RIA Succession Planning: Secure Your Legacy Now

The largest wave of advisor transitions in history is underway — 37% of advisors plan to retire within a decade, holding roughly 40% of industry assets.¹ The ones who exit best aren’t the ones who wait; they’re the ones who plan early, know their number, and choose their steward on their own terms.

Start earlier than feels necessary

Advisors who prepare three to five years ahead consistently command stronger multiples and get to choose better successors. Early planning is what turns a good exit into a great one — it gives you time to fix the gaps buyers quietly discount and to find a steward your clients will thank you for.

The six-step path

A sound succession follows a deliberate method: know what your practice is truly worth, design your transition before meeting any buyer, strengthen your position, meet two or three curated buyers under confidentiality, structure the deal with discipline, and protect client retention through the handoff. We walk that path with you — see the full method.

What it costs you

Nothing. In a buyer-paid model, the acquiring firm carries the fee at close — no valuation fee, no listing fee, no seller success fee. Compare that to the typical fee stack.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start succession planning?

Ideally 3-5 years before your target exit. Early planning produces stronger multiples and better buyer fit, but it’s never too late to start with a valuation.

How long does an RIA sale take?

Most transitions close within 6-12 months from introduction, with client transition continuing 12-18 months after.

What does succession planning cost me?

With a buyer-paid model, sellers pay nothing — buyAUM is compensated by the acquiring firm only at a successful close.

¹ Cerulli Associates.