TREADSTONE LAW · ONTARIO · DIGITAL LEGAL SERVICES · EST. MMXXI ·TSL
Learn/Ask a Lawyer/Buying & Selling a Business/Is it smart to interview more…
Buying & Selling a Business

Is it smart to interview more than one broker before choosing one?

TSL Written by the Treadstone Law team· Updated August 2026

Yes, and most sellers benefit from doing this rather than signing with the first broker they speak to. Interviewing more than one lets you compare not just proposed commission structures, but marketing plans, communication style, relevant industry experience, and how each broker actually answers direct questions about confidentiality, buyer screening, and their track record. Differences between brokers on these points are often more significant to your outcome than differences in fee alone.

There's no obligation to sign with anyone during an initial conversation, and a broker who pressures you to commit on the spot, before you've had a chance to compare options, is worth noting as its own signal. Ask each broker the same core questions so you're comparing like for like, and pay attention to whether their answers hold up to a direct follow-up rather than staying general. Once you've chosen, that's the point to slow down again and have the actual listing agreement reviewed carefully before signing — a Treadstone business lawyer can go through the terms with you once you've narrowed down your choice.

Key takeaways

  • Comparing more than one broker is generally a smart, low-risk step before committing.
  • Compare marketing plans, experience, and communication style, not just proposed fees.
  • Pressure to sign immediately during an initial conversation is itself worth noting.
  • Ask each broker the same questions so you're comparing consistently.
This is general information, not legal advice. It doesn’t create a lawyer–client relationship, and the rules can change. For advice on your situation, a Treadstone business lawyer can help.
Was this helpful?Share:

Go deeper

Still have questions?

Search 6,000 answers, or send yours to a Treadstone lawyer — we answer in plain language.

All answersStart a File →