Taking private equity or selling to a roll-up – what happens on the ground?

Private equity money can look sexy—big payout, professional management and a fleet of trucks with matching decals. In reality, selling to a roll-up often means losing control over pricing, service standards and culture. PE investors expect a return, so they may push for aggressive sales tactics, fee-heavy financing and cost cuts that hurt quality.

On the upside, you might access better vendor pricing and capital for expansion. Before you sign, ask how decision-making will change, whether your brand survives and what happens to your team. Read the purchase agreement carefully and hire an attorney who knows the industry.

Remember, there’s no such thing as “free money.”