While many privately owned acquirers are not vertically integrated, most multi-adviser firms have a well researched centralised investment proposition to manage risk and provide a standardisation of output for clients.

Integration into their CIP is going to be important to the acquirer and so again an assessment of what your client currently receives, versus what the acquirer offers should be a key consideration.

You can only make a first impression once, so prior to coming to market you need to make sure you are best prepared.

Learn about the acquisition landscape and the process ahead, and how best to present yourself in this increasingly competitive space.

Currently demand is high, but the Financial Conduct Authority estimates some 5,000 plus advisers will be seeking an exit in the next five years due to age alone, so if supply starts to exceed demand, you need to know how to stand out. 

Nothing provides confidence quite like a firm that has its data complete, accurate and to hand.

Providing yourself with the time you need to get the business in the best position will maximise your chances of success, after all, a business that is easier to run is easier to sell.

Aside from the type of acquirer you sell to, there are some key aspects that will influence the value of your business.

These include the profitability of your client relationships, the age of your clients and the intergenerational planning that has taken place, demonstration of value, and identification and management of key risk areas.

Addressing some of these areas can take years, so yet again time is your friend.

Victoria Hicks is managing director of The Exit Partnership