Looking for a financial advisor

searcher profile

August 29, 2025

by a searcher from University of Massachusetts Amherst - Isenberg School of Management in Bothell, Washington, USA

Hi Searchfunder community, My husband and I are currently evaluating whether to move forward with an SBA loan to acquire a business, and we’d like to make sure we choose the best strategy for our overall financial situation. Our ideal outcome is to relocate to Florida in order to acquire a business there (not in Seattle), so we need clear guidance on how this move fits into our financial picture. We’re not looking for ongoing financial planning or investment management, but rather a neutral, advice-only financial advisor who can: • Help us assess trade-offs between our household expenses, childcare costs, existing investments, and the new business financing • Provide clarity on the risks and cash flow implications of an SBA loan • Assist us in figuring out the ideal EBITDA or SDE target for a business, given our financial circumstances and relocation plans • Guide us in evaluating the reality that many say acquiring a business is especially difficult in the first years — does this typically imply serious financial challenges and risks of going broke, and how can we best prepare? • Help us make an aligned decision as a couple, without pushing products or AUM (Assets Under Management) services Ideally, we’re seeking a fee-only advisor who works hourly or on a project basis, with experience advising on SBA loans, entrepreneurs, and family finances tied to small business ownership. If you know someone who fits this profile—or if you’ve worked with an advisor/consultant you’d recommend—I’d greatly appreciate your suggestions. Thanks in advance for your help! — Mercedes
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Reply by a searcher
from University of New Mexico in Clearwater, FL, USA
Hi Mercedes, FEE ONLY advisors are great for PASSIVE investors. It sounds like you are considering becoming an ACTIVE investor/ owner / operator. I had to make the same trade-off decisions you are thinking about, leaving my W2 job to start a business in###-###-#### It worked out - I grew that business from $0 to $8.5m revenue in 4 years). Moved our family from CA to FL to grow the business in###-###-#### Have had multiple small business acquisitions/ exits/ startups since###-###-#### Buying an existing business is 1000x easier). Trade-offs in working both with and without Spouse as a business partner/ operator in the business and built up a 150+ unit multifamily rental portfolio since###-###-#### I know SBA basics but not a lender. If you want advice on any of those things from an Owner / Operator happy to chat.
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Reply by a lender
from University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA, USA
Hi ^redacted‌ - We are not a financial advisor but we are a high volume SBA loan broker and definitely advise you on everything you would need to know about SBA loans, personal guarantees, DSCR and worst case scenarios with the SBA. We can also help you find the right lender for your deal. We work with all the major SBA lenders. The bank pay us after your loan closes, so this is a 100% free service for you. You can click here to schedule a meeting with me: https://calendly.com/tom-gosbaloans/30min. Look forward to chatting!
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