More events have occurred in the economy over the last week or two and this has hugely affected one aspect of business. Confidence.

Banks don't have it to lend money out, and consumers don't know whether their asset value will go up or down, or by how much. Needless to say, this affects practice selling and purchasing. Whilst there are still clinic-owners looking to sell, and still keen buyers looking for their own clinic, there is difficulty obtaining finance. 

The uncertainty can also cause difficulties arriving at the right prices from both parties' point of view and it is fair to say goodwill prices have dropped from 12 months ago. Sensibly-priced businesses (not just chiropractic clinics) will still sell and open dialogue between parties is crucial to enable deals to proceed. Although some areas have been affected more than others due to demographics, interestingly we have not yet seen a nationwide drop in profitability so there could actually be more of a bargain out there for buyers!