# Accounting Broker Acquisition Group > Access 50+ expert articles on CPA practice valuations, M&A strategies, and sale maximization techniques. Featured in Journal of Accountancy. Free guides. --- ## Pages - [Find CPA Practice Resources, Listings & M&A GuidesSitemap](https://accountingbroker.com/sitemap/): Quick access to all CPA practice buying and selling resources. Find valuation tools, free reports, regional listings, success stories, and M&A guides. - [Complete Guide to Selling Your Accounting Practice Successfully](https://accountingbroker.com/accounting-practice-sales/): Comprehensive 40-page guide to selling your accounting practice for maximum value. From preparation through closing, Ex-Big Four strategies ensure top dollar. - [Thank you for your registration!](https://accountingbroker.com/thank-you-for-your-registration/): We will send the free report to you soon. Learn more expert M&A tips in published articles written by the... - [Free Buyer's Guide: How to Purchase CPA Practices Successfully](https://accountingbroker.com/free-buyer-report/): Everything buyers need to know about purchasing CPA practices in 2025. 50-page guide covers valuation, financing, due diligence, and transition planning. - [CPA Practice M&A Insights: Expert Guides & Market Analysis](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/): Access 50+ expert articles on CPA practice valuations, M&A strategies, and sale maximization techniques. Featured in Journal of Accountancy. Free guides. - [Access 200+ Exclusive CPA Practices for Sale Nationwide](https://accountingbroker.com/buyer-registration/): Access 100+ exclusive accounting practices for sale nationwide. Get pre-qualified for 100% SBA financing. Register to view CPA firm listings now. - [Real CPA Sellers Share Their M&A Success Stories](https://accountingbroker.com/testimonials/): Verified testimonials from CPA sellers who achieved $50K-$210K more using our Ex-Big Four brokers. Real names, real numbers, notarized results. - [Legal Disclaimer](https://accountingbroker.com/legaldisclaimer/): Review important legal disclosures about Accounting Broker's M&A advisory services. We are licensed business brokers, not a CPA firm. Full transparency. - [Ready to Sell? Get Your Free CPA Practice Valuation Report](https://accountingbroker.com/areyouselling/): Avoid 12 fatal errors that cost sellers $50K-$200K. Free CPA practice selling guide from Ex-Big Four M&A experts. Download valuation report today. - [How We Achieved $210K More for One CPA Firm Sale](https://accountingbroker.com/maximizevalue/): Learn proven strategies that helped one estate get $210K more at closing. Ex-Big Four CPA brokers reveal secrets. Download free report instantly. - [Get Your Confidential CPA Practice Market Analysis in 24 Hours](https://accountingbroker.com/seller-registration/): Start your accounting practice sale with free, confidential market analysis. Ex-Big Four brokers determine maximum value. Register in 60 seconds. - [Complete CPA Practice M&A Services: Valuation to Closing](https://accountingbroker.com/services/): Complete M&A solutions for CPA practices: valuation, buyer matching, negotiation, financing. Ex-Big Four expertise ensures 95%+ closing success. - [Our Ironclad Confidentiality Promise for Your CPA Practice Sale](https://accountingbroker.com/confidentialitypledge/): Your confidentiality is sacred. We use code names, secure data rooms, and strict NDAs throughout your CPA practice sale. Learn our 10-point privacy system. - [Start Your Free CPA Practice M&A Consultation Today](https://accountingbroker.com/contact/): Get expert advice on buying or selling your accounting practice. Ex-Big Four CPAs provide confidential M&A consultation. Call 800-419-1223 today. - [The Only 100% Ex-Big Four CPA Practice M&A Firm](https://accountingbroker.com/about/): Meet the only national M&A firm with 100% Ex-Big Four CPAs. Hundreds of successful accounting practice sales, $100M+ in transactions. Learn more. - [Free Report](https://accountingbroker.com/free-report/): Essential guide reveals costly mistakes in accounting practice sales. Learn what drops your price 20-40%. Ex-Big Four brokers share insider secrets. - [CPA Firm Sellers Share Their $50K-$210K Success Stories](https://accountingbroker.com/success-stories/): Read documented success stories from 100+ CPA firm sales totaling $100M+. Verified testimonials show Ex-Big Four expertise achieved 20-40% higher prices. - [Verified CPA Firm Sales: $100M+ in Successful Transactions](https://accountingbroker.com/provenresults/): Verified: See how Ex-Big Four strategies turned a forced estate sale into a bidding war, achieving $210K more cash at closing. Read notarized proof. - [CPA Practice Sellers: Achieve 20-40% Higher Sale Prices](https://accountingbroker.com/sellers/): Ex-Big Four brokers help you sell your accounting practice for 20-40% more. Proven strategies, premium buyers, optimal terms. Free consultation. - [Buy CPA Practices: Pre-Vetted Opportunities Available](https://accountingbroker.com/buyers/): Explore 150+ vetted accounting practices for sale nationwide. We arrange 100% SBA financing for qualified buyers. Register free to access listings. - [CPA Firms and Accounting Practices for Sale - Nationwide](https://accountingbroker.com/cpa-firms-and-accounting-practices-for-sale-nationwide/): Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPA’s... - [Home](https://accountingbroker.com/): Maximize your CPA firm sale value with Ex-Big Four brokers. Proven results: $210K+ more at closing. Free confidential valuation - Call 800-419-1223. --- ## Posts - [Why Paperless CPA Firms Command 25% Higher Sale Prices](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/paperless-environment-can-enhance-value-accounting-practice-sales-transaction/): Discover why paperless accounting firms command 25% higher sale prices. Technology modernization guide shows exactly what buyers want and how to implement it. - [How Quality Staff Increases Your CPA Firm Value by 20-40%](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/employees-can-enhance-accounting-practice-sales/): Quality employees can increase your CPA firm's value by 20-40%. Learn proven strategies to showcase staff strength, retention plans, and transition success. - [Master the Letter of Intent: Protect Your CPA Sale Terms](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/importance-letter-intent-accounting-practice-sales/): Master the Letter of Intent process in CPA practice sales. Learn deal-breaking terms, negotiation leverage points, and how to maintain competitive tension. - [Why NDAs Are Non-Negotiable in CPA Practice Sales](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/no-nda-no-sale-never-sell-accounting-business-without-first-signing-nondisclosure-agreement-nda/): Why serious CPA practice buyers always sign NDAs first. Learn what to include, red flags to avoid, and how confidentiality protections maximize your sale price. - [Red Flag Buyers to Avoid When Selling Your CPA Practice](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/avoid-these-buyers-when-pursuing-accounting-practice-sales/): Spot problem buyers before they waste your time. Learn 7 red flags: poor financing, cherry-picking plans, lowball tactics. Protect your CPA practice value. - [The 6-Month CPA Practice Sale Preparation Checklist](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/6-important-ways-prepare-firm-accounting-practice-sale/): Position your accounting practice for maximum value with these 6 critical preparation steps. From client cleanup to staff retention, ensure premium offers. - [CPA Specialist Brokers vs Generalists: The 30% Price Difference](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/top-reasons-seller-hire-accounting-business-broker/): Specialist CPA brokers achieve 30% higher sale prices than generalists. Discover why Ex-Big Four expertise, buyer networks, and industry knowledge deliver results. - [Learning from Billion-Dollar CPA Firm M&A Success Stories](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/top-5-best-mergers-acquisitions-21st-century/): Learn from the biggest CPA firm mergers exceeding $1 billion. Analyze strategies, multiples, and structures from landmark deals to maximize your sale value. - [Selling Your CPA Firm to Millennials: Bridge the Generation Gap](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/selling-cpa-firm-millennial/): Master the art of selling your CPA firm to millennial buyers. Bridge generational differences, address tech expectations, and negotiate work-life balance terms. - [Navigating Employee Non-Competes in Your CPA Practice Sale](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/addressing-employee-non-compete-agreements-accounting-practice-sales/): Properly handle employee non-compete agreements during your CPA firm sale. Learn enforceability issues, buyer concerns, and negotiation strategies that protect value. - [What Makes CPA Practices Irresistible to Premium Buyers](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/desirable-vs-undesirable-accounting-practices-sale-buyers-perspective/): Understand what makes CPA practices attractive to premium buyers in 2025. Position your firm with 12 desirability factors to command top dollar. Free assessment. - [2025 SBA Loan Terms for CPA Practice Acquisitions Explained](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/typical-terms-sba-loan-purchase-accounting-practice-2/): Complete 2025 guide to SBA financing for CPA practice acquisitions. Current rates, 10% down options, qualification requirements, and approval strategies. - [CPA Practice Valuation Methods: Calculate Your True Worth](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/cpa-practice-valuation/): Master CPA practice valuation with our comprehensive 2025 guide. Understand revenue multiples, SDE calculations, and pricing strategies that maximize value. - [The CPA Practice Sale Readiness Assessment: Are You Prepared?](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/are-you-really-ready-to-sell/): Take our comprehensive CPA practice sale readiness assessment. Evaluate financial performance, operational efficiency, and personal preparedness. Get your score now. - [12 Critical Questions Every CPA Must Answer Before Selling](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/critical-questions-cpas-selling-cpa-practice/): Answer these 12 critical questions before listing your CPA practice for sale. Readiness assessment covers finances, operations, personal goals, and market timing. - [Surviving Buyer Due Diligence: A CPA Seller's Preparation Guide](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/buyer-due-diligence-process-from-the-sellers-perspective-when-selling-an-accounting-practice/): Master buyer's due diligence with this seller's preparation guide. Learn what buyers scrutinize, how to prepare documents, and strategies to maintain leverage. - [Managing the Emotional Journey of Selling Your Life's Work](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/managing-psychological-aspects-sale/): Selling your life's work is emotional. Expert psychologist and M&A advisor share coping strategies, decision frameworks, and success mindsets. Free guide. - [The 47 Critical Data Points Every CPA Buyer Will Examine](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/due-diligence-the-decisive-data-points/): Comprehensive due diligence guide covering 47 critical data points buyers analyze. Prepare every document, metric, and process to sail through scrutiny. - [Your First Week Post-Sale: A CPA Owner's Transition Guide](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/week-1-after-selling-your-cpa-firm/): Navigate your first week after closing with this hour-by-hour guide. From final handoffs to staff meetings, ensure smooth transitions. Daily checklists included. - [Managing Your CPA Practice During M&A: The Seller's Time Guide](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/what-should-the-sellers-schedule-be-like-in-the-middle-of-a-cpa-practice-acquisition-or-merger/): Successfully manage client deadlines while selling your CPA practice. Expert schedule templates help balance workload, buyer meetings, and due diligence. - [2025 SBA Loan Guide for CPA Practice Purchases](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/typical-terms-sba-loan-purchase-accounting-practice/): Complete guide to SBA financing for CPA practice acquisitions in 2025. Current rates, down payment requirements, qualification criteria, and approval strategies. - [Your First Buyer Meeting: Convert Interest into Premium Offers](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/how-to-have-successful-first-meeting-that-increases-the-buyers-desire-to-purchase-your-cpa-practice/): Turn your first buyer meeting into a bidding war. Proven presentation strategies, key talking points, and negotiation tactics that increase purchase offers 20-40%. - [Legal Essentials for CPA Practice Sales: Protect Your Interests](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/attorney-matters-related-to-the-sale-of-accounting-practices/): Navigate legal complexities when selling your accounting practice. Expert guidance on asset vs stock sales, liability protection, employment agreements, and closing. - [Maximizing Value: Selling CPA & Financial Planning Services Together](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/selling-financial-planning-business-with-cpa-firm/): Maximize proceeds when selling CPA and financial planning services together. Expert bundling strategies, valuation methods, and transition planning. Free guide. - [Selling Your CPA Practice With Real Estate: Complex Deal Navigation](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/issues-regarding-seller-owned-office-buildings/): Selling your CPA practice with owned real estate? Navigate property valuations, lease-backs, separate sales, and tax implications. Expert strategies included. - [Why CPA Practice Specialists Outperform General Business Brokers](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/cpa-specialist-broker-vs-general-business-brokers/): Data proves CPA specialist brokers outperform general business brokers by 40% on price. Compare expertise, buyer quality, deal terms, and success rates. - [Ensure Smooth Staff & Client Transitions When Selling Your Firm](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/successful-staff-and-client-transitions-through-a-sale/): Minimize disruption with our staff and client transition playbook. Proven communication strategies, retention tactics, and timeline templates ensure 90%+ satisfaction. - [Post-Sale Involvement: Finding the Right Balance for Sellers](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/seller-involvement-after-the-sale/): Understand standard post-sale involvement: 3-month transitions, consulting terms, and non-compete details. Balance seller support with clean exits. Samples included. - [Seller Financing in CPA Sales: When It Makes Sense (2025 Guide)](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/when-is-seller-financing-a-good-option/): Discover when seller financing benefits your CPA practice sale and when to avoid it. Expert analysis reveals optimal deal structures, terms, and risk strategies. - [Choosing an Exceptional CPA Practice Broker: The 10-Point Checklist](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/what-to-look-for-in-an-exceptional-broker/): Choose the right CPA practice broker with this evaluation guide. Compare Ex-Big Four experience, success rates, and seller testimonials. Avoid costly mistakes. - [Internal Succession: Selling Your CPA Practice to Employees](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/pros-and-cons-of-selling-your-cpa-firm-to-an-employee/): Considering an internal sale? Compare employee buyout pros, cons, financing options, and deal structures. Make informed decisions about selling to trusted staff. - [Retain 95% of Clients After Your CPA Practice Sale](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/client-retention-after-the-sale-of-a-cpa-practice/): Retain 95% of clients when selling your CPA practice with proven transition strategies. Communication templates, introduction timing, and retention bonuses included. - [8 Key Metrics Banks Evaluate for CPA Practice SBA Loans](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/what-metrics-do-banks-look-at-for-sba-financing/): Banks evaluate these 8 key metrics for CPA practice SBA loans: cash flow coverage, buyer experience, client concentration. Improve your ratios for loan approval. - [5 Essential Steps to Prepare Your CPA Practice for Sale](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/5-ways-to-prepare-your-cpa-practice-for-selling/): Maximize your CPA firm's sale value with this 5-step preparation checklist. Cover financials, operations, staff, and technology to attract premium buyers. - [Should You Merge or Sell Your CPA Practice? Compare Your Options](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/is-it-better-to-merge-or-sell-your-accounting-practice/): Should you merge with another CPA firm or sell outright? Compare financial outcomes, tax implications, and lifestyle factors. Free decision matrix included. - [5 Essential Questions to Screen Serious CPA Practice Buyers](https://accountingbroker.com/articles/5-questions-for-prospective-buyers-accounting-firm-sale/): Eliminate tire-kickers and problem buyers with these 5 screening questions. Protect your CPA practice confidentiality while identifying serious, qualified purchasers. --- ## Works --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages > Quick access to all CPA practice buying and selling resources. Find valuation tools, free reports, regional listings, success stories, and M&A guides. - Published: 2019-04-08 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/sitemap/ Pages Access 200+ Exclusive CPA Practices for Sale Nationwide Buy CPA Practices: 200+ Pre-Vetted Opportunities Available Complete CPA Practice M&A Services: Valuation to Closing Complete Guide to Selling Your Accounting Practice Successfully CPA Firm Sellers Share Their $50K-$210K Success Stories CPA Firms and Accounting Practices for Sale – Nationwide CPA Practice M&A Insights: Expert Guides & Market Analysis CPA Practice Sellers: Achieve 20-40% Higher Sale Prices CPA Practices for Sale in All 50 States: Find Your Market California CPA Practices for Sale: Los Angeles to San Francisco Florida CPA Practices for Sale: Miami to Jacksonville Opportunities Illinois CPA Practices for Sale: Chicago to Springfield Opportunities New York CPA Practices for Sale: NYC to Upstate Markets Pennsylvania CPA Firms for Sale: Philadelphia to Pittsburgh Markets Texas CPA Firms for Sale: Houston, Dallas, Austin & Beyond Free Buyer’s Guide: How to Purchase CPA Practices Successfully Free Report: 12 Fatal Errors That Cost CPA Sellers $50K+ Get Your Confidential CPA Practice Market Analysis in 24 Hours Home How We Achieved $210K More for One CPA Firm Sale Legal Disclaimer Our Ironclad Confidentiality Promise for Your CPA Practice Sale Ready to Sell? Get Your Free CPA Practice Valuation Report Real CPA Sellers Share Their M&A Success Stories Start Your Free CPA Practice M&A Consultation Today The Only 100% Ex-Big Four CPA Practice M&A Firm Verified CPA Firm Sales: $100M+ in Successful Transactions Thank you for your registration! Posts by category Category: Buying a CPA Practice Red Flag Buyers to Avoid When Selling Your CPA... --- > Comprehensive 40-page guide to selling your accounting practice for maximum value. From preparation through closing, Ex-Big Four strategies ensure top dollar. - Published: 2017-05-25 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/accounting-practice-sales/ Accounting Practice Sales Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is a boutique M&A accounting practice brokerage nationally recognized as the choice for one of the market’s most critical and lucrative transitions: accounting practice sales. Whether you’re a sole practitioner, small partnership, or large firm, selling your accounting practice for maximum value is our top priority. As Ex-Big Four CPAs who possess decades of merger and acquisition experience, we leverage our know-how to source just the right buyer, allowing us to command the highest sales prices and cash at closing amounts in the marketplace. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE The accounting practice sales process all starts with finding the right fit to buy your firm. We first focus our efforts on marketing your practice to the largest possible buyer pool. With a massive database of legitimate qualified buyers at our disposal, we spread the word wide in the most confidential manner possible ... then cull the list and present you only the top candidates that meet your specific seller criteria. From generalist accounting firms to specialty niche markets, our accounting practice sales process hinges on bringing your accounting firm, tax consulting business, or CPA practice, a list of curated competitors willing to compete for your practice. Next, we use our highly-developed marketing and negotiating methods to get the maximum market value possible, with the most cash at closing. As the only national business brokerage comprised... --- - Published: 2016-08-04 - Modified: 2019-11-27 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/thank-you-for-your-registration/ We will send the free report to you soon. Learn more expert M&A tips in published articles written by the founder of Accounting Broker Acquisition Group to help sellers achieve maximum value: Click Now: https://accountingbroker. com/articles --- > Everything buyers need to know about purchasing CPA practices in 2025. 50-page guide covers valuation, financing, due diligence, and transition planning. - Published: 2015-11-19 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/free-buyer-report/ Download Your Free Report for Buyers If you are a serious buyer, and you have made the decision to take your business to the next level, you will discover in the following pages just exactly what you need in order to find a firm that is the perfect fit for you. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group has the experience to help you achieve your goals and enable your new future with respect to buying or selling an accounting firm. Although the price of any accounting firm for sale must satisfy both the seller and buyer, knowing how to properly structure the transaction is just as important as the final selling price. In addition to our list of practices for sale, we can also help you finance your purchase with a CPA firm loan for as much as 100-percent of the accounting practice sales price (subject to qualification). Register for Your Free Buyer Report: First Name Last Name Firm Name Mailing Address City State Zip Phone HomeWork Cell / Alt. Phone Email *We do not send out Spam Email Please select one: I am considering selling my firmI am considering buying a firm Where did you hear about us? —Please choose an option—AOLArticle-Trade Journal or OnlineBingCPA ClassifiedsDirect MailGoogleInsight MagazineJournal of AccountancyTax AdviserThe CPA JournalToday's CPAYahooWord of MouthOther Professional licensure and experience (check all that apply) Credentials: CPAEACFPPAOther Services: TaxWrite-upAuditOther *If you are potentially interested in selling your practice: How soon would you like to sell your accounting firm? This yearNext 1-2 yearsNext... --- > Access 100+ exclusive accounting practices for sale nationwide. Get pre-qualified for 100% SBA financing. Register to view CPA firm listings now. - Published: 2013-03-19 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/buyer-registration/ Buy an Accounting Firm We are currently promoting a large number of accounting practices and CPA firms for sale nationwide. You may register as a potential buyer to receive a comprehensive list of our accounting firms for sale in your area. We will never sell your information or discuss the potential purchase of an accounting firm with your employer, employees or clients (please see our Confidentiality Pledge). "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE If you're experiencing any issues/errors with the form please contact us: Toll Free (800) 419-1223 Ext. 21 Email Us Name First Last Firm NameMailing Address Street Address City State ZIP Phone NumberThis phone # is for: Home Work Cell Cell / Alt PhoneEmail*We do not send out Spam Email! How soon would you like to purchase an accounting firm? This YearNext 1-2 YearsNext 3-5 YearsNext 5+ YearsPlease tell us which area of the country you are interested in purchasing an accounting firm:(please include major cities and states if possible)Please tell us the optimal annual billings you are looking for:Minimum:Maximum:Please provide the amount of funds you have available for a down payment:Please tell us the preferred type of practice you are looking for (check all that apply):Credentials CPA EA CFP PA Other Other:Services Tax Write-up Audit Other Other:Do you have any specialized experience? If so, please indicate:Please indicate your current situation: Employed Own my own accounting firm Please answer the following... --- > Verified testimonials from CPA sellers who achieved $50K-$210K more using our Ex-Big Four brokers. Real names, real numbers, notarized results. - Published: 2013-03-19 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/testimonials/ CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES / TESTIMONIALS We have successfully represented hundreds of CPA practices for sale. When you choose Accounting Broker to represent you ... you are making the clear choice to "Maximize Value When You Sell Your Firm! "™ The following testimonials are just a fraction of our numerous success stories. Phone numbers will be provided on request for you to verify the accuracy of our clients' statements below: "On January 25th, I made one call ... I called Accounting Broker Acquisition Group based on their national reputation in the industry... On January 29th, Accounting Broker launched the promotion of the sale of the accounting practice into high gear ... On February 9th, we met with the best four buyers ... By February 14th, we received four written offers! " “Ronald Booker, JD, CPA - Houston, Texas, Brother of Donald Booker, CPA, Deceased "Accounting Broker hit the ground running. They did all the work of promoting my CPA firm for sale, sending and receiving confidentiality agreements, disseminating information, upholding my confidentiality, pre-screening the buyers, scheduling appointments for the buyers to meet me, and negotiating the final deal. They did not leave a stone unturned. Their efforts resulted in more than one offer. This gave me the liberty to choose the right buyer for the sale of my CPA firm. " “Christina Villeneuve, CPA - Washington, D. C. Area "Incredible negotiating skills ... intense focus and drive ... an innate sense of the deal-making process beyond what I would have expected... --- > Review important legal disclosures about Accounting Broker's M&A advisory services. We are licensed business brokers, not a CPA firm. Full transparency. - Published: 2013-03-19 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/legaldisclaimer/ LEGAL DISCLAIMER This website is owned by Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, Inc. , Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, LLC, and Accounting Broker Acquisition Group II, Inc. (collectively and individually identified throughout this website as “Accounting Broker” and “Accounting Broker Acquisition Group”) and is utilized in the context of listing and marketing accounting practices for sale via the sale of assets to achieve maximum value for our sellers. Accounting Broker is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPAs possessing significant “Big Four” merger and acquisition experience. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, Inc. maintains multiple offices and represents accounting firms in most cities of the United States. Our affiliate Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, LLC is a licensed real estate broker in the state of Florida (License Number CQ105907) and represents CPA practices for sale in the state of Florida. Our affiliate Accounting Broker Acquisition Group II, Inc. is a licensed real estate broker in the state of California (License Number 02090322) and represents CPA practices for sale in the state of California. Please see the Contact Us page for the appropriate contact information for your specific location. Accounting broker does not list or offer for sale any marketable security or equity interest in any accounting practice and these materials should not be considered as any such offer to sell any marketable security or equity interest or for the solicitation of an offer to purchase any marketable security. Your use of this website implies your compliance with... --- > Avoid 12 fatal errors that cost sellers $50K-$200K. Free CPA practice selling guide from Ex-Big Four M&A experts. Download valuation report today. - Published: 2013-03-19 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/areyouselling/ YOU SELL YOUR CPA FIRM ONLY ONCE ... THERE ARE NO SECOND CHANCES ... Accounting Broker Acquisition Group has successfully represented hundreds of CPA practices and accounting firms for sale nationwide ... ranging in size from sole practitioners, small partnerships, and larger firms. On this website, we are committed to providing you with valuable and highly useful information that is relevant to the sale of your accounting practice ... at no cost or no obligation to you - whether you choose to use our services or not. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize proceeds in accounting firm sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. Click here to download. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPAs with significant "Big Four" merger and acquisition experience. The cumulative experience of our brokers is comprised of billions of dollars of mergers and acquisitions over the course of their careers. In addition, we have promoted and negotiated countless accounting practice acquisition transactions involving many millions of dollars in value for sole practitioners, small partnerships, and larger firms. The M&A experience of our brokers is incomparable. "Navigating the Path To Success In Accounting Practice Sales" Read our featured cover article, "Navigating the path to success in accounting practice sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. Click here to download. The Free Report identified below can provide incredible insight regarding many of the proven strategies and techniques that have been used... --- > Learn proven strategies that helped one estate get $210K more at closing. Ex-Big Four CPA brokers reveal secrets. Download free report instantly. - Published: 2013-03-19 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/maximizevalue/ MAXIMIZE VALUE WHEN YOU SELL YOUR ACCOUNTING FIRM - NATIONWIDE How can you be certain you will receive the best possible price and terms for your accounting firm for sale? You can’t -- unless you employ proven strategies with exceptional sales and negotiating skills. The ability to maximize value when you sell your accounting firm is directly related to many factors including how many legitimate and qualified buyers you can reach ... whether you reach 100-percent of the buyers in the market place with the right message, strategy, and approach ... the timing of the sale ... the sales and negotiating techniques employed when your reach those buyers ... and most importantly ... the talent, energy, and experience of the person promoting, marketing, selling, and negotiating on your behalf. You will not find any other business broker in the nation who is better at “maximizing value” by promoting, marketing, selling, and negotiating the sale of your accounting practice ... Period! We have overwhelming proof in the form of hundreds of CPA sellers whom we have successfully represented with the goal of Maximizing Value. When you choose Accounting Broker to represent you ... you are making the clear choice to "Maximize Value When You Sell Your Firm! "™ We will proactively promote and negotiate the sale of your firm with proven "Maximum Value Strategies"™. Our unparalleled guidance will deliver the right buyer, the optimum deal structure, and "Maximum Value When You Sell Your Firm"™. You can discover an excellent example of... --- > Start your accounting practice sale with free, confidential market analysis. Ex-Big Four brokers determine maximum value. Register in 60 seconds. - Published: 2013-03-19 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/seller-registration/ Sell Your Accounting Firm When you register, we will send you valuable information contained in the Free Report: “Will You Leave Money on the Table? Discover the 12 Irreversible Fatal Errors You Must Avoid When You Sell Your Accounting Firm! ” Please register for the free report below ... the information contained in this report will help you maximize value when you sell your accounting practice. If you're experiencing any issues/errors with the form please contact us: Toll Free (800) 419-1223 Ext. 21 Email Us Name First Last Firm NameProfessional licensure and experience (check all that apply)Credentials CPA EA CFP PA Other Other:Services Tax Write-up Audit Other Other:Do you have any specializations or industry concentrations? If so, please indicate:Mailing Address Street Address City State ZIP Phone NumberThis phone # is for: Home Work Cell Cell / Alt PhoneEmail*We do not send out Spam Email! How soon are you looking to sell your firm? This YearNext 1-2 YearsNext 3-5 YearsNext 5+ YearsPlease tell us the approximate size of your practice (in annual billings)Where did you hear about us? ---AOLArticle-Trade Journal or OnlineBingCPA ClassifiedsDirect MailGoogleInsight MagazineJournal of AccountancyTax AdviserThe CPA Journal { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ Read our featured article, “Maximize proceeds in accounting firm sales”, published in the Journal of... --- > Complete M&A solutions for CPA practices: valuation, buyer matching, negotiation, financing. Ex-Big Four expertise ensures 95%+ closing success. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/services/ MAXIMIZE VALUE WITH OUR ADDITIONAL SERVICES We achieve goals and enable new futures for CPAs and enrolled agents. If you are considering the purchase or sale of an accounting practice, you will not find a business broker who is better able to help you. We possess the knowledge and experience that can only come from any millions of dollars of closed transactions. Our services include: Business Brokerage of Accounting Firms for Sale Targeted CPA Firm Acquisition Searches Exit Strategies for Accountants "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE When you choose to utilize our services to promote, market, and negotiate your accounting firm for sale, we achieve proven results with our comprehensive strategies that include but are not limited to the following: Marketing the sale of your CPA firm We are experts in developing and implementing highly focused marketing plans and strategies that maximize value when you decide the time is right to pursue the sale of your CPA practice. We communicate and highlight the unique selling propositions that differentiate your accounting firm for sale from other accounting practices in the marketplace. These propositions can run the gamut of attributes including financial performance, competitive advantage, growth potential, processes, client base, and any other characteristics that separate you from your competition. From this, we develop a brief Blind Profile, with sufficient information for a buyer to determine interest, but insufficient to identify your accounting practice... --- > Your confidentiality is sacred. We use code names, secure data rooms, and strict NDAs throughout your CPA practice sale. Learn our 10-point privacy system. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/confidentialitypledge/ CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY AND CONFIDENTIALITY PLEDGE Absolute Confidentiality Protection™ Confidentiality is an important cornerstone of our commitment to provide you with truly exceptional service when we actively promote, market, and negotiate the sale of your accounting firm. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, Inc. is dedicated to upholding and defending your right to confidentiality and privacy when selling your accounting firm ... starting with the very first discussion or email communication between you and our firm - even before you have chosen to utilize our services to promote, market, and negotiate the sale of your CPA practice. Please read our Confidentiality Pledge toward bottom of this page (below dividing line). None of our numerous nationwide listings of CPA practices for sale appear on this website (or any other website). There are several good reasons for this including ... CONFIDENTIALITY. We are absolutely obsessed with maintaining the highest level of confidentiality humanly possible when we sell an accounting practice. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE We are certain you would appreciate this "web-excluded" listing policy if you happen to be a “seller” who owns one of only “three CPA firms” in a small town. The marketing efforts that we perform when we sell an accounting firm typically exclude specific competitors (firms and individuals) whom our sellers would prefer to “keep in the dark” regarding a potential sale. The exclusion of our CPA firm listings from our website... --- > Get expert advice on buying or selling your accounting practice. Ex-Big Four CPAs provide confidential M&A consultation. Call 800-419-1223 today. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/contact/ BUY OR SELL AN ACCOUNTING PRACTICE OR CPA FIRM Accounting Broker Acquisition Group achieves proven results that can help you attain even your most ambitious goals and desires ... we can enable your new future! Complete contact information for our company is provided below. If you are a buyer ... you may receive a complete list of CPA practices for sale in your area by clicking on the buyer registration button below. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE If you are a seller ... when you call us, please ask for the Free Report: “Will You Leave Money on the Table? Discover the 12 Irreversible Fatal Errors You Must Avoid When You Sell Your Firm! " You may also register for this free report by clicking on the seller registration button below. We are here to offer advice and to help you whether you choose to use our services or not. Imagine this ... if you discover only one new idea from the free report or by just talking with us ... and that idea results in the increase of thousands of dollars when you sell your accounting firm ... wouldn’t that one idea be worth only five minutes of your time? The phone call is free ... there is no obligation ... Please call or register now! Register as a Buyer Register as a Seller ACCOUNTING BROKER ACQUISITION GROUP Representing Accounting Firms... --- > Meet the only national M&A firm with 100% Ex-Big Four CPAs. Hundreds of successful accounting practice sales, $100M+ in transactions. Learn more. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/about/ BUY OR SELL YOUR ACCOUNTING FIRM OR CPA PRACTICE Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is a national merger and acquisition consulting firm specializing exclusively in the promotion and sale of accounting practices, tax consulting businesses, and CPA firms. If you desire to buy or sell an accounting firm, we achieve proven results that can help you attain even your most ambitious goals and desires. Whether you are a sole practitioner, small partnership, or large regional firm ... Accounting Broker is the catalyst to enable your new future! Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPAs with significant “Big Four” merger and acquisition experience. We have successfully promoted and negotiated hundreds of accounting practice acquisition transactions representing hundreds of millions of dollars in cumulative value for sole practitioners, small partnerships, and larger firms. The M&A experience of our brokers is incomparable. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group was founded by Harry L. Olson, a Certified Public Accountant with many years of experience. Mr. Olson gained experience during six of those years with two of the most prestigious accounting firms in the world including PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC). While at PWC, Mr. Olson was on the fast track. He was awarded the opportunity of working directly with some of the wealthiest individuals and most successful companies in the nation. He has worked with individuals possessing estates as large as $250 million and companies ranging in size to billions of dollars in sales per year (including... --- > Essential guide reveals costly mistakes in accounting practice sales. Learn what drops your price 20-40%. Ex-Big Four brokers share insider secrets. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/free-report/ “Will You Leave Money On the Negotiating Table? Discover the 12 Irreversible Fatal Errors You Must Avoid When You Sell Your Accounting Firm! ” When a seller makes one of the 12 errors contained in this report ... it is counterproductive, irreversible, and detrimental - resulting in the potential loss of tens (if not hundreds) of thousands of dollars. As a result, we consider any such error as “fatal” to the goal of maximizing value when you sell your accounting practice. This report is not a small two-page write-up made available over the web. This report is not a marketing brochure. It contains many pages of highly useful information ... not found anywhere else ... and will be provided to you in a bound hard-copy format. We will send this to you through the U. S. mail at no cost or obligation to you. As a result, we request that you register below in order for us to mail the report to the proper address. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPAs with significant "Big Four" merger and acquisition experience. We have successfully represented hundreds of CPA practices for sale throughout the nation including many sole practitioners, small partnerships, and larger firms. Despite attempts to copy our approach to selling CPA practices and even... --- > Read documented success stories from 100+ CPA firm sales totaling $100M+. Verified testimonials show Ex-Big Four expertise achieved 20-40% higher prices. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/success-stories/ The following testimonials are just a fraction of our numerous success stories. Phone numbers will be provided on request for you to verify the accuracy of our clients' statements below: "On January 25th, I made one call ... I called Accounting Broker Acquisition Group based on their national reputation in the industry... On January 29th, Accounting Broker launched the promotion of the sale of the accounting practice into high gear... On February 9th, we met with the best four buyers... By February 14th, we received four written offers! " -Ronald Booker, JD, CPA - Houston, Texas Brother of Donald Booker, CPA, Deceased "Accounting Broker hit the ground running. They did all the work of promoting my CPA firm for sale, sending and receiving confidentiality agreements, disseminating information, upholding my confidentiality, pre-screening the buyers, scheduling appointments for the buyers to meet me, and negotiating the final deal. They did not leave a stone unturned. Their efforts resulted in more than one offer. This gave me the liberty to choose the right buyer for the sale of my CPA firm. " -Christina Villeneuve, CPA - Washington, D. C. Area "Incredible negotiating skills ... intense focus and drive ... an innate sense of the deal-making process beyond what I would have expected from a business broker or CPA. My attorney and I both agree ... Accounting Broker brought me the absolute best deal possible! " B. A. - New York, New York (Manhattan) Due to high-profile nature of clien, name and phone number... --- > Verified: See how Ex-Big Four strategies turned a forced estate sale into a bidding war, achieving $210K more cash at closing. Read notarized proof. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/provenresults/ ACHIEVE PROVEN “MAXIMUM VALUE” RESULTS BY UTILIZING OUR PROVEN "MAXIMUM VALUE STRATEGIES"™ IN PROMOTING, MARKETING, AND NEGOTIATING THE SALE OF YOUR ACCOUNTING FIRM Discover how the estate of a deceased CPA turned their forced sale of an accounting practice into a maximum value sale ... at a significant premium for $210,000 more cash at closing after utilizing our strategies and techniques ... in comparison to the best offer they had previously received for the sale of their CPA practice ... This highly informative Case Study (of actual events) is in the form of a notarized letter we received from Rebecca Richardson-Blanchard written on behalf of the Estate of Thomas W. Richardson, CPA, Deceased. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is a national merger and acquisition consulting firm specializing exclusively in the promotion and sale of accounting practices, tax consulting businesses, and CPA firms. If you desire to buy or sell an accounting firm, we achieve proven results that can help you attain even your most ambitious goals and desires. Whether you are a sole practitioner, small partnership, or large regional firm ... Accounting Broker is the catalyst to enable your new future ... Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPAs with significant "Big Four" merger and acquisition experience. We have overwhelming proof that these strategies can help you achieve maximum value when you sell your accounting firm. To view the PDF version of Becky Richardson Blanchard's notarized letter click... --- > Ex-Big Four brokers help you sell your accounting practice for 20-40% more. Proven strategies, premium buyers, optimal terms. Free consultation. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/sellers/ SELLING YOUR CPA FIRM Accounting Broker is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPAs with significant "Big Four" merger and acquisition experience. We have successfully represented hundreds of CPA practices for sale throughout the nation including many sole practitioners, small partnerships, and larger firms. In the case study, testimonials, and free report referenced below ... you will discover many of the secrets that can literally transform the sale of your accounting firm, tax consulting business, or CPA practice with proven maximum value results. There is one clear and undeniable reason why we consistently achieve significantly higher sales prices and cash at closing amounts for accounting practices for sale than any of our competitors anywhere in the nation. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPAs with significant "Big Four" merger and acquisition experience. No business brokerage in the nation is our equal when it comes to maximizing value when you sell your accounting firm ... and we can provide countless references to prove this undeniable fact. We have the largest database in the nation of buyers who are looking for an accounting practice for sale. We have multiple offices throughout the United States. In addition, we have a vast network of financing sources that can result in cash deals to the seller and favorable loan terms to the buyer. Whether you are a sole practitioner, small partnership, or large regional... --- > Explore 150+ vetted accounting practices for sale nationwide. We arrange 100% SBA financing for qualified buyers. Register free to access listings. - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2025-07-02 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/buyers/ CPA FIRMS AND ACCOUNTING PRACTICES FOR SALE The Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is currently promoting a large number of accounting firms and CPA practices for sale nationwide. The Accounting Broker possesses the breadth of experience and depth of knowledge that can only be obtained over many years of personally nurturing, facilitating, and enabling many millions of dollars in closed transactions. We have successfully represented hundreds of accounting practices for sale. You will not find a more knowledgeable or experienced accounting acquisition business broker in the nation. Whether you desire to purchase a CPA firm with dozens of employees, or you wish to purchase a tax practice owned by a sole proprietor with one employee ... You may discover that one of our accounting firms for sale is the “perfect firm” for you. We can also help you finance your purchase with a CPA firm loan for as much as 100-percent of the purchase price (subject to qualification). "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE Please note: You must register as a buyer to see our numerous nationwide listings of accounting practices for sale (see link below). Register as a Buyer None of our listings of CPA practices for sale appear on this website or on any other website. There are several good reasons for this including CONFIDENTIALITY. We are absolutely obsessed with maintaining the highest level of confidentiality humanly possible when we sell an... --- - Published: 2013-03-05 - Modified: 2015-09-10 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/cpa-firms-and-accounting-practices-for-sale-nationwide/ Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is a national merger and acquisition consulting firm specializing exclusively in the promotion and sale of accounting practices, tax consulting businesses, and CPA firms. If you desire to buy or sell an accounting firm, we achieve proven results that can help you attain even your most ambitious goals and desires. Whether you are a sole practitioner, small partnership, or large regional firm ... Accounting Broker is the catalyst to enable your new future ... Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are CPA's with significant "Big Four" merger and acquisition experience. The cumulative experience of our brokers is comprised of many billions of dollars of mergers and acquisitions over the course of their careers. In addition, we have promoted and negotiated countless accounting practice acquisition transactions involving many millions of dollars in value for sole practitioners, small partnerships, and larger firms. The M&A experience of our brokers is incomparable. We have multiple offices throughout the nation and we have a large number of accounting firms for sale nationwide. We have a vast network of financing sources that can result in cash deals to the seller and favorable loan terms to the buyer. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group possesses the breadth of experience and depth of knowledge that is unrivaled in the industry. But best of all, our results reflect the mindset of absolute excellence in everything we do. You will not find a more knowledgeable, hard-working,... --- > Maximize your CPA firm sale value with Ex-Big Four brokers. Proven results: $210K+ more at closing. Free confidential valuation - Call 800-419-1223. - Published: 2012-02-24 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/ Sell Your CPA Practice for Maximum Value with Ex-Big Four M&A Experts Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is a boutique M&A accounting practice brokerage nationally recognized as the choice for maximizing value in one of the most challenging and rewarding transactions in the industry: accounting practice sales. As a national merger and acquisition consulting firm specializing exclusively in the promotion and sale of accounting practices, tax consulting businesses, and CPA firms, we achieve proven results by guiding you through the entire process to attain even your most ambitious goals and desires. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group is the only national business brokerage of its type comprised 100-percent of brokers who are Ex-Big Four CPAs possessing significant prior merger and acquisition experience. Utilizing our analytical skill as Ex-Big 4 CPAs, Accounting Broker possesses unparalleled experience in the promotion, negotiation, and sale of CPA firms. We have successfully promoted and negotiated hundreds of accounting practice acquisition transactions representing hundreds of millions of dollars in cumulative value for sole practitioners, small partnerships, and larger firms. The M&A experience of our brokers is incomparable. Our focus is to provide exceptional merger and acquisition advice, identify the right buyer, and achieve maximum value for CPA practice owners. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, “Maximize proceeds in accounting firm sales” in the Journal of Accountancy. Click here to download. We have multiple offices throughout the nation and we have a large number of accounting firms for sale nationwide. We have a vast network of... --- --- ## Posts > Discover why paperless accounting firms command 25% higher sale prices. Technology modernization guide shows exactly what buyers want and how to implement it. - Published: 2019-05-29 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/paperless-environment-can-enhance-value-accounting-practice-sales-transaction/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Older owners and accounting professionals love their paper. They love their folders and three-ring binders. When staff accountants sign off on their final workpaper and think they’re done preparing a tax return or other accounting engagement, think again! You still have to print out all the workpapers, the entire tax return, then put hole punches in the paper. And what if you have a stack of 500 workpapers and find one mistake? You’ll become an expert in printing out one new workpaper, taking a hundred workpapers off a ring fastener, then replacing the superseded workpaper. Sound like fun? Because when you’re done, you’ll have to find a place to store all those physical workpapers. So be prepared to buy filing cabinets. Lots of them. Oh, and also plenty of space in an off-site storage facility. Because once you fill up the space you do have onsite at your office, you’ll realize you have another three or four years-worth of client files you need to find a home for. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE The LOI, while admittedly non-binding, is the first document detailing what the buyer is willing to pay for your accounting practice; including the price, terms, and conditions that will guide the sales process to closing. No accounting practice sale should move into the due diligence phase without an LOI that has been agreed to in writing by both parties.... --- > Quality employees can increase your CPA firm's value by 20-40%. Learn proven strategies to showcase staff strength, retention plans, and transition success. - Published: 2019-04-02 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/employees-can-enhance-accounting-practice-sales/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice What’s the most difficult part of running a business? People! Clients who won’t pay their bills and employees who constantly ignore company policy are examples of individuals who can be two of the biggest culprits that can make running an accounting practice occasionally stressful. Businesses would be so easy to run if owners didn’t have to deal with any, actual, human beings! For the rest of us who know that managing people is a necessity in the real world of business, clients and employees can definitely be an occasional source of headaches. But if managed properly, people can also be a business’s biggest strength. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE If you have a tax or accounting practice for sale, having good, reliable employees is definitely a selling point to discuss with potential buyers. Accounting practice sales can be dramatically affected by the employees that are hired by the owner. If you have an accounting practice for sale, here are three ways that your employees can add tremendous value to your firm’s selling price: Employees can take care of day-to-day administration of your firm Owners of accounting practices are the ultimate driver of profitability for their firms. From finding and servicing high-value clients to hiring and retaining qualified employees, owners set the pace at the top of their organizations. Every minute that an owner of an accounting practice has to spend answering phone... --- > Master the Letter of Intent process in CPA practice sales. Learn deal-breaking terms, negotiation leverage points, and how to maintain competitive tension. - Published: 2017-05-03 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/importance-letter-intent-accounting-practice-sales/ - Categories: Other Issues Pertinent to CPA Practice Mergers & Acquisitions Minimizing risk should be as important as maximizing the sales price and terms of an accounting practice for sale. Assuming you have used our proven methods and have identified a qualified buyer from a competitive pool, whom you judge to be the right fit for your CPA practice for sale, and who appears to be willing to offer maximum value with the most cash at closing, it is time to draft and agree on a Letter of Intent (LOI). Some business brokers will advise you skip the LOI altogether; arguing that an LOI is a waste of time and effort in accounting practice sales. If this is your broker, it would be prudent to consider whether that brokerage is faithfully representing your interests, and has the right skill set to structure a deal that does not force you to leave cash on the table at closing, or worse. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE The LOI, while admittedly non-binding, is the first document detailing what the buyer is willing to pay for your accounting practice; including the price, terms, and conditions that will guide the sales process to closing. No accounting practice sale should move into the due diligence phase without an LOI that has been agreed to in writing by both parties. Most LOIs for the sale of an accounting practice should include the contingencies outlined below: 1. Satisfactory Performance of Due... --- > Why serious CPA practice buyers always sign NDAs first. Learn what to include, red flags to avoid, and how confidentiality protections maximize your sale price. - Published: 2017-04-11 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/no-nda-no-sale-never-sell-accounting-business-without-first-signing-nondisclosure-agreement-nda/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Assume for a moment that you are a CPA determined to sell an accounting practice. From trade secrets to customer database lists, you are about to provide potential bidders and direct competitors with a host of confidential information. Can you imagine freely handing over these critical pieces of strategic information with no protection for yourself and your firm? Without a properly executed, well-drafted NDA, you are doing just that. A nondisclosure agreement (NDA), otherwise known as a confidentially agreement, is the first step in an accounting business sale. It precedes letters of intent and purchase agreements in an effort to protect both the seller and buyer. NDAs ensure that the onslaught of sensitive information that is exchanged from the beginning of the process is shared in confidence. "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" Read our featured article, "Maximize Proceeds In Accounting Firm Sales" in the Journal of Accountancy. READ HERE Below are some general components to help you get started. What Does a ‘Good’ Confidentiality Agreement Do? Confidentiality agreements are designed to protect you when selling an accounting business. Not only do they restrict access from third parties, once the NDA is in place, everyone involved should have a clear understanding of what is to be kept ‘confidential’ during the sale of your accounting business. Special protections will typically be outlined for both buyer and seller. However, the NDA will typically focus on the prevention of information misuse by the person wanting to buy the CPA firm. A good confidentiality... --- > Spot problem buyers before they waste your time. Learn 7 red flags: poor financing, cherry-picking plans, lowball tactics. Protect your CPA practice value. - Published: 2017-04-10 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/avoid-these-buyers-when-pursuing-accounting-practice-sales/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice If you are serious about getting the maximum market value in an accounting practice sale, the most important task is finding the right buyer. There are a myriad of criteria you should look for in an accounting practice buyer. This subject has been discussed in depth at the following link: https://accountingbroker. com/5-questions-for-prospective-buyers-accounting-firm-sale/ However, there are CPA practice buyers that you should absolutely avoid to keep from losing the value you have spent years investing in, growing, and carefully nurturing your accounting practice for sale. Here are a few of the worst types of buyers: Buyers Who Desire a Large Percentage Earn-out Contingency Earn-out buyers are the number one type of buyer to avoid. Their strategy is to shift as much risk as possible to the seller. A typical earn-out deal is structured so that the CPA selling an accounting practice receives a small percentage of the purchase price in cash at closing, with earn-out payments based on a percentage of collections that the buyer receives from the seller’s client list for an agreed period of time. The primary problem with this type of deal is that it offers no incentive for buyer performance in an accounting practice sale. Some people who desire to buy a CPA firm on an earn-out basis may start out with the best of intentions. But, if the going gets tough and the buyer overestimated his or her excess capacity prior to the CPA practice sale. The end result may be a buyer who does not... --- > Position your accounting practice for maximum value with these 6 critical preparation steps. From client cleanup to staff retention, ensure premium offers. - Published: 2017-04-06 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/6-important-ways-prepare-firm-accounting-practice-sale/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice - Relation Tags: accounting practice for sale, CPA firm, selling your accounting practice One of your jobs as a CPA is to be a strategic advisor. You advise your clients on how to be prepared with the right documentation, details and records to protect and even maximize the monetary value of their personal and business financial activities. This is one of the skillsets you will need to utilize when selling your accounting practice. (more... ) --- > Specialist CPA brokers achieve 30% higher sale prices than generalists. Discover why Ex-Big Four expertise, buyer networks, and industry knowledge deliver results. - Published: 2016-06-23 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/top-reasons-seller-hire-accounting-business-broker/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice If you are selling your CPA practice or firm, or even just thinking about it, what is most likely of paramount importance to you is finding a qualified buyer who is a great fit for your practice while receiving maximum value and maximum cash at closing. You are likely thinking: “Right. Well tell me something I don’t already know. ” Let’s do some critical thinking using the Socratic method: Just how do you foresee finding this buyer and getting that maximum market value and cash? Will only one offer give you enough leverage in the negotiation or do you need a pool of qualified buyers and multiple offers? How much mergers and acquisitions experience do you have? Do you have any experience structuring an M&A deal? Do you have a large stable of SBA and conventional lenders who have a history of approving CPA practice sales with a high price and cash at closing amount? Do you have the ability to maintain confidentiality for yourself in the early stages of the process? Will client attrition be minimized by an individual with comparable experience to yours or a small, medium, or larger firm that is growing via acquisition? Do you have the time to make promotion, marketing, prequalification, negotiation, and selling your CPA practice your top priority - or do you have a CPA practice to manage? Not just any M&A experience will do. Go to Google and you will find countless business brokers selling day care centers to corporate housing... --- > Learn from the biggest CPA firm mergers exceeding $1 billion. Analyze strategies, multiples, and structures from landmark deals to maximize your sale value. - Published: 2016-05-04 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/top-5-best-mergers-acquisitions-21st-century/ - Categories: CPA Practice Mergers and Acquisitions Like a good marriage, two companies can combine and become more than the sum of their parts. Many factors go into a successful merger, including senior teams that can work well together, shared values and an understanding of each other’s business culture. Employees, stock owners and other stakeholders also need reassurance along the way as the companies enter unknown territory. Here are five mergers where the companies got it right. WellPoint and Anthem Back in 2004, Anthem Inc. of Indianapolis and the Thousand Oaks, California-based WellPoint Inc. underwent a $16 billion merger. For 10 years, the two used the Wellpoint name, but have recently switched to Anthem. Both companies had a long history of successfully acquiring smaller companies. The giant’s cost-saving strategies have endeared the company to its stockholders. Disney & Pixar Many millions of movie-goers and toy lovers have benefited from the Disney/Pixar merger. Children and adults alike love Finding Nemo, Toy Story and WALL-E. Frozen is one of the highest-grossing movies of all time. Between Pixar’s moviemaking talent and Disney’s marketing expertise, these two companies are one winning combination. Sirius & XM radio Have you noticed that most new cars arrive on the lot with SiriusXM pre-installed? Ever since the rivals joined forces in 2008, they managed to override the FCC’s monopoly clause and soar to great audio and financial success. PepsiCo and Quaker Oats With an obesity epidemic in full swing, what’s a company most known for its sugary drinks to do? Merge with a company whose... --- > Master the art of selling your CPA firm to millennial buyers. Bridge generational differences, address tech expectations, and negotiate work-life balance terms. - Published: 2016-05-02 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/selling-cpa-firm-millennial/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Most people have heard the stereotypes about millennials - that generation born after 1980. Lazy. Narcissistic. Disloyal. Entitled. Only interested in positive feedback. They care more about money than meaning, and are married to their smartphones. But is this true? And what if a millennial wants to buy your CPA firm? Should you sell your CPA practice to them? Despite the beliefs many baby boomers and Gen Xers have about millennials lacking drive and other entrepreneurial qualities, the wise accountant with a CPA firm to sell will slow down and consider the situation. What’s Their Track Record? Whatever generation a person belongs to, his or her track record will reveal the truth. How did this millennial perform in his last job? What’s his educational experience? What do his clients have to say about him? Do your research and you’ll quickly find out if this millennial is a winner or a slacker. Difference Between Boss and Employee Here at Accounting Broker, we sometimes hear sellers bemoan the fact that their key employee accountants just don’t work hard enough. They find an accountant with a good track record, pay him a salary of $80 or $100 thousand, and expect the young accountant to give the job his all. Meanwhile, the owner is netting a quarter million. But that young accountant might work a lot harder if he could get his hands on the quarter million instead of the eighty thousand. The point is that there’s a big difference in motivation between an... --- > Properly handle employee non-compete agreements during your CPA firm sale. Learn enforceability issues, buyer concerns, and negotiation strategies that protect value. - Published: 2016-04-28 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/addressing-employee-non-compete-agreements-accounting-practice-sales/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Whenever Accounting Broker represents the seller of an accounting practice, we coach that seller to have non-compete agreements in place with the accounting practice’s employees. This helps to protect the practice from employees leaving and taking clients of the firm with them when they leave. Without non-compete agreements, a potential buyer of the practice would justifiably have significant concerns about client retention, which could negatively impact his offering price and payment terms. Here are a few basics for managing what can be a thorny issue. Because non-compete agreements are legal documents, and because laws and precedents regarding these agreements can vary significantly between states, you’ll want to consult an attorney. At Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, we are experts on accounting practice sales, but we are not attorneys and we do not give legal advice. Planning Ahead In an ideal world, a non-compete agreement is already in place between the accounting practice owner and the employees long before selling the practice. If an owner knows he or she wants to sell the practice in a couple of years, it’s wise to start laying the groundwork ASAP. In most cases, in order for a non-compete agreement to be valid, the owner must give employees additional compensation related to signing the agreement. The agreement cannot generally be just a condition of employment. A good strategy employed by many attorneys is to tie the agreement to a bonus or raise. Picking the Right Time What if you never got around to the non-compete agreement... --- > Understand what makes CPA practices attractive to premium buyers in 2025. Position your firm with 12 desirability factors to command top dollar. Free assessment. - Published: 2016-04-25 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/desirable-vs-undesirable-accounting-practices-sale-buyers-perspective/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice You’ve been working for somebody else for years, and now you’re ready to buy and manage your own CPA firm. But when you start comparing CPA practices for sale, you can easily get confused. Which one will be the best and most profitable fit for you? Here are a few factors to consider when shopping around to buy a CPA practice. Profitability All other factors being equal, profitability is king. Look for a firm with above average billing rates and profitability. One way to measure this is through the Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE). This is calculated as a function of earnings plus the CPA practice owner’s compensation, benefits, other discretionary expenses, depreciation, amortization, and taxes on the owner’s salary. Skill Set Compare your skill set with that of the CPA practice’s current owner. If you’re both generalists who turn out a high volume of basic tax returns, that could be a good match. Or if you both specialize in a particular discipline, such as medical practice taxation, terrific. But if you’re a generalist and you’re looking at a CPA firm run by a forensic accounting guru, you may require significant assistance from the seller for an extended period of time. This will give you the time to grow into the specialization of the former owner. Geography What part of town is the CPA practice in? Since most firms draw from surrounding neighborhoods, it’s usually a bad idea to move the office a long distance away from its current location. Often,... --- > Complete 2025 guide to SBA financing for CPA practice acquisitions. Current rates, 10% down options, qualification requirements, and approval strategies. - Published: 2016-04-21 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/typical-terms-sba-loan-purchase-accounting-practice-2/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice When buying a CPA firm, many people turn to lending programs backed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). When compared to many conventional lending programs, SBA-backed loans offer flexibility, longer terms, and potentially lower down payments. Many buyers of CPA practices can take advantage of the SBA’s most popular loan program, the SBA 7(a). Preferred Lenders While many lenders offer SBA-backed loans, some are easier to deal with than others. Even though the loan is backed by the SBA, the lender retains a portion of the risk. Because of this, requirements vary by lender. In fact, some lenders actually have tighter lending and underwriting requirements than the SBA’s standards. Some lenders participate in the SBA’s Preferred Lender Program (PLP). The SBA allows PLP lenders to make credit decisions on SBA backed loans, rather than having to send them off to the SBA for approval. This results in a much faster underwriting, approval, and loan closing process. When a buyer utilizes an SBA loan to purchase a CPA practice, it is important that the lender is very experienced with SBA lending and participates in the PLP program. A local banker may indicated that his bank in an SBA Preferred Lender, but his bank may only occasionally make SBA loans. Such a bank might have never made a loan for a CPA practice acquisition. Such lenders are often overly cautious by imposing more stringent demands on the borrower than the SBA requires. At Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, we work with a selection... --- > Master CPA practice valuation with our comprehensive 2025 guide. Understand revenue multiples, SDE calculations, and pricing strategies that maximize value. - Published: 2016-04-18 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/cpa-practice-valuation/ - Categories: Other Issues Pertinent to CPA Practice Mergers & Acquisitions Since each CPA practice is unique, it’s crucial to take the time to correctly value a CPA practice. All too often, a CPA devotes decades of work to his or her company, then offers the practice for sale for much less than it’s worth. Since the accounting practice is probably their largest asset, retiring CPAs can impact their financial future if they leave money on the table when selling a CPA practice. Here are a few points to ponder when determining the valuation of a CPA practice: SDE vs. Revenue Multiples Never sell a CPA practice for 100% of billings without speaking with an expert first. Many industries base the market value of businesses on multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). Another way is to look at Seller's Discretionary Earnings (SDE), defined as EBITDA plus owner's compensation and benefits and other discretionary expenses or “add-backs. ” Assuming other variables are equal, buyers prefer firms with high SDE over low SDE. Two single-owner firms in the same city might both have $500,000 in annual collected billings. One is managed well, producing an annual cash-basis SDE to the owner of $250,000, while the other is poorly managed and only produces $50,000 SDE. Which practice would you prefer to buy? An extremely well managed accounting practice for sale with a high SDE should be valued at more than 100 percent of its annual billings. There is very high demand from buyers for such profitable businesses. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group... --- > Take our comprehensive CPA practice sale readiness assessment. Evaluate financial performance, operational efficiency, and personal preparedness. Get your score now. - Published: 2016-04-03 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/are-you-really-ready-to-sell/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice It is just after tax season, that annual lull in activity before more deadlines are hanging over your head just around the corner. You might be saying to yourself, “I need to spend more quality time with the grandkids and do some fishing up country. I’m more than ready! ” But are you really? There is no question that you may have the motivation. But, do you have the means, the conviction and the right plan? If a seller of a CPA practice for sale cannot answer all three in the affirmative, often he or she will realize late in the sales process, after offers have been submitted and a letter of intent has been agreed upon, that they actually cannot or should not sell. Here is why: The Means The No. 1 reason business owners said they are selling is to retire, according to a 2015 Pepperdine University survey. The survey also found that 29 percent of respondents selling said they are cashing out because they are simply burned out. No matter the scenario, before starting the sales process, it is critical that sellers accurately estimate their true personal financial requirements necessary to maintain their desired lifestyle after the potential accounting practice sale. Without a rigorous understanding of their current and post-sale financial position, expectations for their future will be unrealistic and ultimately disappointing. We always succeed in meeting the expectations that we present to a seller, and usually exceed them, but a small percentage of merger and acquisition... --- > Answer these 12 critical questions before listing your CPA practice for sale. Readiness assessment covers finances, operations, personal goals, and market timing. - Published: 2016-04-02 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/critical-questions-cpas-selling-cpa-practice/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Making a deal for a CPA practice for sale always carries inherent risk. If you are reading this, you are more than likely an accountant. Therefore, it is in your DNA to do what is necessary to at least minimize, if not altogether avoid, risk. Unfortunately, when it comes to selling an accounting firm, many sellers, usually after a particularly brutal season, want to run rather than walk to the exit. They will sometimes skip the critical questions, in the rush to a hasty decision to affect a positive life change ... only later to find that they have made the wrong decision. Answer these questions first, if you are considering a sale of your accounting firm, to see if you are ready to sell your practice and start the next chapter of life. Any Internal Issues? In CPA practice sales, sellers who make a spur-of-the-moment decision to hoist the “for sale” sign, and are dogged by internal issues, will not achieve the highest market value price or cash at closing. If a CPA firm has suffered a bad peer review or is experiencing strife with a key employee or employees, it might be considered a problem practice by many buyers who might otherwise have been interested. Sellers should realize that most buyers will want to keep key employees and will need to require a nonsolicitation agreement with these key employees. Such an agreement needs to be in place well ahead of starting the sale process. With a nonsolicitation agreement... --- > Master buyer's due diligence with this seller's preparation guide. Learn what buyers scrutinize, how to prepare documents, and strategies to maintain leverage. - Published: 2016-03-23 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/buyer-due-diligence-process-from-the-sellers-perspective-when-selling-an-accounting-practice/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice You made the decision to sell your CPA firm and now you’ve found a promising prospective buyer. Hopefully, you have already required the buyer to sign a nondisclosure agreement. As a knowledgeable professional, you understand any buyer will need to perform their due diligence on your firm. But when it’s actually happening, it can sometimes be as uncomfortable as wearing a speedo at the beach. You might feel exposed and vulnerable, and unsure about what is and what is not reasonable in the due diligence process. Here are a few guidelines. First Phase Once you narrow down your choices to a handful of prospective buyers, they’ll want to see some financial information. At this stage, before things get too serious, you’ll only provide summary information such as P&L’s and other general information. The prospective buyers meet with the seller, look at some high level information and get a general feel for the practice. At this point the seller should weed out the less-than-perfect buyers. The buyers are deciding whether or not the firm’s a good fit. Confidentiality Confidentiality throughout the process is critical to the seller. One of the many benefits of utilizing Accounting Broker Acquisition Group to sell your CPA firm is that we help you maintain the highest possible level of confidentiality throughout the process. We are able to do this because of the proactive, hands-on process that we use in screening possible buyers for your CPA practice. Unlike some of our competitors who are essentially listing services,... --- > Selling your life's work is emotional. Expert psychologist and M&A advisor share coping strategies, decision frameworks, and success mindsets. Free guide. - Published: 2016-03-10 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/managing-psychological-aspects-sale/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Buyers looking to acquire a CPA practice for sale have already done the deep analysis and concluded that to receive financing, efficiently achieve their profit goals, and create the level of earnings to support their desired lifestyle, buying an already established firm is the smart move. Assuming the accounting practice for sale is on solid footing, ready to be taken to the next level by a fresh outlook; what can kill the deal is the mismanagement of the psychological elements of the sales process. The sales process is rife with a mix of emotions, both positive and negative for all involved. Selling a CPA practice, as well as buying one, is both a professional and a personal high stakes decision, that like any business deal carries risk. While CPAs are almost always analytical - it is in our DNA, the psychological aspect can help as well as prevent making the deal for maximum market value, with the most cash at closing. The Psychology of Preliminary Value Sellers should have a clear understanding of the value of their CPA services and how to market them to attract the right clients. It’s their business. Sellers, however, take on unnecessary risk of leaving money on the table when they do not recognize that this expertise does not naturally translate into successfully valuing their firm. The combinations of analytical variables, such as profitability, specialization, or location that build demand and therefore increase the value and ultimately the sales price for a firm are potentially... --- > Comprehensive due diligence guide covering 47 critical data points buyers analyze. Prepare every document, metric, and process to sail through scrutiny. - Published: 2016-03-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/due-diligence-the-decisive-data-points/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice, Selling a CPA Practice Make no mistake. The buyer due diligence process in accounting firm sales is an inspection to corroborate the material aspects asserted by the seller of a CPA practice in the comprehensive financial information provided by the seller to the buyer. Due diligence is also typically performed related to certain information provided by the buyer to the seller. While many sellers feel this process of checking the books feels like a nerve-fraying invasion, take heart; if expertly handled, this process is actually less stressful than in other business sales because of the ability of CPAs to provide coherent and accurate information about their business. In CPA practices, accountants are already under a certain level of ethical constraints to maintain their licenses, even in retirement. Nevertheless, there are key steps and points that every seller and buyer should abide by and understand to ensure that their risks are mitigated, sensitive proprietary information remains confidential, and the due diligence process is prepared for and efficiently managed. Step: Get That NDA Signed Before Due Diligence A guarantee of confidentiality is critical to securing maximum value. The absolute first step in interacting with potential buyers should without exception always be a potential buyer-signed nondisclosure agreement (NDA), otherwise known as a confidentially agreement. The NDA should clearly restrain a buyer from disclosing sensitive information with the public or industry, to include not contacting your clients and employees, and specifically outline the only acceptable ways this information can be used. It should also outline the consequences of... --- > Navigate your first week after closing with this hour-by-hour guide. From final handoffs to staff meetings, ensure smooth transitions. Daily checklists included. - Published: 2016-03-03 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/week-1-after-selling-your-cpa-firm/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice The first day after selling your CPA firm will probably be very odd. You wake up and get ready to go into the office just like every day for the last 20-plus years. Suddenly you remember: You sold your practice! Life as you know it is radically shifting. Your future is suddenly unknown, which can be both frightening and exciting. (more... ) --- > Successfully manage client deadlines while selling your CPA practice. Expert schedule templates help balance workload, buyer meetings, and due diligence. - Published: 2016-02-29 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/what-should-the-sellers-schedule-be-like-in-the-middle-of-a-cpa-practice-acquisition-or-merger/ - Categories: Other Issues Pertinent to CPA Practice Mergers & Acquisitions, Selling a CPA Practice After spending many years diligently building your CPA firm, you have decided it is time to close this phase of your life and pursue your dreams. You may wonder how much time it will take to sell your practice. Even if you take the wise step of hiring a specialty business broker, some phases in the selling process will still require a significant amount of your time. (more... ) --- > Complete guide to SBA financing for CPA practice acquisitions in 2025. Current rates, down payment requirements, qualification criteria, and approval strategies. - Published: 2016-02-25 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/typical-terms-sba-loan-purchase-accounting-practice/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice, Selling a CPA Practice When buying a CPA firm, many people turn to lending programs backed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). When compared to many conventional lending programs, SBA-backed loans offer flexibility, longer terms, and potentially lower down payments. Many buyers of CPA practices can take advantage of the SBA’s most popular loan program, the SBA 7(a). Preferred Lenders While many lenders offer SBA-backed loans, some are easier to deal with than others. Even though the loan is backed by the SBA, the lender retains a portion of the risk. Because of this, requirements vary by lender. In fact, some lenders actually have tighter lending and underwriting requirements than the SBA’s standards. Some lenders participate in the SBA’s Preferred Lender Program (PLP). The SBA allows PLP lenders to make credit decisions on SBA backed loans, rather than having to send them off to the SBA for approval. This results in a much faster underwriting, approval, and loan closing process. When a buyer utilizes an SBA loan to purchase a CPA practice, it is important that the lender is very experienced with SBA lending and participates in the PLP program. A local banker may indicated that his bank is an SBA Preferred Lender, but his bank may only occasionally make SBA loans. Such a bank might have never made a loan for a CPA practice acquisition. Such lenders are often overly cautious by imposing more stringent demands on the borrower than the SBA requires. At Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, we work with a selection... --- > Turn your first buyer meeting into a bidding war. Proven presentation strategies, key talking points, and negotiation tactics that increase purchase offers 20-40%. - Published: 2016-02-22 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/how-to-have-successful-first-meeting-that-increases-the-buyers-desire-to-purchase-your-cpa-practice/ - Categories: Other Issues Pertinent to CPA Practice Mergers & Acquisitions, Selling a CPA Practice By the time you’re ready to meet face-to-face with a prospective buyer for your CPA practice, you’ve narrowed down a large field of candidates. Now you have a small number or possibly even just one candidate that seems to have what it takes: appropriate educational and professional qualifications, strong communication skills, and the financial means to fund the transaction and close the deal. Now it is time to take the next step and personally meet with the buyer prospect. The following will help you to make that first meeting a successful one. (more... ) --- > Navigate legal complexities when selling your accounting practice. Expert guidance on asset vs stock sales, liability protection, employment agreements, and closing. - Published: 2015-10-15 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/attorney-matters-related-to-the-sale-of-accounting-practices/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Attorneys are a crucial part of selling your CPA firm. But their helpfulness can vary over a wide spectrum, from creating countless roadblocks and obstacles to smoothly facilitating a transaction. A skilled M&A attorney is indispensable in putting together the contracts and agreements in a way that protects the interests of both the buyer and the seller. Role of the Attorney When a buyer wants to make an offer to buy a CPA practice, he presents the seller with a letter of intent (LOI). The LOI typically serves as a non-binding broad outline of the terms of the deal. The offer contained in most LOI’s will be contingent upon due diligence, financing approval and closing, and a final definitive agreement between the buyer and seller. If the seller wishes to proceed in the direction of a particular buyer’s offer, the terms of the buyer’s LOI are further negotiated between the buyer and seller (or the business broker in Accounting Broker’s case). At this point, an overall agreement is reached regarding the major deal points of purchase price, payment terms, seller involvement and compensation after the sale, etc. The LOI is finalized to reflect the non-binding agreement and is signed by both parties. Many buyers and sellers invoke the assistance of their attorneys in drafting and reviewing the LOI. Many don’t. However, the point in time when attorneys should always be utilized is when the final agreement and purchase documents are put together. The final documents (not the LOI) will control... --- > Maximize proceeds when selling CPA and financial planning services together. Expert bundling strategies, valuation methods, and transition planning. Free guide. - Published: 2015-10-13 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/selling-financial-planning-business-with-cpa-firm/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Many CPAs offer financial planning and investment services. CPAs often enter this business segment as a result of client requests, personal interest in the field, and the desire for an additional year-round revenue stream. Estate and retirement planning, investments, budgeting and cash flow management all require specialized knowledge and certifications. It can take many years to build a successful CPA firm with a financial planning practice. So if the owner of a CPA firm with a financial planning business decides to sell his CPA practice, should he just sell the CPA part of the business? Or sell both businesses, together or apart? It depends on the seller’s needs and desires. At Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, we support any of those options. We help tailor the deal to fit the seller’s needs. Some owners of CPA firms are ready to sell both businesses and fully retire. Others want to sell the CPA business and still work but with fewer hours. They do this by retaining the financial planning section of their practice. No Surprises The important thing is to decide upfront whether or not your financial planning business is for sale. This will affect which buyers can be candidates to buy your firm. Some buyers already perform financial planning services, and want to be able to continue to offer such services to the clients of the acquired firm. These buyers would not consider buying your CPA practice if you are retaining the financial planning business. Other buyers are not remotely interested... --- > Selling your CPA practice with owned real estate? Navigate property valuations, lease-backs, separate sales, and tax implications. Expert strategies included. - Published: 2015-10-09 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/issues-regarding-seller-owned-office-buildings/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Buying an office building can be a terrific investment and provide many financial advantages. But if you operate your CPA practice in a building you own, and you decide to sell your firm, real estate ownership introduces additional issues into the selling process. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you find yourself in this situation. Owner’s Pride and its Pitfalls We have seen deals fall apart because of real estate owned by the seller, which is often insignificant compared to the value of the practice. Why does this happen? Sometimes it comes down to the owner’s pride. People can develop deep emotional attachments to their real estate. You probably remember first seeing the building, deciding it was the place for you, going through all the effort to acquire it and fix it up for your needs. Add in years of memories of what transpired inside your office – the business deals, relationships and friendships, proud moments of accomplishment, picking yourself up again when things didn’t go your way. What somebody else sees as an ordinary building has grown into a vibrant, living slice of your personal history. You must be realistic and objective about the true condition and value of the property. Step back and look at the location. Is it highly desirable? Or do you have the nicest property in a neighborhood that’s gone downhill? If conditions have changed in the area, it can affect the value of your property. Financing Advantage Since CPA practices... --- > Data proves CPA specialist brokers outperform general business brokers by 40% on price. Compare expertise, buyer quality, deal terms, and success rates. - Published: 2015-10-07 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/cpa-specialist-broker-vs-general-business-brokers/ - Categories: CPA Practice Mergers and Acquisitions Not all business brokers are equally equipped. A general business brokerage works in many different industries and sells virtually any type of business. Generalist brokers tend to have a shallow understanding of many businesses and types of buyers, allowing them to quickly shift gears for each client. Specialist business brokers have deep knowledge of a single industry or specialty. They know the ins and outs of a particularly industry better than any generalist. Accounting Broker Acquisition group is laser-focused exclusively on CPA firms. If you’re selling a retail shop, restaurant or movie theater, we’re not for you. But if you’re selling a successful CPA practice, we have the best contacts and track record in your industry. Take this short quiz to examine a few common misconceptions people often have about business brokers. True or False: I’m better off using a local business broker because he knows my local market better than a broker in a different city. False. A specialist broker like Accounting Broker Acquisition Group has a massive database of CPA buyers both in your local area and nationally. Buyer contacts and industry expertise are much more important factors than general business factors in the local market. True or False: A general business broker, especially one that is part of a national franchise network, has many more financing sources available to buyers, meaning more successful financing transactions. False. Accounting Broker Acquisition Group works with lenders who are extremely familiar with CPA firm purchase transactions. We know the ins and... --- > Minimize disruption with our staff and client transition playbook. Proven communication strategies, retention tactics, and timeline templates ensure 90%+ satisfaction. - Published: 2015-10-05 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/successful-staff-and-client-transitions-through-a-sale/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice A successful transition requires a profitable CPA firm and a deal that satisfies the needs of both the seller and the buyer. That’s all you need for a successful ownership transition. Right? Wrong. In order to keep the firm profitable after the sale of a CPA practice, you must gently shepherd your CPA practice’s staff and clients through the change of ownership. To understand what works – and what doesn’t -- let’s look at two very different scenarios. Scenario one: A suburban firm sells its practice to a large downtown firm 25 miles away. The larger downtown firm tries to fit the acquired practice and clients into its way of doing things. So the buyer sets out to change every policy, every procedure, and the way information is communicated to clients. Plus, clients will now be required to drive 25 miles to downtown when they desire face-to-face interaction with their CPA. Staffing changes and billing rates go up. Contrast this with scenario two: Scenario two: The buyer stays in the existing office or, at most, moves a few miles down the road. Billing rates and policies stay in place. The staff stays on. Clients who have always preferred face-to-face meetings are welcome in the office. In short, things are pretty much the same as before the sale with the exception of the buyer now performing the billable work of the practice (with help of the seller’s employees). Which scenario do you think will result in higher client and staff retention?... --- > Understand standard post-sale involvement: 3-month transitions, consulting terms, and non-compete details. Balance seller support with clean exits. Samples included. - Published: 2015-10-01 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/seller-involvement-after-the-sale/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice You’ve spent decades of your life building your successful CPA practice and forming close, trusting relationships with your clients. Now it’s time to sell your CPA practice and start a new chapter in your life. But selling seldom means cutting all ties. Sellers are usually involved after the sale, at least to some degree. One of the tricks for a smooth transition is to consider ahead of time – and discuss with the buyer – what you expect your post-sale involvement to look like. Healthy Transition The seller and buyer should document what specific work the seller will perform for a smooth transition and to maximize client retention. This could entail several weeks of explaining relevant issues and systems to the buyer and introducing the buyer to your key clients. Highly complicated and specialized practices may require significantly more transition time due to the complexity of the clients and work to be performed. Helping the buyer retain the clients during the transition is a reasonable part of selling your business. A good transition will ensure that your successor will have a better foundation to keep the CPA practice running well far into the future. One important point to note: The buyer should never require that you perform billable work for free as part of the transition. In addition, you should set a limit on unpaid transitional hours. Billable Hours Many sellers aren’t ready to cut the ties, and many buyers can benefit from a longer transition where the seller and... --- > Discover when seller financing benefits your CPA practice sale and when to avoid it. Expert analysis reveals optimal deal structures, terms, and risk strategies. - Published: 2015-09-29 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/when-is-seller-financing-a-good-option/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice At Accounting Broker Acquisition Group, we encourage deals that result in high multiples of billings and significant cash at closing for the seller. For most firms, we can achieve a very high sales price with significant cash at closing, which is obviously much better for the seller than having to carry a very large portion of the deal. But this depends, of course, on a number of factors that affect the attractiveness of your CPA firm. Fix Problems First Sometimes, a seller is forced to carry a significant amount of financing because of internal problems with their CPA firm that makes his/her firm undesirable in the marketplace. Low profitability is a common problem. If your million dollar firm only nets $80K, it is unattractive to most buyers. A buyer would have to be crazy to take over your business when low profitability would make it impossible to service acquisition debt. Other common internal problems include a dwindling client base, understaffing and billing rates that are set too low. Best case scenario: Fix your internal problems first. Sell later. If you are able to plan a few years out, do whatever you legally and ethically can to turn your firm around before looking for a buyer. Increase profitability. Stabilize staff. Raise your billing rates. You’ll be in a much stronger position to maximize your value on the sale, and to not take on significant seller financing. If You Must Sell Now Maybe a combination of factors is forcing you to sell... --- > Choose the right CPA practice broker with this evaluation guide. Compare Ex-Big Four experience, success rates, and seller testimonials. Avoid costly mistakes. - Published: 2015-09-15 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/what-to-look-for-in-an-exceptional-broker/ - Categories: Other Issues Pertinent to CPA Practice Mergers & Acquisitions After many years of investing your blood, sweat and tears into building a thriving and highly profitable CPA practice, you’re thinking about selling. You realize that a business broker can help maximize value when you sell your firm. Smart move. But how do you know which broker to choose for the sale of your CPA practice? Here are a few traits to look for in an exceptional broker. An exceptional broker is proactive Your broker absolutely must be proactive. Too often, brokers are not. Many brokers take the easy way out. They put some listings up on a website, then sit back and wait. This is the same model that some realtors use, posting a listing to MLS and hoping somebody else sells it for them. Too often the seller winds up doing all the work of negotiating with prospective buyers while the passive broker collects a fee for doing little more than scheduling meetings. A proactive broker also provides a buffer between you and the buyer. If the seller is negotiating directly with the buyer and reaches an impasse, lasting damage can be done to the relationship, often killing the deal. But if a broker negotiates the deal and reaches an impasse with a buyer, the buyer won’t bear the same feelings toward the seller. The seller can always go directly to the buyer and restore a good relationship, while reaping the benefit of the broker’s negotiations. You need much more than a passive meeting-scheduler. You need a CPA... --- > Considering an internal sale? Compare employee buyout pros, cons, financing options, and deal structures. Make informed decisions about selling to trusted staff. - Published: 2015-09-03 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/pros-and-cons-of-selling-your-cpa-firm-to-an-employee/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Owners of small to mid-sized CPA practices often like to “keep things in the family”, so to speak, by selling their CPA practice to an employee. But while some employees can be very good purchasers, this plan often fails. Why don’t many employees make good owners? It comes down to skills and pay. Skills These days, trying to use the old model of grooming somebody from within to take over your CPA practice is almost an impossibility. Competition for the best “up and coming” CPAs is intense. The most skilled professionals are often lured away by larger CPA firms and other companies. A small CPA practice is like a hive, filled with worker bees but only one queen. Many CPA firm employees are like these worker bees – solid, reliable, good quality people who consistently do their job well. However, they often lack the charisma and skill set to become high-level leaders or CPA practice owners. They are unlikely to have sufficient people skills and high-level expertise to run the business and attract new clients. Pay Despite the fact that single owner CPA practices would like to pay their employees more, everybody knows the truth: Large, top-tier firms pay higher salaries. So, unfortunately, your ability to retain a successor as an employee is detrimentally affected by this fact. People with top-notch skills can usually find better jobs with higher salaries than small to mid-sized CPA firms offer. So it’s very unlikely that a strong candidate to be your successor is... --- > Retain 95% of clients when selling your CPA practice with proven transition strategies. Communication templates, introduction timing, and retention bonuses included. - Published: 2015-09-01 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/client-retention-after-the-sale-of-a-cpa-practice/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice, CPA Practice Mergers and Acquisitions The principal value of a CPA practice is represented by the goodwill and client list. The buyer desires the future fee revenues and referrals to be generated from those clients. Client retention after the sale of a CPA firm is extremely important to the buyer of the practice and to the seller of the practice as well. The buyer needs to retain a high percentage of clients in order to recoup his investment, repay his acquisition debt, and achieve his financial goals. Retention is important to the seller because there is often a small seller-carried note for a portion of the purchase price, and the success of the practice is key to the buyer’s ability to repay this note. The following are ways to maximize client retention after the sale of a CPA firm. Minimize change The ancient Greek Heraclitus said, “There is nothing permanent except change”. But that doesn’t mean clients like change. In fact, many clients prefer that most aspects of the CPA firm remain the same as they were under the former owner. When an accounting practice is sold, it is a given that the ownership will change. However, to retain clients, make every effort to minimize as much additional change as possible. For at least for the first two to three years, the buyer of a CPA practice should make every effort to maintain most of seller’s previous policies that relate to clients and employees. During this time, while the buyer is building his own relationships... --- > Banks evaluate these 8 key metrics for CPA practice SBA loans: cash flow coverage, buyer experience, client concentration. Improve your ratios for loan approval. - Published: 2015-08-20 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/what-metrics-do-banks-look-at-for-sba-financing/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice, CPA Practice Mergers and Acquisitions Many people who are starting or expanding their CPA businesses through the purchase of an existing accounting practice utilize programs of the U. S. Small Business Administration for financing. Under these programs, regular banks make and service the loans, but a portion of the loan is guaranteed by the SBA. If you haven’t applied for an SBA loan before, you’re probably wondering what banks look for when underwriting an SBA loan for the purchase of a CPA firm. The Basics Good credit is absolutely essential for securing an SBA loan. It is a good idea to check your credit reports well in advance of applying for a loan. Credit reports often contain erroneous information, and it can take time to get them cleared up. The time to fix credit report problems is now, not during the loan underwriting process. The bank will expect you to have least 10 percent of the total projected costs of the acquisition. The total projected costs include sales price, working capital, SBA fees, loan package fees and closing costs as a down payment, and adequate cash flow to cover debt service as well as your living expenses and personal financial obligations. Some lenders will allow a purchaser to borrow working capital and others will not. Debt Coverage Ratio Lenders use the debt coverage ratio to determine the amount and term of a loan that you can qualify for in the purchase and sale of an accounting practice. The debt coverage ratio demonstrates the adequacy of... --- > Maximize your CPA firm's sale value with this 5-step preparation checklist. Cover financials, operations, staff, and technology to attract premium buyers. - Published: 2015-08-17 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/5-ways-to-prepare-your-cpa-practice-for-selling/ - Categories: Selling a CPA Practice Selling the CPA practice you’ve spent years or even decades of your life building is a big decision. It is often important to start preparing one or two years before the sale. While there are some things you can’t alter – you’re unlikely to move your Chicago CPA practice to New York – you absolutely can make changes to maximize value when you’re preparing to sell your CPA practice. (more... ) --- > Should you merge with another CPA firm or sell outright? Compare financial outcomes, tax implications, and lifestyle factors. Free decision matrix included. - Published: 2015-08-14 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/is-it-better-to-merge-or-sell-your-accounting-practice/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice, CPA Practice Mergers and Acquisitions, Selling a CPA Practice Is it better to merge or sell your accounting practice? Usually, the answer is to sell. While selling a CPA firm is generally the best option, there are cases where a merger is the only feasible way to go. (more... ) --- > Eliminate tire-kickers and problem buyers with these 5 screening questions. Protect your CPA practice confidentiality while identifying serious, qualified purchasers. - Published: 2015-07-21 - Modified: 2025-06-22 - URL: https://accountingbroker.com/articles/5-questions-for-prospective-buyers-accounting-firm-sale/ - Categories: Buying a CPA Practice, CPA Practice Mergers and Acquisitions You’ve spent years building your CPA firm, developing client relationships and cultivating your niche in the marketplace. When the time comes to sell, selecting the right buyer can leave you in a cold sweat. How do you know this person or firm will maximize your firm’s profitability, satisfy your loyal clients and keep long-term employees happy? While life has no guarantees, there’s a lot you can do to vet prospective buyers when selling a CPA practice. Ask these five pre-qualification questions and significantly increase your chances for a smooth and profitable transition. (more... ) --- --- ## Works ---