Buying or Selling an IFA Business?

We act for both buyers and sellers and are known for safeguarding value, minimising disruption, and delivering a smooth, strategic transition that keeps client relationships intact.

Ready to Talk?

Buying or Selling an IFA Business? Speak to Lagom Consulting First.

With over 30 years of combined experience in the financial advisory market, we offer board-level guidance that spans the entire lifecycle of IFA acquisitions and disposals — from valuation and due diligence through to deal negotiation, regulatory compliance, and post-completion support.

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Buying or selling an IFA? Here’s how we can support:

  • Independent valuations with a formal Business Valuation Report to support negotiations

  • Acquisition due diligence covering financials, compliance, and client base, delivered as a Due Diligence Report

  • Regulatory compliance reviews with detailed Compliance Analysis Reports to identify risks before you commit

  • Deal structuring and negotiation support, including tailored Negotiation Strategy Documents and hands-on advisory

  • Tax-efficient financial structuring, supported by a bespoke Financial Structuring Plan or Tax Strategy Report

  • Business preparation consultancy to enhance value and readiness, documented in a Business Enhancement Report

  • Confidential buyer-seller matchmaking, with curated introductions aligned to your goals

  • Marketing of your business for sale, including a professional Confidential Information Memorandum

  • Integration strategy and transition planning for clients, systems and teams, delivered through a clear Integration or Client Transition Plan

  • Project management from start to finish, ensuring smooth execution and minimal disruption

  • Post-deal advisory, including Post-Acquisition Action Plans or Post-Sale Obligations Guides to support ongoing success

Support for IFA Acquirers and Sellers

  • Trusted Expertise in IFA Acquisition Due Diligence

    Buying an IFA business is a major strategic investment — and it’s easy to get it wrong.

    That’s why our clients come to us early, often before heads of terms are agreed. Our acquisition due diligence process combines financial analysis, regulatory checks, and client base review to help you make a fully informed decision.

    We assess recurring revenue quality, client demographics, compliance history, and business structure — all key factors that affect valuation and long-term viability. We also provide integration planning, post-acquisition support, and risk mitigation strategies to help you avoid costly surprises after completion.

    If you're wondering what due diligence looks like in practice, or searching for a specialist in regulatory due diligence for IFA firms, we offer both the insight and practical support to guide your team every step of the way.

  • Preparing to Sell? We Help IFA Owners Maximise Exit Value

    Selling a financial advisory business isn’t something most owners do more than once. That’s why we help sellers prepare thoroughly — both to enhance the value of the firm and to ensure that the deal goes through smoothly and on the right terms.

    From cleaning up compliance records and tightening operations, through to preparing professional marketing materials and finding the right buyer, we ensure your business is presented in the best possible light. Our team supports the negotiation of sale terms, assists with legal documentation, and helps structure the deal to be tax-efficient.

    We also plan for what happens after completion — ensuring clients are transitioned properly and that any earnout or exit clauses are clearly understood.

    So if you’re asking yourself how to sell financial advisory services, or you’re unsure how to value an IFA business, we’ll give you honest, informed answers and a clear roadmap forward.

Ready to Talk?

Whether you're looking to buy an IFA firm, sell your own business, or simply explore your options, we’d be happy to offer a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

Complete the contact form or email info@lagomconsulting.co.uk to speak with our specialist team.

  • We don’t just offer templates or tick-box exercises. We roll up our sleeves and get stuck in — offering a tailored, no-nonsense service that reflects the real complexities of IFA transactions.

    Our advice is pragmatic, commercial, and always grounded in regulatory best practice. We’ve worked with everyone from single-adviser practices to large regional firms and consolidators — and we know how to manage expectations, overcome obstacles, and protect your interests.

    We're often asked whether you need a licence to give financial advice in the UK — and the short answer is yes. Part of our job is helping both buyers and sellers understand their obligations under the FCA’s regime, and ensuring all authorisations and permissions are properly considered as part of the transaction.

  • Our IFA business sales and acquisition process typically begins with an initial consultation to understand your goals, timeframes, and any specific challenges. We then move into valuation, buyer or seller matching, negotiation and structuring, and of course, a full suite of due diligence and compliance checks. Once the deal is agreed, we help with legal documentation, transition planning, and any post-completion actions to ensure long-term success.

    The process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months depending on market conditions and business readiness — which is why the earlier we’re involved, the more value we can add.

  • When should I engage your services?
    As early as possible. Early preparation means a smoother journey and higher business value.

    How do you value an IFA business?
    We consider multiple factors — including recurring revenue, client profiles, compliance track record, and business structure — to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based valuation.

    Do I need a licence to give financial advice in the UK?
    Yes. The FCA requires firms and individuals to be authorised or registered. We can help clarify your regulatory responsibilities during acquisition or sale.

    Can you help with NDAs and legal documents?
    Absolutely. We offer templates or work with your legal team to draft tailored agreements.

    Do you work with small firms or solo advisers?
    We do. From sole practitioners to multi-adviser businesses, we tailor our service to your size, goals, and complexity.

    How do I buy an IFA business in the UK?
    We guide buyers step-by-step, from valuation and due diligence through to negotiation, FCA compliance checks, and post-completion support. Having specialist advice early can help secure a smoother transaction.

    How can I sell my IFA practice for the best price?
    Maximising value typically involves preparing strong financial and compliance records, having a clear client retention plan, and presenting the business professionally to suitable buyers. Our service covers all these elements.

    What is the difference between an asset purchase and a share purchase for an IFA business?
    Asset purchases involve buying specific assets such as the client bank and goodwill, while share purchases mean taking on the entire company, including its liabilities. We can advise on which structure best suits your needs.

    How important is recurring revenue when valuing an IFA firm?
    Recurring revenue is a key driver of valuation because it represents ongoing income and client stability. Our formal valuations look at the quality of this revenue stream alongside compliance history and client demographics.

    What due diligence do I need when buying an IFA in the UK?
    Financial analysis, regulatory checks, and a review of the client base are essential. We provide comprehensive due diligence reports to help you make fully informed decisions before finalising any deal.

    How do I ensure FCA compliance when selling my IFA business?
    Both seller and buyer must maintain or secure the appropriate FCA authorisations. We help clarify obligations and ensure compliance issues are addressed, minimising delays and potential regulatory breaches.

    What is an earnout and how does it work in IFA transactions?
    An earnout is a structured payment where part of the sale price depends on future performance or client retention targets. We can help negotiate clear terms to protect both parties’ interests.

    How long does it take to buy or sell an IFA firm?
    On average, it can take 6 to 12 months. Early preparation—such as valuation, compliance checks, and marketing—often shortens the timeframe. Our project management approach keeps everything on track.

    How do I retain clients during an IFA acquisition or sale?
    Client retention hinges on a clear transition plan, open communication, and assurance that service quality won’t drop. We advise on effective communication strategies and integration planning to maximise continuity.

    Can you help find a suitable buyer or merger partner for my IFA business?
    Yes. We offer a confidential matchmaking service, leveraging our network to introduce you to credible buyers or merger partners who align with your strategic goals.