I’m Melissa J. Walsh, founder and principal business broker at the Zirbes Group. I work with both business owners looking to sell and entrepreneurs ready to buy. Whether you’re preparing to exit a company you’ve built from the ground up or you’re searching for the right business to invest in, I’m here to guide you through the process with integrity, clarity, and a strategy tailored to your goals.
My background in business consulting and real estate has taught me that every transaction is personal. Behind every sale or purchase is someone’s hard work, vision, and future, and that’s something I never take lightly. I work closely with my clients to ensure they feel informed, confident, and protected at every step of the journey.
For sellers, I offer a hands-on, discreet process that highlights your business’s true value and positions it in front of serious, qualified buyers. For buyers, I help you navigate opportunities that align with your objectives, guiding you through due diligence and negotiation with a clear focus on long-term success.
I’ve had the privilege of working with clients across a wide range of industries in both Minnesota and Florida, and I pride myself on being responsive, honest, and relationship-driven. Many of my clients return for future deals and refer others because they know I’ll always put their interests first.
Whether you’re looking to sell with peace of mind or buy with confidence, I’m here to make the process as smooth, strategic, and successful as possible. Let me help you take the next step forward with confidence!
I’m Rick Zirbes, business broker with The Zirbes Group, and lifelong entrepreneur rooted in the Twin Cities. Whether you’re an owner preparing to exit a business you’ve built from the ground up, or an entrepreneur ready to acquire a new opportunity, I’m here to guide you with clarity, integrity, and a strategy tailored to your goals.
For more than 40 years, I built and ran companies in the automotive industry, specializing in the restoration and recalibration of advanced vehicle safety and driver-assistance systems, from airbags to lane-keeping and collision-avoidance technologies. That hands-on experience taught me what it really means to build a business: the long hours, the tough calls, the constant need to deliver quality under pressure. It’s that real-world foundation that gives me a distinct advantage when working with owners and buyers.
At The Zirbes Group, I offer a hands-on, discreet process for sellers, one that highlights your business’s true value and positions it in front of serious, qualified buyers. For buyers, I help you navigate opportunities that match your objectives, guiding you through due diligence and negotiation with an eye toward long-term success.
I’ve spent my life in the Twin Cities, and I currently live in Prior Lake. My roots here give me a strong understanding of the local business landscape and a deep respect for the resilience and ambition of business owners in this community.
If you’re looking to sell with confidence, buy with clarity, or simply explore what’s possible — I’m here to help make your next move strategic, smart, and successful.
I’m Ezra Zirbes, As a dedicated business broker, I am committed to guiding entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors through one of the most significant transactions of their lives—the buying or selling of a business. My core philosophy is rooted in integrity, professionalism, transparency, and a genuine desire to deliver value to my clients. I believe that each business transaction is more than just a deal; it’s a partnership built on trust, respect, and mutual success. At the foundation of my practice is unwavering integrity, prioritizing honesty and truthful advice in every interaction to ensure my clients feel confident and well-informed throughout the process. I take a client-centric approach, understanding that every individual and business has unique goals, motivations, and concerns, and I tailor my services accordingly to achieve the best possible outcomes, whether that means facilitating a swift sale or finding the perfect acquisition opportunity. Maintaining confidentiality and discretion is paramount, and I handle sensitive information with the utmost care to protect my clients’ privacy and the integrity of their businesses, fostering trust and security at every stage. Backed by a broker with years of experience in business brokerage, finance, and market analysis, I bring a deep understanding of industry dynamics, valuation methods, negotiation strategies, and legal considerations, all supported by a commitment to continuous learning and staying abreast of market trends. Success in this field depends on meticulous attention to detail, and I rigorously analyze all aspects of a deal—from financial statements and valuation to legal documentation—to identify potential issues early and address them proactively. Clear, timely, and transparent communication is central to my approach; I strive to keep clients informed at every step, explaining complex concepts in understandable terms to empower them with knowledge for sound decision-making. Negotiation is both an art and a science, and I leverage my skills to advocate fiercely for my clients, aiming to secure favorable terms while fostering a collaborative environment that promotes mutual respect. I approach each transaction with problem-solving skills and flexibility, seeking creative solutions to overcome obstacles and adapt to changing circumstances. Building long-term relationships is at the heart of my practice, and many clients return for future transactions or refer others, which stands as a testament to my dedication and service quality. My background spans business valuation, finance, marketing, and legal frameworks, allowing me to facilitate transactions across diverse industries—including retail, manufacturing, service sectors, hospitality, and technology—giving me broad market insights and nuanced understanding. I am passionate about helping clients navigate the often complex and emotional process of buying or selling a business, dedicating myself to providing personalized service, strategic advice, and unwavering support. My goal is to ensure every transaction is conducted efficiently, ethically, and with the highest level of professionalism. When choosing a business broker, you want someone with a proven track record, industry knowledge, negotiation expertise, and a commitment to confidentiality and integrity. I am here to serve as your trusted advisor, advocate, and partner every step of the way—whether you are looking to sell your business, acquire a new opportunity, or simply explore your options. My mission is to help you achieve your goals with professionalism, expertise, and integrity, making your business transaction a rewarding and successful experience.