Craigslist might just be the most underrated tool in a business broker’s toolbox. Think of it as the original Facebook Marketplace—long before social media took over, Craigslist was where people went to buy and sell just about anything, including businesses.
And the best part? It’s still a goldmine for FSBO (For Sale by Owner) business listings, especially in cities or regions where other platforms aren’t as active.
Why Craigslist Works
Craigslist is simple. It’s free to use, easy to navigate, and has a wide reach. Business owners who aren’t working with brokers often list their businesses here directly. That means fewer gatekeepers and more direct opportunities for you.
Step-by-Step: How to Search for Business Listings
1. Go to the “Business for Sale” Section
Start by heading to Craigslist for your target city. Under the “For Sale” section, look for “Businesses for Sale”—this is where most FSBO listings live.
You can also explore the “Business & Commercial” section under Services. Sometimes sellers list in this section instead.
2. Refine Your Search
Craigslist is organized by location, so make sure you’re looking in the right city. Want to go bigger? Expand to nearby cities or regions to broaden your reach.
Use keywords that match what you’re hunting for:
And the best part? It’s still a goldmine for FSBO (For Sale by Owner) business listings, especially in cities or regions where other platforms aren’t as active.
Why Craigslist Works
Craigslist is simple. It’s free to use, easy to navigate, and has a wide reach. Business owners who aren’t working with brokers often list their businesses here directly. That means fewer gatekeepers and more direct opportunities for you.
Step-by-Step: How to Search for Business Listings
1. Go to the “Business for Sale” Section
Start by heading to Craigslist for your target city. Under the “For Sale” section, look for “Businesses for Sale”—this is where most FSBO listings live.
You can also explore the “Business & Commercial” section under Services. Sometimes sellers list in this section instead.
2. Refine Your Search
Craigslist is organized by location, so make sure you’re looking in the right city. Want to go bigger? Expand to nearby cities or regions to broaden your reach.
Use keywords that match what you’re hunting for:
- “Business for sale”
- “Business sale by owner”
- “Selling my business”
- “Restaurant for sale”
- “Franchise for sale”
- “Store for sale”
These help you zero in on listings that match your buyer pool or niche.
3. Evaluate the Listings
Look for listings that are detailed, well-written, and organized. A good Craigslist ad will often include the business type, asking price, some financials, and the reason for selling. These are often legit opportunities.
On the other hand, if the listing is vague or has very little information, it’s not necessarily a red flag—but it is a sign that you’ll need to do a bit more digging.Final Thought:
If you’re not checking Craigslist weekly for business listings, you’re leaving money on the table. It’s free, fast, and full of off-market opportunities just waiting for the right broker to reach out.
3. Evaluate the Listings
Look for listings that are detailed, well-written, and organized. A good Craigslist ad will often include the business type, asking price, some financials, and the reason for selling. These are often legit opportunities.
On the other hand, if the listing is vague or has very little information, it’s not necessarily a red flag—but it is a sign that you’ll need to do a bit more digging.Final Thought:
If you’re not checking Craigslist weekly for business listings, you’re leaving money on the table. It’s free, fast, and full of off-market opportunities just waiting for the right broker to reach out.
