Can I Sell My Business Online for Free?

Im Looking to Sell my Business Online for Free

So, you're ready to sell your business and thinking… 'Can I do this without spending money on ads?'

Kind of.

A quick search will show you options like Gumtree, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and some newer “business for sale” websites offering free listings.

But is it worth it?

Well, you risk losing value by putting your business on the open market without the right exposure, only to be discouraged by the lack of quality enquiries.

It can take 6-9 months to sell your business, so you are wasting valuable time and potential value, by sitting on these low performing sites. 

The buyer you want is genuine, cashed-up, and experienced and they usually aren’t scrolling free sites. Listings on these platforms are often seen as less valuable compared to those on established business for sale websites.

Here’s what to watch out for when advertising your business online for free, and why a smart marketing strategy matters more than just saving a few dollars.

 

Why Are They Free to Advertise On?

 

1. Low Traffic
 

Many free websites are either brand new or get very little traffic. You may have found them through a Google Ad or some obscure search. If no one’s visiting the site, chances are no one’s going to see your ad either.

In Australia, there are about 6 business for sale websites get real buyer traffic. The rest? Mostly tumbleweeds.

 

2. It’s a Sales Funnel

 

Some platforms lure you in with a free ad, then upsell you when you get no enquiries. It’s how they make money. Before paying, ask their support team about traffic numbers and performance stats. Don’t throw cash at a site that can’t deliver.

 

3. They Want Your Data

 

Free sites often exist just to collect your contact info. Check reviews, website credibility, and who’s behind the scenes before handing over any personal or business data.

 

3. Relying on Other Ads
 

They may not be charging you, but they could be getting paid from other ads, such as Google Adsense. Which is ok, as long as your business sale doesnt get lost amoungst all the Ad pop-ups 

 

What Makes a Good Business for Sale Website?

 

1. Well Established
 

Look for websites that have been established over 10 years in Australia. 

These websites have a solid marketing strategy, buyers database and have the potential to connect you with relevant buyers. 

 

2. Google Rankings
 

When you start Googling for key phrases in your industry / area you will start to see the same top 6 business for sale websites appearing. 

Try some phrases relevant to your business and see what appears. 

• Cafe for Sale Parramatta
• Business For Sale
• Business for Sale Broome
• Business for Sale Sydney

Where does the site rank? If it’s not on the first page it’s probably not getting much traffic.

Look at Google Reviews as well to see what clients are saying about the business. 

 

2. Active Database
 

Sign up to their newsletter. Are they sending buyer alerts?

Check their blog, do they post useful content? Do they have guest posters? Are they connected within the industry or just posting random, useless information.

If they’re active, they’re more likely to be delivering results.

 

3. Social Media
 

How do they look on socials? Are they actively posting? Do they have followers? Are they engaging with followers?

A faceless site with no presence usually won’t do much for your business sale.

 

4. Content Balance
 

Check how many listings are on the site. Are they mostly business brokers?

Some platforms give brokers free listings to build content. If your ad gets buried under a flood of broker ads, that’s not good exposure.

 

5. Industry Connections
 

Is the business for sale well connected? What associations are they partnered with, such as the Australian Institute of Business Brokers. 

 

So, Should You Use Free Websites?

 

Sure, list your business on free sites - but don’t expect miracles.

These platforms often lack the budget for SEO, Google Ads, or marketing campaigns to get your listing seen.

If you’re serious about selling, use free sites as part of your overall marketing mix, not your whole strategy. Quality platforms like Bsale are known to deliver results with real buyer traffic and trusted exposure.

Track where you list your business and update your ads regularly. Selling a business takes effort and strategy. If you go cheap on marketing, it could cost you in the end with your time and the final sale price of the business. 

Free is ok, but higher visibility is better.

Tags: selling a business marketplace

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