About South Walton Business Brokers

Established in 1999 by Ted and Debra Perkins, South Walton Business Brokers has built a reputation as the go-to resource for entrepreneurs eager to buy or sell businesses along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Starting as a small office in Destin, the firm has since expanded to include associate offices in South Walton, Panama City, and South Florida, reflecting its commitment to providing exceptional service to clients statewide.

Turning Challenges into Solutions

The Perkins’ venture into business brokerage was inspired by personal experience. Over 20 years ago, they faced significant hurdles while selling one of their own businesses. Determined to create a more transparent and efficient process for others, they drew from their entrepreneurial expertise to develop a system that simplifies the buying and selling journey. South Walton Business Brokers was founded on this mission to create value and clarity for every client.

Bringing Real-World Experience to the Table

Ted Perkins brings over four decades of entrepreneurial experience to the firm. Having founded, owned, and operated a variety of businesses in Northwest Florida, he understands the challenges and opportunities entrepreneurs face. His expertise spans key areas such as business valuation, market analysis, and transaction negotiations. Ted’s hands-on knowledge ensures that clients receive informed advice tailored to their unique needs.

A Deep Understanding of the Florida Market

Rooted in South Walton, the firm combines local market insight with the broader perspective gained through its statewide presence. This dual focus allows South Walton Business Brokers to connect clients with opportunities aligned to current trends and economic developments, whether they’re navigating Northwest Florida’s small-town charm or South Florida’s bustling urban markets.

Building a Track Record of Success

Since its inception, South Walton Business Brokers has successfully guided countless entrepreneurs through the process of buying and selling businesses. With a team of dedicated and experienced associates, the firm has closed thousands of deals representing hundreds of millions of dollars in value. Clients know they can rely on South Walton Business Brokers for expert advice, personalized support, and outstanding results.

When it’s time to buy or sell a business in Florida, South Walton Business Brokers stands ready to provide trusted guidance and ensure a seamless transition every step of the way.

Meet the Team

Rajiv Khatri

Your Partner in Selling Your Business

With over 20 years of experience building, buying, and selling businesses, Rajiv Khatri brings unparalleled entrepreneurial expertise to his role at Destin Business Brokers. He helps business owners achieve exceptional outcomes with tailored strategies and a deep understanding of every stage of business ownership.

A Proven Entrepreneurial Track Record

Rajiv has successfully launched, scaled, and sold businesses across industries like digital media, travel, e-commerce, and film production. His firsthand experience enables him to empathize with clients and deliver solutions that work.

Master of Negotiation and Financial Strategy

Known for his negotiation skills and financial expertise, Rajiv ensures his buyers get the most for their company while confidently navigating the complexities of selling a business.

A Global Network of Buyers

Rajiv’s international connections span private equity firms and strategic buyers worldwide, allowing him to match sellers with the ideal buyer for maximum value.

A Passion for Leadership and Community

Rajiv is a global keynote speaker and active philanthropist, sharing insights on entrepreneurship and supporting causes close to his heart. As a participant in the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., he has connected with world leaders and has also spoken at the National Prayer Breakfast in Japan, inspiring leaders from across the globe. He and his wife, Sarah, are proud parents of four and embrace a life of purpose, travel, and giving back.

Why Choose Rajiv Khatri?

With Rajiv and Destin Business Brokers, you’re not just hiring a broker—you’re gaining a trusted advisor who’s invested in your success. Let him help you secure your business legacy.

Fun Facts About Rajiv

  • Thrill Seeker: Rajiv has run with the bulls in Spain, jumped out of planes in Dubai, and explored the ocean's depths as an avid scuba diver.

  • World Traveler: Having visited 27 countries, Rajiv’s adventures include riding a camel through the pyramids of Egypt and speaking to leaders in Japan, India, Pakistan, and across Africa. He immerses himself in diverse cultures worldwide.

  • Dedicated Dad: When he’s not seeking thrills, Rajiv is a hands-on father to four amazing kids, balancing excitement with family life.

  • Passionate Changemaker: Rajiv has started nonprofit organizations in India to support underserved communities, reflecting his deep commitment to giving back.

  • Faithful Leader: As an elder at his church, Rajiv dedicates himself to serving his community and guiding others with his wisdom and compassion.

Life with Rajiv is anything but ordinary—he’s a man of adventure, wisdom, and heart!

Sarah Khatri

A Marketing Powerhouse

Sarah Khatri is a seasoned marketing professional and business broker with over 20 years of experience helping businesses thrive. As a key member of Destin Business Brokers, Sarah combines her deep marketing expertise with her entrepreneurial spirit to guide clients through successful business transactions. Together with her husband, Rajiv, Sarah has built, bought, and sold multiple businesses, generating over $750 million in revenue for her clients.

From Visionary Marketer to Dynamic Entrepreneur

Sarah’s career began with a strong academic foundation at George Washington University, where she honed her skills in marketing and business strategy. Her professional journey took off in Northern Virginia’s real estate sector, where she quickly established herself as a rising star. She co-founded a successful lead generation company specializing in the relocation industry, serving as Chief Marketing Officer. During her tenure, Sarah’s innovative strategies and leadership drove an impressive $750 million in business for her clients, ultimately culminating in the company’s successful sale.

A Passion for Empowerment and Leadership

Sarah’s influence extends beyond business. She has trained leaders globally, working with John Maxwell’s renowned organization to empower entrepreneurs in South Africa, India, and Kenya. Her commitment to empowering women and giving a voice to the voiceless is central to her mission, and she continues to inspire and uplift others through her work at Destin Business Brokers.

The Dynamic Duo

As part of a dynamic husband-and-wife team, Sarah and Rajiv bring complementary strengths to Destin Business Brokers. While Rajiv’s financial expertise and global network are unmatched, Sarah’s marketing acumen and ability to position businesses for success make them a powerhouse partnership dedicated to their clients’ success.

Fun Facts About Sarah

  • Creative Explorer: Sarah is an accomplished underwater photographer, capturing the beauty of the ocean’s depths with her artistic lens.

  • World Traveler: She has traveled extensively, exploring diverse cultures and sharing her expertise with leaders worldwide.

  • Devoted Mom: Sarah is a proud mother of four children, ranging in age from 20 years to 1 year old, balancing her professional achievements with her family life.

  • Passionate Advocate: Sarah is deeply committed to empowering women and championing causes that give a voice to the voiceless.

  • Faith-Driven Leader: She actively serves in her church, training and equipping women to make meaningful impacts in their communities.

Sarah’s career is a testament to her passion, creativity, and dedication to making a difference—whether she’s guiding a business to success, mentoring leaders, or inspiring others to reach their full potential.

Now:

Then:

Ted Perkins

Founder and Qualifying Business Broker

Ted Perkins is the founder of South Walton Business Brokers, established in 1999 to provide exceptional service for entrepreneurs looking to buy or sell businesses along Florida’s Gulf Coast. With over 40 years of entrepreneurial experience and a passion for creating seamless, win-win transactions, Ted has become a trusted leader in the business brokerage industry.

A Vision Born from Experience

Ted and his wife, Debra, entered the business brokerage industry after facing a complex and frustrating process while selling one of their own businesses. They realized the need for a step-by-step, simplified approach that could ease the stress for buyers and sellers alike. This vision led to the creation of South Walton Business Brokers, which has since expanded with associate offices in South Walton, Panama City, and South Florida, solidifying its reputation as a premier brokerage along the Gulf Coast.

An Entrepreneurial Legacy

A lifelong entrepreneur, Ted has founded, purchased, and operated numerous businesses in the Destin area over four decades. This hands-on experience equips him with the knowledge and insight to guide clients through every phase of the buying and selling process, from initial analysis and valuation to final closing. His expertise and deep roots in the local market have helped countless clients position their businesses for success.

A Proven Leader in Business Brokerage

Under Ted’s leadership, Destin Business Brokers has represented thousands of buyers and sellers, facilitating hundreds of millions of dollars in transaction value. His dedication to providing personalized, results-driven service has made him a trusted partner for entrepreneurs across Northwest Florida and beyond.

Fun Facts About Ted

  • Golf Enthusiast: Ted loves hitting the greens and enjoys the challenge and camaraderie of the sport.

  • Passionate Hunter: He finds peace and adventure in the great outdoors during hunting trips.

  • Classic Car Aficionado: Ted has a knack for restoring old cars, bringing vintage vehicles back to life with meticulous care.

  • Local Market Expert: Ted has been part of the Destin community for over 40 years, giving him unmatched insight into the region’s business landscape.

  • Dedicated Mentor: He’s passionate about helping entrepreneurs achieve their goals, using his vast experience to guide them toward success.

With his entrepreneurial spirit, decades of experience, and unwavering commitment to client success, Ted Perkins continues to set the gold standard in business brokerage.

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