Frequently asked questions.

Restaurant real estate is a sub-specialty within commercial real estate that requires years of experience to master. Restaurant leases are far more complex than other commercial leases — they require accommodations for high-capacity plumbing, gas, electric and HVAC, venting, drainage, garbage disposal, deliveries, permits for public assembly, signage, and outdoor seating. A restaurant real estate specialist is uniquely qualified to address and manage these complexities. As an added benefit, in almost all cases the landlord is responsible for the broker's commission — so you get expert service and market knowledge at no cost to you.

Sometimes the best opportunities are not publicly available. Because of the Shumacher Group's reputation and long experience in the metro Atlanta area, landlords and developers call us before they have a vacancy or when they're in the pre-development stage. We're in touch with dozens of landlords, developers, and brokers on a daily basis and have a pulse of the market that you simply can't get on your own.

No. Every deal has a commission built into the cost of the transaction. That commission will be paid to someone regardless. Generally, our fees are split with the listing agent — so working with us doesn't cost you anything extra, and you gain the benefit of full representation.

Most of our tenant rep clients in site selection work with us on a "handshake" basis. Our philosophy is simple: if you're satisfied with the quality of our work, you'll remain a client. We trade our knowledge for your loyalty.

We specialize in restaurants, bars, retail businesses, and commercial real estate across Greater Atlanta and Georgia. Our team has deep experience in both business sales (helping owners sell operating restaurants and retail concepts) and site selection (helping buyers and tenants find the right location).

It varies by business type, asking price, and market conditions. Many of our listings sell within 30–90 days when priced correctly and presented well. We've closed deals in as little as two days, and some take longer. Our job is to price your business accurately, market it aggressively, and connect you with the right qualified buyers.

To properly evaluate and list your business, we typically need: two to three years of profit and loss statements, your current lease agreement and any renewal options, a complete inventory list, details on equipment included in the sale, and a brief description of operations and staffing. All information is kept strictly confidential.

Absolutely. Confidentiality is critical in business sales — your staff, customers, landlord, and competitors don't need to know your business is for sale until closing. We never disclose the name or location of your business without a signed non-disclosure agreement from a qualified buyer.

We evaluate your financial performance, lease terms, equipment value, location, market comparables, and current buyer demand. We'll give you an honest assessment — not an inflated number to win a listing. An accurately priced business sells faster and for more net proceeds than one that sits on the market.

Yes. We represent both buyers and sellers. If you're looking to purchase a restaurant or commercial business in Atlanta, we can match you with opportunities that fit your criteria, budget, and goals — including off-market listings that never appear publicly.