Seasoned, business succession planning financial advisors in Bethesda, MD
The right financial advisor for you depends on how you weigh location, expertise, experience, the clients they typically serve, and how they work with you.
If you're preparing to transfer your business to new ownership, you need an advisor who understands the complexities of timing and valuation. Without seasoned guidance, you might overlook tax implications or succession pitfalls that can jeopardize your legacy. Seasoned advisors bring decades of experience, helping you navigate these challenges with a steady hand.
- Tax impact awareness. Confirm how they address both estate and inheritance taxes, which are particularly relevant in your state.
- Valuation expertise. Ask how they determine your business's worth to ensure a fair and strategic succession plan.
- Transition timing. Inquire about their approach to scheduling ownership transfer to optimize financial and operational outcomes.
- Stakeholder coordination. Check how they manage communication and agreements among family members, partners, and key employees.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Richard H
Series 63, Series 65
Washington, DC
Merrill
Richard Haskin's extensive 31 years of experience and Certified Exit Planning Advisor designation equip him to handle complex business succession planning, including valuation and tax considerations. Based in nearby Washington, DC, he works within Merrill's large-firm environment, offering a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies and focusing on mid-career professionals and business owners, which may suit clients seeking seasoned guidance with a personalized approach.
Experience: 31 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Karen S
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Rockville, MD
Schaeffer Financial LLC
Karen Schaeffer brings 34 years of experience in business succession planning, making her well-equipped to handle complex ownership transfers in the Bethesda area. Her firm serves federal employees and small businesses, offering flat-fee financial planning and emphasizing diversified asset allocation, which distinguishes her from other advisors who may focus solely on asset management or different client types.
Experience: 35 years
Avg account: $1,043,301
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Alan H
Series 63, Series 65
Vienna, VA
Pactolus
Alan Harter's 34 years of experience and expertise in business succession planning and family business make him well-equipped to handle complex ownership transitions. Based in nearby Vienna, VA, he offers flat-fee financial planning and serves high-net-worth clients through Pactolus, which integrates in-house portfolio management with private investment vehicles, distinguishing him from other advisors in Bethesda.
Experience: 34 years
Avg account: $383,487
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John B
Series 63, Series 66
Chevy Chase, MD
Raymond James Financial
John Buck Jr. brings 41 years of experience in business succession planning, supported by his Series 63 and 66 credentials and a background with major firms like Morgan Stanley. Operating from Chevy Chase, MD, he offers flat-fee and hourly planning services through Raymond James Financial, a large firm known for serving diverse clients including high-net-worth individuals and pension plans, which may provide broader resources compared to smaller practices.
Experience: 42 years
Avg account: $700,796
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Glen B
CFP®, Series 65
McLean, VA
West Financial Services, Inc.
Glen Buco's 23 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to handle complex business succession planning, including tax impact and valuation strategies. Operating from McLean, VA, he offers flat-fee and hourly financial planning through West Financial Services, which manages $2.57 billion with a long-term, diversified investment approach, catering to high-net-worth clients and business entities.
Experience: 23 years
Avg account: $2,850,991
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