Denise Houghtaling, CMAP, CBI, CEPA, ABI, SVA

Denise Houghtaling is an M&A Advisor, entrepreneur, and founder of Southern Country Business Advisors. With a proven track record in buying, selling, and advising on middle-market and owner-operated businesses, Denise has personally owned and sold six companies, including a recycling and waste business that achieved a 10X return on investment. Her experience spans construction, waste management, recycling, home services, and other asset-heavy and service-based businesses. Having closed millions of dollars in transactions, Denise brings firsthand insight into valuation, deal structure, and exit strategy from both the buyer and seller perspective. Denise holds the CM&AP and CEPA designations and leads a high-performing team of three professionals, including Brittney Bransfield, MBA, a former construction business owner, and Ashley Hum, a commercial real estate and business brokerage expert. Her mission is to provide honest, strategic guidance so business owners and investors can make informed, profitable decisions. #MergersAndAcquisitions #MAAdvisor #CEPA #CMAP #SouthernCountryBusinessAdvisors