*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
17 E Sir Francis Drake Blvd #200
Larkspur, California 94939
I worked with Susan Willis for my original mortgage as well as my re-fi, which she reached out to me to pursue. I am very grateful for Susan as I would not have thought to re-fi at this time and the new mortgage brought my payment down by so much, which is so extremely helpful during this time. Susan is super sweet, efficient as well as resourceful. I would absolutely work with her and have recommended her to my friends and will continue to do so. Corey
Once again, Mike McKinney with All California Mortgage has provided us with an outstanding lending experience. This was our third time working with him. Mike is very personable, efficient, and offered us valuable insight throughout our home buying process which put our minds at ease. I have recommended Mike to multiple people already and will continue to do so.
Stan hook saw us through our first home loan process smoothly and as outlined. He was extremely knowledgeable, responsive, and seemed happy to educate us about the whole process. We appreciate his sense of humor and are Very satisfied!
This was my first time buying a home and it happened during the pandemic which was strange enough on its own. Having Stacey Stowe in my corner was the absolute best part of the whole thing. She was very patient with me and my new home owner questions and panics lol. She explained everything in detail to me and always made me feel at ease. She was able to lock in my loan at amazing rates and found programs to help me with the process. She made the home buyer process go as smoothly as possible for me. If I
Stacey Stowe help us with re-financing our home mortgage. She made it simple, easy, and understandable. We would use her again if they need arises and recommend Stacey to anyone who is financing or refinancing home mortgage loan. Thank you Stacey!
Alan Garber is a dedicated professional and committed to providing excellent advice and service to his customers. He is extremely knowledgeable on mortgage loans and rates. He is always punctual to return calls and respond to emails, and very pleasant to work with. Overall, I highly recommend him as a mortgage advisor.
Stan Hook (All California Mortgage) has been a great help over the past few years, handling refinances of my property quickly and efficiently, and communicating fully along the way. He really helped to demystify the tangled web of timing and requirements that pop up along the path to getting a mortgage, which is a welcome relief while you're going through the process.
My husband and I have been working with Brooks Hoehn and Ernest Born for over two years. From the beginning, they were direct, honest, stand-up guys. They truly live up to their roles as ?Advisors?. They empowered us through the purchase of our first home, along with guiding us through a very successful refinance. They are extremely communicative, patient, professional, and supportive. I have recommended them to half a dozen friends and stand by their integrity. I couldn't be more appreciative or recommend
I just finished up my 3rd mortgage through Lisa Langendorf-Andrews. I should have written a review after my first loan (almost 10 years ago) because Lisa and her team pulled off nothing short of a miracle when the IRS caused some unexpected issues for us. As I was a first time buyer, she was patient with all my questions and easily guided me through the loan process. Lisa has also now refinanced my home twice since then. The first time, to get out of my mortgage insurance, was a breeze - quick and easy. T
Mj at all California Mortgage was amazing. She really guided us through the entire process of purchasing our home. She was very helpful, always available, and incredibly informative! If I didn't understand something she was a phone call/ text away with the answer. I would have been lost without her help and guidance during this process. My husband and I will be working with Mj at All California Mortgage in the future. Thank you so much!
Stan is completely professional. He went through our refiance every step of the way, even more so during these very difficult times. We have worked with him for many years and could not imagine a better experience. He is he best in the business!
Mike McKinney should change his title to mortgage wizard! He works through the most complex issues quickly and with a smile, even COVID! He really knows his stuff, even when it comes to issues that are more rare, like investment properties and VA loans. Can't recommend him highly enough!
Stan Hook is a wonderful, knowledgeable, thorough and very responsive professional. This is the third opportunity I have had to work with him and it's always a pleasure. He's the best!!
Stan Hook is very upfront, honest, and meticulous. I highly recommend him! We've refinanced with him a couple of times and he has delivered everything that he promised.
Lisa Langdorf was great. We were distracted and overwhelmed clients, but Lisa helped us stay on track through our refinance. We're very happy with the outcomes.
Used All California for my mortgage broker 5 years ago and again recently to refinance. Working with Stan is super easy and my real estate agent said he hadn't worked a more efficient and timely broker.
Dean Littlewood at All California Mortgage is a consummate professional. When the going gets tough (as all mortgage loan processes do), Dean stays as cool as a cucumber. He's very thorough, responsive and an all-around great guy to work with.
Stevens consistently delivers. He's done at least a half dozen loans for me personally. As a broker, he is my ?go to? guy when a client or family member asks. He is fair, honest, and gets the job done.
I met Jodi at a business mixer for Women In Business that we hosted at our office here in Novato. She's great! I'd highly recommend reaching out to her if you're in need of a mortgage!
Amazing service! Leonard not only got us a better rate than when we originally purchased and was able to save us over $400 a month, but got us some cash back and we were able to skip a payment, all of those things happening were very important to us and he delivered 100%. Thank you Leonard for everything you did!
Ann was super helpful through the entire process and helped us structure to get the best rate possible. She was quickly responsive to all of our questions along the way. Definitely recommend!
Stacey is positive, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. She kept us informed throughout our process.
Lisa was as absolute joy to work with. Not only so very knowledgeable, but patient and understanding. Could not have done this process without her!
Susan Willis was so great! Patience and persistent! I love working with someone who wants to get it done!
MJ communicated with us regarding each step in the process. Her attention to detail and knowledge gave us complete confidence throughout the process.
Mike is amazing, helped us through everything, couldn't ask for better help, this was our second time working with him, and look forward to working with him many more times!
Lisa is incredibly patient and detailed. I'm grateful for her guidance and integrity throughout the entire process.
They worked hard to get our loan approved quickly and at the best rate. We were thrilled with the overall experience.
I felt taken care of throughout the process. Stan explained everything in a clear way where I could understand the terms and cost, and cost saving. Thank you!
My refinance experience was really easy and straightforward!
Took the time to answer all my questions and concerns. Always available via text, email, or phone call.
Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.
Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.
A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.
Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.
Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.
Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.
Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.
Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.
Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.
During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.
Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.
Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.
For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.
Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.
Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.