*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.*
4400 Nogales Dr
Tarzana, California 91356
This is my 1st time working with the Brookline Group, however i can say from experience that the transaction was fast, and enjoyable. We needed a short term but quick, small (250k) loan on a land deal and i have had many hard money loans, i am impressed with these guys and its not easy to impress me. They have an ability to drown out the unnecessary noise and laser focus on the objective (Closing the deal) saving me time, money and heartburn. Overall my experience with this group has been pleasant and i wou
For several years now The Brookline Group has been my go-to lender for my real estate investment projects. As a RE investor I'm sort of an obsessive shopper, always looking for the best values. After extensive research I found that The Brookline Group is well ahead of the pack when it comes to just that: offering best value. Their speed (essential), ease of transaction (less headaches), their competitive rates, as well as their ?no BS fees? which so many other lenders so often end up charging unexpectedly,
As a Real Estate Agent, I need to know that my clients are in good hands. I have referred numerous clients to The Brookline Group and received nothing but praises from my clients. The Brookline Group has gone over and beyond their expectations. They could not believe how fast and painless their loan process was. Anyone that works with them will be completely satisfied. I will continue to refer The Brookline Group to my clients as well as my friends and family as they have never let me or their clients
The Brookline group, and the owner Mr. Klemens, has been a pleasure to work with. He is absolutely a life saver. I started with a short term loan for a remodel of a house. His terms and fees were reasonable. He worked with me to get exactly what I need. My project took a little longer that I have anticipated, so Mr. Klemens stepped in and extended my terms to my needs which gave me the freedom to take my time and finish the remodel and sell the house in time. I definitely recommend him to anyone that needs
I have had a number of hard money loans through the Brookline Group and I would highly recommend them. If you're looking for a loan at a reasonable rate I would suggest calling Mike at the Brookline Group. He's exceptionally knowledgeable, fast and easy to work with. You won't be disappointed. A very happy and loyal customer.
I recently worked with The Brookline Grouo to refinance and found their creative use of a wrap loan quite smart. The payments remained the same and I got the capital I needed to do the job! Sensible fees and a pleasant experience...did I just say that? Yes. You owe it to yourself to check them out.
Before retiring as a tax accountant, I referred a number of clients to Mike Klemens, The Brookline Group, for private party real estate loans; and all were grateful for my referral. Mike had excellent loan terms as a direct lender, provided fast service, and was professional in every respect. Demetri Zafiris
Brookline Group grossly overcharged my elderly client for a short-term $100,000 loan.
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.