Most business owners are surprised to learn that the majority of businesses never sell—often because the owner hasn’t thought through who their buyer might actually be. In this kickoff episode of Business and Exit Planning Simplified, Joe Curry breaks down the four types of buyers every business owner needs to understand before planning an exit.

From individual buyers looking to own their first business, to strategic competitors aiming for market share, to financial buyers seeking a return, and even internal buyers like family or employees—each comes with unique motivations and deal structures. Joe highlights the pros and cons of each path, helping you see where your business may fit best.

If you’re a Canadian business owner thinking about retirement or simply planning ahead, this episode offers a practical framework for identifying your most likely buyer and preparing your business to maximize value. Understanding these four buyer types could be the difference between a stressful sale and a smooth, rewarding transition.