About Me

After nearly 30 years as a top financial advisor, Douglas Greenberg started his own company, Pacific Northwest Advisory (PNWA), based in Portland, Oregon. Greenberg and PNWA help business owners, executives, and individual investors protect their personal and business investments by putting together coordinated financial investment plans that align with comprehensive growth strategies.

Mr. Greenberg works with a wide range of professionals, such as tax lawyers, CPAs (for tax preparation, mergers and acquisitions, and business valuation), estate planning lawyers, and investment bankers, to plan for and secure the financial future of each client.

His services include planning for the end of a business, managing investments, managing wealth, and planning for retirement. Greenberg has been a top financial advisor for more than 29 years and has been recognized by many leading financial publications. This makes him stand out in the industry as a professional who has helped business owners get ready to sell their businesses and helped individuals build and manage their assets.

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Introduction:

Selling a business is a significant decision that requires careful planning and execution. Whether you're ready to retire, pursue new ventures, or simply want to cash in on your hard work, knowing how to sell business effectively is essential. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on selling your business, covering key steps, strategies, and considerations to ensure a successful and profitable sale.

Step 1: Prepare Your Business for Sale

Before listing your business on the market, it's crucial to ensure it is in the best possible shape. Here are some important steps to take:

Conduct a thorough evaluation: Assess your business's financial health, market position, and potential growth opportunities. Identify areas that need improvement and develop a plan to address them.

Clean up financial records: Organize and update your financial statements, tax returns, contracts, and legal documents. Buyers will scrutinize these records, so accuracy and transparency are vital.

Enhance curb appeal: Improve the physical appearance of your business by tidying up the premises, investing in necessary repairs or renovations, and refreshing signage and branding.

Step 2: Determine the Value of Your Business

To set a realistic asking price, you need to determine the true value of your business. Here's how:

Financial valuation methods: Consider using approaches like the income-based method, market-based method, or asset-based method. Consult a professional appraiser or business broker to ensure accuracy.

Intangible factors: Evaluate factors such as brand reputation, customer loyalty, intellectual property, and market share, which can influence the value of your business beyond financial metrics.

Competitive analysis: Recent Research sales of similar businesses in your industry to gain insights into market trends and benchmark your business's value against others.

Step 3: Assemble Your Selling Team

Selling a business involves complex legal, financial, and logistical processes. Building a reliable selling team can streamline the transaction and maximize your chances of success:

A business broker or M&A advisor: Engage an experienced professional who specializes in business sales to guide you through the selling process, market your business effectively, and negotiate with potential buyers.

Accountant and attorney: Collaborate with a certified accountant and attorney to ensure your financial records are accurate, taxes are optimized, and legal documents are properly prepared and reviewed.

Industry experts: If your business operates in a niche industry, consider involving consultants or advisors with specialized knowledge to enhance your selling strategy.

Step 4: Market and Advertise Your Business

To attract potential buyers, you need to develop a compelling marketing strategy:

Confidentiality and discretion: Maintain confidentiality throughout the process, especially if your employees, customers, or competitors are unaware of the sale. Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) can help protect sensitive information.

Create a comprehensive information memorandum: This document should provide a detailed overview of your business, including financials, operations, market position, growth potential, and competitive advantages. Highlight key selling points and growth opportunities.

Utilize various marketing channels: Advertise your business for sale through online platforms, industry-specific publications, social media, and networking events. Leverage your professional network and engage with potential buyers discreetly.

Step 5: Negotiate and Close the Deal

As potential buyers express interest, you'll need to navigate the negotiation and due diligence phase:

Qualify potential buyers: Evaluate their financial capabilities, industry experience, and compatibility with your business. Confidentiality agreements and proof of funds can help filter serious buyers from casual inquiries.

Negotiate terms: Engage in open and transparent discussions with qualified buyers regarding the sale price, payment structure, transition period, and potential contingencies. Be prepared to compromise while safeguarding your interests.

Due diligence and legalities: Allow potential buyers to thoroughly examine business's financial, legal, and operational aspects. Ensure all necessary contracts, licenses, permits, and agreements are in order. Seek professional advice to navigate this critical stage.

Conclusion:

Successfully selling a business requires careful planning, thorough preparation, and effective execution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the complex process of selling your business. Remember to seek professional guidance, maintain confidentiality, and remain flexible throughout negotiations. With the right strategy and team in place, you'll be on your way to a profitable and satisfying sale, allowing you to embark on new endeavors or enjoy a well-deserved retirement.

Become a financial adviser if you want a secure income and the opportunity to help others realize their dreams. Financial advisors consider the whole picture when planning their client's financial futures to benefit their customers. They may also offer guidance on best investing your money, securing adequate insurance, and minimising your tax liability.

A financial advisor's education and training prepare them to guide their customers through complex financial matters. Financial planners analyze their clients' assets, debts, and outgoings to ascertain whether their clients can achieve their immediate and long-term objectives.

They also put forth the effort to hone "soft skills" that are just as crucial, including analysis and salesmanship. These abilities are essential for building successful investment portfolios and expanding their customer base.

The right financial advice degree or certification for you will depend on your goals and the field in which you hope to work. Most people choose a four-year undergraduate degree in business or economics, but advanced degrees and certificates are also available.

Investment strategies and retirement funds are only two topics on which financial advisers may offer guidance. It would help if you had training and credentials in the field to make it as a financial advisor.

Aspiring financial advisers can choose from several training programs to get their credentials. Examples are working with an insurance firm, selling products directly to customers, or becoming a registered representative for an RIA or broker-dealer.

A unique set of exams and certifications is needed for each of these tracks. To be a broker, you must register with FINRA and take the Series 7 and 63 tests. The Series 6 exam takes 2 hours to complete and is required to offer mutual funds and variable annuities, while the Series 7 exam takes 6 hours and is needed to sell stocks, bonds, options, and other securities.

Different services often require these experts to meet additional qualification and licensing requirements. They might have to take and pass state insurance tests in the states where they operate, in addition to exams administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

In addition to the series licenses, you may pursue graduate degrees and industry certifications to show that you are an expert in your field and qualify for higher-level jobs and pay. Consider getting your master's degree in business administration or finance and research programs that provide the flexibility and excellent quality you'll need to thrive in the corporate world.

Whether saving for a down payment on a house or funding a child's college education, financial advisers assist their customers in reaching their financial objectives. Investment and insurance guidance is also provided. The ideal candidate will have experience working with customers and a solid grasp of financial markets. The ability to think analytically is also crucial.

The CFP® certification is one example of a certificate that is helpful in getting a specific job. These certifications are earned after completing a four-year college education and working in the financial planning industry for at least three years.

Financial advisors often need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field like business, accounting, finance, or economics. However, you may get a foot in the door and acquire financial knowledge on the job even without a degree in finance.

A love of mathematics and a willingness to help others is also beneficial. This is because gaining customers' trust requires a lot of charisma and people abilities.

Building your network is one of the most significant things you can do for your career as a financial adviser. Building rapport with other financial advisors, earning their confidence, and receiving recommendations help your business thrive.

Going to local gatherings and functions is a great way to meet new people and expand your network. Participate in volunteer activities and join community groups.

If you're a financial advisor who deals with company owners, you could host an expo or lecture series aimed at helping local small businesses. These gatherings are great opportunities to network with local business owners and show your support for current customers.

Gaining that first stable client is another benefit of networking. In addition, it can help you meet new people and grow your business.

Selecting the most appropriate social media sites may also aid in expanding your contact base. TikTok may be ideal for reaching out to young professionals, while Facebook could be valid for connecting with local company owners.

There are several ways to get paid as a financial advisor. These include fixed "subscription" fees, a commission-only fee, and a fee-based fee. However, determining which one will work best for you will depend on your personal financial situation.

 There are two common types of compensation schemes used by financial advisors. One is commission-based, and the other is fee-based. Each can have benefits, but also disadvantages. Before selecting an advisor, it is essential to know how to determine which is best for your needs.

 Commission-based financial advisors receive a commission for the sale of insurance products and other investments. They may also manage your accounts or offer financial planning. If you decide to hire a fee-based financial advisor, be sure to ask about how they are compensated.

 Whether you work with a fee-only or a commission-based financial advisor, be careful to avoid unethical behavior. Advisors who are motivated by commissions are tempted to sell their clients products that pay the most commissions. This can lead to misaligned incentives and unethical behavior.

 Fee-based advisors are a good choice for investors who can afford to pay a higher fee. However, they can be expensive in another sense. The fee structure can be a flat annual fee, a percentage of assets under management, or an hourly rate.

A fixed "subscription" fee is a fee charged on a regular basis. This can include a flat fee or a monthly subscription fee. It can be used for ongoing advice.

 One of the best ways to ensure that you are getting the right advice for the right price is to pay for services at a fixed fee. However, you need to ask the right questions to ensure you're getting a good value for your money.

 In some cases, a financial advisor will charge a flat fee for a comprehensive plan, which may include investment management. You may also be able to find an adviser who offers a subscription-based service, which allows you to make payments for a range of advisory services.

 For the best financial advice, you need to look for a model that fits your needs. Your choice should be based on factors such as your education and experience with your advisor, the quality of their advice, and their willingness to take your needs into account.

 The typical financial advisor charges a 1% fee on assets under management, or AUM. This is often charged on a sliding scale. Many advisors also charge an additional fee for financial planning.

 There are three types of fee models. The 1% model is the most common. Advisors who work with smaller accounts typically charge less. Those working with larger accounts typically charge more.

 Another model is the percentage of income model. In this model, an advisor's fee is based on a percentage of the client's total income. For instance, if the client earns $150k a year, the advisor's fee would be about $1,500 per year.

Financial planners who use a platform charge a platform fee. These fees cover underlying expenses and technology. Some platforms indirectly rebate underlying and platform costs. Others offer soft dollar concessions for RIAs.

There are also fee-only advisers. These advisors offer both financial planning and investment management services. They usually require a minimum account balance of at least $250,000, and may also offer tiered pricing.

The main difference between a fiduciary and a non-fiduciary financial advisor is the manner in which they get paid. A fiduciary has a legal duty to put the client's interest first. They must disclose all conflicts of interest, put their agreements in writing, and make all fees and costs known to the client.

Non-fiduciaries, on the other hand, are not obligated to act in a client's best interests, and they may receive commissions for selling products. This means that their advice can be less tailored to the individual.

Fiduciaries also have an incentive to help their clients succeed. If they make a decision for a client that doesn't benefit the client, they can be fired. In fact, the SEC requires that a fiduciary advisor's compensation be disclosed.

The suitability standard is another key responsibility of a fiduciary. Under this standard, the advisor must be able to recommend the investment that is right for the client. Using information provided by the client, the advisor should select an investment that is appropriate for the client.

How Does a Financial Advisor Get Paid?

Published On: 12-05-2022

The fee structure used by financial advisors varies. Some are paid upfront when you purchase a product. Others are paid on a commission basis when you make a particular investment. Mutual funds and insurance companies have a variety of methods to ensure commission payments. Some camouflage their commissions by tying them into extra fees or penalty periods. Index annuities, for example, do a better job hiding their commissions. Instead of paying the commission upfront, they withhold money from your policy and produce a lower amount to the advisor than you would with a written policy. This type of compensation structure could make your advisor recommend a purchase you do not need.

Fee-only financial advisors make money by charging their clients a set percentage of their assets under management (AUM). They may charge more than the commission-compensated counterparts, but the fees seem small and harmless. A fee-only financial advisor can eat into your returns because their prices are based on your total AUM. Here's why this may be a disadvantage:

Another drawback of fee-only financial advisors is the perceived cost. Fees are upfront, while commissions come from the client's pocket. Hence, fee-only advisors can be viewed as more transparent, but their fees and commissions may take more work to determine. Depending on their credentials, fee-only financial advisors may be less appropriate for some clients than others. Fee-only financial advisors can also be overpriced.

Another advantage of fee-only financial planners is their unbiased advice. They may focus on various areas of financial planning such as investments, Social Security optimization, tax, insurance, estate planning, and retirement planning. Fee-only financial advisors are obligated to act as fiduciaries in your best interest. However, they should disclose any conflict of interest that might affect their recommendations. If you're looking for a fee-only financial planner, it's wise to check whether the advisor is a Certified Financial Planner Board member.

Financial advisors earn money in two main ways. They may receive a commission from insurance companies for their recommendations or a fee from their clients based on the number of assets under management. In addition, they may receive referral fees or soft-dollar fees from third parties, such as custodians. However, fee-only financial advisors may be more expensive to work with. This payment method may be a good choice for those who need essential advice.

Commission-based payment for financial advisors is problematic because it misaligns incentives between advisors and clients. In some cases, advisors may recommend products that pay them more than others - which may not be the best investment for their clients. But there are some exceptions to the rule. One financial advisor I met offered a flat fee to create a financial plan once and a commission-based relationship afterward.

If you're looking for a financial advisor, you may wonder how they get paid. While many advisors receive commissions from selling products or completing financial transactions, flat-fee arrangements have their benefits and drawbacks. This article will explain the advantages and disadvantages of flat-fee accounts and what you can expect when using one. In addition, you'll learn how to avoid being ripped off by using a flat-fee model.

A fee-only structure offers transparency about fees and aligns with the Fiduciary Standard for financial advisors. Some firms limit their services to just a handful of investments, while independent advisors provide their services. Because of this, flat-fee arrangements are more affordable for the average investor. But fee-only financial advisors don't necessarily eliminate conflicts of interest. They are generally more expensive, and their scope of services is limited.

In wealth management, many financial advisors make their living through retainer fees. This fee structure is a great way to reach clients with cash flow but few assets. Unlike AUM firms, retainer fees don't compete with AUM firms for clients. They also provide a way to reach largely untapped households. Retainer fees are the new standard for financial advisors.

Often based on a percentage of the client's assets or income, a retainer fee is a simple way for clients to pay financial advisors. It also allows firms to align pricing more accurately with their costs. Professional staffing costs are the most critical line item in any advisory firm's budget. When a client pays a retainer fee, it is much easier to match the costs with the service's value.

Retainer fees are an attractive option for financial advisors whose clients' portfolio account balance fluctuates heavily. However, they can lead to uncomfortable conversations with clients when the fees are not increased yearly. As a result, firms that follow a retainer fee approach are confident in handholding clients throughout bear markets. They can also adjust their fees more frequently than firms that charge by the AUM model.

Selling your business is a big money choice, but it's also a big time commitment. It entails various details, and errors can diminish the profits from the sale, place the business in the wrong hands, and lengthen the process. You should have a plan and cooperate business with knowledgeable advisors to expedite the process. This tutorial will walk you through each stage of the process so you can close the sale faster. It also includes advice on how to sell your firm in less time.

The first step in selling your company is to obtain an accurate business valuation. This will assist you in obtaining the best price for it. When offering your company for sale, make sure to include the highest price you're willing to take. Although most businesses do not sell for their full list price, it is critical to obtain as near to it as feasible.

You'll want to make your firm appealing to prospective buyers after analyzing the other businesses in your niche. Make certain that your premises are tidy and appealing. Additionally, ensure that the website is user-friendly. Depending on your industry, you could even wish to undertake minor repairs, such as installing new carpeting or lighting fixtures.

Another critical step in selling your business is keeping your data organized. Prospective purchasers will examine financial documents to determine the worth and health of your company. Your company's financial records should be up to date and in accordance with accounting rules. The vendor must be prepared with these documents and be available to answer questions and address issues.

It's critical to understand that selling a firm might take months, if not years. If you wait too long, you may miss out on a fantastic chance. Furthermore, it is critical to publicize your business so that more potential consumers may see it. Then, contact potential buyers and stay in touch. You should also inquire whether they can finance the transaction. If you intend to finance the deal, speak with a lawyer or accountant first.

Before selling your company, make sure you have a good strategy in place. A business firm sale is not a simple procedure, so you should engage a knowledgeable professional to assist you. The sale's timing and logistics are essential. If you want to sell firm quickly, make sure it is fully prepared before the sale.

Depending on your sector and the number of workers, the answer to how lucrative your firm will be will change. Profitability in small firms is often lower than in big ones. A small business's annual profit is typically about $70,000, slightly more than the average employee compensation. Also, 94% of small enterprises are expected to make less than $1 million in annual sales. Therefore, rather than attempting to manage a small company, it could be wiser to locate a new position.

The profitability of a new enterprise must be assessed throughout the first year of operation. It may take up to 18 months for a company to become profitable, and most businesses do not break even in their first year. However, it's crucial to remember that investing in growth, recruiting, or other company operations within that first year might result in lost revenues. In addition, a company is still required to pay taxes on its earnings even if it is profitable.

There are still methods to launch a small company and make it profitable, even if most new firms fail within the first year. The most significant cause of company failure is cash flow problems, and solutions are available. Here is some advice for company owners to keep their companies viable.

65% of small companies generate revenue, according to the National Association of Small Businesses (NASBA). Around 40% of small enterprises were profitable in 2018. The remaining ones are either losing money now or will eventually do so. One in ten small enterprises in the most lucrative sectors generated more than $1 million. The minor lucrative industries, however, are those that produce beverages, extract oil and gas, forge and stamp metal, and publish software.

Selling your business is an important financial decision, but it can also be time-consuming. It involves numerous details, and mistakes can reduce the gains from the sale, put the business in the wrong hands, and extend the process. To speed up the process, you should have a plan and work with competent advisors. This guide will walk you through every step, so you can close the deal faster. It also contains tips to help you sell your business in less time.

The first step in selling your business is to get a solid business valuation. This will help you get the best price for it. When listing your business for sale, make sure you specify the maximum price you're willing to accept. Although most businesses don't sell for full list price, it's important to get as close to that price as possible.

After researching the different businesses in your niche, you'll want to make your business attractive to prospective buyers. Make sure your premises are clean and attractive. Also, make sure the website is user-friendly. Depending on your industry, you may even want to make small repairs, such as new carpets or new lighting fixtures.

Keeping your records organized is another crucial step when it comes to selling your business. Your prospective buyers will be looking through financial records to assess your company's value and health. Your business's financial records should be up-to-date and should comply with accounting standards. The seller must be prepared with these documents and should be available for questions and concerns.

It's important to remember that selling a business can take months or even years. If you wait too long, you could miss a great opportunity. In addition, it's important to advertise your business so that more potential buyers will be able to view it. Then, you should contact potential buyers and keep in touch. Also, you should find out if they can finance the transaction. If you plan to finance the transaction, consult a lawyer or accountant before you proceed.

 

Before selling your business firm, you must make sure you have a solid strategy in place. A business sale is not an easy task, so it's important to hire a qualified professional to help you with the process. The timing and logistics of the sale are critical. If you want to sell your business fast, you should make sure it is well prepared before the sale process.

Selling a business is a complex process, with many moving parts that must all align. Here are 16 steps to selling your business:

If you're contemplating selling your business, you're probably aware of the long and tedious process ahead. The selling process involves sharing confidential information and destabilizing relationships with key stakeholders. As a result, you want to proceed with the sale process only if you're confident that you've selected a buyer with whom you can build a long-term relationship. Following these 16 steps will help you achieve your goal of selling your business successfully.

The first step in the sale process is to accept the buyer's offer. Next, your attorney will draw up a comprehensive purchase agreement. The buyer will then begin the process of obtaining bank financing. After the sale is completed, both parties will meet for the closing. The attorneys will review all the documents and approve them. After the close, the buyer will receive the payment. If you plan to stay on as the new owner, be prepared to complete your employment agreement.

Finding the right buyer when selling your business can be a daunting task. You may have your complete contact list, Sales Force database, or Rolodex, but there is more than one buyer. Getting multiple offers will help protect you from a failed sale. Be sure to get several bids and follow up with them regularly. In addition, you should contact your lawyer and accountant. They can help you negotiate the terms of the sale.

Generally, the more buyers you have, the greater your chances of finding the right buyer. Potential buyers may be from different industries but have certain qualities in common. A buyer with the proper knowledge and experience will likely manage your company successfully. Be sure to find one that shares your vision. If you're looking to sell your business, make sure the buyer knows what they're doing and is willing to spend time learning about your industry.

When selling your business, the prices you put on it must reflect the benefits your company provides to your customers. In other words, if you are selling a service, you need to charge a price that covers your costs and the cost of the service or product. Your price should be higher than your variable costs to produce your business, as every sale will help you cover your fixed costs and make a profit. The following are some essential tips to help you price your business correctly.

Before you price your business, it's essential first to determine its market value. You can use several methodologies to assess the value of your business. For example, the selling price you set should not scare off prospective buyers, or it could result in you not getting the total value of your business. On the other hand, if you set the price too high, you may scare off potential buyers and leave money on the table. After all, you won't know how much your business is worth until you sell it.

Getting paid upfront when selling your business is critical for a smooth transition. This will allow you to leave your business in accordance with your exit strategy and ensure that you have enough money to meet the buyer's end of the bargain. Payment upfront also helps you pay transaction costs and ensures that the buyer has the money to meet their end of the deal. There are several ways to get paid upfront when selling your business.

For example, you might get paid upfront for a portion of the sale or not. This can lead to challenges for you, including legal issues. If the buyer is not able to pay you in full, you may have to walk away with a portion of your business's value. You may also have difficulty closing a deal if the buyer is unwilling to pay you the full amount.

Selling your business is an emotional process. You've invested years and countless hours into it. You've probably also attached a certain level of attachment to those who work in the business. While it's impossible to control the feelings that arise during the sale process, you can prepare yourself for it ahead of time. Here are some tips to help you stay calm and composed. Make sure you have an exit strategy laid out before the sale.

Try not to let emotion get the best of you. There are several reasons why your emotions are running high. There could be regret, an unwilling buyer, or an unsuccessful sale. Remember that a successful sale means a happy post-sale life for everyone involved. Try to avoid any feelings of regret when selling your business. By controlling your emotions, you'll be able to make the best decision for you and your business.

Navigating the Wealth Journey: What Business Owners Over 50 Need to Prioritize Right Now by Douglas Greenberg, President, Pinnacle Wealth Advisory

Posted July 1, 2025

As a business owner, you’ve spent decades building something exceptional. But turning your success into lasting personal wealth requires more than just a great sales number. It takes careful business transition planning, a clear view of your business valuation, and a wealth management strategy that protects your family.

When I advise founders and owners approaching a transition, I stress one truth: exiting your business is not the finish line. It’s a complex pivot point that shapes the rest of your life.

Start with valuation clarity.
Before you dive into offers, get a real understanding of what your business is worth. Many owners overestimate, or miss hidden factors that buyers will scrutinize. A comprehensive business valuation led by a fiduciary advisor can uncover risks and opportunities you haven’t considered.

Tax planning and cash flow after the sale.
Once the deal closes, will you have what you expect? Without a proactive tax strategy, a meaningful portion of your sale proceeds could evaporate. From capital gains mitigation to installment planning, tax strategy should be front and center.

Why experience matters.
A CIMA-certified wealth advisor who has guided hundreds of owners through transitions—especially one with a background like my experience—brings multi-dimensional insight. From investment management to estate planning, each decision affects the others.  Now I am running Pinnacle Wealth Advisory.

Estate and succession planning isn’t optional.
Many founders don’t revisit their estate documents until years after the sale. That’s risky. If your wealth plan doesn’t match your new balance sheet and family goals, it could cause unintended tax burdens or disputes.

If you’re thinking about a sale, or just want to ensure your personal wealth strategy keeps pace with your business success, start the conversation now. Protect what you’ve built so your legacy extends well beyond the transaction.

 

 

 

 

According to Douglas Greenberg, a financial adviser can assist you in developing a thorough financial strategy and in pursuing both long- and short-term objectives. Whether you want to establish a small business or retire, they can support you every step of the way. Financial consultants can also create a plan specifically for you based on your particular requirements, circumstances, and objectives. Here are a few explanations for why you might require the services of a financial counselor. By searching an internet directory or getting in touch with a local business, you may locate a financial adviser in your area.

Look through their qualifications. Do they have any complaints pending? Find a different financial advisor if they do. Verify if they are subject to FINRA's regulation, the federal financial regulatory body. Additionally, you may look through testimonials from related businesses and personal recommendations. No matter how many financial advisors you're considering, be careful to pick one who practices ethics. You'll be happy that you did. To find out more about the state's financial advisers, get in touch with the Securities and Exchange Commission or the financial regulating body in your state if you're unsure.

Any important life changes that may occur in the future will be helped by a financial advisor. Financial advisers may assist you in making future plans, from beginning a new job to passing away. They may assist you in safeguarding your assets in addition to making sure you have enough money for retirement. Your adviser can modify your asset allocation as necessary as you become older. They may also assist you in making plans for the inevitable shrinking that will take place over your lifetime.

Douglas Greenberg explained that, it's advisable to visit with potential financial advisors in person before choosing one. You will get the chance to learn more about one another and ask any questions you may have regarding their services at this time. You should be open and honest with your financial adviser about your financial condition because they will ultimately be in charge of handling your financial issues. This entails providing your tax returns, outlining your objectives, and providing specifics on the size of your investment accounts. Do not hesitate to seek out a different counsel if you feel uncomfortable with this information.

Another factor to take into account is the expense of engaging a financial counselor. An adviser may bill a fixed fee or a yearly percentage of your assets, depending on your needs. Although fee-only financial advisors are less expensive than those that bill by the hour, you must pay a fee in order to minimize their inefficiency and prevent conflicts of interest. Additionally, certain prices for fee-only services could be more expensive than those for cost-based services. This is so that fee-only advisers may make money off of the sale of your investments through commissions and fees.

Newlyweds and divorcees frequently deal with a variety of challenging financial challenges. Financial consultants may assist newlyweds in navigating the complex world of money matters and ensuring that they choose wisely. They can also give couples financial and asset management advice, enabling them to combine or split assets. In addition, newlyweds frequently have expanding bank balances as a result of new occupations. They can be considering the best ways to invest for the future and distribute their income.

In addition to Douglas Greenberg, a financial adviser may help you manage the complexity of money after a divorce, plan for retirement, and pay for a child's education. Although using a financial advisor's services may appear complicated, doing so is necessary for accomplishing a number of objectives. To assist you in achieving your objectives, a financial counselor can provide simple financial strategies. A financial advisor can suggest particular investment options that can boost your rate of savings and lower your tax liability.

You can get recommendations for a financial advisor from your family and friends. Keep in mind that family members' financial objectives may not be the same as yours, so you might not be a good candidate for the financial counselor they suggest. Don't forget that financial advisors should be open and honest about how they are paid. People should think about finding a fee-based financial advisor if they don't want their money to be stolen. You may rest easy knowing that an investing company is accountable for any fraud if you locate one that employs fee-based advisers.

There are a lot more factors to take into account when choosing a financial counselor. One of these explanations is that you are going through a significant life shift, like starting a family, getting a substantial inheritance, or being divorced. Along with these motives, you should consider saving for college, your child's college tuition, an inheritance, or a key life event if you have a family. You may prepare for these and other life milestones with the aid of a financial counselor.

Why Planning Before the LOI is the Smartest Move You’ll Make by Douglas Greenberg, President, Pinnacle Wealth Advisory

Posted July 2, 2025

Too many business owners start planning their future after signing an LOI. By then, most of your leverage is gone and options narrow fast.

Get Clear on Business Valuation Early
Before an LOI is on the table, understand what your business is truly worth. A realistic business valuation shines a light on areas that might drag down your price. As a fiduciary advisor with CIMA certification and Morgan Stanley experience, I see how early insights translate into higher offers and smoother closes.

Shape the Deal on Your Terms
Planning early means you’re not just reacting to buyer demands. We can adjust EBITDA, clean up your books, and address operational risks that buyers pounce on. That drives stronger terms when the LOI arrives.

Tax Planning Can’t Wait
Strategic tax planning before the LOI opens doors that close afterward. Installment sales, QSBS eligibility, or trust structures need time to implement. If you wait, you could leave millions on the table.

Set Up Your Post-Sale Life
Your business isn’t just an asset — it’s been your income, your security. We’ll build an investment management strategy that replaces cash flow, supports your lifestyle, and sets up multi-generational estate planning.

Talk to an Advisor Before You’re at the Table
Once you have an LOI, it’s the buyer’s game. Let’s get ahead of it, so you stay in control.

Douglas Greenberg CIMA
President
Pinnacle Wealth Advisory

 

Before the LOI: The Overlooked Step That Saves Millions by Douglas Greenberg, President, Pinnacle Wealth Advisory

 

July 2, 2025

There’s a simple truth in M&A: your strongest position is before the LOI.

 
Elevate Your Business Valuation with Smart Preparation

Buyers pay for certainty. Cleaning up financials, reducing owner dependence, and tackling operational risks all before entering exit planning can significantly raise your business valuation. As a fiduciary advisor with Morgan Stanley experience, I help business owners prepare for the rigorous due diligence that drives premium offers.

 
Implement Wealth Management and Estate Planning Coordination Early

Whether you’re considering installment sales to manage gains, or using trusts to secure wealth for your children, early estate planning coordination and wealth management decisions are critical. Waiting until after the LOI often closes the door on these opportunities.

 
Integrate Business Transition Planning with Succession Planning and Investment Management

A successful transition doesn’t stop at closing. Business transition planning should weave your exit into a disciplined investment management strategy and thoughtful succession planning, ensuring your legacy continues on your terms.

Don’t Surrender Leverage Prematurely

The best outcomes are designed well in advance. If you’re a business owner even thinking about selling, now is the time to start. Let’s build a strategy that protects your future and maximizes your wealth—long before the buyer holds the leverage.