Selling an accounting practice requires a specialised and carefully managed approach. Unlike many other businesses, accounting practices are relationship-based, where client retention, staff continuity, cultural alignment, and a smooth transition are all critical factors in achieving a successful outcome.
Zircom Business Brokers has successfully negotiated the sale of more than 130 accounting practices across Western Australia, with practice fee bases typically ranging from $50,000 to $5 million. Through this experience, we have developed a detailed understanding of the key drivers of value and the practical considerations involved in these transactions.
David Screaigh and Catherine Screaigh are both Chartered Accountants, Qualified Business Brokers and Registered Business Valuers. Their background in accounting, including experience in public practice, combined with extensive transaction experience, provides practical insight into the commercial, financial, and relationship aspects involved in selling an accounting practice.
We have also presented on accounting practice sales to professional bodies including Chartered Accountants ANZ, CPA Australia and the Institute of Public Accountants, reflecting our ongoing involvement in the industry.
While we maintain a network of buyers nationally, most transactions involve local Western Australian buyers. Local market knowledge is particularly important when identifying buyers who are the right fit for the practice, staff, and client base. Being based in Western Australia allows us to attend meetings in person and work closely with all parties throughout the process.
Many of the buyers we engage with are existing accounting firms or practitioners seeking to grow through acquisition. We undertake a confidential and targeted approach to identifying suitable buyers, managing the process carefully to ensure the right buyers are engaged while maintaining confidentiality.
Our role is to manage and facilitate the sale process from the initial appraisal through to final settlement. This includes advising on value and marketing approach, preparing the Information Memorandum, identifying and qualifying buyers, coordinating and attending meetings, facilitating negotiations, assisting with sale documentation, and managing the transaction through due diligence and settlement.
Finding the right buyer is one of the most important aspects of selling an accounting practice. Given the ongoing relationships between the practice, its clients, and staff, it is important that all parties feel comfortable with the transition and the incoming owner. We work closely with our clients throughout the process to help ensure the transaction is managed professionally, confidentially, and with minimal disruption to the practice.
If you are considering selling your accounting practice in Western Australia, we would welcome the opportunity to have a confidential discussion.
We understand that selling an accounting practice is both a significant financial decision and an important personal milestone. Our role is to provide practical guidance, support, and experienced transaction management at every stage of the process.
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