Success Stories

What sellers think...

“Now that a few weeks have passed since we closed on the sale of my CPA practice, I want to share a few thoughts with you.  I’ve been extremely impressed with the professional value of ProHorizons recommendations and careful guidance as the transaction progressed from understanding my practice, to finding potential buyers, to the final sale. Top drawer.  During sensitive negotiations the value of you and your company’s experience was very evident.  Both I and the buyer were able to fully understand the implications of proposed transaction considerations, and mutually make good decisions.  If I had another CPA practice to sell, without question, I would select ProHorizons.  Thanks for your personalized services.”

- Michael O. Wirick, CPA

"Across the board ProHorizons exceeded our expectations.  Our practice was located in a rural community and we weren't sure if we could sell it.  ProHorizons was able to generate a handful of interested buyers and even brought us three different offers.  Throughout, they were attentive to us and complete professionals as they advised us of our options and helped us negotiate a deal that met our goals.  There is no doubt that ProHorizons is the firm of choice when selling an accounting practice."

- Frank and Lola Putnam, CPAs

"From what I've seen, I would say ProHorizons provides the best brokerage service in the industry.  They were professional, responsive, knowledgeable and very smart about timing their involvement--sometimes very active in guiding the transaction and sometimes stepping back and letting things run their course.  The result was a transaction that served both my needs and the buyer's needs, bridging our differences to close the deal and best insure the continued success of the practice.  When it comes to results, ProHorizons is tops!"

- John Schlueter

"I have to confess when ProHorizons first contacted me I tried to blow them off.  I wasn't convinced my practice was saleable.  After a few years of conversations with ProHorizons, I decided to see what they would accomplish, but I still wasn't entirely convinced.  I can say I was pleasantly surprised and quite impressed with the results.  My practice sold in a much shorter time frame than I expected and for a good price.  ProHorizons was professional, accessible, involved every step of the way and a great aid to the buyer regarding financing, which resulted in my being entirely cashed out.  I don't think I could have sold my practice without the assistance of ProHorizons.  I know it definitely would not have happened so quickly and the terms would not have been as good."

- Bill Frazier

"Thanks again ProHorizons. You did a great job!"

— Diane Carothers, EA

"The process took a little longer than expected, mostly in finding the right buyer. But ProHorizons sure knows the business and the accounting industry. I would definitely recommend ProHorizons."

— Gary Jones, CPA

“Thanks for everything you did to make the sale of my practice possible. I was glad we found a buyer for both segments of my business and we did not need to split it into two companies. Now I am enjoying my "retirement" working in my son's business."

— Norma Waterman, CPA

“I had a great overall experience working with ProHorizons. I tried to sell my practice on my own and was unsuccessful. ProHorizons helped me find a buyer that was a good match to work with my clients."

— Brad Y., CPA

"We were impressed with how many prospective buyers ProHorizons was able to bring to the table. As for the process of selling, Ken Berry's knowledge, professionalism and responsiveness were excellent. ProHorizons was actively involved every step of the way and worked closely with us and our prospective buyers to create a positive sale and sales experience for all involved. Thank you again for all your help. We really appreciate it."

— Dan and Karen Giarde, EA

“Working with ProHorizons made the sale of my practice much less difficult. The process was fast and smooth. There were no surprises. ProHorizons played a valuable role in completing the sale. John Ezell coached me all the way to the closing. I would recommend using ProHorizons to any friend or colleague considering buying or selling a practice."

— Gary Walsh, CPA

“Within a few days of listing with ProHorizons, I was introduced to three prospective buyers.  There were other feelers along the way, but I eventually sold to one of those initial introductions.  Throughout the sales process, Rick Harrison of ProHorizons was involved to whatever degree I required.  He provided me with the latitude I wanted, but was there when I needed input and counsel.  He was objective, spoke with candor, and helped the buyer and I reconcile our differences.  If I were to sell again, I would use ProHorizons and I am comfortable recommending them to any friend or colleague.”

— James Fisher, CPA

"The process was pretty much what I expected. My biggest difficulty was in letting go of my relationship with the clients and the income stream. ProHorizons played a valuable role in finding an appropriate buyer and being available to consult with me through the closing. By the way, I would be pleased to act as a reference."

—Jim Westbrook, CPA

top ⇧

What buyers think...

"Making a decision to purchase an accounting firm is very complex.  ProHorizons gave me answers to specific questions that assisted me in making the right decisions on how and when to move forward with the purchase I have now made.  Had it not been for their guidance we would not have been able to resolve issues necessary to create what is now an effective "win, win" deal."

— Jacob Hanes

“I have been looking to buy a practice and have been working with ProHorizons and their competitors. ProHorizons has always been very responsive when I call or email. Some of the other firms don't even acknowledge a call or email."

— Daniel Hutnicki, CPA

"ProHorizons played an integral part in facilitating our transaction. Our biggest challenge was finding a firm that was the correct fit for our existing business model. ProHorizons provided us with the necessary information regarding each prospective firm that enabled us to close on a transaction that will complement our existing practice. John [Ezell] was very helpful in assisting our partners in becoming educated with regard to the entire process."

— Gael Knight, CPA

top ⇧

What readers think...

"I am very impressed with Successful Practice Sales.  It covered all of the subjects I expected and did so in a way I could easily understand.  All at a reasonable price!  In fact, I would have paid far more for the contents of this book.”

— Michael O. Wirick, CPA

"The valuable resources contained in Successful Practice Sales provided me with specific tools needed to create a smooth transfer of ownership."

— Jacob Hanes

"Successful Practice Sales is the best book of its kind. It lays out -- in a practical, step-by-step way -- the process for buying or selling your tax or accounting practice. But more than showing you the 'how,' it also explains the 'why.' There are a lot of fears and uncertainties in buying or selling -- particularly selling. John Ezell is there for you at every step of the way. Don't consider your next big move without this book."

— Rick Telberg, Director of Online Content for AICPA Insider newsletters and pioneering Editor-In-Chief of Accounting Today

"We don't know if you can sell your accounting practice on eBay, but we do know that you shouldn't. The fact is, though, that as many Baby Boomer accountants look to retire and the market toughens, practice sales are going to become both more frequent and more complicated than they already are. John Ezell of ProHorizons, an accounting firm consultant and brokerage, has spent years helping clients with selling practices (as well as buying and merging them). In his new book, Successful Practice Sales, Ezell parts with a number of valuable models, processes and tips on buying, selling, merging, financing and avoiding the pitfalls associated with each."

— Accounting Today, August 2005

"In Successful Practice Sales: The Complete Guide to Buying, Selling or Merging Your Accounting, Consulting or Tax Practice, CPA John R. Ezell and consultant Ken Berry present guidance for accountants on both sides of the equation. They sketch the process of analyzing whether to buy or sell a firm and assessing the pros and cons of a specific transaction. The book also provides a glossary, document samples and checklists for performing due diligence and for obtaining financing, and it lists the state societies. It's big help in a small package."

— Journal of Accountancy , September 2006