Business Sales, Mergers, & Acquisitions
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Testimonials

Here’s what people are saying about Tennessee Business Brokers.

Business Broker/M&A Advisor/Commercial Real Estate Agents
Tennessee Business Brokers Group, LLC

Hear What our Clients and Business Partners Say

"Karen was a fantastic resource throughout my business acquisition process. The process of buying a small business is a roller coaster ride with wild swings between certainty and skepticism. The buyer will encounter daily issues regarding diligence, financing, closing, etc. where he or she needs to become knowledgeable in a short time. I had a considerable amount of experience in the private equity world, but there were many things that I needed to learn quickly as buying a small business is drastically different than corporate private equity transactions. I was very surprised to discover just how much I would need to rely on the business broker and the banker to get through the process. Karen understands the transaction process and the financing. Even though she represented the seller, I don't think my purchase would have been completed without her expertise to guide me through the transaction." - Tim ~ Buyer/Home Organizational Business



One word....AMAZING. I was referred to Karen Schorkopf by a friend of mine that had used her to sell his business. I was impressed from the very first phone call. Something I thought would be a very long and difficult task, if even possible, turned into one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Karen basically held my hand through the entire process from day one, always having respect for the confidence we needed to maintain and understanding what my needs were, then either meeting or exceeding them. From her negotiating skills, expertise in marketing, and the ability to predict and know what was coming next was the most impressive thing of this process. What was the most amazing was her ability to seamlessly handle both sides of the table, then take all of the information and bring it to the finish line. When I started looking for someone to handle this sale, the common denominator was all the fees other companies wanted to charge, and they wanted it up front. Karen and Tennessee Business Brokers were honest about what the fees were, and they were fair and less expensive than smaller firms with a lot less value than what we received from TBB.  I do not say this about many people, but I would not only use Karen again, I would not hesitate to recommend her and her company to anyone I knew. If there were 10 stars, I would check every one. Thank you, Karen, !!  Wes~  Owner Large Manufacturing Business with Real Estate


"When we were getting ready to sell our medical clinic, we met with lots of M&A Advisors and Business Brokers.  At first, we thought we needed someone who focused on the medical/healthcare field and while we met with some “specialists” in the medical practice arena, we decided Karen would best serve our needs. She came highly recommended by our CPA and bankers. Her many decades working with all sized businesses in every industry is what was our deciding factor. Her process is smooth, and she works hard to source and screen qualified buyers. We were able to close in 8 months and she helped us structure a deal where we could retain a minority ownership, get paid for ongoing consulting for the new owners and defer some taxes on the sale." 

- Philip ~ Owner/Seller Medical Practice


"Karen Schorkopf is a class act. She is advising us through the search process of strategic growth opportunities. This is a long-term project for us looking to double our size and scope in the next five years. She understands our needs and focus. Her reach is broad, sourcing prospects across the US. We always feel she is fairly assessing and making recommendations for everyone’s best interest. Sure, she is really smart, responsive, and a great problem solver, but also one of those great people you look forward to working with for many years to come." - Morgan, Mike, & Ian ~ Metal Manufacturing Partners


"Thank you! I know it was a challenge with my being 4 hours away from my business, but you were fantastic in selling both my restaurant and real estate at a price and terms that worked well for my situation. I could not have done it without all your constant help day in and out." - Marina ~ Restaurant with Real Estate Seller

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"I can’t thank you enough for all your time and work with us through the process of selling our business. Your calm demeanor and sound advice helped us stay patient and focused on what was best. We’re thankful we called you." - Melissa Hood


"It is rare to find someone with true creative skills that are readily and realistically translated to the business world. Ed Legum exemplifies the best of how that can be done. Ed has an uncanny ability to take complex concepts and distill them into information that’s easy to understand and grasp." - Scot Goldman


"Ed’s work ethic is second to none and his depth of knowledge regarding both his own field and other industries and disciplines he comes into contact with is impressive. He is equal parts business and creative minded. Ed manages any given project with a deft hand." - Anthony Williams


"Ed is an amazing businessman, who goes far beyond what is considered the norm in this industry." - Dave Onkels

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We worked with Jim on multiple healthcare transactions where often both the sellers and buyers were challenging to get to closing. These were complex transactions involving multiple partnerships, multiple operating agreements, and corporate and partner approvals.  Jim continued to drive the process through the various stakeholders, including bankers, CPA’s, lawyers, sellers, and buyers. We were able to close multiple transactions with Jim’s help, and continue to engage him and recommend him as a business broker intermediary. 


Jim is always available to counsel clients and assist in getting the transaction closed. He has a strong understanding of legal documentation for business transactions, and is knowledgeable at valuing a businesses and business investments by accurately analyzing and spreading historical financial data. 


He has a vast network of professional contacts that relate to business transactions and brings their expertise to a deal when needed. I have found Jim always acts with integrity, honesty and trusted confidentially. 


- Shannon LeRoy, CEO, Physicians Capital Corp. 


I can’t begin to thank Jim enough! He was so professional, and there for any questions or concerns that we had. He was there through every step of the way ! I don’t feel we would have sold the restaurant without Jim’s help!! Thank you Jim I will forever be grateful. 


- Debra Barner

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"This team was instrumental in getting our business sold. They laid out the process at the beginning and then assisted us along the way by referring us to numerous resources such as lawyers & accountants needed to get the sale completed. They were always focused on ensuring that we were successful in meeting our objectives in the sale even when emotions and egos started surfacing. Karen, in particular, was always available & kept us focused on achieving the goal of getting our company sold at the peak of our 19-year run. I have already and will continue to recommend them to others whom I know in the market for buying & selling companies. Thank you as well for the celebratory dinner & hockey tickets!" - Jay ~ Multi-State Day Care Company
"Like the real estate agent who helps find the perfect house for you, Karen is a great combination of facilitator, negotiator and therapist. Unfailingly calm, she smoothed the bumps inevitable in the business acquisition process and was available each and every time we needed her guidance – even during the holiday season. We closed our first business and are now on to looking for others. We appreciate her partnership throughout the purchase process. She loves what she does, and it shows. Whether you are looking to buy or sell a mom and pop business or a multi-million-dollar venture, she goes above and beyond to manage the process well and keep parties happy. It is handy that she is also a licensed commercial realtor." - Confidential ~ Private Equity Group Partners
"Karen is one of the most organized, dedicated and hard-working professionals that I have ever worked with and she was there to help me along the way. Every time I had a doubt during the process, she was extremely positive and walked me through the low points. I couldn’t have found the right buyer without her and her outstanding team. I would recommend them very highly; Karen is a very kind individual and one of the hardest working people that I have ever been involved with." - Maggie ~ Pet Care & Boarding Business
"Our firm deals with business brokers a lot. The service, attention to detail and responsiveness we consistently receive from this Mergers & Acquisitions Teamis always first rate. They are best in class when it comes to pulling a deal together in the best interests of buyers and sellers. Often there are a lot of last-minute details prior to closing, and they help manage this process right to the finish line. It is a pleasure to refer to them as we know the deal will be buttoned up well with happy buyers and sellers at our closing table." 
- Harold ~ Middle Market Lender
"I wanted to sell my business for over a decade, but the enormity of finding a broker and starting the process always felt insurmountable, so I waited years longer than I should have to begin the process. A trusted friend recommended Karen Schorkopf. Karen made the process stress-free, she was extraordinarily responsive, careful in my valuation, took time to explain all of her thinking and recommendations so I had no doubt when I had to make decisions and she ultimately sold my company quickly for a price that I was happy with.

In fact, the timing couldn’t be better since I have a new investment opportunity that I would not have been able to take advantage of if I didn’t have the liquidity that this sale has provided. I would unhesitatingly recommend Karen to anyone who wants to sell or buy a business as a trusted advisor and much appreciated hand-holder through this process." - Kelly ~ Owner/Seller Publication Business
"We have always wanted to own a restaurant. TN Business Brokerswere extremely professional in helping us through the process from vetting the options, helping me to write an offer, navigating the SBA loan application process, providing useful guidance for creating a business plan and helping us to understand the language and complexities of the due diligence and finalizing the closing documents. This is not an easy process, but it is very manageable when you have the right professionals guiding you every step! Do not go it alone and do not use just any broker. You won’t find anyone more experienced!" 
- Susan & John ~ Owners/Buyers Multiple Restaurants
"Karen did a great job. Her prep works is better than any other broker in the Mid-South. First, she prepared a comprehensive market-based pricing analysis to help us understand where our business would likely sell. She quickly brought many qualified buyers including many strategic buyers and Private Equity Groups from across the US. She helped not only us, but also the ultimate buyers in structuring a deal that would work for everyone. Her 30+ years in banking and finance helped the buyers navigate options for finding the best funding sources. All the while, she kept everything confidential. The price and terms exceeded our expectations. She is a rare find when it comes to professionalism." - Mark & John ~Owners/Sellers Construction Engineering Firm
"We acquired a very large business concept requiring multiple parties on both our (buy) side and the seller’s side of the transaction. Most Business Brokers don’t have the depth of experience to navigate such complex deal making. Also, larger M&A firms charge excessive up front and closing commissions. We received high level expert advice and outstanding communication and guidance throughout this acquisition and highly recommend Karen and her team to others to this day. Her tremendous experience is very evident when it comes to negotiating and intermediating with sophisticated investors, CEOs and Private Equity Groups." 
- Robert ~ Buyer Restaurant/Bar/Event Planning/Real Estate Enterprise
"Never having sold a business before, your attention to detail sure came in handy, not to mention the myriad of problems the buyers encountered that no one could have foreseen or prepared for. You steered us and them through every problem with ease and always made sure it was solved and corrected. Your network and contacts were most helpful,and it was refreshing to find someone who was as dedicated as we were in selling our business." - Tim ~ Seller/Owner Home Services Business
"We hired Karen as a Consultant to help us through the process of buying out the owner of the Business we worked for. She charged a reasonable fee to help us understand the valuation range while also helping us with due diligence and finding the right bank, CPA and Attorney to support our process. We highly recommend her. She is experienced and can think outside the box." - Jessica, Brandon & Tom ~ Employee Purchaser of Construction/Remodel Business
"Right from the beginning you brought enthusiasm , energy and amazing attention to the details of such a transaction. In my view you exceeded our expectations by a long shot. Your regular follow up with many parties, chasing down answers to questions and helping resolve the many small issues that can kill a deal were exactly what was needed." - Jon ~ Architect/Design/Build Business Owner
"Thank you for helping me with the sale of my practice. As you know, this was my first and only “business” that I started and have built up over the past 20+ years. The process of deciding to sell it, and then finding the right buyer, has been emotionally challenging. I appreciate your taking the time to introduce me to the various interested buyers, and in negotiating the deal that I wanted. In the end, they were a great fit for my patients and staff. This sale will allow me to achieve all of the goals that we set out to accomplish from the beginning. Your service and communication throughout the process was excellent. You listened to me and worked through the goals that I wanted to accomplish. Throughout the process you stayed in constant communication, and you did what you said you would do. Thank you for your hard work. It was hard to let go, but I now can look forward to my glory years. You closing gift was unexpected but a nice touch!" 
- Don ~ Sale of Medical Practice
"I want to thank you for your services in selling my business. As you know, it was relatively easy for you to identify the “right” buyer who was willing to pay the most for the business. You were also able to get the buyer on contract within the timeline you projected. Getting to the closing table, however, was an “adventure” to say the least! Your creativity and dogged determination to close the sale were really tested but we came through it together. Throughout the process I found you to be very knowledgeable, professional, and very accessible, even on weekends and evenings. Especially during the weeks before closing, I appreciated your constant attention to my transaction and the fact that you kept me informed on a daily basis about our progress or lack of it. Our franchisor said they have never before worked with a Business Broker who was so experienced and professional. They said “you did most of the work for them” making their job very easy." 
- Chris ~ Franchise Owner/Seller
"It was a true pleasure working with these professionals in this business acquisition. From the very beginning, you were responsive, accessible and honorable. We have made several acquisitions over the years and having your firm handle the details made for a smooth and fair transaction. The proof is in the tremendous fit that this acquisition has made for all involved and we look forward to working with you in the future. I can thank Kraft CPA for sending me to you to begin with. They understand that having the best broker is a must." 
- Dennis ~ Retail Store with E Commerce Biz Buyer
"When my banker first referred me to Karen, I was ready to sell my company and told her what I wanted to get for the business. She said she didn’t want to know until she had had time to complete her 5-page analysis. I could not believe she would go to such trouble not even knowing if I would hire her and without charging me! She studied my financial data, competition, the industry, comps and more and then came back to tell me our market value was significantly below what I wanted. Disappointed, I nevertheless trusted her and the multiple people who told me she was “the best”. I came to respect that she would tell me the truth as opposed to what I wanted to hear. After a few days of huffing, I asked her what I had to do to get the business where “I needed it to sell” and she put a plan together for me. She consulted with me and my executive team as we made those improvements. Fifteen months later we took the company to market and sold it for a reasonable price and quickly. I see Karen often at various networking and community events. I highly recommend her not only as a broker but also a skilled exit planner and trusted advisor. Her fees are reasonable, too." 
- Andrea ~ Service Business Owner/Seller
"Karen Schorkopf is a hardworking lady, smart, fun and pleasant too. We can’t imagine how we could have sold our small business without her experience. You will really enjoy working with her." 
- Ronnie & Carol ~ Owners/Sellers of Laundromat Business
"When my company got ready to acquire, we brought Karen in to advise us. She helped us source a variety of opportunities in our wheelhouse and immediately communicated when new businesses were going to be listed. It is key to have a Broker on the hunt for you. She did a great job and found us the right company, structured the offer and helped walk us through due diligence. She is a top notch when it comes to negotiating and detailing a variety of structures to get your deal to the finish line. I was not surprised to learn that she closes something like 90% of her listings. In our experience, that is very impressive!" 
- Walter ~ CorporateBuyer Multi Location Personal Services Business
"We have retained Karen to consult with our firm, working towards an eventual exit strategy or at least a merger or transition. Her fees are reasonable. We started by having her do a pricing evaluation. She goes into much detail in doing this, beyond crunching numbers. Her qualitative assessment takes into consideration weighted risk factors such as Continued Earnings Risk, Company History Assessment, Growth Projection, Competition Analysis, Business Expansion Opportunity Assessment, Barriers to Entry for New Competition, Customer Base Sensitivity, Importance and Dependence on Current Owner, Business Location/Lease, Purchase Financing Likelihood by Sellers or Banks, Industry Strength, Demographics, the Economy, New Owner Social Desirability, etc. 

Having been a banker for many decades before getting back into the M&A business, she is so far superior to other business brokers in the market. Her fees are reasonable, and she works well with our other strategic business partners. The group that referred us to Karen used the tag line “From Wall Street to Main Street” which is very appropriate given that she stared her career in NY City in the early 80s. Don’t be fooled though, there are no airs about her! She is fun to work with too!" - George ~ Multimedia Marketing Company
"Our firm had previously had our business on the market twice with two different brokers for over a year with few buyers, limited feedback from those brokers and needless to say, no sale. Lesson: Beware of brokers who only tell you what you want to hear!Then our attorney said we should try Karen. Then I retained Karen to sell my company. I was so impressed. Karen’s marketing materials and marketing program were 10 times better than the flimsy pieces the other brokers passed as Profiles. She spends a lot on advertising and subscribes to more listing sites than anybody in the market. Shortly after we started, I wound up in the hospital with severe heart issues. Selling a business is challenging in any situation, but in this case, we had heightened stress. I so much appreciated Karen’s patience and calm leadership through the process. Instead of selling the business, we decided to sell our significant assets, our customer list and real estate, all of which Karen handled skillfully. She was a blessing, at a turning point for our entire family." 
- Richard ~ Seller of Nationally recognized sign company
"Karen Schorkopf is one of the most skilled and professional business brokers I have worked with over the last 20 years. Her background in financial services and banking leads to more closed transactions because she understands the financials and can set realistic expectations. Karen brings value to both sides of the transaction and operates with the highest integrity. If you are looking to buy or sell a business I would highly recommend you have coffee with Karen. She will provide personalized service and effective advice. 
- Lane Rhodes ~ SBA Lender with Pinnacle Bank
"When I decided to sell my business, choosing Karen was the best decision I could have made. The process was smooth, and I never felt left out of the loop. Karen makes her clients her priority. I recommend her. She has a vast amount of knowledge in all areas of commercial real estate, banking and business. I know I would have been lost without her help and knowledge. She pursued the buyer of my business and we closed in less time than I imagined. Don't hesitate to call her to be your commercial broker." 
- Danny Maggipinto ~ Nashville Restaurant Owner/Seller
"I have met with Karen several times, learning more about her business. Her 37 years of knowledge is incredible. Buying & selling a company is not easy, and you need someone like Karen to look out for you. She looks out for her clients, is professional, and has many connections that are available to help. Give Karen a call today. She will have your back." - Dave Toeben~ Owner/President, Insight Insurance Services
"I have a long business relationship with Karen at Tennessee Business Brokers, and her previous banking career with Bancorp South. Karen is a hard-working professional who any business owner would be fortunate to have representing them in their quest to have a successful sale of their business." - Keith Avery ~ Owner Insurance
"If you're looking for a business broker that understands how to navigate through the sometimes-complex process of either selling your business or buying one, I recommend you consider using the services of Karen Schorkopf. She is a professional who performs at the highest level, combining exceptional industry knowledge with the proven skills to get the job done. The bonus is: Karen is a good person who is committed to serving her clients with integrity and uncompromising honesty." - Edmond Legum ~ Business Broker and Author of Being a Business Broker — the art of communicating with buyers & sellers
"Karen has been a pleasure to work with. Her knowledge of businesses and deal-making covers the full spectrum you would expect from an industry veteran. Beyond just being knowledgeable and professional, she has a great personality and makes work fun. I’d recommend Karen to my most important clients." 
- Andrew Coulton ~ Commercial Real Estate Broker, Westgate Commercial
"I have worked on a lot of deals with Karen, and she is an excellent broker with a great history in business. She is a strong negotiator for her clients. I highly recommend Karen." - Todd Jackson ~ Attorney/MBA, Law Firm
"I have worked with Karen on numerous business sales and acquisitions. Karen does a fantastic job of working with Sellers helping them to get their business ready to be sold and working with Buyers through the due diligence process. Anyone who is looking to sell their business or to buy an existing business would benefit greatly from having Karen on your side." - Gaylord Gardner III ~ Business Attorney
"The best business broker i have ever worked with. I would not refer business to anyone else!!" 
- John Blankenship ~ Commercial Real Estate Broker, Parks Commercial
"Karen is extremely professional, thorough and helpful." 
- Laura ~ Seller E Commerce Business, Current Owner of Travel Business
"Ed Legum is a sales and marketing mastermind." - Tamara Lopata
"Ed has an engaging and insightful delivery, and a personality that makes it easy for clients to open up to him about where they need improvement so that he might tailor his wisdom to their needs." - Tom Gawronski
"Very rarely do you meet an individual with such a robust balance of a ‘head for numbers’ and a heart for creative appeal. If you want tactical actions that get results, Ed is the man to make it happen." 
- Suzy Roche
"Ed Legum seriously understands business. His depth of knowledge is astounding. Ed’s comfortable communication style is filled with lessons, parables and stories that easily explain some of the most complicated issues facing businesses today. Ed’s feet are firmly planted in the real world where business is done and sales are made." - Mark Doornbosch
"I have had the pleasure of working with Jim Shaub a few times. In my first meeting with him, he gifted me a book with notes and highlights to help me understand the process of finding and closing a business. He has always been gracious with his time, sensitive to information, committed to a result for everyone, and very professional in his planned approach. I would absolutely recommend Jim to anyone looking to sell or buy a business." - Phillip Simpson
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