Large-firm, business succession planning financial advisors in California
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 a family member, partner, or buyer, you need an advisor who understands the complexities of timing and valuation. Without careful planning, you might face unexpected tax burdens or disrupt your company's operations during the transition. Large-firm advisors often have access to broader resources and specialized teams that can support your succession plan.
- Valuation expertise. Confirm how they determine your business's worth, considering both market conditions and your company's unique assets.
- Tax impact awareness. Ask how they navigate California's high income taxes alongside Proposition 13's property tax limits to minimize your tax exposure.
- Transition timing. Inquire about their approach to scheduling the succession to align with your financial goals and business cycles.
- Stakeholder coordination. Ensure they have experience managing communication and agreements among family members, partners, and other involved parties.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Bryan H
Series 66
Lodi, CA
Raymond James Financial
Bryan Hickingbottom's 25 years of experience and specialization in business succession planning make him well-equipped to assist with complex transitions in California. Affiliated with Raymond James Financial, a large firm offering diverse client services and flat-fee structures, he combines expertise in retirement planning and cash flow management, providing a comprehensive approach compared to advisors focusing solely on succession planning.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $700,796
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Ronald B
Series 63, Series 65
Encino, CA
Hornor, Townsend & Kent, LLC
Ronald Bertke's 32 years of experience and focus on business succession planning make him well-equipped to handle complex transitions in California's business environment. Operating within the large firm Hornor, Townsend & Kent, he offers flat-fee and negotiated hourly pricing, serving a diverse client base including trusts and retirement plans, which may provide broader resources and specialized support compared to smaller firms.
Experience: 33 years
Avg account: $294,061
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Steven M
Series 66
Laguna Niguel, CA
Merrill
Steven Miranda's extensive 19-year experience at Merrill Lynch equips him to handle complex business succession planning in California, including tax minimization and stakeholder coordination. His expertise spans wealth management, business exit strategies, and active portfolio management, supported by multiple professional designations like CFP and CEPA. Compared to others, Steven's large-firm resources and comprehensive financial knowledge offer a broad approach, with a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies under $2 million.
Experience: 19 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Mary G
Series 66
Novato, CA
Edward Jones
Mary Gernetzke specializes in business succession planning within a large firm, bringing 16 years of experience and a Series 66 designation to clients in Novato, California. Her affiliation with Edward Jones provides access to extensive resources and a broad network, supporting complex transitions with a comprehensive wealth management approach and a program fee of up to 1.35% annually, distinguishing her from advisors with smaller firm support.
Experience: 17 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Berkeley H
CFA®, Series 63
Pasadena, CA
Sequoia Financial Group, L.L.C.
Berkeley Harrison's 13 years of experience and CFA® designation equip him to handle business succession planning complexities in California, especially for high-net-worth clients. His affiliation with large firms like Sequoia Financial Group and Sterling Financial Group provides access to extensive resources and specialized teams. Offering flat-fee financial planning starting at $1,500, he combines expertise in private investments and exit strategies, distinguishing him from advisors with narrower focuses or different fee structures.
Experience: 13 years
Avg account: $2,697,996
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