Comparative Market Analysis
Data-Driven Insights to Position Your Business for Success
Know Where You Stand—And What You’re Worth
At First Turn Capital, our Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) gives business owners a clear, real-world view of how their company stacks up in the market. We use verified transaction data, industry benchmarks, and operational metrics to uncover value gaps—and help you build a plan to close them. Whether you're preparing to sell or simply want to know where you stand, our CMA gives you the clarity to move forward with confidence.
Our CMA Process
Our comparative analysis goes beyond a surface-level valuation. We break down your company’s financials, performance, and strategic position—then compare those to similar companies in your space. The result? A tactical roadmap that shows how to increase buyer interest and drive a higher valuation.
What It Is
Real-World Data. Real-Time Insight
The Comparative Market Analysis is a comprehensive snapshot of your company’s market position. It’s a strategic tool we use to help you understand where your business fits in the buyer landscape—and how to stand out.
Valuation Benchmarking
We evaluate your company against recent middle-market transactions, industry multiples, and size-specific comps to estimate real-world value.
Performance Metrics
Revenue growth, EBITDA margins, and operational efficiency are measured against competitors to spotlight your company’s strengths and weaknesses.
Market Perception Review
We assess how buyers will view your business—whether you’re a consolidation play, a strategic asset, or a market leader in need of polish.
Gap Analysis
This section shows where you’re leaving money on the table—from outdated financials to structural risks—and how to fix it before going to market.
Who It’s Best For
Is a CMA Right for Your Business?
Our Comparative Market Analysis is a powerful tool for founders and business owners.
- Understand their company’s true market value
- Prepare for a potential sale within the next 1–3 years
- Respond to unsolicited offers with better data
- Benchmark performance to attract investors or buyers
- Build a case for internal growth or recapitalization
Why Choose Our CMA Services
Clarity That Puts You in Control
Most business owners only get one chance to sell—and that chance hinges on good information. Here’s what sets our CMA apart:
Decades of
Transaction InsightOur team brings experience across hundreds of deals and multiple industries—delivering the insight you need to assess value with confidence.
Straightforward
RecommendationsWe turn data into action. Every report includes clear steps to help you improve valuation and buyer readiness—no guesswork required.
Delivered Fast,
Built to LastMost CMAs are completed in 2–3 weeks and designed to be a long-term strategic asset—not a static snapshot that becomes outdated overnight.
What’s Included in Your CMA
ing You Need to Make Informed Moves
Your Comparative Market Analysis includes:
- Full company valuation range based on recent deals
- EBITDA and revenue performance benchmarking
- Strategic buyer perception review
- Operational strengths and weaknesses
- Detailed gap analysis with improvement plan
- Market readiness scoring
The CMA Process
Delivered in Just a Few Simple Steps
We make it easy to get the insights you need—without the wait.
Initial Strategy Call
We start with a short discovery call to learn more about your goals, industry, and financials.
Data Collection
We request key documents and reports—like financial statements, org charts, and customer data.
Market Analysis
Our team benchmarks your business against recent market comps, financial data, and industry trends.
Gap Review & Suggestions
We identify where value is being lost—and recommend how to close the gap.
Report & Review Session
You receive a detailed report and a live walkthrough with our team to discuss next steps.
Required Documents Checklist
To run your Comparative Market Analysis, we’ll need:
- Last 3 years of business tax returns
- YTD financial statements (P&L and balance sheet)
- Customer concentration report
- Revenue by product/service line
- Org chart or leadership structure
- Brief description of key operations
What is a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), and how is it used in M&A?
A CMA evaluates your company’s value, performance, and market positioning by comparing it to similar businesses that have sold recently or are operating in your industry. It’s often the first step in preparing a company for sale or acquisition, helping you understand how buyers would view your business today.
How is a CMA different from a formal business valuation?
A formal business valuation is typically used for legal, tax, or compliance purposes and often follows strict valuation methodologies. A CMA, on the other hand, is market-driven. It benchmarks your company against real-world data—like deal comps and EBITDA multiples—to give you a practical sense of what the market would pay.
What kind of businesses benefit most from a CMA?
Private, founder-led, or mid-market businesses considering a sale in the next 1–3 years benefit most. It’s also helpful for companies responding to an unsolicited offer, planning a recapitalization, or just seeking clarity on where they stand in the market.
What data do you need to conduct a CMA?
We typically request 2–3 years of tax returns, YTD financial statements, a customer concentration breakdown, and high-level information about your team and operations. These documents allow us to provide an accurate comparison and insight into value drivers and potential risks.
Will a CMA tell me exactly what my business is worth?
A CMA will give you a well-supported value range based on real transaction data and peer benchmarks. While it’s not a formal appraisal, it’s highly effective in estimating market value and identifying what could improve your final sale price.
Can I use a CMA to prepare for an unsolicited offer?
Yes—and you should. Many unsolicited offers undervalue businesses. A CMA provides the context and data you need to evaluate the offer objectively and negotiate from a position of strength.
What should I do if my CMA shows value gaps?
That’s where our Value Growth Consulting comes in. If the CMA uncovers performance gaps or buyer concerns, we’ll create a strategic plan to address those issues—so you can increase your company’s value before going to market.
How long does it take to complete a Comparative Market Analysis?
Most CMAs are completed in 2–3 weeks, depending on the complexity of your business and how quickly we receive the necessary documentation. We keep the process focused and efficient so you can start planning your next move without delay.
Is Your Business Ready for a Sale or Strategic Exit?
Why This 60 Second Form Is Worth Your Time
It’s the first step in exploring a potential M&A transaction with First Turn Capital.
- Uncover What’s Driving Your Valuation
- Spot Operational Gaps That Could Kill a Deal
- See If You’re Caught in the Owner’s Trap
- Understand What Buyers Are Really Looking For
Once you complete the form, a member of our senior M&A team will review it and follow up with a confidential, no-pressure call. We’ll walk through your responses, discuss timing, and share what today’s buyers are paying for, along with what they’re avoiding. Whether you're planning for the future or already entertaining offers, this is a smart place to start.
Stay Ahead with Insights Built for Business Owners
Start the Conversation With First Turn Capital
Thinking about a sale? Exploring growth capital? Planning for something in between? It starts with this form.
Give us 60 seconds, and we’ll help you make your next move with confidence.
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