Business Deals and Real Talk with The Choes

🎙️Episode 11 Deals & Real Talk with The Choes – Featuring Special Guest: Sophie Wong, Standard Escrow (California)

In Episode 11 of Business Deals & Real Talk with The Choes (BDRT), Hollie and Johnathan sit down with Sophie Wong of Standard Escrow to break down everything business owners, buyers, and agents need to know about the California escrow process—for both business sales and real estate transactions. Sophie brings years of hands-on experience and walks us through how escrow works in California, what documents are required, key timelines, and the biggest do’s and don’ts that can make or break a smooth closing. She also explains how escrow acts as an impartial, neutral third party, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and accountability on both sides of the transaction. Whether you’re selling a business with leased space, purchasing a property with an operating company, or handling both in one deal, this episode gives you a clear roadmap of what to expect. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: * How the California escrow process works for business + real estate deals * Required documents and timelines every buyer and seller must follow * Why escrow neutrality protects both parties * Common issues that delay closings (and how to avoid them) * How business brokers, attorneys, lenders, and escrow work together * Tips for ensuring a clean, stress-free transaction in California Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. Every transaction is unique. Listeners should consult with their own qualified advisors—including attorneys, CPAs, escrow officers, and licensed professionals—before making decisions related to buying or selling a business or real estate in California. Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/support]

🎙️Episode 10 Deals & Real Talk with The Choes – Featuring Special Guest: Yvonne Ward, Western Title & Escrow

In Episode 10 of Business Deals & Real Talk with The Choes (BDRT), Hollie and Johnathan sit down with Yvonne Ward of Western Title & Escrow to unpack one of the most critical – and often misunderstood – parts of a business sale: title and escrow. Yvonne shares what really happens behind the scenes once an offer is accepted, how escrow protects both buyers and sellers, common red flags that can delay closing, and practical tips to keep your transaction moving smoothly. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned seller, or a professional in the deal-making world, this episode gives you clear, real-world insight into the escrow process and why choosing the right team matters. 🎧 Tune in to learn: * The role of title and escrow in a business transaction * Common issues that arise during escrow (and how to avoid them) * How business owners can better prepare for a clean, stress-free closing Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and general informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal, financial, or professional advice. Every business sale is unique, and listeners should consult with their own qualified advisors—such as attorneys, CPAs, and licensed professionals—before making decisions related to buying or selling a business. Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/support]

🎙️Episode 9 : Balancing the Books— with Valerie Wilson

Thinking about selling your business? Don’t let messy accounting or hidden liabilities tank your valuation. In this episode,  the Choes bring on Valerie Wilson of Eagle Eye Accounting to help business owners get exit‑ready. Valerie walks sellers through: * How to get your books “deal‑proof” — clean, organized, and transparent * Key financial statements and metrics buyers will scrutinize * Common red flags that reduce buyer confidence (and how to fix them) * Strategies to improve profitability and cash flow before listing * What to prepare ahead of due diligence to avoid surprises If you’re serious about maximizing your sale price, reducing negotiation risk, and entering the process with full confidence, this episode will give you the financial foundation you need to close with strength. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal, financial, or tax advice. Listeners should consult with their own professional advisors before making decisions regarding the sale or purchase of a business. Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/support]

Episode 8: “Financing Growth: An SBA Deep Dive with Lance Noel”

In this episode of Business Deals & Real Talk with The Choes, Hollie and Johnathan sit down with Lance Noel, Senior Commercial Lender at United Midwest Savings Bank, to dig into the world of SBA lending and how entrepreneurs can leverage it to fuel business growth. Lance brings over 15 years of experience and a reputation for blending technical expertise with a relational approach.   He shares: * What lenders evaluate when reviewing SBA loan proposals * The differences between SBA 7(a), 504, and Express programs * How to structure your business and financials to improve approval odds * Common pitfalls and how to avoid them * Real-world success stories and cautionary tales * How he approaches working with clients — combining detail orientation, accessibility, and supportiveness Listeners will walk away with actionable insights and deeper clarity on whether SBA financing is right for their next acquisition, expansion, or capital investment. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal, financial, or tax advice. Listeners should consult with their own professional advisors before making decisions regarding the sale or purchase of a business. Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/support]

🎙️ Episode 7: Selling Service Businesses – Expert Insights with Rob Radanovich

In this episode of Business Deals and Real Talk with the Choes, Hollie and Johnathan are joined by Rob Radanovich to dive deep into the world of selling service-based businesses. They explore the unique challenges and opportunities service businesses face when preparing for sale, including valuation strategies, operational considerations, and how to attract the right buyers. Rob shares his expert perspective from years of guiding owners through successful exits, while the Choes break down actionable tips for business owners at any stage. Whether you’re planning to sell now or in the future, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to maximize your business’s value and ensure a smooth transaction. Real conversations. Real deals. Real talk.  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or business advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals before making any business decisions. Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2543705/support]