Sell or Buy a Landscaping Business in Illinois

Landscaping Business Overview

Illinois's landscaping industry thrives on the state's distinct seasons, with businesses providing lawn care, landscape design, snow removal, and property maintenance services to residential and commercial clients.

Landscaping businesses range from small lawn care operations to full-service landscape design and installation companies. The industry benefits from recurring revenue through maintenance contracts and seasonal diversification with snow removal services.

Landscaping Business Valuation

Business Type	Multiple Range	Basis
Lawn Care/Maintenance	2.0x - 3.0x	SDE
Full-Service Landscaping	2.5x - 3.5x	SDE
Commercial Contracts	3.0x - 4.0x	SDE
Design/Build	2.5x - 4.0x	SDE

Key Valuation Factors

Contract base: Recurring maintenance contracts and retention rates
Equipment condition: Age and maintenance of trucks, mowers, equipment
Customer mix: Residential vs. commercial, contract diversity
Seasonal revenue: Snow removal and year-round services
Crew stability: Experienced workforce and management

Selling a Landscaping Business

Key Selling Considerations

Contract documentation: Written agreements with customers
Equipment inventory: Detailed list with condition and values
Employee retention: Key crew members willing to stay
Route optimization: Efficient service routes documented
Seasonal financials: Clear revenue patterns by season

Illinois Regulatory Compliance

Illinois Pesticide Applicator License (if applicable)
Business registration and contractor licensing
Workers' compensation insurance
Vehicle and equipment insurance
EPA compliance for chemical applications

Complete Selling Guide →

Buying a Landscaping Business

Key Buying Considerations

Contract transferability: Customer agreements that transfer with sale
Equipment inspection: Professional assessment of all equipment
Customer retention: Historical retention rates and relationships
Crew interviews: Meet key employees before closing
Seasonal timing: Best to close before peak season

Complete Buying Guide →

Landscaping Business Types

🌿 Lawn Care

Mowing, fertilization, weed control.

🏡 Landscape Design

Design and installation services.

❄️ Snow Removal

Winter plowing and de-icing.

🌳 Tree Service

Trimming, removal, stump grinding.

💧 Irrigation

Sprinkler installation and repair.

🏢 Commercial

Property management contracts.