1. History Background
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Fully describe the business's activities |
The Practice is a dynamic and client-focused accounting firm offering a comprehensive range of financial, accounting, taxation, and business advisory services. Its core service lines include bookkeeping, financial management, tax compliance, and human resource solutions, designed to support clients with financial clarity, regulatory compliance, and strategic guidance.
While the firm serves clients across various industries, it has developed a distinct specialization in the medical and healthcare sectors. It delivers tailored financial solutions that meet the unique needs of healthcare professionals and businesses, ensuring tax efficiency, streamlined financial processes, and proactive compliance support. This sector-focused approach enables clients to concentrate on their clinical and operational priorities while the firm manages their financial affairs with precision.
The Practice operates with a strong commitment to accuracy, discretion, and long-term financial growth for its clients. Its consultative, high-touch service model has positioned it as a trusted advisor to professionals navigating complex financial and regulatory environments.
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How long has the business been established? |
The business has been established for fifteen years since 2010. |
How long has the owner had the business? |
Since its inception in 2010 – fifteen years |
2. Present Market
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How does the business operate daily? |
Operational Overview - The Practice operates as a fully integrated accounting and advisory firm with a structured, technology-enabled approach to financial management. Daily operations are built around efficiency, regulatory compliance, and proactive client engagement.
Core Processing Workflow - The Practice has developed a disciplined and repeatable process to manage client financial data:
- Customized Accounting Files – Each client is issued a tailored accounting file, clearly structured for ease of use. Six bi-monthly files are prepared annually, aligned to each client’s VAT cycle, and delivered directly to client premises via courier.
- Collection and Preparation – At scheduled intervals, completed files are collected and returned to the office for processing. An internal team organizes and digitizes documents, highlighting key business-related expenses to ensure clarity and audit readiness.
- Accounting Capture and Compliance Review – Processed files are assigned to dedicated accountants who complete data entry within strict turnaround times. Once captured, a senior review is conducted to validate compliance and accuracy before release.
- Reporting and VAT Submission – Each client receives a comprehensive management pack comprising VAT reports, return documentation, and financial summaries. Automated calendar reminders are issued ahead of deadlines to prompt timely action.
- Payment Tracking and Follow-up – Post-submission, client accounts are monitored for payment confirmation. Where payments are outstanding, a structured follow-up process ensures swift resolution and continued compliance.
Client Service and Delivery -Clients benefit from a high-touch service model that includes regular bookkeeping, tax compliance, payroll processing, HR support, and financial advisory.
Technology-Driven Efficiency - The Practice is fully cloud-based, utilizing SageOne Online Accounting for real-time processing and reporting. Microsoft SharePoint and Office 365 are deployed for secure document management and collaborative workflows. All client documents are digitized.
Internal Controls and Strategic Oversight - Daily and weekly team briefings are held to review client files, monitor service levels, and plan tax strategies. Internal audits and quality checks form part of a rigorous compliance framework.
Growth-Focused Advisory - The Practice places strong emphasis on client education, strategic consultation, and financial planning. Its model blends expert insight with consistent engagement to deliver meaningful, long-term value to its client base. |
How are the clients attracted to the business? |
The Practice has achieved consistent growth through a robust word-of-mouth referral network, underpinned by exceptional service delivery and strong, long-term client relationships. Its commitment to a personalized, high-touch service experience has resulted in a high rate of client advocacy, with many new engagements originating from existing client referrals.
In addition to referral-based growth, the Practice maintains a strategic digital presence across platforms such as Google, Instagram, and Facebook. These channels are used to communicate expertise, engage prospective clients, and attract businesses seeking reliable and professional accounting services.
By combining relationship-driven referrals with targeted digital outreach, the Practice has built a sustainable and expanding client base, positioning itself for continued long-term success |
What Advertising/Marketing is carried out? |
Referral-based growth, supported by online presence on Google, Facebook, and Instagram. |
Does the business have any contract work? |
The Firm does not currently engage in fixed-term or retainer-based contracts; all client work is project- or service-cycle-based. |
What competition exists |
The Practice operates within a highly specialized niche, focusing exclusively on servicing clients in the healthcare and medical sectors. While numerous generalist accounting firms exist within the broader market, few possess the depth of expertise, sector-specific knowledge, and operational experience required to meet the unique financial and regulatory needs of healthcare professionals.
This specialization enables the Practice to:
- Navigate complex tax structures and sector-specific compliance requirements unique to medical practitioners and clinics.
- Deliver tailored accounting, advisory, and compliance solutions that go beyond the capabilities of conventional firms.
- Provide a high-touch, private-client service model that prioritizes personalized strategies over templated approaches.
As a result of this focused market position, strong referral base, and long-standing reputation, the Practice encounters minimal direct competition. It has successfully established a defensible niche and is regarded as the preferred financial partner for professionals operating within the healthcare industry. |
What are the seasonal trends |
Workload peaks during VAT cycles, provisional tax periods, financial year-ends, and medical industry-specific deadlines |
3. Financial
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Is the business VAT Registered |
Yes, the business is registered for VAT. |
Are there up to date management accounts? |
Yes, current management accounts are prepared regularly and are available for buyer review upon request. |
What annual financials are available, income statement and or balance sheets? |
Annual financial statements, including income statements and balance sheets from 2022 to 2025, are available and compliant with IFRS for SMEs |
What percentage of the business is cash/credit? |
The business operates on a 100% cash basis; no credit terms are extended to clients. |
What is the age analysis of the debtor’s book? |
The debtors’ book is current, with the majority of client payments received within 0 to 30 days from invoicing. We are looking at 5.1% of Turnover sitting in debtors. |
How could the profitability of the business be improved? |
The profitability of the Practice presents significant upside potential through strategic expansion, operational refinement, and scale advantages. A larger acquiring firm would be well-positioned to unlock additional value through the following key avenues:
1. Scalable Client Onboarding & Service Delivery
By leveraging broader infrastructure and additional human resources, a new owner could increase client volumes without sacrificing service quality. Expanding the staff complement would enable greater capacity while maintaining operational efficiency.
2. Technology-Led Operational Efficiency
Implementing advanced automation tools and accounting platforms could materially reduce manual workload, enhance turnaround times, and lower staffing costs. Further investment in cloud-based systems would streamline workflows and reduce administrative overhead.
3. Deeper Penetration of the Healthcare Niche
With its strong foundation in the healthcare sector, the Practice is well positioned for further market penetration. Opportunities exist to expand into high-value services such as practice optimization, estate planning for healthcare professionals, and integrated financial consulting.
4. Diversification of Services
Introducing higher-margin advisory offerings—including business consulting, succession planning, and advanced tax structuring—can increase revenue per client. Converting traditional billing models into retainer-based packages would create predictable and recurring income streams.
5. Geographic and Market Expansion
The firm currently operates within a defined region; however, demand for niche healthcare accounting services exists nationwide. A larger firm could extend the Practice’s footprint to other metropolitan areas, supported by strategic alliances with healthcare associations and networks.
6. Cost Optimization through Scale
A buyer with existing infrastructure could capitalize on economies of scale—reducing costs across software, compliance, and administration. Shared services and centralized resources across locations would further enhance margin performance.
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Is Seller finance available and for what amount? |
Yes, seller financing will be considered under the following conditions:
- An approved buyer must be secured.
- The seller requires an upfront cash payment of 50% of the purchase price on the effective date.
- The Seller will guarantee turnover for 12 months, subject to mutually agreed terms and conditions, including the seller's continued involvement in the business.
- The remaining balance will be payable in monthly instalments over a 36-month period.
The terms and conditions regarding the warranty and ongoing involvement will be clearly defined, as well as how the price will be adjusted, either upwards or downwards at the end of the warranty period.
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4. Staffing
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What is the total staff complement? |
The Firm has a total staff complement of 26 employees, including accounting professionals, HR specialists, and administrative support personnel. |
Staff Breakdown |
Staff includes accountants, senior reviewers, HR practitioners, payroll administrators, office managers, and support staff working collaboratively within defined operational roles.
A specific list is available for the Due Diligence phase. |
Do any receive special perks, bonuses or incentives? |
While there are no contractual incentive schemes in place, the Practice offers several discretionary benefits and recognition programs designed to support staff retention, reward performance, and maintain a positive work environment:
- Pension Contribution: Employees who have completed five years of service may be enrolled in a pension fund fully paid by the Practice. This offering is discretionary and currently valued at an entry-level contribution of approximately R500 per month.
- Performance-Based Birthday Bonus: Employees may receive a discretionary bonus equivalent to 50% of their monthly salary in their birthday month, subject to individual performance assessment.
- Management Reward Program: Senior team members may participate in an Employee Management Reward Program (EMRP), which provides incentive payments linked to the successful completion of specific deliverables.
- Staff Amenities: The Practice maintains a supportive office environment, supplying cereals, biscuits, noodles, teas, and coffees for staff at no cost.
These discretionary benefits, while not guaranteed, reflect the firm’s commitment to fostering loyalty, acknowledging achievement, and enhancing workplace satisfaction |
Are they on contract? |
Most employees are on permanent contracts; terms and conditions are standard and compliant with South African labour legislation and HR best practices. |
Do any have management potential? |
Yes, several senior team members demonstrate leadership capability and are suitable for promotion into management roles under new ownership or expanded operations. |
How involved is the Owner in running the business? |
The Owner is actively involved in strategic direction, client relationships, and operational oversight while delegating routine tasks to experienced staff. One senior staff member is servicing a stand-in role for the owner |
5. Premises
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When Does the Current Lease ends? |
The current office lease runs through to mid-2026, aligning with the standard three-year commercial lease cycle in the area.
There is a specific development that will be discussed with a buyer.
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Is there an option for renewal & what period |
Yes, a renewal option is available for an additional three-year period under similar terms and conditions. |
What is the annual escalation %? |
Approximately 8% annually. |
What are the Trading Hours? |
While employees follow a flexible work schedule, they select from one of three fixed time blocks:
- 07:00 – 16:00
- 07:30 – 16:30
- 08:00 – 17:00
For external stakeholders and client-facing purposes, the Practice maintains official business hours of 08:00 to 17:00, Monday through Friday. |
What is the square meterage of the business? |
Approximately 292 square meters. |
Is a copy of the lease available? |
Yes, lease documentation is available. |
Do You require a license? |
Yes, standard professional registrations and tax practitioner accreditations. |
6. Assets
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Is a full asset list on file? |
Yes, a detailed asset register is maintained and available. |
Are any items not included in the sale? |
No material exclusions have been identified. |
What is their overall condition? |
Assets are in good working condition. |
Do any require repairing? |
No repairs are currently required. |
How have they been valued? |
Assets valued at cost less depreciation. |
Which assets are on lease/HP and with whom |
No assets are under lease or hire purchase. |
What are their settlement amounts? |
No settlement amounts are applicable. |
Will the Seller settle or Buyer take over? |
No leases to transfer—clean asset sale. |
Are copies of agreements available? |
N/A |
Are they presently insured? |
Yes, all assets are insured. |
7. S.W.O.T. Analysis
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Strengths |
- Niche specialization in the healthcare and medical sector
- Consistently strong profitability with high gross margins
- Fully digitized, cloud-based operations enabling remote access
- High client retention is driven by referral-based growth
- Established reputation and trusted brand presence
- Experienced, stable team with defined operational roles
- No long-term liabilities or debt on balance sheet
- Robust internal processes and compliance controls
- Scalable systems and service delivery model
- Owner willing to assist with post-sale transition
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Weaknesses |
- Owner-centric leadership model
- Limited geographic expansion beyond the core region
- No formal retainer or long-term contractual agreements with clients
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Opportunities |
- Expand geographically using the cloud-based infrastructure
- Introduce new service lines
- Formalize client retainer for recurring revenue
- Increase market share within the healthcare sector through targeted campaigns
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Threats |
- Potential disruption from accounting firms entering the niche
- Overreliance on Owner for key client
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8. Reason For Sale
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What is the reason for the sale? |
The decision to divest the Practice is based on a planned strategic career transition by the owner. After establishing a highly successful and in-demand firm, the owner has chosen to pursue a full-time focus in the financial planning sector, which aligns with long-term professional goals.
Importantly, this transaction is intended to form the basis for a strategic partnership rather than a complete exit. The current owner is committed to referring clients to the Practice post-sale, positioning it as the primary destination for accounting and tax services. In turn, a reciprocal referral arrangement for financial planning services is encouraged. This ensures a smooth transition, continuity of care, and mutual long-term success for all parties involved.
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9. Conclusion
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Why is this a good business to buy? |
The Practice represents a highly profitable, systematized, and strategically positioned accounting firm with a well-established niche in the healthcare sector. Unlike generalist firms, it delivers specialized financial, tax, and compliance solutions tailored to the needs of medical professionals and healthcare businesses. This niche focus significantly reduces direct competition and ensures a stable, recurring base of high-value clients.
The firm operates on a proven and scalable model, supported by long-standing client relationships and a strong referral network. Recurring revenue, predictable billing cycles, and an efficient cloud-based infrastructure contribute to low overheads and consistent cash flow.
With minimal reliance on outbound marketing, the firm continues to grow organically through word-of-mouth and an expanding digital presence. For an acquirer, this business offers a low-risk, high-reward opportunity with significant upside potential—whether through service expansion, geographic reach, or scaling operational capacity.
This is not simply an accounting business; it is a specialized, high-value asset with a strong brand, mature systems, and a loyal client base—well-positioned for continued success under new ownership.
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