Layne, I suggest having a polished "proof of funds" document / statement at the ready - thus showing sellers (and their brokers) that you are credible and ready to move in the right situation.

Based in Chico, CA. Been in operations/business management for many years mainly in the rental car industry. Before moving to the US I worked in manufacturing/product development in India, so I naturally lean toward industrial and blue collar businesses. Still searching, have not acquired yet. Looking mostly at manufacturing, equipment rental, industrial service, dumpster/waste, distribution and similar B2B businesses in the $1M-$5M range. Open to relocating for the right deal. Currently spending most of my time reviewing CIMs, learning LOI/SBA process, and trying to get better at filtering good businesses from bad ones. Biggest help I probably need is around deal sourcing and connecting with experienced operators who have actually gone through acquisition and transition. Happy to help anyone from an operator mindset perspective. I work long hours and relate more to practical day-to-day business operations than pure finance. Also interested in connecting with people in manufacturing and service businesses. Looking forward to learning from everyone here.