Seasoned, business succession planning financial advisors in Petaluma, CA
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 or planning your exit strategy, you need an advisor who understands the complexities of business succession planning. A common mistake is overlooking how tax implications and property tax limits, like California's Proposition 13, affect your long-term financial outcomes.
- Tax impact awareness. Confirm how they incorporate state income taxes and property tax protections into your succession plan.
- Ownership transition strategies. Ask about their experience structuring sales, gifts, or transfers that align with your business goals.
- Legacy and family considerations. Ensure they address how succession affects family dynamics and future wealth distribution.
- Experience depth. Seasoned advisors bring insights from multiple succession scenarios, helping you avoid pitfalls common to less experienced planners.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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William M
Series 63, Series 65
Sonoma, CA
Sonoma Wealth Advisors
William Murray brings 23 years of experience in business succession planning, retirement plans for business owners, and inheritance planning, making him well-equipped to handle complex exit strategies in Petaluma, CA. His flat-fee structure starting at $5,000 and CFP® certification, combined with Fermata Advisors' coaching-centered approach and focus on small businesses, distinguish him from other advisors in the area.
Experience: 23 years
Avg account: $244,427
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Mark L
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Mill Valley, CA
Edward Jones
Mark Lavan's 24 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to navigate the complexities of business succession planning, including tax impacts and ownership transitions. Based in Mill Valley with Edward Jones, a large firm managing over $1 trillion in assets, he offers a comprehensive approach that includes retirement income and estate planning, differentiating him from advisors focused solely on succession.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Paul B
Series 63
Corte Madera, CA
Financial Security Planning Services, Inc.
Paul Bonapart's 35 years of experience and expertise in business succession planning make him well-equipped to handle complex ownership transitions and tax considerations in Petaluma, CA. As an independent advisor with an hourly fee of $300, he offers personalized, non-discretionary planning supported by firm research, serving a diverse client base including high-net-worth individuals and institutions, which distinguishes him from others in the area.
Experience: 36 years
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Kirk M
Series 63, Series 66
Napa, CA
Merrill
Kirk Mulligan's 43 years of experience and expertise in business succession planning and wealth management make him well-equipped to handle complex ownership transitions and tax considerations in the Petaluma area. As a seasoned advisor at Merrill, a large firm, he offers a 1.10% AUM fee structure and specializes in serving executives and business owners, providing a comprehensive approach that includes retirement income strategy and family wealth management.
Experience: 43 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Laura P
Series 63, Series 66
Santa Rosa, CA
Raymond James Financial
Laura Pedroncelli brings 28 years of experience in business succession planning, offering flat-fee and hourly services through Raymond James Financial, a large firm known for serving diverse clients including high-net-worth individuals and pension plans. Located near Petaluma in Santa Rosa, she combines expertise in retirement planning and cash flow management, differentiating her with a broad affiliate network and extensive research support.
Experience: 28 years
Avg account: $700,796
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