Our Team
Meet The Experts Behind Your
Business Success
Terry's philosophy centers on a simple but powerful principle
Business owners deserve the same level of sophisticated preparation and marketing that Fortune 500 companies receive when divesting divisions.
His approach combines:
- Institutional-Grade Preparation: Professional evaluations that position businesses for premium pricing
- Technology-Enabled Networks: Access to 100,000+ pre-qualified buyers through advanced marketing infrastructure
- Strategic Industry Partnerships: Relationships with specialized lenders, private equity groups, and strategic acquirers
- Systematic Process Excellence: Proven methodologies that achieve up to 90% success rates
- Dedicated Team Support: 15 full-time employees exclusively focused on serving clients with comprehensive support throughout the entire process
Industry Recognition & Expertise
Terry's innovative approach has gained recognition through:
- Extensive Professional Network: Collaborative relationships with established business brokers, finance professionals, and niche specialists throughout the United States
- Advanced Technology Infrastructure: Development of 4,400+ email delivery systems and sophisticated buyer targeting capabilities
- Industry Specialization: Focus on specific business sectors where deep expertise creates competitive advantages
- Educational Leadership: Commitment to elevating industry standards through professional preparation and transparent processes
Most business owners get one chance to sell their life's work. They deserve advisors who understand both the numbers and the emotions, who combine proven systems with genuine relationships, and who have the infrastructure to compete with anyone in the market.
Multi-Million Dollar Transaction Specialist
Three Decades of Entrepreneurial Excellence
Shane Keegan brings over 30 years of proven entrepreneurial success to Next Level Business Brokers as Principal Business Advisor. Having personally started, built, bought, and sold several multi-million dollar companies, Shane provides authentic expertise that comes only from walking in his clients' shoes multiple times throughout his distinguished career.
Expertise & Approach
Born and educated in Ireland before immigrating to the United States in 1992, Shane combines international business perspective with deep American market knowledge. His comprehensive background includes:
- Operational Excellence: Extensive experience in business operations, financial management, and strategic growth across multiple industries
- Transaction Mastery: Personal track record of successful business acquisitions and exits provides invaluable insights for clients navigating their own transitions
- Strategic Positioning: Expert ability to position businesses to attract discerning buyers and maximize transaction value
- Communication Leadership: Strong belief that clear, accurate communication is fundamental to successful business sales
Shane's hands-on experience as both buyer and seller gives him unique perspective on every aspect of business transactions. His operational background, coupled with refined financial skills, enables him to identify opportunities for value enhancement and strategic positioning that less experienced advisors often miss.
Through his partnership with Next Level, Shane expands our transaction capabilities and provides clients access to his proven methodologies for achieving premium valuations and successful closings.
Shane's authentic entrepreneurial experience and proven track record in multi-million dollar transactions brings invaluable expertise to our client advisory team.
Premier National Authority in Hospitality Business Sales
Transforming restaurant ownership through unmatched expertise
With over three decades of specialized expertise in restaurant transactions, Terry Espy has established herself as the nation's premier authority in hospitality business sales and financing solutions. Terry has achieved an exceptional success rate exceeding 90% on restaurant listings through her comprehensive understanding of industry complexities and unparalleled ability to navigate financing challenges that typically derail restaurant transactions.
Terry's distinctive expertise lies in her mastery of restaurant-specific financing structures and her proven ability to overcome the unique obstacles inherent in hospitality transactions. Her deep knowledge of SBA restaurant lending, equipment financing, liquor license transfers, and lease negotiations enables her to guide transactions to successful completion where other brokers encounter insurmountable barriers.
Industry Leadership & Recognition
Terry's visionary approach to business brokerage has earned recognition from prestigious publications including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Triangle Business Journal, and AARP Magazine. Her strategic focus on developing exceptional restaurant concepts and facilitating successful hospitality transactions has helped transform multiple markets into premier culinary destinations.
Community Impact & Innovation
During the pandemic, Terry pioneered innovative community revitalization programs, working with municipalities to create flexible dining solutions that enabled restaurant expansion into sidewalks and public spaces. These groundbreaking initiatives not only saved dozens of restaurants nationwide but generated their best revenues to date, establishing new models for restaurant sustainability.
Strategic Development Expertise
Terry has been personally selected by major development groups to lead commercial components of mixed-use projects, where she has secured renowned chefs and hospitality concepts as anchor tenants. Her boutique development approach includes the restoration and adaptive reuse of historic properties into premier hospitality venues that serve as community anchors.
Professional Recognition
- Triangle Business Journal's "Women in Business Award"
- Raleigh Chamber of Commerce "Pinnacle Award"
- Leadership positions in business development organizations
- Board Member: Historic preservation foundations, business development councils, cultural arts organizations
- Industry speaker and consultant on restaurant development and community revitalization
Beyond Business
When she's not transforming communities, Terry rocks out as a member of THE HOT FLASHES, an 8-woman band "of a certain age" recently featured on the cover of AARP Magazine!
Select restaurant Transactions
Recent Restaurant Sales & Developments:
- New Anthem Brewery - Craft brewery development
- Benny's Big Time Pizzeria - Popular pizza concept sale
- Pinpoint Restaurant - Fine dining establishment
- Ruth's Chris Steak House - Premium steakhouse location
- Castle Street Kitchen - Boutique restaurant concept
- Rum Cow - Unique dining experience
- Floriana's - Local favorite establishment
- Platypus & Gnome - Creative dining concept
- Tarantelli's - Italian cuisine specialist
- JohnnyLukes - Regional restaurant chain
- Pour TapRoom - Craft beverage concept
- Peppered Cupcake - Specialty dessert shop
- Bonita - Contemporary dining
- Topsail Steamer - Seafood restaurant
- The Vine - Wine bar and restaurant
- Yosake/Husk - Asian fusion concepts
- Michael's Gastropub - Upscale casual dining
- Angus Grill - Steakhouse concept
- Three10 Restaurant - Contemporary American
- Tequila Comida - Mexican cuisine
- Station No. 2 - Historic location restaurant
- South Front Tavern - Downtown anchor
- Ida Thai - Authentic Thai cuisine
- Havanna's Deck House - Waterfront dining
- Don Luca's - Italian restaurant
- Gelarto - Artisan gelato shop
- Coco Pipa - Latin-inspired cuisine
Middle-Market Transaction Specialist
Four Decades of Proven M&A Excellence
Rick Piper brings exceptional depth and sophistication to Next Level Business Brokers as Senior M&A Advisor, with four decades of proven success in middle-market mergers and acquisitions. As founder of Piper Group International, Rick has established himself as a premier authority in complex business transactions, with an extensive portfolio of reference letters spanning his distinguished career.
Expertise & Methodology
Rick's comprehensive approach combines proprietary processes with deep market knowledge to consistently achieve superior outcomes for clients. His specialized expertise includes:
- Proprietary Transaction Systems: Developer of proven "Deal Point" and "Roadmap to Closing" methodologies that maximize value through ethical limited auction processes
- Comprehensive Business Positioning: Expert in creating detailed offering memorandums up to 200 pages that position businesses for premium valuations
- Strategic Market Making: Proven ability to generate multiple offers and competitive bidding environments that drive exceptional results
- Complex Transaction Management: Extensive experience navigating sophisticated due diligence, regulatory approvals, and multi-party negotiations
Rick's "caring approach" philosophy ensures clients receive not just transaction expertise, but genuine guidance through what he recognizes as a life-changing event. His track record includes successfully selling businesses that others could not, often achieving substantial premiums over initial market expectations.
Through his partnership with Next Level, Rick expands our middle-market capabilities and provides clients access to his time-tested methodologies for achieving maximum transaction value.
Rick's four decades of M&A expertise and proven proprietary systems bring institutional-level transaction capabilities to our comprehensive advisory platform.
Transaction Leadership & Capital Solutions Expert
Straight -Forward Expertise that Delivers Results
Antonio Johnson brings extensive dual expertise in business brokerage and financing solutions to Next Level Business Brokers as Business Advisor & Financing Specialist. With a proven track record of both facilitating complex transactions and securing optimal financing across multiple industries, Antonio provides comprehensive guidance that covers every aspect of business buying and selling.
Dual Expertise & Approach
Antonio's comprehensive background seamlessly combines business advisory services with financing expertise:
- Transaction Leadership: Proven success in guiding both buyers and sellers through complex business acquisitions and exits across diverse industry sectors
- Strategic Growth Planning: Expert in identifying operational improvements and strategic opportunities that enhance business value and performance
- Systems & Operations: Practical experience in streamlining business operations and implementing effective management systems
- Long-term Exit Planning: Strategic advisor for business owners preparing for future transitions, ensuring optimal positioning and timing
Financing Solutions Mastery:
- SBA Loan Expertise: Specialized knowledge of SBA 7A and 504 programs, helping clients secure optimal financing terms and structures
- Alternative Financing: Access to multiple financing sources including conventional loans, asset-based lending, and private capital solutions
- Deal Structuring: Expert in creating financing structures that work for both buyers and sellers, ensuring successful transaction completion
- Pre-Qualification Services: Ability to pre-qualify buyers and structure deals for maximum financing approval probability
Antonio's philosophy centers on honest communication and real-world strategy, avoiding industry jargon in favor of clear, actionable guidance. His step-by-step approach ensures clients understand both the transaction process and financing options, feeling confident in every decision.
Through his partnership with Next Level, Antonio expands both our advisory capabilities and financing solutions, providing clients comprehensive support from initial consultation through successful closing.
Antonio's dual expertise in business transactions and financing solutions makes him an invaluable resource for clients who need comprehensive support throughout the entire deal process.
Transportation & Logistics Industry Specialist
Four Decades of Transaction Excellence
Larry Bono brings over 40 years of distinguished experience in business transactions and industry expertise to Next Level Business Brokers as Senior Strategic Advisor. As founder of Lawrence Associates, a specialized route brokerage focusing on FedEx Ground mergers and acquisitions, Larry has established himself as a premier authority in transportation and logistics business sales.
Expertise & Specialization
Larry's extensive background spans both operational business management and strategic transaction facilitation across service and manufacturing industries. His specialized expertise includes:
- Transportation & Logistics: Deep industry knowledge with exclusive focus on route-based businesses and franchise operations
- Strategic Acquisitions: Proven track record in complex business transitions requiring regulatory approvals and specialized due diligence
- Comprehensive Financing Solutions: Access to multiple funding sources including SBA loans, franchise funding, equipment finance, and revenue-based lending through established partnerships
- Cross-Regional Market Coverage: Extensive market knowledge across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina markets
Having personally bought and sold numerous businesses throughout his career, Larry understands both sides of the transaction table and brings authentic perspective to every client engagement. His reputation for facilitating seamless transactions while ensuring transparency and fairness has made him a sought-after consultant for buyers and sellers nationwide.
Larry's partnership with Next Level expands our specialized industry coverage and provides clients access to his four decades of transaction expertise and established financing networks.Larry's deep industry specialization and proven track record in complex transactions makes him an invaluable addition to our advisory team.
Specialized expertise where most businesses are sold
Travis Newman brings focused expertise in smaller business transactions to Next Level Biz Brokers specializing in businesses valued between $100,000 and $1 million, Travis has developed unique methodologies and buyer networks specifically tailored to this critical market segment where the majority of American business sales occur.
Expertise & Specialization
Travis's comprehensive approach addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within the small business marketplace:
Market Specialization Excellence:
- Target Market Mastery: Deep expertise in the $100K-$1M business segment, understanding the specific dynamics, buyer motivations, and valuation methods unique to this market
- Generalist Advantage: Proven ability to successfully sell businesses across all industries and sectors, from restaurants and retail to service companies and small manufacturing operations
- Buyer Network Development: Innovative strategies for identifying and cultivating relationships with individual investors, owner-operators, and small business entrepreneurs seeking acquisition opportunities
- Efficient Valuation Processes: Streamlined yet comprehensive valuation methodologies designed specifically for smaller businesses, ensuring accurate pricing without unnecessary complexity
Unique Buyer Acquisition Strategies:
- Proprietary Outreach Methods: Developed specialized techniques for reaching qualified buyers in the small business market who may not be accessible through traditional channels
- Individual Investor Focus: Expert understanding of individual buyer psychology, financing needs, and decision-making processes that differ significantly from corporate or institutional buyers
- Creative Marketing Approaches: Innovative advertising and networking strategies that effectively present smaller businesses to the right audience at optimal timing
- Financing Coordination: Skilled in coordinating SBA loans, seller financing, and alternative funding sources commonly used in small business acquisitions
Travis recognizes that small business sales require a different approach than larger transactions. His methodology emphasizes personal relationships, community connections, and understanding the entrepreneurial mindset of both sellers and buyers in this market segment.
Through his partnership with Next Level, Travis ensures that smaller business owners receive the same level of professional service and sophisticated marketing typically reserved for much larger transactions.
"Travis's specialized focus on the small business market fills a critical need, ensuring that Main Street business owners receive expert guidance tailored to their unique transaction requirements."
Antonio's dual expertise in business transactions and financing solutions makes him an invaluable resource for clients who need comprehensive support throughout the entire deal process.
Strategic Business Intelligence & Client Relations Specialist
Trusted Advisor Business Transition Planning
Rick Freeman serves as Senior Client Advisor at Next Level Biz Brokers, bringing over a decade of collaborative experience working directly with founder Terry Collins since 2014. As the primary liaison between business owners and our advisory team, Rick specializes in strategic financial analysis and business assessment.
Expertise & Approach
Having developed his expertise in business intelligence and client advisory services through years of partnership with Terry Collins, Rick brings exceptional analytical skills and refined communication expertise to every client interaction. His role encompasses:
- Initial Business Assessment: Conducting initial financial analysis and business evaluation consultations
- Strategic Communication: Serving as the primary point of contact for business owners exploring their exit options
- Financial Intelligence: Gathering and analyzing critical business data to optimize positioning and valuation strategies
- Client Guidance: Providing expert guidance throughout the preparation process, ensuring owners understand each step of their business transition
Rick's unique ability to bring genuine understanding of business owner concerns makes him an invaluable resource for clients beginning their exit planning journey. His consultative approach ensures that every business owner receives personalized attention and strategic insights from their very first conversation with Next Level.
"Rick's expertise in financial analysis and his natural ability to connect with business owners creates the foundation for every successful transaction. He ensures our clients feel confident and well-informed from day one."
Operational Excellence & Client Success Leadership
Operational Mastery That Delivers Results
Maddy Grejarte serves as Chief Operations Officer at Next Level Biz Brokers, where she leads the comprehensive operational infrastructure that enables our team to consistently deliver exceptional client outcomes. As the strategic mind behind our seamless processes, Maddy ensures that every aspect of our sophisticated service delivery works in perfect harmony.
Expertise & Leadership
Maddy's operational excellence encompasses the full spectrum of business sale support services:
- Strategic Process Management: Oversees and optimizes all operational workflows to ensure consistent, premium-quality client experiences
- Advanced Valuation Support: Coordinates comprehensive business valuations and financial analysis processes that position clients for maximum value
- Communication Leadership: Manages sophisticated communication systems and client relationship protocols across our entire advisory team
- Technology Integration: Leads CRM management and system optimization that keeps our operations at the forefront of industry standards
- Quality Assurance: Ensures that every client interaction meets Next Level's exceptional standards for professionalism and results
While our advisors provide the expertise and guidance, Maddy provides the operational excellence that transforms that expertise into consistently successful outcomes. Her meticulous attention to detail and strategic coordination ensures that no element of a client's experience is left to chance.
Maddy's leadership enables our team to focus on what they do best - advising clients and closing deals - while she ensures that every supporting process operates with precision and professionalism.
Maddy is the operational leader who makes complex processes look effortless. Her expertise ensures that our clients receive not just great advice, but a seamless, world-class experience at every touchpoint.
an experienced entrepreneur who successfully built and exited his own company before transitioning into business brokerage
This firsthand experience gives him a unique perspective that most brokers simply cannot offer—he's been in the owner's seat, navigated the same challenges, and understands both the financial and emotional complexities of selling a business. Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, Adam developed deep expertise in business valuation, strategic marketing, and complex deal negotiations. He knows what drives value in a company because he's built it himself. He understands how to position a business to attract qualified buyers and how to structure deals that protect the seller's interests while creating win-win outcomes.
What sets Adam apart is his thoughtful and empathetic approach. He recognizes that selling a business isn't just a transaction—it's often the culmination of years of dedication, sacrifice, and hard work. Adam partners closely with each owner, taking time to understand their unique goals, concerns, and vision for their company's future. Whether you're planning for retirement, pursuing a new venture, or simply ready for the next chapter, Adam ensures your hard-earned legacy is preserved and transferred to the right hands. His focus remains unwavering: maximizing value for his clients while providing the guidance, support, and expertise needed to navigate every stage of the sale process with confidence.
General Questions About Our Services
What makes Next Level Business Brokers different from other business brokers?
A: Selling a business is about preserving your legacy and securing your family’s future. The dedicated advisor brings deep industry expertise, strong relationships with 220+ specialized lenders, access to over 100,000 pre-qualified buyers, and a proven track record. Success rates reaching 90%—well above the industry average of 20%—reflect a focus on honoring your accomplishments while maximizing value.
Success rates based on businesses completing our full preparation and advisory process - demonstrating the commitment level that separates serious sellers from casual inquiries
Do you really sell up to 90% of the businesses you list?
A: Yes. The brokers success rate is dramatically higher because we only work with sellers who invest in professional preparation through our evaluation process. This creates a commitment foundation that separates serious sellers from casual inquiries, while funding the comprehensive preparation that makes businesses irresistible to buyers. More importantly, it establishes the trusted advisor relationship you deserve during this critical life transition.
What size businesses do you work with?
A. The business brokers handle from $500K to $100M+ across all industries, treating each as the masterpiece it represents. Our team members specialize in different deal sizes with genuine understanding of what it means to hand over your life's work: $500K-$5M (mid-market), $1M-$10M (multi-state), $2M-$15M (manufacturing), and up to $100M+ (large complex deals).
What industries do you specialize in?
A: Specialized advisors are available for manufacturing, restaurants & hospitality, healthcare & professional services, retail & e-commerce, waste management, logistics, service businesses, and more. Each advisor combines deep industry expertise with genuine empathy for the business owner’s journey, ensuring that your decades of experience are met with someone who speaks your language and respects what you’ve built.
How many people work on my business sale?
A: A team of fifteen full-time professionals supports the broker facilitating your transaction, providing specialized advisors, marketing experts, financial analysts, and staff who understand that selling your business is about more than numbers; it’s about securing your family’s future.
Your Next Chapter Starts With The Right Partner
You didn’t build your business to settle for “good enough” when it’s time to sell. Your life’s work deserves industry specialists who understand both the numbers and the emotions, who respect your legacy while maximizing your value.
Don’t let another day pass wondering “what if?” Every month you delay is another month of carrying costs, market uncertainty, and emotional stress. Your family’s future is too important to leave to chance.
