Selling a firm is one of the biggest decisions an owner will ever make. The right partner can strengthen your future. The wrong one can reshape your practice in ways you never intended. That is why understanding buyer types is essential long before you start conversations.
Across the profession, most acquisition paths fall into five categories. Each one brings different priorities, timelines, and cultural expectations. Many owners only explore one or two of these options, which limits visibility into what the next chapter could look like.
The infographic below breaks down each buyer type in a clear, side-by-side format. Junior partners, strategic CPA firms, traditional private equity, entrepreneurial acquirers, long-term holding companies, and the choice to hold steady for now. Each path creates a different future for your team, your clients, and your legacy.
If you want a deeper view of the transition process and how to evaluate each buyer type, download the Owner’s Guidebook. It provides a full comparison of your options along with guidance on valuation, readiness, and what truly happens when you decide to sell.
