Modern Pricing Models Drive Higher Valuations for Accounting Firms
Apr 3, 2024
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M&A advisor Charles Bedard discusses how subscription-based accounting firms command higher valuations than traditional ones, highlighting the importance of recurring revenue. He provides actionable tips for firm owners to increase their value and prepare for an exit, emphasizing strategies like aqua hire and strategic billing approaches.
Subscription-based firms have higher valuations due to recurring revenue attracting a broader buyer base.
Modern digital CPA firms with subscription models can command higher valuations by aligning financial metrics with buyer preferences.
Deep dives
Subscription Firms vs. Traditional Firms: Valuation Differences
Subscription firms tend to have higher valuation multiples when compared to traditional firms due to their focus on recurring revenue. These subscription-based businesses attract multiple types of buyers beyond CPA firms, including private equity-backed firms and solution providers. This broader buyer base values the reliability of subscription revenue models, offering more buying options and potentially higher valuations.
Factors Influencing CPA Firm Valuations
For CPA firms, the valuation landscape varies based on their business model. Traditional firms are often limited to a smaller pool of buyers, primarily within the CPA industry, leading to lower valuations. In contrast, modern digital CPA firms with subscription-based models can command higher valuations, with revenue multiples ranging from 0.3 to 1.5 or more, and EBITDA multiples varying from 3 to 10 times or higher, depending on market leadership and other factors.
Strategies for Maximizing CPA Firm Valuations
To enhance CPA firm valuations, owners should adopt strategic approaches such as transitioning to upfront billing structures, focusing on recurring revenue, and aligning financial metrics with buyer preferences. Implementing changes like upfront payments and annualized billing can improve cash flow and demonstrate value to potential buyers. Moreover, understanding the market dynamics, setting clear exit goals, and seeking expert advice can help CPA firms optimize their overall business value for potential exits.
Blake and David meet with M&A advisor Charles Bedard about valuations for accounting firms looking to sell. Bedard explains that subscription-based "modern" firms command much higher multiples than traditional hourly billing firms. Bedard provides specific valuation ranges based on revenue and EBITDA multiples and highlights the importance of recurring revenue. He also offers actionable tips for firm owners to increase their value in preparation for an exit.
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Transcripts
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