Washington, DC
Business Broker in Washington, DC
Michael Kelly, a TrueWave broker, covers Washington, DC. He works with District owners from the first valuation call through closing.
The Washington, DC business landscape
Government contracting and consulting firms dominate the District’s business-for-sale market. For them, contract novation and small-business set-aside status are central to value, so we review both before going to market.
Professional associations and consulting firms often have recurring revenue, such as retainers, memberships and multi-year contracts, which buyers value. DC’s high top tax rate makes deal structure a key conversation for larger sales.
Key local industries
- Government contracting and consulting. Service, technology and advisory firms.
- Professional services. Law-related, lobbying and association-management firms.
- Healthcare. Practices and clinics.
- Education. Training and tutoring businesses.
- Real estate services. Property management and related services.
Selling a business in Washington, DC: rules and taxes
Income tax. DC’s income tax rates run from 4% to 10.75%, and the top rate applies to taxable income over $1,000,000. At those rates, timing and structure matter for larger sales, so involve your CPA early.
Bulk sale notice. Under DC’s Bulk Sales Act, the buyer of an existing business must notify the Office of Tax and Revenue of the sale and its terms by certified mail 15 days before taking possession. If the buyer doesn’t, the buyer can be held responsible for the seller’s unpaid taxes. Expect the buyer’s attorney to send this notice and to check that your DC filings are current.
Important: The tax and legal information on this page is general information as of October 2026. It is not tax, legal or financial advice. TrueWave Business Brokers is not a CPA firm or a law firm. Tax rates and rules change often, and how they apply depends on your situation and how your sale is structured. Before making any decisions, consult your CPA, attorney and financial advisor. For the most current information on DC income tax rates and any tax clearance requirements for business sales, visit the DC Office of Tax and Revenue: https://otr.cfo.dc.gov/
Recent deals and listings in Washington, DC
We don’t have closed deals or open listings to show near you in Washington, DC yet, and we won’t post any until they’re real. Buyers can browse businesses for sale and join our buyer list to hear about new ones first. Owners can start with a free, confidential valuation: you’ll see what your business is likely worth and what buyers will ask about.
Local resources
Useful places for owners getting ready to sell:
- DC Small Business Development Center
- SBA Washington Metropolitan Area District Office
- DC Office of Tax and Revenue (Bulk Sales Act notices)
Neighborhoods we serve
Downtown, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Navy Yard, U Street, Dupont Circle and the rest of the District.
Nearby:
Selling a business in Washington, DC: FAQ
How is a business sale taxed in DC?
The District taxes income at rates from 4% to 10.75%, with the top rate on taxable income over $1 million. Federal tax applies too. The structure and timing of the sale make a real difference at these rates, so ask your CPA to model it.
Can I sell my government contracting firm?
Yes. Plan for novation, the government’s approval to move contracts to a new owner, and check whether set-aside contracts will carry over if the buyer doesn’t qualify. We review your contract base first because it drives value.
Do buyers inherit unpaid DC taxes?
They can. Under the Bulk Sales Act, a buyer who doesn’t notify the Office of Tax and Revenue 15 days before taking possession can be held responsible for the seller’s unpaid taxes. Having your filings current makes this step routine.
Do you cover the DC suburbs in Maryland and Virginia?
Yes. Michael Kelly also covers Maryland and Virginia, so owners on both sides of the line work with the same broker.
How long does it take to sell a business?
Usually 6 to 12 months from valuation to closing. Preparation, the type of business, financing and any state tax clearances all affect the timeline. We map the steps out with you at the start so nothing surprises you at the end.
Answers above that touch on taxes or legal rules are general information as of October 2026, not tax, legal or financial advice. TrueWave Business Brokers is not a CPA firm or a law firm. Confirm anything that affects your sale with your CPA and attorney. Official source: DC Office of Tax and Revenue.
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TrueWave Business Brokers · Quincy, MA · 978-289-3115 · Experienced business brokers and a licensed real estate agency, working with owners and buyers across the U.S.