PSA: Realistic QofE Budgets

professional profile

September 19, 2025

by a professional from Bentley College in Miami, FL, USA

I’ve noticed a recurring trend that’s worth flagging. Buyers going after ~$1.5M revenue businesses are budgeting $2K–$5K for a QofE. After seeing 600+ projects come through DueDilio, I can tell you that’s just not realistic. A “lite” QofE for a deal this size usually runs $6K–$12K, while more in-depth reports (invoice sampling, customer concentration, NWC, etc.) are often $12K–$15K+. That said — not every deal requires a QofE. In some situations, a lighter financial review or basic verification may be sufficient, and those can fall in the $1K–$5K range. The key is matching scope to deal risk, structure, and your own comfort level. At DueDilio, we’ve built a marketplace with vetted providers across this full spectrum — from basic financial reviews to full-scope QofEs. The important part is to set realistic expectations: a $2K–$5K budget won’t get you a true QofE on a seven-figure transaction. Just wanted to share this perspective for first-time buyers before you get too deep into diligence. I invite you to visit DueDilio and our Knowledge Center to learn more <> https://www.duedilio.com
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Reply by a professional
from University of Central Florida in Chicago, IL, USA
Another issue is they commonly ask QoE providers to defer fees until the deal is closed when they have no track record of ever closing a deal. You're essentially asking your accountant to work for free when there is a strong possibility the deal is going to die. Would you ask your tax accountant to work for free? How about the lawyer who draws up your estate? This is a no go for a lot of providers. You get what you pay for.
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Reply by a searcher
from Florida State University in San Antonio, TX, USA
How are fees for QoE reports typically determined? I'm looking at a business that is priced at $1.5m and is doing about $4.8m in annual gross revenue. What factors drive the fees?
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