contracts can have a measurable impact. Understanding these elements helps you take control of your business's value—both today and in the long term.

“We make selling businesses look easy with our professional and honest business valuations.”

At Agent Local, our team of UK-based business sales experts have valued and sold thousands of businesses across every industry. We don’t rely on automated tools or generic calculators. Instead, we take the time to understand your business in detail before offering a clear, market-led valuation.

When you instruct us, you gain access to years of commercial experience, industry-specific knowledge, and real buyer demand. Our valuations are fast, confidential, and completely free—with no obligation to proceed. Whether you're selling now or simply planning ahead, knowing what your business is really worth is a smart move.

Let Agent Local help you discover its full potential.