Whether you operate a manned guarding service or a tech-enabled monitoring company, we connect you with Security Company brokers who understand RMR multiples, licensing transfer, and contract value.
Selling a security company involves valuing both tangible assets (vehicles, equipment) and intangible assets (contracts, guard force stability). Buyers are looking for reliable cash flow and low churn.
We start by categorizing your business: Are you primarily physical security (guards) or electronic security (alarms/monitoring)? Each has a different valuation model. RMR is king for alarm companies, while EBITDA and contract length drive value for guard firms.
From there, we identify business brokers who specialize in the security sector. Some are experts in rolling up smaller local guard firms, while others work with national strategic buyers looking to acquire RMR portfolios.
• Recurring Monthly Revenue (RMR) – For monitoring companies, the multiples paid on RMR can be significant. Stability is key.
• Contract Length & Terms – Multi-year commercial contracts with auto-renewal clauses are highly valued over month-to-month agreements.
• Guard Force Stability – A low turnover rate and a pipeline of licensed, trained guards reduces risk for the buyer.
• Client Concentration – A diversified client base is better than having one or two major clients that account for most of the revenue.
Buyers evaluate your contracts, RMR, and operational structure.
Long-term, auto-renewing contracts with commercial clients are the gold standard. Buyers pay a premium for guaranteed future cash flow.
In manned guarding, your staff is your product. Low turnover rates and a strong pipeline of licensed officers increase business value significantly.
For alarm and monitoring companies, RMR is king. Buyers often value these businesses based on a multiple of monthly recurring revenue (e.g., 30x-40x).
To get the highest price, we work with brokers who "recast" your P&L to show the true Seller's Discretionary Earnings (SDE). In the security industry, this involves specific adjustments:
The security industry is seeing massive consolidation.
1. National Guard Firms:
Large players (like Allied Universal or Securitas) constantly acquire regional firms to capture contracts and guard talent in specific markets.
2. Alarm Aggregators:
Companies focused on monitoring (like ADT dealers or regional alarm companies) buy smaller RMR portfolios to add to their monitoring stations.
3. Private Equity:
PE firms are attracted to the recurring nature of security contracts and often buy platform companies with $2M+ EBITDA to grow via acquisition.
If clients hear you are selling, they may shop around. If guards hear, they may jump ship. Confidentiality protects your asset value.
Our Approach: We utilize strict NDAs and "blind profiles." We market the contract mix, hours billed, and location without revealing your company name until a buyer has been vetted.
$3.5 Million in 6 Months
“Six months after partnering with Centergrowth, we secured over $3.5 million worth of listings in Florida.”
"In our first six months with Centergrowth, we secured over $3.5 million in high-quality listings across Florida. One of them received over 40 inquiries in just two days."
Joe Ram
Orlando, FL
@FL Business Brokers
3 Listings in 2 Months
“Within the first two months of partnering with Centergrowth, we secured three business listings in the Phoenix area.”
"Within the first two months of partnering with Centergrowth, we secured three business listings in the Phoenix area. Centergrowth has delivered tremendous value, and we’re thrilled with the results. We look forward to continuing our partnership and future success."
Dr. Fernando Acosta
Phoenix, AZ
@First Choice Brokers
2 Listings in 2 Weeks
“Within just two weeks of partnering with Centergrowth, I secured two business listings in my area of Pittsburgh.”
"Within just two weeks of partnering with Centergrowth, I secured two business listings in my area of Pittsburgh, one of which included real estate in the deal. We're very happy with the results and have already recommended Centergrowth to other industry brokers we know in different states."
Helen Berger
Pittsburgh, PA
@PGHBIZ Business Brokers
1 Listing in First Month
“It’s currently the first month of working with Centergrowth, and we’ve already signed our first listing.”
"It’s currently the first month of working with Centergrowth, and we’ve already signed our first listing. In addition, they’ve over-delivered on appointments, and we’re reviewing financials from a few more companies."
Russell Kitzberger
Cincinnati, OH
@CincyCRE
1,065 Appointments in 6 months
"Centergrowth booked over 480 appointments in 3 months directly onto our calendar."
Eurasian Capital was facing a number of difficulties as they tried to increase their top-of-funnel sales activity. They can only function with top-notch appointments (the majority of the time, funding has been successfully raised), but Centergrowth was consistently able to attract high-quality appointments from the beginning.
Jeff Stone
Partner @Eurasian Capital
If you are exploring a sale now or in the next few years, your first move should be speaking with someone who understands the industry.
On our first call, we will discuss your RMR, contract mix, and exit goals. From there, we will suggest one or more brokers or M&A advisors who are best positioned to sell your specific type of security company.
Centergrowth works with specialized Security Company Business Brokers in every state to help owners of guard services, alarm monitoring firms, and private patrol agencies sell efficiently, confidentially, and for maximum value.
Don't see your specific niche listed? We likely still cover it.
Discuss Your IndustryCentergrowth works with specialized brokers in every state. Whether you are a local residential contractor or a multi-state commercial firm, we have the network to help you sell.
If you’re a broker specializing in security companies, our business broker lead generation can put more qualified business owners into your pipeline each week.