Selling Your Practice
How to Sell your Bookkeeping Business
Selling a bookkeeping business is about more than revenue. Buyers value recurring fees, strong systems, and low churn. This guide explains how to prepare, price fairly, and secure a sale that rewards your hard work.
| September 24, 2025 | 2 min read
When it comes time to sell, many owners assume buyers will focus only on client lists and revenue. In reality, buyers often look first at recurring income, systems, and client retention. Selling a bookkeeping business is not just about fee levels—it’s about proving stability, efficiency, and growth potential.
Check Market Demand and Timing
Demand is stronger than many think. In the UK, bookkeeping sector revenue grew to £6.7 billion in 2024–25, with a compound annual growth rate of 2.3% over five years (IBISWorld, 2025). Owners should time their sale when demand—especially for tech-enabled firms—is high.
Use Real Valuation Methods
Begin with a sound valuation method. Bookkeeping businesses often sell for 1.0× to 1.2× annual revenue (Vocal.Media, 2025). To refine that, normalise earnings—remove one-off costs and owner salary. Then apply a multiple to profitability, typically 3× to 5× adjusted profit (TheAccountancy.co.uk, 2024).
Show What Buyers Value
Buyers look for confidence in key areas:
• Reliable income – Regular recurring fees increase value.
• Low client churn – Clients who stay make the firm more valuable.
• Systems and tech – Firms with cloud tools or automated workflows attract stronger offers.
• Simple handover – Buyers want to know staff can run things post-sale.
Prepare the Business and Data
Clean, clear data builds trust. Have 3-year accounts, client lists, service details, and confirmation of recurring income ready. Sellers should highlight tools like Xero, QuickBooks, or automation for greater credibility.
Work with Experts
Selling a bookkeeping business involves more than paperwork. It’s about finding the right buyer, negotiating well, and ensuring continuity for clients and staff. Kingsman Partners can help bookkeeping business owners assess value, ready their firm for sale, and manage the sale with confidence.
Saul Tiano – Partner at Kingsman Partners
If you’re considering a sale or acquisition, Kingsman Partners is here to help. Schedule your meeting here.
