Rick Zirbes

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About Me

Rick Zirbes | Business Broker & Commercial REALTOR®
The Zirbes Group | Expert Guidance from an Operator’s Perspective

I don’t just bridge the gap between buyers and sellers; I speak the language of the "trenches." As a lifelong Twin Cities entrepreneur, I scaled a two-person startup into a 100 plus employee enterprise spanning 16 states. That journey, from the initial hustle to the complexities of multi-state logistics, gives me a unique "operator’s lens" that most brokers simply don't have.

With 40+ years of experience building and running companies in the high stakes automotive safety and ADAS industries, I understand the weight of every tough call and the value of technical precision. Today, I leverage that real world foundation to provide a distinct advantage for my clients at The Zirbes Group.

Integrated Business & Real Estate Solutions
Whether you are preparing for a hard earned exit or ready to acquire your next venture, I provide a comprehensive strategy tailored to your goals:

Business Brokerage: A discreet, hands on process that highlights your company's true value and connects you with serious, qualified buyers.

Commercial Real Estate: As a licensed commercial REALTOR®, I offer integrated expertise in the physical assets of your business, ensuring your real estate strategy aligns perfectly with your transition or growth plans.

Strategic Guidance: From due diligence to high-stakes negotiation, I lead with the clarity and integrity I’ve honed over four decades in business.

At the end of the day, I’ve been where you are. I’ve felt the growing pains, managed the expansion, and mastered the exit. Let’s turn my experience into your competitive advantage.

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.

About My Company

At the Zirbes Group we understand your business is more than a balance sheet. It's something you built from the ground up and for many owners, a profound part of who they are. As your brokers, we represent it with the care and respect that demands.

Who I want to meet...

Professional Partners: I’m looking to connect with CPAs, Estate Attorneys, and Commercial Lenders who have clients stuck in the "Owner's Trap." If your client is overwhelmed by operations or considering a transition, I provide the experienced, discreet guidance they need.

Strategic Buyers: Entrepreneurs and investors who value integrity and are looking for solid, established businesses in the Midwest to add to their portfolio.

Personal Connections: Think about the people in your own circle, the neighbor, friend, or family member who has spent the last 20+ years building a successful company and is starting to talk about "slowing down" or "what’s next." They’ve put in the sweat equity; I want to meet them to ensure they get the maximum value for the legacy they’ve built.

A great referral for me is...

My ideal referral is a business owner in the 'messy middle' of growth or the final lap of an exit. I specialize in helping those who have outgrown their current systems or space and need a partner who can handle both the business brokerage and the commercial real estate side of the transaction.