When the owner of Levin Audiology began thinking about selling the business, they approached the process the way many experienced professionals do: carefully, methodically, and with plenty of research. Rather than speaking with just one advisor, they contacted several business brokers across New Zealand to find someone who truly understood both the business and their goals for the sale.
One conversation quickly stood out.
“I selected Mike after contacting several business brokers. He impressed me on the phone call so I went with him.”
That first interaction set the foundation for what would become a highly successful partnership. The seller chose to work with LINK Business Broker Mike Hines, drawn to his professional approach, curiosity about the business, and clear understanding of what would be required to achieve a strong result.
Mike’s approach to business brokering is grounded in experience, communication, and strategic thinking. Selling a business requires more than simply introducing a buyer to an opportunity. It requires careful positioning, consistent communication with the seller, and disciplined negotiation to protect value throughout the process.
From the outset, Mike ensured the seller felt supported and informed as the sale progressed.
“Mike communicated with me every step of the way, in a way that worked for me. He took the stress out of the process, providing perspective and guidance, and some hearty laughs along the way.”
For many owners, the process of selling a business can feel overwhelming while they continue running day-to-day operations. One of Mike’s priorities was removing that pressure, allowing the owner to focus on the business while he managed the complexities of the transaction.
That trust proved to be one of the most important elements of the process.
“I was able to trust Mike completely, which took a huge load of stress off my shoulders. This allowed me to focus on the business, knowing the sale was in good hands.”
As buyer interest developed, Mike focused on ensuring the business was positioned to achieve the best possible outcome. Rather than rushing to accept an early offer, he carefully managed negotiations and worked to strengthen the seller’s position in the market.
The result was exceptional.
“Mike’s negotiation skills led to a sale price of over 3x the original offer.”
Through strategic negotiation and careful deal management, the initial offer evolved into a significantly stronger final result, demonstrating the impact brokers can have on the outcome of a sale.
For the seller, the successful transaction delivered more than just a financial result. It also created the opportunity to step back, take time off, and consider what comes next.
Reflecting on the experience, the seller has simple advice for other business owners considering a sale: take the time to find a broker who genuinely understands your business and shares your values.
“I contacted every reputable broker in NZ and stopped searching when I found Mike. He made the process doable from the first phone call, and he answered every single one of my queries patiently and kindly.”
And when asked to sum up the experience of working together, the feedback was clear.
“You’ve got a good one in Mike… he gave me back the level of service that I give my own clients.”
The sale of Levin Audiology ultimately stands as a strong example of how the right broker, clear communication, and disciplined negotiation can transform an initial opportunity into an outstanding result.
