*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.*
1710 W Walnut Ave
Visalia, California 93277
Nancy and her team were quick and responsive. Every question I had Nancy answered it in a way that I could understand. I appreciate all their hard work. The process was simple and easy. They outlined everything I needed to provide and as fast as I got it to them, they'd process it. I will recommend Nancy and her team to even person I know!
I highly recommend Esmeralda Ruiz at Core Home Loans. Esmeralda is very kind and respectful, she was very helpful and answered every and any questions my family and I had. Esmeralda I thank you very much for helping me and my family and giving us a happy experience with you and Core Home Loans. God bless you ??
Amazing experience!! Esmeralda made sure we were constantly ?in the loop? and informed on any developments in the loan process. And she answered any question we had at any time! I highly recommend them
wanted to share that core home loans loan officer Esmeralda Ruiz has completed multiple loans and pre approvals for my clients. She is always on top of every issue and constantly updates everyone on loan status. Ive been in Real Estate over 20 years and if you are in the market for a home loan, Esmeralda should be your "Go To" for all your loan products and information
Katie is very experienced in what she does. She will go above and beyond to make things happen. She made buying our forever home very an easy and pleasant experience.
Nancy is an absolute pro. Wether it is a refinance or a purchase, she has you covered! Nancy made my process extremely easy and stress free. She was always reachable by text or call which is huge for me. She was a clear communicator and made it simple to get her the documents she needed for my loan. Thank you so much Nancy for an amazing experience!
Didn't care for our experience with Nancy, not very good with communicating but she got the job done.
Wendy Reed both advised me about available options and efficiently processed my loan request. She made the process simple and quick and took care of all questions and issues. Donald
I just wrapped up an escrow with Erin Fisher as my client's loan officer. She did a great job helping my clients navigate the loan process and close on their very first home. Erin was always available to promptly answer any questions that they had as well as keeping myself and the escrow company updated on our loan progress. I would strongly recommend Erin and Core Home Loans if you are in the market for a mortgage loan.
Working with Nancy Castillo was an absolute pleasure from start to finish! Her expertise in the mortgage industry shone through every step of the process. Nancy?s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication ensured that my mortgage experience was smooth and stress-free. She went above and beyond to find the best rates and terms for my situation, and her communication was outstanding throughout. I highly recommend Nancy Castillo to anyone in need of a mortgage lender. Five stars all the way
Nancy was fantastic to work with when purchasing our new home! I felt VERY informed throughout the entire process! I would highly recommend Nancy and her team if you are purchasing a home.
Nancy and her team especially were always available when I needed them, they answered all my questions anytime of the day and made the whole housing process easy! She made our dreams of becoming a home owner possible at a great rate! Highly recommend her and her team!??
As a local realtor I have worked with Erin since 2019. We have shared many successful transaction over the years. She has always served our mutual clients with great care and professionalism. I value her expertise and count her as a cherished resource when choosing a local mortgage lender . Prudence Hudgins Melson Realty
Nancy was awesome! Very professional and pleasant to correspond with and responded immediately to our questions and concerns. We would definitely recommend her! Thanks again Nancy!
Thank you for making our home buying process quick and easy for us! Nancy was always available to answer any questions I had and ensured our home closed in the time we needed! Thank you for everything!
Nancy is my girl to go . Always great experience.
Erin?s experience and expertise assisted us in determining our financial ability to purchase. It was a smooth transition from beginning to end.
Nancy is an amazing lender! Helped us navigate the process for are new home. Professional and experienced lender here in the Valley.
Erin Fisher is a fantastic loan officer. She was very quick to respond and explained everything in detail. The whole process was seamless! Thanks ????
Erin was professional, knowledgeable, and made the application process understandable. She answered all our questions and was a pleasure to work with.
Nancy and her Team are amazing to work with. They are all very knowledgeable and are always there when you need them.
Erin was absolutely the best. Honest and responsive. Wonderful experience. Would recommend and use again.
Amazing customer service always putting client needs first!!
Erin is always on top of the transaction, communicates well, and makes the process a grea experiance for buyers!
Core Home Loans made what is usually a very stressful experience so easy & now we are in our dream home! Thanks CHL!
Esmeralda is one of a kind and very knowledgeable and offers many potential solutions to a loan challenge
Always great services.... Very professional, efficient and friendly.
Erin is a pro and gets things done.
Communication and execution was excellent!
Core home mortgages with Nancy mota Castillo is the best company to work with. They make Home buying a fun experience and take care of all their clients going above and beyond to make sure their clients are happy with their experience. Their knowledge and experience is unmatchable. The level of professionalism and care that goes behind each client is amazing. They are always available to answer questions even after hours. The way these girls were together Is such a breath of fresh air. You can tell that the
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.