Buying a Business: How Entrepreneurs Build Real Deal Flow

In this episode of JackQuisitions, Jack sits back down with Chris Barr to talk about what real leverage looks like in a self-funded search: building systems instead of just refreshing BizBuySell, working your broker network, and turning your geo + niche into an actual acquisition brand.

They break down how Chris is rebuilding his search infrastructure after round one, why tech leverage (CRM, scraping, cold outbound) matters more than you think, and how conferences, LinkedIn, and local presence (hello, West Palm Beach) quietly generate real deal flow. They also dig into ETA conferences like Harvard’s, the value of boards and mentors, and why most first deals go wrong when searchers are desperate to escape the slog.

If you’re a year into a search, stuck in a niche or geography, or wondering if you should start a business instead of buying one… this one’s for you.

🔍 What You’ll Learn

• How Chris rebuilt his search with tech leverage: CRM, scraping, and cold outreach running in the background.
• Why broker relationships still matter—and how to use them for both first look and “last look” on older listings.
• How to use LinkedIn, conferences, and DMs without feeling like a guru—and still generate real opportunities.
  
  

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💼 Special Thanks to First Internet Bank!

Looking to buy or expand a business? First Internet Bank is a National Preferred SBA lender specializing in acquisitions for the skilled trades. Their SBA loan program offers up to 90% financing for business acquisitions, partner buyouts, and commercial real estate—plus optional lines of credit to fuel future growth. Unlike traditional lenders, they take a “how can we” approach, making deals happen for both first-time buyers and experienced operators.

👉 Special Offer: Mention Owned and Operated for a reduced good faith deposit and a complimentary deal review + buyside prequalification.

Connect with Alan Peterson from First Internet Bank here

Host

Jack Carr

Guest

Chris Barr

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