Adam Morris

Vaughn & Associates

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Howe, Texas

Affiliated Broker
Rylie Vaughn

About the Company

Vaughn & Associates is a Texas-based business brokerage specializing in the sale of privately held businesses, with a strong focus on franchise resales, service-based companies, and owner-operated enterprises. We work with business owners who are ready to sell, buyers looking for the right opportunity, and investors seeking clear, well-presented deals.

Our brokerage was built on the belief that selling a business deserves the same level of strategy, transparency, and care as any major financial decision. We take a hands-on approach to every listing, combining detailed financial analysis, thoughtful positioning, and targeted marketing to reach qualified buyers—not just browsers.

With experience across restaurants, franchises, salons, and service businesses, we understand the nuances that affect valuation, deal structure, and buyer confidence. We guide clients through every stage of the transaction, from initial valuation and preparation to negotiations and closing, ensuring the process is efficient, professional, and aligned with our clients’ goals.

Vaughn & Associates is committed to clear communication, discretion, and results. Whether you are selling a single location or evaluating your first acquisition, our role is to simplify the process and protect your interests at every step.

Broker Biography

Introduction

I've spent my career at the intersection of institutional finance and hands-on entrepreneurship — and I've learned that the most valuable thing I can offer a business owner isn't a spreadsheet. It's the ability to see their business the way a sophisticated investor would and then build the roadmap to close that gap.

My foundation starts at Ernst & Young, where I specialized in tax compliance, financial modeling, and due diligence for some of the largest corporations in the world — U.S. Steel, Dow, Federal-Mogul, and others. Working inside one of the Big Four sharpened something that no textbook can teach: the ability to walk into any business, dissect its financial architecture, and immediately identify where value is being created, where it's being lost, and where the real opportunity lives.

From there, I went on to build a career responsible for over $1.7 billion in total transaction experience — underwriting and closing complex deals across commercial real estate, global M&A, and institutional capital markets. That includes:

$600MM+ in debt origination across multifamily, industrial, retail, and hospitality
$1.1B in LIHTC equity placements, managing guarantor analysis and net equity funding for large-scale affordable housing developments
Global M&A advisory spanning telecom and virtual accounting firm acquisitions in Europe, with individual deal sizes exceeding $20MM
Ongoing relationships and deal flow with REITs, private equity firms, family offices, and private credit funds

But what truly sets my advisory work apart is that I don't just advise — I operate. As both a General Partner and Limited Partner, I've deployed my own capital across a curated investment portfolio built on a disciplined, basis-first philosophy. Today I own and manage 300,000+ square feet of industrial real estate, the majority of which was acquired at a significant discount to replacement cost. Every deal I've done has had my own money behind it. That changes how you think.

What I Do For Clients Today

I work with entrepreneurs, business owners, and acquisition-minded professionals as a fractional CFO and strategic business advisor — bringing institutional-grade financial thinking to companies that don't have a $500/hour CFO on staff but absolutely need one in the room.

My advisory work spans:

Financial Strategy & Modeling — Forecasting, cash flow architecture, scenario planning, and capital structure optimization built to withstand investor scrutiny and drive better decisions at every stage of growth.

Acquisition Due Diligence & Deal Structuring — Having underwritten billions in transactions, I help buyers and operators evaluate targets the right way — understanding not just what a business earns, but what it's truly worth and what it will take to grow it. I bridge the gap between $1.7B+ institutional underwriting standards and the micro-level realities of a $500K–$5MM small business acquisition.

Operational & Process Improvement — Numbers tell a story. I help businesses identify operational inefficiencies, streamline workflows, and transition to modern cloud-based systems that create transparency, scalability, and margin improvement.

Capital Raising & Lender Relations — Whether you need debt, equity, or a creative hybrid structure, I know how capital markets think because I've lived inside them. I help clients position their businesses and deals to attract the right capital at the right terms.

CFO-as-a-Service — For growth-stage companies that need a financial leader without the full-time price tag, I plug in as a fractional CFO — owning the numbers, building the systems, and serving as a credible financial voice with banks, investors, and partners.

The Perspective I Bring

What I've found is that most small and mid-sized business owners are extraordinarily good at what they do — and chronically underserved when it comes to sophisticated financial guidance. They're making million-dollar decisions with the same tools and thinking that got them to where they are, but not necessarily where they want to go.

I've sat across the table from institutional lenders, private equity sponsors, and global acquirers. I know what they look for, how they underwrite, and what makes them walk away. My job is to help you see your business through that lens — and then build the financial foundation, the narrative, and the strategy to get the deal done, attract the capital, or unlock the next level of growth.

If you're an entrepreneur navigating an acquisition, a business owner preparing for a capital raise or exit, or a founder who simply needs a trusted financial co-pilot — let's connect.

Education & Credentials BBA, Accounting & Finance | Concentration in Business Valuation University of Michigan, Stephen Ross School of Business

Early Career: Ernst & Young LLP | Tax & Financial Advisory

Advisor. Operator. Investor. I bring all three to the table.

Services Provided

Most brokers do what I call 'passive listing.' They put your business on public sites like BizBuySell, sit back, and hope someone clicks. Here is the problem with that: it commoditizes your life's work. It forces you to negotiate against a single buyer from a position of weakness.

I don't just list businesses; I create a market for them. Instead of going public, I tap into my vetted, private network of over 2,000 active buyers, institutional investors, and strategic players who are hungry for acquisitions. My process is a targeted approach where I cast a precise net to find the exact buyers who understand your local market dynamics, your facility's specific value, and your operational relationships.

Once I pinpoint the right buyers, I run a structured, highly disciplined process to create a competitive auction for your business. By putting 3 or 4 motivated buyers in a room and making them compete against each other—rather than negotiating with you—we consistently drive the final enterprise value 10% to 20% higher than your original list price.

Now, let's talk about the numbers directly. My commission is 10%, success-based. If we go to market and I work my process to bring you a 15% or 20% premium through a competitive auction, my commission is a complete wash for you. You walk away from the closing table with more net cash than you would have ever achieved on your own, and you do it without exposing your business, your employees, or your clients to the public.

I’m going to do the heavy lifting and pound the pavement to find the perfect buyer who appreciates exactly what you’ve built. Let’s run the process, create the market, and get you the premium exit you deserve.

Areas Served

  • Cook County, IL
  • Business For Sale Listings

    $300,000
    Arlington, TX 
    View Details 
    Enviro-Master Franchise

    This is an established, essential-services commercial hygiene franchise operating under the nationally recognized Enviro-Master brand — ranked on Entrepreneur Magazine's prestigious Franchise 500 list for ten consecutive years through 2024 and named six times to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies. Since its founding in 2009, the Enviro-Master system has grown to nearly 100 franchise locations nationwide, with the Arlington territory representing a compelling, revenue-generating unit in one of the country's most dynamic commercial markets. 

    $595,000
    Cash Flow: $190,000 
    Los Angeles, CA 
    View Details 
    Pawsible Pet Care Services | Highly Profitable | Motivated Seller

    Turnkey Premium Pet Care Operation with Strong Growth This offering features a modern, premium pet care enterprise situated in a prime, high-density location in Downtown Los Angeles. Strategically positioned within an affluent urban market characterized by a sustained demand for high-end pet care, the business has established a powerful brand identity, a loyal customer base, and a reputation for excellence in the local community.This offering features a modern, premium pet care enterprise situated in a prime, high-density location in Downtown Los Angeles. Strategically positioned within an affluent urban market characterized by a sustained demand for high-end pet care, the business has established a powerful brand identity, a loyal customer base, and a reputation for excellence in the local community. 

    $550,000
    Cash Flow: $242,000 
    Mansfield, MA 
    View Details 
    Established Restaurant in High-Traffic & Visible Plaza

    Exceptional opportunity to acquire a well-established burger restaurant situated in a busy retail plaza with outstanding visibility, strong daily traffic, and convenient customer access. This turn-key operation has built a loyal customer base and maintains a strong reputation within the community for quality food and consistent service.Exceptional opportunity to acquire a well-established burger restaurant situated in a busy retail plaza with outstanding visibility, strong daily traffic, and convenient customer access. This turn-key operation has built a loyal customer base and maintains a strong reputation within the community for quality food and consistent service.The restaurant features updated equipment, an efficient layout, and a welcoming dining environment, allowing a new owner to step in and continue operations seamlessly. Its strategic location within a high-demand commercial corridor provides excellent exposure and 

    $180,000
    Newtown Square, PA 
    View Details 
    Field Hockey Retail & Training | Established Business

    Retail & Training FacilityEstablished Field Hockey Retail & Training Business – Philadelphia Main Line*Serious inquires onlyHer Game International is a well-established, field hockey–specific business located on the Philadelphia Main Line, proudly serving the community for 16 years. This unique, turnkey operation offers multiple revenue streams and a loyal, multi-generational customer base ranging from youth players (age 5) through adult athletes.The business includes:• Retail storefront sales featuring specialized field hockey equipment and apparel• On-site training programs conducted on a turf training space attached to the retail warehouse• Exclusive vending rights at two major indoor and outdoor sports facilities, both located within 30 miles of the storeHer Game International benefits from long-standing relationships with key vendors and facility partners, providing consistent traffic and strong brand recognition within 

    $1,350,000
    Cash Flow: $103,906 
    Mobile, AL 
    View Details 
    Profitable, Locally Loved - Tupelo Furniture Outlet

    Investment Opportunity: Tupelo Ron’s BEST Mattress & FurnitureVaughn & Associates is pleased to present the opportunity to acquire a high-volume, legacy furniture and mattress retail operation located in Mobile, Alabama. Established in 1990, this business has operated continuously for over 30 years, building a powerful regional identity and a niche as the "Gulf Coast’s go-to destination for furniture deals.Business OverviewEstablished Brand: Operating as Tupelo Ron’s BEST Mattress & Furniture, the business is a household name and brand in the Mobile market..Market Positioning: This is a value-driven, high-volume retail model focused on affordability and accessibility. It serves a broad consumer base across all income levels and draws customers from an approximately 100-mile radius.Proven Longevity: With actual operations dating back to 1990, the entity offers established supplier relationships and a massive repeat customer 

    $1,500,000
    Champaign, IL 
    View Details 
    Thriving Eating Disorder Clinic

    Motivated Seller! Specialized Healthcare Acquisition KC Eating Disorder Clinic is a premier, turnkey outpatient treatment facility specializing in evidence-based care for eating disorders. As a mission-driven operation, the clinic fills a critical gap in the regional healthcare landscape, offering a multidisciplinary approach to both early intervention and complex, chronic cases.Investment HighlightsComprehensive Service Suite: The clinic provides a full continuum of outpatient care, including individual and group psychotherapy, specialized meal support, and Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP).Established Referral Ecosystem: The business benefits from a consistent and diversified referral base, including medical providers, academic institutions, and community organizations.Turnkey Infrastructure: The acquisition includes established clinical systems, a recognizable brand, and a strong community reputation, allowing for an 

    $185,000
    Cash Flow: $90,000 
    Montgomery, AL 
    View Details 
    Profitable Tea Town, Located in Montgomery Alabama

    This is a premier acquisition opportunity: a high-performing, turnkey Vietnamese restaurant located in the heart of Montgomery, Alabama’s state capital. Strategically positioned within one of the city's most prestigious and high-traffic retail corridors, this establishment represents a cornerstone of the local culinary landscape.Investment Highlights:Flagship Location: Situated in a premier, high-visibility shopping center, the business benefits from exceptional foot traffic and sits at the center of Montgomery’s primary commercial hub.Operational Excellence: As a true turnkey operation, the facility is fully equipped and staffed, allowing for a seamless ownership transition with zero downtime.Competitive Advantage (Vertical Integration): The sale includes specialized in-house bread-making equipment. This rare feature significantly enhances profit margins by reducing COGS and provides a distinct quality advantage for the 

    Adam Morris Serving Cook County, IL

    I've spent my career at the intersection of institutional finance and hands-on entrepreneurship — and I've learned that the most valuable thing I can offer a business owner isn't a spreadsheet. It's the ability to see their business the way a sophisticated investor would and then build the roadmap to close that gap. My foundation starts at Ernst & Young, where I specialized in tax compliance, financial modeling, and due diligence for some of the largest corporations in the world — U.S. Steel, Dow, Federal-Mogul, and others. Working inside one of the Big Four sharpened something that no textbook can teach: the ability to walk into any business, dissect its financial architecture, and immediately identify where value is being created, where it's being lost, and where the real opportunity lives. From there, I went on to build a career responsible for over $1.7 billion in total transaction experience — underwriting and closing complex deals across commercial real estate, global M&A, and institutional capital markets. That includes: $600MM+ in debt origination across multifamily, industrial, retail, and hospitality $1.1B in LIHTC equity placements, managing guarantor analysis and net equity funding for large-scale affordable housing developments Global M&A advisory spanning telecom and virtual accounting firm acquisitions in Europe, with individual deal sizes exceeding $20MM Ongoing relationships and deal flow with REITs, private equity firms, family offices, and private credit funds But what truly sets my advisory work apart is that I don't just advise — I operate. As both a General Partner and Limited Partner, I've deployed my own capital across a curated investment portfolio built on a disciplined, basis-first philosophy. Today I own and manage 300,000+ square feet of industrial real estate, the majority of which was acquired at a significant discount to replacement cost. Every deal I've done has had my own money behind it. That changes how you think. What I Do For Clients Today I work with entrepreneurs, business owners, and acquisition-minded professionals as a fractional CFO and strategic business advisor — bringing institutional-grade financial thinking to companies that don't have a $500/hour CFO on staff but absolutely need one in the room. My advisory work spans: Financial Strategy & Modeling — Forecasting, cash flow architecture, scenario planning, and capital structure optimization built to withstand investor scrutiny and drive better decisions at every stage of growth. Acquisition Due Diligence & Deal Structuring — Having underwritten billions in transactions, I help buyers and operators evaluate targets the right way — understanding not just what a business earns, but what it's truly worth and what it will take to grow it. I bridge the gap between $1.7B+ institutional underwriting standards and the micro-level realities of a $500K–$5MM small business acquisition. Operational & Process Improvement — Numbers tell a story. I help businesses identify operational inefficiencies, streamline workflows, and transition to modern cloud-based systems that create transparency, scalability, and margin improvement. Capital Raising & Lender Relations — Whether you need debt, equity, or a creative hybrid structure, I know how capital markets think because I've lived inside them. I help clients position their businesses and deals to attract the right capital at the right terms. CFO-as-a-Service — For growth-stage companies that need a financial leader without the full-time price tag, I plug in as a fractional CFO — owning the numbers, building the systems, and serving as a credible financial voice with banks, investors, and partners. The Perspective I Bring What I've found is that most small and mid-sized business owners are extraordinarily good at what they do — and chronically underserved when it comes to sophisticated financial guidance. They're making million-dollar decisions with the same tools and thinking that got them to where they are, but not necessarily where they want to go. I've sat across the table from institutional lenders, private equity sponsors, and global acquirers. I know what they look for, how they underwrite, and what makes them walk away. My job is to help you see your business through that lens — and then build the financial foundation, the narrative, and the strategy to get the deal done, attract the capital, or unlock the next level of growth. If you're an entrepreneur navigating an acquisition, a business owner preparing for a capital raise or exit, or a founder who simply needs a trusted financial co-pilot — let's connect. Education & Credentials BBA, Accounting & Finance | Concentration in Business Valuation University of Michigan, Stephen Ross School of Business Early Career: Ernst & Young LLP | Tax & Financial Advisory Advisor. Operator. Investor. I bring all three to the table.

    Hallie Rand Serving Denver County, CO

    John Ohle Serving Orleans Parish County, LA

    John Ohle is a dynamic, results-driven executive with more than 20 years of experience spanning strategic sales, business development, operations, and high-level consulting. At Vaughn & Associates Business Brokerage, he brings a rare combination of deal-making precision and relationship depth that consistently delivers for clients navigating complex transactions. Throughout his career, John has built a reputation as a trusted advisor to C-level executives and ultra-high-net-worth individuals, earning that trust through a consultative, value-first approach that puts client outcomes ahead of everything else. He has directed end-to-end mergers and acquisitions lifecycles — from initial market analysis and target evaluation through rigorous due diligence and final negotiation — and has a proven track record of driving high-ticket acquisitions that create lasting value for all parties involved. John has spent decades forging strategic partnerships and leading aggressive growth initiatives that accelerate revenue and deepen market penetration. He has built and led high-performing teams in competitive B2B environments, consistently scaling enterprise accounts and exceeding corporate targets through disciplined pipeline optimization, enterprise-level negotiation, and a relentless focus on client retention and loyalty. His background extends well beyond transactional work. John has provided comprehensive trust and estate planning — including complex charitable planning strategies — to ultra-high-net-worth individuals and their family offices, equipping him with the financial sophistication and discretion that major business transitions demand. He is equally adept at aligning cross-functional teams, coordinating large-scale organizational projects, and forging the external partnerships that turn strategy into execution. Clients and colleagues alike describe John as someone who leverages broad technical expertise, deep industry experience, and an unmatched work ethic to create real organizational value — not just on paper, but in outcomes that endure.

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