Understanding Co-Brokering in Florida



Frequently Asked Questions about the Florida business buying process:

All Edison Business Advisor's Intermediaries are active members of the Business Brokers of Florida (BBF).  The BBF system has been designed to maximize your access to opportunities and streamline your search.

 

1. What Is co-brokering?

Co-brokering means that two licensed brokers collaborate on a business sale:

  • One broker represents the seller
  • The other broker represents you, the buyer
  • They split the commission paid by the seller — you don’t pay extra

This is similar to how real estate works, and it’s a standard practice under BBF rules.


2. How does the process work?

  1. You engage a buyer-side broker (like Edison Business Advisors) to help you find businesses that match your goals.
  2. We search the BBF BLS — a statewide database of vetted listings — and identify businesses that fit.
  3. If the listing is held by another BBF broker, we reach out and initiate a co-brokered relationship.
  4. We both sign a BBF co-broker agreement, which outlines commission splits and responsibilities.
  5. We guide you through the process — from NDA to financial review, offer structuring, and closing — while the listing broker works with the seller.

 

3. What do I Gain?

  • Access to more listings: BBF members are required to share listings with other members.
  • No added cost: Commissions are paid by the seller and split between brokers.
  • Confidentiality protection: All parties sign NDAs before sensitive info is shared.
  • Local expertise: You benefit from two brokers’ knowledge — one on the deal, one on your side.

 

4. Common Misconceptions

  • “Will I be disadvantaged?”
    Not at all. BBF brokers are bound by a code of ethics and cooperation rules. Your interests are protected.
  • “Is this optional?”
    For BBF members, co-brokering is mandatory on exclusive listings. It’s part of what makes the BBF system work.

 

Final Thought

Co-brokering is one of the reasons Florida’s business brokerage market is so dynamic. It ensures that buyers like you get full visibility and professional guidance — without being locked into a single broker’s inventory.