SDE Normalization Worksheet
Normalize net income into Seller’s Discretionary Earnings by adding back owner compensation, non-cash charges, interest, and one-time or personal expenses — the earnings figure Main Street deals are priced on.
SDE normalizes what the business truly earns for a single owner-operator. Verify add-backs in diligence — inflated add-backs are the most common way deals are mispriced.
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Educational estimate only — not lending, legal, tax, or investment advice. Confirm all figures with qualified professionals before acting on a deal.