The Valley Business Broker

The Valley Business Broker

Reviews Summary

Steve is consistently praised as a highly professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated business broker. Reviewers highlight his exceptional communication, responsiveness, and ability to guide clients through complex transactions with patience and transparency. His expertise in valuations, negotiations, and connecting buyers with sellers stands out, along with his genuine care for clients' best interests. Many note his persistence, accessibility, and skill in closing deals even in challenging circumstances. His ability to simplify the process, provide fair appraisals, and maintain a positive attitude earns strong recommendations across all reviews.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
CFO Services
Financial Advisory
Mergers and Acquisitions
Virtual CFO
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
Real Estate
Professional Services
Manufacturing
Complex Situations
Years of Practice
CPA License

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Business Consulting
CFO Services
Financial Advisory
Mergers and Acquisitions
Virtual CFO
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
Real Estate
Professional Services
Manufacturing
Complex Situations
Years of Practice
CPA License

Contact Information

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-5PM
Tuesday 8AM-5PM
Wednesday 8AM-5PM
Thursday 8AM-5PM
Friday 8AM-5PM
Saturday 8AM-5PM

Customer Reviews

I recently had the pleasure of working with Steve on a business acquisition, and I can't recommend him highly enough. While he initially represented the seller, he was incredibly helpful to me as the buyer, going above and beyond to ensure a smooth transaction. Steve was transparent, patient, and thorough throughout the entire process. He's a great communicator and mediator?always prompt and willing to take the time to address any concerns I had. He made what could have been a stressful experience so much e

Steve was instrumental in the sale of our business. He is very well informed and will go above and beyond for his clients. He is dedicated to providing the best service all around to both buyer and seller. We could not have made it happen without Steve. We highly recommend his services.

We had the pleasure of working with Steve Barnett, a certified business broker in California, and we couldn't be happier with the experience. Steve did an outstanding job assisting my business partners and me in purchasing a business. He was always available to discuss every aspect of the acquisition process, from initial discussions to final strategies for closing the deal. Steve?s professionalism and dedication were evident throughout the entire transaction. He consistently put our interests first, provi

We recently sold our business, and we had the pleasure of working with Steve Barnett at The Valley Business Broker. Despite the stressful nature of selling a business, Steve did an outstanding job finding the perfect buyer for our business. He was extremely professional, always available to take our calls, and maintained a positive attitude throughout the entire experience. Steve answered all our questions with clarity and patience, guiding us every step of the way. His cheerful and honest demeanor helped a

It was a pleasure working with Steve. His knowledge and insight throughout the entire process was impressive. Steve was extremely responsive, returning all of my calls and texts within minutes. His dedication and commitment made the daunting task of selling my family business of 50 years manageable. It was an emotional process for me, and he stepped in and took care of everything. In fact, he closed the deal for a price that was more than I thought was possible. Steve has an exceptional understanding of

Steve did an amazing job navigating us through all the details we needed to sell our business. He was extremely professional, he patiently walked us through all the details of the paperwork/contracts and he was extremely knowledgeable. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone who is seriously considering selling their business.

Steve Barnett is a fantastic broker! He returned my initial call while on vacation in Hawaii. He scheduled an appointment to come out to my business, and arrived on time. After detailing his background and experience, Steve clearly explained his methodology of marketing my business. Steve kept me informed throughout the process and followed up all inquiries, promptly and professionally. Steve screened all prospective buyers and set up visits to my business with attention to detail and clear and concise

Steve gave me guidance on some choices that I could make to either grow or potentially sell my business. Very knowledgeable and professional. Highly recommend

I worked with Steve as the buyer of a home remodeling business. Couldn't be happier with that choice. From start to finish the purchase went smoothly. Steve was there every step of the way to keep the deal moving in the right direction. Steve has a vast knowledge as a business broker and many great contacts with local attorneys, escrow agents, etc. I highly recommend Steve!

Steve is the experienced professional business broker I chose when I wanted to sell my retail store. He began by researching and understanding my operation and by offering me an official and complete appraisal of my operations without charge. This enabled him to be a true representative for my interests and win my trust. Selling my business was a significant undertaking especially after running my store for three decades. He provided the guidance and groundwork instrumental to keeping me on the right path a

Great working with Steve. We had a smooth and interesting, successful sale, with Steve professionally shepherding the process for us. During the listing period Steve was communicative and straight forward. He did a great job weeding out the "tire-kickers" and only approaching us with legitimate buyers. Thanks Steve.

Steve is amazing! Right out of the gate I got a great vibe from Steve. He's so easy to work with. He's honest and an incredibly caring and friendly individual. His knowledge of buying and selling businesses went way beyond my expectations. If you're looking for a broker, look no further. I'll save you the pain now. Call Steve. He's simply perfect!!!

The Valley Business Broker is awesome. Steve connected us to a qualified Buyer in less than a month after we engaged him to market our business, which is in a niche industry. He patiently guided us through an extended period of Buyer's due diligence and helped keep us positive in the face of challenging, and sometimes conflicting, Buyer and Seller priorities and requirements. We encourage anyone who is considering selling their business to reach out to the Valley Business Broker.

Steve was awesome!!! He worked with us to get the best deal possible for both parties. He was amazingly accessible throughout the process and he was able to refer us to a great banking team that got us financed. He kept in touch with us all along the way and his rates were very reasonable. We are incredibly happy with his service. We would give him ten stars if we could!!!

I am so lucky that I was introduced to Steve through my business Attorney. He is helping me give a number to my business partner that is fair and reasonable for a partnership buyout. Steve really cares about you as an individual and knows how delicate a dance it can be when dealing with certain personalities. So far the followup has been amazing and continues to exceed my expectations. I highly recommend Steve.

I'm so happy I chose Steve to help with the sale of my business. Steve smoothly handled the entire process from start to finish, with absolute professionalism. I always felt Steve had my best interest in mind and would not hesitate to work with Steve again.

Steve is an excellent broker and gives it his all to get your business sold. With the world upside down Steve was able to sell a difficult business. This man knows his stuff and is VERY persistent. If you have any business that u are buying or selling call this man and he will get it done.

Steve is a sharp business professional, and always a pleasure. Steve you did a great job sticking with this and closing our deal in these truly uncertain times. We appreciate all your hard work, even got your hands dirty up here in Paso Robles.

Communicative and professional, Steve is great to work with. He is full of advice and knowledge. He knows the ins and outs of appraising a business and will answer any and all the questions you may have. Highly recommend!

I received an accurate business evaluation with full details utilizing 3 different formulas. It was thoroughly done with insight and value finding. I recommend Steve to anyone interested in a true valuation of their business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.