Question 1

How do I find a bar / pub for sale in St. John's?

Accepted Answer

Three channels: (1) on-market listings on business-for-sale platforms, (2) brokered listings from local M&A advisors, (3) off-market deal flow from SAZ's network of vetted Newfoundland & Labrador-area sellers. SAZ buy-side advisory aggregates all three.

Question 2

What does a bar / pub cost in St. John's?

Accepted Answer

St. John's-area bars & pubs typically transact at 1.5–2.8× SDE or 3–5× EBITDA. Revenue range typically $500K–$5M. Local market premiums apply for high-traffic locations.

Question 3

How do I finance a bar / pub acquisition in St. John's?

Accepted Answer

Typical stack: 60-70% senior bank debt (BMO, RBC, TD, Scotia, CIBC), 10-20% BDC, 10-20% vendor takeback, 10-30% buyer equity. SAZ structures the optimal blend.

Question 4

What should I diligence carefully?

Accepted Answer

Specific to bars & pubs: Liquor licence; AGCO/AGLC compliance; Lease. SAZ runs full DD and surfaces issues before they kill the deal.

Question 5

How long does it take to buy a bar / pub in St. John's?

Accepted Answer

From defined criteria to closing: 6–10 months. Search phase is most variable. Once you find a target, expect 90-120 days from LOI to close.

Buy a bar / pub in St. John's.

What it takes to acquire a bar / pub in St. John's.

Value drivers in St. John's-area bars & pubs.

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