The Best & Worst Businesses to Buy in 2026

In this episode of JackQuisitions, Jack breaks down one of the most important acquisition questions heading into 2026:

What industries should you avoid… and which ones have the biggest tailwinds?

Jack walks through his framework for evaluating businesses through an acquisition lens — not as a lifestyle operator, but as a buyer looking for scalable enterprise value and an eventual exit.

He explains why some industries that look “hot” on paper can become absolute landmines once you layer in debt, external dependency, labor constraints, and demand volatility.

From construction downturn risk… to solar’s subsidy collapse… to storm-chasing roofers getting squeezed by regulation — Jack lays out the 3 worst businesses to buy in 2026.

Then, he flips the script and shares the 3 best acquisition targets heading into the new year — including recurring-service models, fear-based moats, and the most underserved trade opportunity in home services today.

If you’re buying a business in 2026, this episode is a must-watch.

🔍 What You’ll Learn

• The acquisition lens that matters most: lifestyle vs scalable enterprise value
• Why urgency of demand is everything in home services
• The hidden danger of external dependency when you’re carrying SBA debt
• Why construction businesses can wipe buyers out during downturns
• The biggest headwinds crushing solar in 2026 (subsidies, rates, bankruptcies)

💼 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

💼 Big Reputation — Stop chasing reviews and watching competitors outrank you. Big Reputation is the AI-powered review + SEO platform built for home service pros. Automate review generation, respond with AI, track local SEO, and integrate with your CRM. Setup is free, and your first month’s on the house.

👉 Book your demo

💼 Shoutout to Quick Staffers LLC
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🔗 Connect

Jack Carr – https://www.x.com/thehvacjack

Send a text

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