Thinking About Selling Your IFA Business?
For many Independent Financial Advisers, their firm represents decades of hard work, trusted client relationships, and a strong professional reputation. When the time comes to consider retirement or succession planning, choosing the right path forward can be a significant decision.
Across the UK, an increasing number of advisory firms are exploring sale opportunities. At the same time, there is strong demand from established acquirers looking to grow through acquisition.
Navigating this market can be challenging. Finding the right buyer, achieving a fair valuation, and ensuring a smooth transition for clients are all critical parts of the process. This is where specialist support can make a real difference.
Connecting IFA Sellers With the Right Buyers
At Oakfield Group, we work with advisers who are considering selling their business by connecting them with established and reputable acquirers in the market. Rather than operating as a buyer ourselves, our role is to help advisers:
Every advisory firm is different, which is why finding the right buyer is just as important as agreeing the right price.
Flexible Exit Options for Advisers
One of the most common misconceptions about selling an IFA business is that the adviser must step away immediately. In reality, there are a variety of structures available depending on the adviser’s personal goals. Some advisers prefer a full and immediate exit, allowing them to retire or pursue other opportunities straight away. Others choose to remain involved in the business for a period of time, continuing to support their clients while gradually transitioning responsibilities to the acquiring firm. In some cases, advisers stay on in an advisory or consultancy role, ensuring continuity for clients while reducing their day-to-day responsibilities.
Part of our role is helping advisers explore these different options and find a solution that works for both them and the acquiring firm.
Understanding the Value of an IFA Business
IFA firms are typically valued based on the strength and stability of their recurring income and client relationships. Factors that can influence valuation include:
Many transactions also include deferred payments linked to client retention, helping ensure a smooth transition and protecting both parties involved.
Finding the Right Acquirer
For many advisers, the biggest concern when selling is what will happen to their clients. Different acquirers take different approaches. Some focus on rapid consolidation, while others prioritise long-term relationship management and continuity of service. Ensuring the acquiring firm aligns with the values and service standards of the existing business is often one of the most important factors in a successful transition. A key part of our role is helping advisers identify potential buyers whose philosophy, service model, and long-term vision match the business they have built.
Typical Reasons IFAs Contact Us
Advisers approach us at different stages in their careers and for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:
Every situation is different. Our role is to understand the adviser’s objectives and help identify the most suitable acquisition partner to support those goals.
Starting the Conversation
Succession planning is often something advisers delay, but starting the conversation early can create far more options and flexibility. Whether you are considering retirement in the near future or simply beginning to think about your long-term plans, an initial discussion can help you understand what the market currently looks like.
At Oakfield Group, we offer confidential conversations with advisers who want to explore their options and better understand how the sale process works.
If you are an Independent Financial Adviser considering selling your business, we would be happy to speak with you.