There are a number of reasons why an advisor would consider selling their practice:

To realize and monetize the equity they have built up over the years.

To retire from the practice and make way for the next generation of owners.

To exit the business and pursue other interests.

Seller’s Considerations:

• Why am I selling my practice?
  
• What personal objectives will be achieved?
  
• What would be sold? A book of business represented by my current client list? Future earnings and cash flow opportunity? A systematic approach to doing business? The tangible assets of my business (furniture, equipment, etc.)
  
• Who would be my ideal buyer (geography, style, philosophy)?
  
• What are my strategic alternatives? Internal sale, Partial Sale? Sale to another rep? Sale to a consolidator? Merger with a Bank, CPA firm or another advisory firm?
  
• What is the profile of my client base and what synergy would I look for in a prospective buyer?
  
• What is my time frame for completing the sale process?
  
• What is my expectation?
  
• Do I need a specific cash amount or am I open to terms including financing over time?
  
• What do I perceive buyers will regard as strengths and weaknesses of my practice?
  
• What is my commitment to this process?
  
• Do I want to stay with the practice after the sale? For how long?
  
• What are my “deal killers” and “deal makers”?
  
• Have I placed a realistic value on my practice?