M&A STRATEGIES
Empowering advisors to transition, grow and scale–on your terms
Transform your vision into reality. Whatever your goal is, we’ll help get you there. Unlock your practice’s potential with help from our team of experts.
A dedicated platform to help financial advisors to
Acquire firms to grow
Expand your client base, increase revenue, and enhance your market presence through strategic acquisitions tailored to your business objectives.
Sell their practice
Secure the right deal structure, protect your legacy, and ensure a seamless transition for your clients and team when you’re ready to step away.
Access capital growth
Fuel your firm’s next stage with funding for hiring, marketing, or technology—while keeping ownership and control.
WHY IFP M&A STRATEGIES
The right partner to help you grow, exit or evolve
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RIA-Focused Expertise: Deep experience with independent advisory firms
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Network Effects: Exclusive access to buyers, sellers, and capital within the IFP community
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White-Glove Support: End-to-end advisory from planning to execution
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Aligned Incentives: We win when you achieve your goals
M&A Strategies
Sell-Side Advisory
For advisors considering succession or retirement:
Practice Valuation using industry-standard and customized methods
Buyer Matchmaking through our national network of qualified acquirers
Deal Structuring to optimize economics, taxes, and legacy
Transition Planning to ensure client and staff continuity
Ideal for advisors planning to exit within 12–36 months.
Buy-Side Strategy & Acquisition Support
For advisors seeking to grow inorganically:
Target Identification based on geography, niche, and fit
Due Diligence Guidance across financial, operational, and cultural metrics
Deal Modeling & Integration Planning to ensure smooth onboarding and ROI
Access to Financing through IFP-affiliated and third-party lending partners
Ideal for growth-minded advisors with capacity to scale.
Capital Strategy & Infusion
For advisors spursuing accelerated growth:
Equity & Debt Capital Sourcing for hiring, marketing, or infrastructure
Strategic Capital Partnerships (minority equity, mezzanine financing, etc.)
Business Planning Support to present your firm attractively to capital providers
Valuation & Term Sheet Review to ensure founder-friendly outcomes
Ideal for advisors looking to grow aggressively without selling control.
Let’s Create your Next Chapter
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a liquidity event for a financial advisor?
A liquidity event occurs when a financial advisor converts ownership in their practice into cash or transferable assets. This can happen by selling the business, merging with another firm, or bringing on an equity partner. For advisors, it’s a strategic opportunity to unlock the value of their practice—whether to fund retirement, reinvest in new ventures, or execute a well-planned succession strategy.
What does a liquidity event mean for my financial advisory business?
A liquidity event is your chance to turn years of hard work and client service into financial flexibility. Whether you want to take some chips off the table now, exit entirely, or remain involved in a limited role, we’ll help you structure a plan that aligns with your personal goals, business vision, and client needs.
How does succession planning work for independent financial advisors?
Succession planning is a structured process that prepares your financial advisory firm for future leadership or ownership changes. We guide you step-by-step—identifying the right successor or acquisition partner, determining the value of your firm, negotiating favorable deal terms, and ensuring your clients continue to receive the same high-quality service that built your reputation.
Do I have to sell my entire advisory practice?
Not at all. Many financial advisors choose to sell only part of their business or bring on a minority equity partner. This approach can give you an immediate liquidity boost while allowing you to keep earning from the portion you retain—transitioning on your own terms and timeline.
How is a financial advisor’s practice valued?
Your advisory practice’s value is determined through a transparent process that considers recurring revenue, client demographics, profitability, AUM (Assets Under Management), and long-term growth potential. At IFP, we combine industry-standard valuation models with customized analysis, so you understand exactly what drives your firm’s market value.
How long does the financial advisor M&A process take?
Most mergers, acquisitions, or sales of financial advisory firms can be completed in 3–6 months. More complex transactions or succession plans with extended timelines may take 12–36 months. Our team manages the details—from initial planning to post-close integration—so you can stay focused on serving your clients.
Will my clients be taken care of after I sell my practice?
At IFP, client care is at the center of every transaction we facilitate. We do our best to match you with culturally aligned buyers or partners who share your values, service standards, and commitment to client relationships— striving for a smooth, trusted transition for everyone involved.