Navigating the Sale of Your Auto Repair Shop: Lessons Learned from Marty Long’s Journey

Marty Long, the owner of Hills and Dales Auto Care in Canton, Ohio, recently made the decision to sell his business after 25 years of operation. Long’s focus on honesty, integrity, and ethics guided him throughout the process of finding the right buyer for his shop.

Long’s decision to sell was not made lightly, as he wanted to ensure that his employees and customers would be taken care of by the new owner. After months of meetings, negotiations, and legal paperwork, Long found the perfect fit and sold his business a few years ahead of his planned exit date in May 2025.

The process of selling a business can be complex and challenging, but Long’s experience offers valuable lessons for other shop owners considering a sale. It is essential to have your financials in order and to show a profitable business to potential buyers. Building relationships and taking the time to find the right buyer are also crucial steps in the selling process.

Long’s successful sale resulted in all of his employees staying on after the ownership transition, highlighting the importance of taking care of your team during a business sale. While selling a business can bring about feelings of guilt or regret, Long’s experience shows that it can also lead to positive changes and new opportunities for both the seller and the new owner.

Overall, Long’s story serves as a reminder that selling a business is a significant decision that should be approached thoughtfully and strategically. By following principles of honesty, integrity, and ethics, shop owners can navigate the selling process successfully and ensure a smooth transition for all involved.