Agents Close Back-to-Back Deals, Earning Rave Reviews from Satisfied Clients
The restaurant brokerage team at We Sell Restaurants continues to demonstrate why they're industry leaders, with two recent successful transactions showcasing their expertise in matching the right buyers with the right opportunities.
Orlando's Thai Food Renaissance: Listing 21068
Ina remarkable transaction handled by agents Debra and Samantha Sawyer of WSR FL Orlando Kissimmee Sanford, a prime Orlando restaurant location near the University of Central Florida has found new life under the ownership of an ambitious entrepreneur from Philadelphia.
The fully equipped restaurant, strategically positioned to capture traffic from UCF's 69,000 students and 13,000 faculty and staff, along with over 46,000daily vehicle passings, represented the perfect turnkey opportunity. The space featured a 12-foot hood and in-ground grease trap, eliminating the need for costly build-outs and offering flexibility for various culinary concepts.
A Tale of Two Journeys
The previous owners, who came from unrelated industries, made the difficult decision to sell after the restaurant didn't meet their profitability expectations. One seller transitioned to working at their sister's salon, while the other pursued physical therapy assistant school—a reminder that restaurant ownership isn't for everyone.
Enter Nalin Passio, an entrepreneur who saw not just one opportunity, but two. Having just relocated from Philadelphia, she purchased two restaurants from We Sell Restaurants in January alone, bringing her passion for Thai cuisine to the Orlando market with plans for multiple locations.
"They wanted something turnkey that they could bring their Thai concept to life in," explained agent Samantha Sawyer.
The transaction earned glowing reviews from both parties. Seller Qing Lin praised the experience: "We had an excellent experience working with our seller's agent from start to finish. From the initial consultation and pricing strategy to marketing the restaurant and handling negotiations, everything was smooth and well organized."
Buyer Nalin Passio was equally enthusiastic: "Samantha is an exceptional realestate agent. I had 2 transactions with her and she was doing all the rightthings and went beyond any typical agent would do. Samantha is clearly a SUPERAGENT!!!! 😎"
Georgia Restaurant Finds Perfect Match: Listing 25265
Meanwhile, in Ball Ground, Georgia, agent Paul Rogers of WSR GA North West orchestrated another successful transition that highlights the diverse opportunities in the restaurant resale market.
This impressive 3,200-square-foot establishment generated over $900,000 in sales in2024 and featured seating for 100 guests indoors plus an additional 30 outdoor seats. Located in rapidly growing Cherokee County with 11,200 daily vehicle passes and excellent visibility, the restaurant represented a significant opportunity for an experienced operator.
Strategic Pivot for Both Parties
The previous owner, a food truck operator, made the strategic decision to sell the brick-and-mortar location to refocus on their mobile food truck business and catering opportunities—a reminder that success can look different for different entrepreneurs.
The buyer, described as "a very successful operator with multiple restaurants and concepts in the area," recognized the value proposition immediately. The great location and fully equipped kitchen would minimize start-up costs and allow for rapid sales growth.
"Buyer and Seller were very professional from the beginning to the end of the process," Rogers noted. "Multiple roadblocks came up, but we were able to navigate all of the difficulties because of their knowledge and realistic approach."
Client Freddy Benitez praised Rogers' expertise: "Excellent. The communication, expectations and thoroughness was very helpful. Paul has a long history in the business which translates to understanding everyone's needs. Thanks Paul!"
The We Sell Restaurants Advantage
Both transactions underscore what sets We Sell Restaurants apart: experienced agents who understand both the emotional and practical aspects of buying and selling restaurants, the ability to match qualified buyers with the right opportunities, and a commitment to smooth transactions from initial consultation through closing.
Whether you're an entrepreneur bringing a new concept to market like Orlando's Thai food venture, or an established operator expanding your portfolio like the Georgia buyer, We Sell Restaurants provides the expertise and support to make restaurant ownership dreams a reality.
For restaurant owners considering a sale or entrepreneurs ready to enter the industry, these success stories demonstrate that with the right guidance, the journey from "For Sale" to "Sold" can be remarkably smooth and mutually beneficial for all parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying and Selling Restaurants
What does We Sell Restaurants do?
We Sell Restaurants is a specialized restaurant brokerage firm that connects restaurant sellers with qualified buyers across the United States. They handle the entire transaction process, from initial consultation and pricing strategy through marketing, negotiations, and closing. With experienced agents in territories including Florida (Orlando, Kissimmee, Sanford) and Georgia (North West region), they specialize exclusively in restaurant sales and acquisitions.
How long does it take to sell a restaurant with We Sell Restaurants?
The timeline varies depending on the property, location, and market conditions. However, We Sell Restaurants' recent success stories demonstrate their ability to close deals efficiently. In the Orlando listing (21068), the buyer purchased two restaurants in a single month. Their agents work to market properties effectively and match them with pre-qualified buyers to expedite the process.
What is a turnkey restaurant?
A turnkey restaurant is a fully equipped, operational establishment that's ready for immediate use by a new owner. This includes all necessary kitchen equipment(hoods, grease traps, fryers, refrigeration), dining furniture, and often existing licenses and permits. The Orlando listing featured a 12-foot hood and in-ground grease trap, while the Georgia property included a 14-foot hood, walk-ins, flat tops, and equipment to seat 130 guests. Turnkey restaurants allow new owners to start operations quickly without costly build-outs.
How much does a restaurant for sale cost in Florida?
Restaurant prices in Florida vary widely based on location, size, equipment, and sales history. Restaurants near high-traffic areas like UCF in Orlando command premium prices due to the 69,000 students, 13,000 faculty, and over 46,000daily vehicle passes. We Sell Restaurants works with properties across various price points and can arrange financing for qualified buyers with good credit, often securing approval in just days.
What should I look for when buying a restaurant near a college?
When purchasing a restaurant near a university like UCF, consider the student population size (69,000+ students at UCF), faculty and staff numbers (13,000+at UCF), daily vehicle traffic, visibility from main roads, parking availability, and lease terms. Restaurants near colleges benefit from consistent traffic during academic terms and should offer concepts appealing to young adults such as Asian fusion, Mexican, poke bowls, bubble tea, or fast-casual dining.
Can I change the concept of a restaurant I purchase?
Yes, especially with turnkey locations that have flexible equipment. The Orlando listing (21068) was particularly suited for concept changes, with infrastructure supporting Asian fusion, Mexican, Indian, Korean, Japanese, poke bowls, salad bowls, plant-based dining, dessert cafés, or specialty drinks. Independent restaurants (non-franchises) offer the most flexibility, as you won't face franchise fees or menu restrictions.
What financing options are available for buying a restaurant?
We Sell Restaurants works with qualified buyers to secure financing, often obtaining approval in just days for those with good credit. They guide buyers through the financing process and can connect them with lenders familiar with restaurant acquisitions. The specific terms depend on the buyer's creditworthiness, down payment, and the restaurant's financial performance.
Why do restaurant owners decide to sell their businesses?
Owners sell for various reasons. In the Orlando case (21068), the owners found the restaurant wasn't profitable enough and chose to pursue other careers (salon work and physical therapy school). The Georgia seller (25265) wanted to refocus on their food truck business and catering opportunities. Other common reasons include retirement, relocation, health issues, partnership dissolution, or simply moving on to new ventures.
What's included in a restaurant lease transfer?
We Sell Restaurants guides buyers through the lease transfer process, which typically includes negotiating with the landlord, credit checks, personal guarantees, and reviewing lease terms. The Georgia property, for example, had a monthly rent of $4,001 for 3,200 square feet. Agents help ensure a smooth transition so new owners understand all obligations before taking possession.
How much revenue do successful restaurants generate?
Restaurant revenue varies dramatically by location, concept, and size. The Georgia restaurant (25265) generated over $900,000 in sales in 2024 with 3,200 square feet and seating for 130 guests. Location matters significantly—the Orlando property benefited from UCF's traffic, while the Georgia restaurant saw 11,200daily vehicle passes in growing Cherokee County.
What are the advantages of buying an independent restaurant vs. a franchise?
Independent restaurants offer several advantages: no franchise fees, complete menu customization freedom, flexible operating hours, ability to change the concept entirely, and keeping all profits without royalty payments. Both featured listings were suited for independent operation, giving new owners full creative control. However, franchises provide brand recognition and established systems—the choice depends on your experience and goals.
What territories does We Sell Restaurants serve?
Based on these recent transactions, We Sell Restaurants has agents in multiple territories including Florida (Orlando, Kissimmee, Sanford regions represented by Debra and Samantha Sawyer) and Georgia (North West region represented by Paul Rogers). They operate across the United States—contact them to find an agent in your area.
Do I need restaurant experience to buy a restaurant?
Not necessarily, though it helps. The Orlando sellers had "unrelated experience" and struggled with profitability, while the Georgia buyer was "a very successful operator with multiple restaurants." However, the Philadelphia buyer who purchased the Orlando property was new to the area but had a clear vision for Thai cuisine. We Sell Restaurants can match you with appropriate opportunities based on your experience level and provide guidance throughout the process.
What makes a good restaurant location?
Key factors include high daily vehicle traffic (46,000+ in the Orlando location,11,200+ in the Georgia location), visibility from main roads, adequate parking, population density, demographics matching your concept, nearby complementary businesses, and reasonable rent. The Orlando property benefited from UCF proximity, while the Georgia location leveraged Cherokee County's rapid growth.
How do restaurant brokers get paid?
Restaurant brokers typically work on commission, paid by the seller at closing. This means buyers can benefit from professional representation, guidance through financing, and assistance with lease transfers at no direct cost to them. The commission structure incentivizes brokers to find qualified buyers and close deals efficiently.
What equipment is essential for a restaurant?
Essential equipment varies by concept but typically includes: commercial hood and ventilation system (12-14 feet), grease trap, commercial refrigeration(walk-ins, reach-ins), cooking equipment (fryers, flat tops, ranges, ovens),prep tables, dishwashing station, POS system, and dining furniture. Both featured properties came fully equipped, eliminating the need for costly build-outs that can run $100-300+ per square foot.
Can I buy multiple restaurants at once?
Yes, experienced operators often purchase multiple locations. The Philadelphia buyer who acquired the Orlando property (21068) purchased two restaurants from We Sell Restaurants in January alone, demonstrating that qualified buyers with solid financing can move quickly on multiple opportunities. The Georgia buyer also operated "multiple restaurants and concepts in the area."
What challenges come up when buying a restaurant?
According to agent Paul Rogers regarding the Georgia transaction: "Multiple roadblocks came up, but we were able to navigate all of the difficulties because of their knowledge and realistic approach." Common challenges include lease negotiations, financing approval, equipment inspections, license transfers, health department approvals, and coordinating closing dates. Experienced restaurant brokers help navigate these obstacles.
How important are Google reviews when selling a restaurant?
Very important. Both featured transactions resulted in positive Google reviews from satisfied clients, which helps build the broker's reputation and provides social proof for potential future clients. Seller Qing Lin and buyer Nalin Passio both praised Samantha Sawyer's work, while Freddy Benitez commended Paul Rogers' communication and expertise.
What is the process for selling a restaurant with We Sell Restaurants?
Based on client testimonials, the process includes: initial consultation, pricing strategy development, professional marketing of the property, managing inquiries and showing the restaurant, handling negotiations, guiding through due diligence, coordinating inspections and paperwork, facilitating lease transfers, and closing the sale. Agents maintain "clear, professional, and timely" communication throughout, as noted in the reviews.
What types of restaurant concepts work well near universities?
Near college campuses like UCF, successful concepts include: Asian fusion, Mexican, Indian, Korean, Japanese, poke bowls, sushi bowls, fresh salad or grain bowls, plant-based dining, dessert cafés (ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt), bubble tea, craft lemonades, and other fast-casual options. Students seek affordable, quick, and trendy dining options with late hours and delivery/takeout availability.
Is now a good time to buy a restaurant in Florida or Georgia?
Both states show strong opportunities. Orlando's continued growth, especially around UCF, provides consistent customer traffic. Georgia's Cherokee County is experiencing rapid growth with increasing daily traffic. However, market conditions change—We Sell Restaurants agents can provide current market analysis for specific territories and help you evaluate whether timing is right for your situation.
What should I do if my restaurant isn't profitable enough?
If your restaurant isn't meeting profitability goals, you have several options :sell to a new operator with fresh ideas (like the Orlando sellers did), pivot to a different format (like the Georgia owner refocusing on food trucks), hire a consultant to improve operations, adjust your concept or menu, or reduce overhead costs. We Sell Restaurants can provide a confidential valuation and discuss your options without obligation.
How can I contact We Sell Restaurants?
To learn more about buying or selling a restaurant, contact We Sell Restaurants through their website or reach out to agents in your territory. For Florida's Orlando, Kissimmee, and Sanford regions, Debra and Samantha Sawyer handled the recent UCF-area transaction. For Georgia's North West region, Paul Rogers successfully closed the Ball Ground deal. Their agents can provide guidance on available listings, market conditions, and the buying or selling process.