SUNBELT set to grow area

Mike and Kathy Shepard and Melinda Tsang.

BY CASSANDRA REID

Madison has consistently been ranked by CNN/Money Magazine as one of the best places to live and it’s no question as to why:  great schools, great real estate, great people, and a great local economy.

“Our mayors have done a tremendous job promoting the area and because of it, eyes outside of the state are starting to turn towards North Alabama, particularly Huntsville and Madison.” said Melinda Tsang, a managing broker of SUNBELT of North Alabama.

SUNBELT of North Alabama provides consulting and representation services for those who are looking to either buy or sell a business.  The local office represents 9 counties of North Alabama and is a part of the larger SUNBELT company, which is one of the world’s largest business brokerage firms.

“We are the place to go for buying or selling a business,” said Tsang, who has over 20 years of experience and has lived in Madison County since childhood.  “We service both buyers and sellers.

For buyers, we help them choose the right business based on their interests and experience.  We also help them understand the workflows and jargon often associated with transactions.”

She said SUNBELT gather all their financial information, screen buyers, and make recommendations on pricing and values.”  She also says not many people are aware of the idea of business brokers.

“Business brokers are the go-to people for any kind of change in business, including relocation, expansion, or even retirement,” she said. “We are specially trained and certified to handle business related procedures and information with utmost discretion, confidentiality, and efficiency.”

Senior Broker Jerry Bong said the Madison area is “very favorable” for business owners.

“The population increase means new customers to help sustain growth for business owners,” Bong said.

There are six brokers in the office and Tsang said they are looking for more in order to keep up with the demand.

“The area is a hidden pearl that is about to expand and develop rapidly,” she said.

SUNBELT is also sponsoring the Madison Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Dec. 6, which will be held at the Holiday Inn.  The luncheon is set to be one of the biggest of the year and will feature guest speaker Robert Lightfoot, the director of Marshall Space Flight Center.

For more information on the SUNBELT’s services, visit their information booth which will be set up at the commerce luncheon, visit their Web site at Northalabama.sunbeltnetwork.com, or call at (256)539-9999.