Andre Council

Andre Council is a proud U.S. Army veteran whose core values of trust, integrity, and service guide every decision he makes. As a seasoned Business Broker and Loan Consultant with First Choice Business Brokers, Andre specializes in helping small business owners navigate acquisitions, financing, and strategic growth. With over 20 years of experience in finance, insurance, investing, and business consulting, Andre brings a deep understanding of both the numbers and the people behind them. His background includes more than 15 years working directly with entrepreneurs in retirement planning, life insurance, and investment strategy—always with a focus on problem-solving and customer experience excellence. Andre holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance and an MBA in Operations Management. He’s passionate about sharing knowledge and building lasting relationships that empower clients to make confident, informed decisions

With over 25 years of hands-on small business experience, Kelli Connaughton brings a unique perspective to business brokerage—because she’s been on both sides of the table. She has personally started, developed, bought, and sold multiple successful businesses, giving her an insider’s understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and emotions that come with every transaction. Kelli built and sold three 20,000+ sq. ft. multi-purpose fitness centers from the ground up, later scaling and relocating an established spa and salon to double its revenue and staff. Her track record reflects not only strategic vision but also the ability to execute, grow, and position businesses for maximum value. Her deep knowledge of operations, marketing, staffing, and financial performance allows her to guide clients through every step of the buying or selling process with clarity and confidence. Whether representing sellers who want to maximize their exit or buyers looking for the right opportunity, Kelli combines her entrepreneurial insight with a results-driven approach to achieve the best possible outcome.

Doug Van Liew is a Hampton Roads based business broker who specializes in helping Main Street business owners confidently prepare for, navigate, and complete the sale of their businesses. With firsthand experience as a business owner who has personally bought and sold companies, Doug brings a rare, owner-first perspective to the brokerage process—one rooted in empathy, clarity, and real-world understanding. Doug works primarily with service-based and locally owned businesses, including home services, accounting firms, salons, and other owner-operated enterprises throughout Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and the greater Hampton Roads area. Having been on both sides of a transaction, he understands that selling a business isn’t just a financial decision—it’s deeply personal. His approach is designed to remove confusion, reduce stress, and help owners make informed decisions at every stage. Before focusing on business brokerage, Doug built a strong foundation in real estate, operations, and small-business ownership. That background allows him to look beyond the numbers and evaluate what truly drives value in a business—systems, people, cash flow stability, and transition readiness. Rather than pushing sellers into premature exits, Doug emphasizes education, preparation, and strategic timing to maximize outcomes. Known for his approachable communication style and transparent guidance, Doug positions himself as an advisor first and a broker second. He frequently works with owners who are early in the exit-planning phase and may not yet be “ready to sell,” helping them understand valuation drivers, common pitfalls, and realistic expectations well before going to market. Doug lives and works in Hampton Roads and is deeply connected to the local business community. His mission is simple: help business owners protect what they’ve built and transition on their own terms—with clarity, confidence, and trust.