Steve Santens
BROKER / FOUNDER – Montana 406 Business Brokers, INC
Accredited Business Intermediary (“ABI”)
Certified Business Intermediary (“CBI”)
Senior Valuation Analyst (SVA)
Before founding Montana 406 Business Brokers, Steve built a diverse and accomplished career spanning real estate, business brokerage, and small business ownership. His background gives him a rare, well-rounded perspective that few brokers can offer — he understands business transitions from both sides of the table.
Steve began his career with BTI Group in Reno, Nevada, where he quickly distinguished himself as a top performer. Steve earned Rookie of the Year for the Reno-Sacramento region and was recognized as Top Listing Agent for the Reno office in 2013. During his time there, he represented and closed numerous business transactions, building a strong reputation for his straightforward, honest approach, and consistent results.
After his time with BTI, Steve turned to real estate, where he successfully sold residential homes and ranch properties. His ability to negotiate, market strategically, and close complex transactions laid the groundwork for his transition into establishing Montana 406 Business Brokers.
Steve continues to excel. He has received multiple production awards, including:
- Outstanding Producer Awards (2020, 2022, 2023)
- Chairman’s Circle Award (2021) — recognizing over $3 million plus in annual sales volume
What truly sets Steve apart, however, is that he has been in his clients’ shoes. For over 17 years, he owned and operated a full-service plant nursery with four separate departments. He understands firsthand the challenges of payroll, inventory management, staffing, marketing, and long-term growth. That operational experience allows him to evaluate businesses realistically and guide owners through transitions with clarity and confidence.
Steve is known for telling it like it is. His clients value his honesty, discretion, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of the Montana market. When he lists a business, it gets the exposure it needs — and it gets sold. His sales rate is consistently high because he combines accurate valuation, strategic marketing, and disciplined deal management.
Steve holds some of the most respected credentials in the industry, including:
- Accredited Business Intermediary (ABI)
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI)
- Senior Valuation Analyst (SVA)
He is an active member of:
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
- American Business Brokers Association (ABBA)
- M&A Source
Whether you are buying or selling a business in Montana, Steve provides professional guidance, strict confidentiality, and results you can trust.
Why Choose Steve Santens
Choosing the right business broker can make all the difference in a successful transaction. Steve brings a combination of experience, integrity, and results-driven strategy that sets him apart:
- Proven Track Record: Steve has consistently sold businesses across Montana and beyond, earning multiple awards for high production and sales volume. When he lists a business, it gets exposure — and it gets sold.
- Deep Market Knowledge: With years of experience in Montana’s business and real estate markets, Steve knows what buyers are looking for and how to position a business to attract qualified buyers.
- Hands-On Business Experience: Having owned and operated a diverse, multi-department business for 17+ years, Steve understands the challenges and opportunities of running a business firsthand.
- Honesty and Transparency: Clients appreciate Steve’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach. He tells it like it is, giving clear guidance every step of the way.
- Confidentiality You Can Trust: Every transaction is handled with the utmost discretion, protecting the business owner’s privacy and business reputation.
- Top Credentials: As an Accredited Business Intermediary (ABI), Certified Business Intermediary (CBI), Senior Valuation Analyst (SVA), Steve brings the highest level of professionalism and expertise to every deal.
- Comprehensive Support: From valuation and marketing to negotiation and closing, Steve is dedicated to guiding clients through every step of the business transition process.
Kathie Santens
Office Manager
Kathie earned her degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. She began her career at the University of California, Davis, where she spent 17 years in key administrative and operational roles.
She later joined her husband, Steve, as co‑owner and manager of a plant nursery in the Valley, a business they successfully operated together for 12 years. In 2018, Kathie began working in the front office at the Montana Veterans Home handling administrative support, where she served until 2021. After three years there, she joined Steve full‑time at Montana 406 Business Brokers, Inc., stepping into the role of Office Manager.
At Montana 406, Kathie oversees daily office operations and ensures smooth, efficient workflows across the team. She manages client communications, coordinates listing documentation, and supports each stage of the business‑sale process. She also handles financial and administrative tasks, maintains company records, and keeps the office organized, welcoming, and running at its best. Her attention to detail and dedication to exceptional service are essential to the firm’s success.
Kathie and Steve have three wonderful children—daughter Jessica and her husband Daniel (parents to Jackson and Hunter), and two sons, Justin and Braedy. As a family, they enjoy spending time outdoors and taking full advantage of everything Montana has to offer