here is the main problem, and take it from a company that has purchased 5 hosting companies in 4 years. - The market value will be different from company to company

typically in the hosting business today around 7/8 months revenue is a great deal, however, it could go at 1.2 times yearly revenue -

also the smaller hosts go for more money because there is always somebody who will over bid without any clue -
your goal is to get the accounts, at the best deal you can, with what you can afford!