Download editable .docxFill in the blanks after printing, or edit the .docx in Word / Google Docs. Laundromat Sale-Prep Checklist
Licenses, documents and fixes buyers look for when you sell a laundromat
Know your number
- [ ] Recast earnings to SDE (and adjusted EBITDA if above about $1M of earnings)
- [ ] Run the laundromat valuation calculator and save the brief
- [ ] Estimate after-tax proceeds under asset vs stock sale
Licenses and transfer issues for laundromats
| Done | Issue | What to know |
|---|
| [ ] | Lease assignment | Most laundromat value depends on assigning the lease; secure landlord consent and options early. |
| [ ] | Utilities and permits | Water, sewer and local business permits usually need to be put in the buyer's name; confirm local requirements. |
Documents buyers will ask for
- [ ] 2-3 years of financials
- [ ] Utility bills (water, gas, electric) - buyers use them to verify revenue
- [ ] Machine list with ages and payment systems
- [ ] Lease and options
- [ ] Wash-and-fold and commercial account revenue
Fix what buyers discount
- [ ] Owner dependence: document processes, delegate selling and scheduling, cut your hours in the work
- [ ] Customer concentration: no single customer above about 15% of revenue
- [ ] Recurring revenue: convert one-off customers to agreements or plans
- [ ] Clean books: separate personal expenses, reconcile monthly, keep 3 years of tax returns ready
Deal structure notes
Buyers are often SBA-financed investors; the lease term must support the loan term, so landlord consent and options are negotiated before closing.
Timeline
BizBuySell reports a median 139 days on market for laundromats sold 2021-2025.
Rules vary by state; confirm licensing and transfer requirements with counsel. General information, not legal or tax advice.