For small business owners watching the market from the sidelines, this pattern underscores how external events can influence timing even when underlying demand remains intact. Almost half of brokers, 49%, said private equity buyers tend to be more demanding or introduce more complicated deal structures, and only 12% said these buyers move faster than individuals. Business owners themselves are divided on private equity. For small business owners, the message is consistent across the data and commentary. Strong businesses continue to find buyers, but preparation, adaptability, and clarity around costs, technology, and operations are increasingly critical.