A guide to sourcing an M&A advisor for the first time

Choosing an M&A advisor is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a business owner. The right partner protects confidentiality, manages buyer qualification, and negotiates on your behalf, often adding significant value to the final deal.

Look for sector experience first. A generalist broker may have a wide database, but a specialist who understands your industry's metrics, buyer landscape, and valuation drivers will typically achieve a better outcome.

Ask about their buyer reach and process. How do they identify candidates? What's their approach to confidentiality? Do they manage due diligence and legal coordination, or hand off after introduction?

Fee structures vary. Success fees, retainers, and legal cost arrangements should all be transparent from the first conversation. At Starling Corporate, legal fees are included in our selling process, which removes a common source of surprise for owners.

Finally, trust your instinct. You'll work closely with your deal leader for months. Choose someone who listens, challenges you constructively, and communicates clearly at every stage.