Accountants for Buying a Business

Buying a business is one of the most significant decisions you’ll ever make. Many business owners feel overwhelmed by the complexities, from understanding financial statements and negotiating fair purchase prices to ensuring tax efficiency and structuring the acquisition for long‑term success.

Our Perth-based accountants and business advisors are available to assist you, using their first-hand experiences to help make your journey into business ownership a success.

BOOK A FREE MEETING WITH A BUSINESS ACCOUNTANT

 

Most Popular Accounting Services for Business Purchases

Pre-Purchase Sanity Check & Structuring Advice

 

From $2,000 (excl. GST)

Business Acquisition Advice

Due Diligence Advice

 

From $5,000 (excl. GST)

Due Diligence Service

Advanced Tax & Asset Protection Strategies Report

 

$4,000 (excl. GST)

Tax Minimisation Strategies Report

Advice from Accountants for Buying a Business in Western Australia

The rest of this page is dedicated to providing you with an overview of the typical problems and associated solutions with regard to buying a business. These apply whether you are buying a business in Perth, elsewhere in WA or across Australia.

We’ve helped countless people along the business acquisition journey and stand ready to help you. When you’re ready to talk, book a meeting or send an enquiry.

The Problem:
When you’re considering buying a business, questions immediately arise: Are the financials as healthy as they appear? Could hidden liabilities derail your investment? Will the purchase structure suit your future growth plans? Without clear, specialist advice, you risk making costly decisions that could jeopardise your new venture’s success.

Our Solution:
At Munro’s, we take a holistic, problem‑solving approach. We work with you from the initial assessment through to closing the deal. Our process includes:

  • Comprehensive Due Diligence: We review financial records, assess cash flow and identify potential risks.
  • Tailored Acquisition Advice: We guide you through negotiations, assist with business valuation and recommend the optimal purchase structure, ensuring that the business fits your growth ambitions.
  • Tax & Compliance Strategies: Our specialists ensure that every transaction complies with Australian tax laws and that you benefit from available concessions and planning opportunities.
  • Ongoing Support: After the deal is closed, we continue to support you with business advisory and accounting services that help you integrate your new acquisition smoothly, attend to ongoing accounting and tax, and plan for future growth.

Key Outcomes and Benefits:

  • Informed Decision-Making: With our thorough due diligence, you gain a clear picture of the business’s true value and potential.
  • Risk Mitigation: We identify red flags early so that you can avoid costly pitfalls.
  • Optimised Structure: Our recommendations not only protect your investment but also set the stage for tax efficiencies and long‑term business growth.
  • Peace of Mind: With Munro’s by your side, you can focus on the opportunities ahead, confident that you’re making a secure investment.

Problem 1: FOMO

The fear of missing out is so powerful and can lead people to make terrible decisions. Buying a business requires you to put a lot of wealth on the line. You’ve got to think clearly and sceptically.

Solution
Be sceptical.

Outcome
Reduce the chance of buying an overpriced / non-profitable business.

Problem 2: Financing

How are you going to fund the purchase of the business? Do you need extra funds to satisfy ongoing financial obligations? What additional liabilities, guarantees and risks are you going to take on? Will you have sufficient cash to survive and eventually thrive?

Solution
Appropriate funding.

Outcome
The money you need to survive and thrive.

Problem 3: Setup for Future Tax Success

Tax is generally unavoidable, but the amount of tax you pay in the future will be heavily influenced by decisions made now.

Solution
Setup tax planning.

Outcome
Bare minimum tax.

Problem 4: Assets & Liability Protection

Operating a business increases exposures to extra liabilities and requires safeguarding of existing and new wealth as best as possible.

Solution
Basic asset protection + optionally advanced protection.

Outcome
At least the bare minimum wealth protection you should have.

Problem 5: How to De-risk

When arranging a due diligence, you should really follow the classic wisdom: you can’t just look at the iceberg above the ocean surface because there is so much hidden and dangerous below.

Solution
Comprehensive due diligence.

Outcome
Make a fully informed decision and know what you’re getting into.

Problem 6: Going into Business with Others

Whether you’re going into business with family or friends, it’s important to recognise that business life and the stresses it brings will give rise to new and sometimes challenging issues.

Solution
Clearly defined and understood intent with a proactive dispute resolution agreement.

Outcome
Mitigate the potential of messy and costly future disputes.

Problem 7: Setup Bookkeeping in Xero, MYOB, Quickbooks, etc

We cannot stress enough how vital it is to setup an accurate accounting system from the beginning.

Solution
Startup bookkeeping.

Outcome
Clean financial information from the beginning as opposed to a costly, uninformative mess.

Problem 8: Employing People

Employment, tax and superannuation laws impose a heavy burden on employers and you must give this responsibility the attention and care it requires.

Solution
Skilful and pragmatic support with implementing employment basics.

Outcome
Legally compliant employment arrangements.

Problem 9: Business Ownership Education

There is no one who knows everything about business. From the moment you buy your business, you’ll need to continually upskill to meet the challenges. Don’t start from scratch; tap into the knowledge and learnings of others.

Solution
Sprints, blended learning, community insights and coaching.

Outcome
The best leader you can become, as quickly as you can get there.

Frequently Asked Questions for Buying a Business

  1. What are the first steps in buying a business?
    Before proceeding, you should conduct preliminary research, understand your financial capacity (can you get a loan) and arrange for specialist advice. We help you assess whether a business aligns with your growth plans.

  2. How do I know if a business is fairly valued?
    Our valuation process uses multiple methods to ensure accuracy, considering cash flow, assets and market trends. We compare industry benchmarks to determine a fair price.

  3. What if I find hidden liabilities during due diligence?
    Identifying risks early is crucial. We advise on mitigating strategies and this may allow you to renegotiate terms based on unforeseen liabilities, ensuring you don’t overpay for potential risks.

  4. How can tax planning help when buying a business?
    Effective tax planning can significantly reduce your tax burden in the future. We work with you to structure the deal in a tax‑efficient manner, ensuring you take advantage of all applicable concessions and deductions.

  5. Are your services available only in Perth?
    While Munro’s is proudly based in Perth with deep local expertise, our compliance and advisory strategies are effective for businesses throughout Australia.

  6. What makes Munro’s approach different?
    We are known as “The Professional Problem Solvers” because we focus on understanding your challenges and crafting tailored solutions. Our approach is transparent, value‑driven and backed by over 100 Google reviews praising our responsiveness and specialist advice.

  7. How can a business accountant help improve my profit following the acquisition?
    Our specialists don’t just crunch numbers; we provide actionable insights that can help optimise your operations, reduce unnecessary expenses and ultimately boost your profit margins.

  8. What is the price for your structuring and due diligence service?
    Our pricing is transparent and reflects the complexity of your needs. Please visit our pricing page and contact us for a personalised quote.

  9. How long does the buying process usually take?
    Every acquisition is unique. Generally, the process can take several months from initial enquiry to final settlement, depending on whether you’ve already identified a target acquisition, your access to business loans, the complexity of due diligence and negotiations.

  10. Can you help if I’m considering a franchise purchase?
    Absolutely. We have assisted many clients in purchasing franchises by evaluating their financial performance and negotiating favourable terms.

Where To Begin

Get To Know Each Other Meeting

 

FREE (incl. GST)

How We Get Started

Come Along To An Improve Session

 

First Session is FREE (incl. GST)

Upskilling Event for Business Leaders

Munro's, where client service matters

Top 2% ranked Australian Accounting Firm

Play Ranking Explained

  • ★★★★★ — Max Smith

    Congratulations on 50 years of accounting. We transitioned from Wesfarmers to Munros and have been extremely happy with the professional, efficient, courteous and friendly service provided by Barry, Simon, Ted, Christine and Noelene during that time

    Looking forward to continuing the association for many years to come

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  • ★★★★★ — Robynne Richards

    Munro’s are an honest, reliable, on the ball, and personable business. The family feel engendered has been highly regarded by our family for over 40 years.

    Congratulations on a significant and well deserved creditable milestone, with best wishes for what we are sure will be a successful future.

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  • ★★★★★ — Will S

    The team at Munro’s has been of great assistance to me over the years, with a particular special mention to Drew Pflaum. They’ve helped me navigate some complex tax matters with proactive, insightful, and pragmatic advice. I highly recommend them for anyone seeking expertise in this area. Thank you again to the whole team and especially to Drew.

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  • ★★★★★ — Moree Grazing Co, Tambellup WA

    We have been clients of Munro’s (and Donald F Munro & Assoc. before that) for more than 50 years and have always found them to be right on point with their advice and work. Nothing is too much trouble to research and the responses always given in easy-to-understand language. We love that the K.I.S.S principle is used (keep-it-simple-stupid!) We can’t thank Simon and Carl enough for the great service that they provide. I have also, in community roles, worked with Barry Virgo and Ian Arblaster over the years on Co-operative business and their knowledge was second to none.

    Thank you and congratulations Munro’s on 50 years + in business.

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  • ★★★★★ — iORGANiC

    I am very pleased to recommend Cherie and Munros. They are friendly, polite, energetic, honest and reliable. We feel in good hands with our taxation and business commitments. We have been delighted that Munros thoroughly understand our business structure and requirements. We are always treated with respect. We feel a sense of integrity infuses the company which is very important. We feel that Munro are up to date with the regulations and knowledge in their field. We have never been let down or kept waiting for an answer. Cherie and Munros have helped with our business forward planning and I would recommend them to anyone who need someone that listens and provides professional solutions without fuss. Thank you Cherie and Munros!

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  • ★★★★★ — Jesse Allan

    Just met these guys on an initially consultation call. Can’t speak highly enough about them in the short time I’ve used their services. Their advice on the call and their follow up afterwards is the best I’ve seen. Highly recommend and looking forward to the continuing relationship. Thanks a lot Drew and Cherie.

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  • ★★★★★ — Louise Maguire

    I required some complicated advice from a business accountant on an urgent matter. It involved legal issues and advice as well as accounting advice.
    I contacted Drew Pflaum of Munro’s via the website, and he got back to me very promptly.
    Drew showed that he was well able and indeed very keen to think outside the square.
    Nothing was too much trouble and he has some very valuable professional contacts that he is able to consult with if needed.
    With Drew’s obvious intelligence and honesty coupled with an enviable network of contacts, and his keen desire to achieve the best results possible in a timely manner, I have no hesitation in recommending him for any sort of business accounting advice.

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  • ★★★★★ — Gary Lambe

    The Munros Team have exceeded my wildest expectations, with delivering the most competent, friendly and fruitful service. Thanks to their patience, great lines of communication and willingness to take on difficult challenges- they have turned my headaches into happiness. I’d recommend Munros to any Trader using complex or new systems, and maybe feel like their tax situation is an unholy mess. Munros worked hard to really understand the nascent Kinesis Monetary System, with its nuanced trading complexities. Purely due to painstaking efforts to “nut it all out”. Thanks heaps… Absolute Legends!

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  • ★★★★★ — Markus Mark

    Munro’s are an outstanding outfit mastering in complicated tax situations and are highly focussed on providing a client centred approach. I presented Saul with a complicated case of overdue tax’s and substantial crypto and share trading activity. To say that he handled this situation with aplomb is an understatement. He resolved my situation promptly and what seemed to be with ease. Sure it is great to have your taxes done by consummate professionals but for me this is not their best feature. It is the customer service that I received that was outstanding and exceeded my expectations. He was extremely patient and dealt with my constant questioning with a great attitude. Always polite and willing to offer his professional advice I sincerely felt like a had an ally in my corner. Saul was a pleasure to work with and I look forward to next years Tax Time.

    Mark.

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  • ★★★★★ — Jery

    I engaged Munro’s on line owing to the fact that they claimed a specialisation in share trading. I am not a professional trader, however I presented Munro’s with a complex set of circumstances ranging over a 5-6 year period. To say I was delighted with their level of expertise and professionalism would be an understatement. I reside in Victoria and Munro’s is in WA, so this matter was dealt with entirely on line. The accounting professional that looked after my matter was one of the most helpful service providers I have recently encountered, going as far as assisting with my rather rudimentary IT skill. This firm, through the diligent work of the previously mentioned accounting professionals turned what I thought, was a dire Tax situation into a win for me. I cannot rate this firm highly enough, two other firms wanted me to jump through all sorts of hoops, Munro’s did a magnificent job, with little fuss and all on line. I publicly extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to the person that looked after my matter.

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  • ★★★★★ — Tom Robson

    Drew and the team have been excellent from the day we began our journey with Munro’s. They’ve always been prompt with communication and provide advice that is clear and easy to understand. We’ve been very happy with their service over the last 3 years and look forward to working with them into the future. Thanks Drew, Nick, Simon and Carl!

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  • ★★★★★ — Klaye Morrison

    I’ve used Munro’s for my past 3 tax returns. They are always very responsive to my enquiries and provide excellent advice when questioned. I now have a much better understanding of the tax obligations within my field of work and my investments thanks to them. It’s definitely worth paying for an accountant who knows what they’re doing! Cheers.

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  • ★★★★★ — Klaye Morrison

    I’ve used Munro’s for my past 3 tax returns. They are always very responsive to my enquiries and provide excellent advice when questioned. I now have a much better understanding of the tax obligations within my field of work and my investments thanks to them. It’s definitely worth paying for an accountant who knows what they’re doing! Cheers.

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  • ★★★★★ — Brad Johnson

    Thanks Drew, your guidance into my situation was very helpful. I’m sure your knowledge and expertise will be required in the future for ongoing decisions. Highly recommended!!

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  • ★★★★★ — Matt Mckinley

    Drew, Simon and the team at Munro’s have been our family and business accountants for many years now. They provide excellent service and advice. We would not hesitate to recommend them to others.

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  • ★★★★★ — Graeme Bassett

    We are delighted with the friendly, knowledgeable and efficient service Simon and his team provide.
    We have tested Simon’s patience and humour over the years but he has always managed to come through with a smile.

    Thank you to Simon and his team!

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  • ★★★★★ — Cris Yanez

    Extremely professional, attention to detail and a knowledgeable team. Working with Drew and the team at Munro’s was a pleasure.

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  • ★★★★★ — Esteban Aguilar

    Thanks Mike and the team for making it easy to process my personal tax and for answering all my questions and concerns around CGT.

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  • ★★★★★ — Ferrante Alvarezdetoledo

    Happy 50 years !!! I joined Munro’s in 1974 just close to when the accounting firm had started, Don Munro was my accountant at the time and helped greatly in all my various problems and successes and he still remained a very dear friend to me; now Simon Strawbridge is looking after me and I can only praise all the work that he has been doing for me not only in accounting, but also in advising my various legal problems and investments.

    I can only say well done to the whole team and hope that I will still be their client in the coming years.

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  • ★★★★★ — Matt R

    Drew and the team made my 2019 tax return easy. They also made an alteration to my 2018 tax return and I had an unexpected return. Highly recommended.

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  • ★★★★★ — Eric Mastro

    Munro’s were able to take complicated tax matters like cryptocurrency trading income for a new company and turn it in to a simple solution for me. Drew has always been amazingly patient and helpful, answering emails quickly and taking the time to respond thoroughly so the matter could be clearly understood. Highly recommended for any tax accounting needs!!

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  • ★★★★★ — Cynthia Johnston

    This is such a great team! I was behind in my crypto accounting and I received clear instructions and assistance to bring all of my accounting up to date this year. I recommend Munro’s to everyone, especially people using crypto currency. This team are experts in this field!

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  • ★★★★★ — Justis Blackwell

    Drew and the team at Munros have made my cryptocurrency accounting a breeze primarily for tax purposes and to ensure all previous years were reconciled correctly given my previous tax agents literally had no idea despite their knowledge of my crypto holdings for the past 2 tax years. Well done Drew, well done Munros for specialising in this space. Great job!!

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  • ★★★★★ — Jenny Bourke

    We followed Mike Beer when he joined Munros and have been with them ever since. Mike has been a huge help over many years. He is always available to answer even the most basic/ extraordinarily naive questions, and always with a generous and helpful attitude.

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  • ★★★★★ — Jenny Bourke

    We followed Mike Beer when he joined Munros and have been with them ever since. Mike has been a huge help over many years. He is always available to answer even the most basic/ extraordinarily naive questions, and always with a generous and helpful attitude.

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  • ★★★★★ — Steve Nunn

    Mike and the team at Munro’s have managed our personal and business affairs for over 20 years consistently achieving excellent results. Now in retirement we continue to be totally confident with Mikes advice. Congratulations Munro’s on 50 wonderful Years.

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  • ★★★★★ — Greg Berlin

    Munros have been doing my family tax returns for the past 3 years, and I’ve been nothing but delighted with the service they’ve offered. They took on a relatively complex set of returns, including sharing of CGT benefits between myself and my partner, and did exactly what I hoped they’d do, and more. Not only that, they always went above and beyond to explain what they have done and why, keeping us happy and at ease at all times during the tax return processes.

    And to top it off, their knowledge of the crypto space is phenomenal, as are the tools they’ve developed to report and get the best possible returns with cryptos in mind.

    Give them a try, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

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  • ★★★★★ — Val McAlpine

    David and I have been loyal clients of Munros for many years—I think since we were married in 1962. David made all the decisions in those early years. I became a more active partner as we worked with Ted Wilhelm and Ian Arblaster until their retirement. We then worked with Christine Prasetia for our financial, accounting, taxation and our wills until David’s death in May, 2017. Christine has patiently guided me through taking up the reins of our business venture. She is very efficient and totally reliable in all our dealings. I feel fortunate to have Christine as my accountant and business advisor. Thanking you, Val McAlpine

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  • ★★★★★ — Tim

    I have been a client of Munro’s for 2 years and am very happy with their service. They have saved me a lot of time, effort, and money.

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  • ★★★★★ — Jocelyn McPhee

    Congratulations to Munro’s for achieving 50 years in business.

    Special thanks and appreciation to Mike, Barry and the many staff throughout the years who have supported myself and my family with their professional services.

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  • ★★★★★ — Dawn Phillips

    Munro’s have been dealing with our taxes for a couple of years now, and have always been right onto anything to do with crypto and any other aspects of the industries we work in. Always friendly, helpful and professional.

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  • ★★★★★ — Jaxius

    Drew and Cherie are the best accountants that I’ve had so far with their lightning quick responses to my trivial questions. They actually take the time to explain what they are doing and why. Highly trusted and recommended.

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  • ★★★★★ — Robert Klein

    Real pleasure dealing with Munro’s. Drew Pflaum in particular was very helpful in providing tailored advice promptly and professionally.

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  • ★★★★★ — Lucas Overman

    The team at Munro’s were incredibly understanding, helpful and professional when providing advice tailored to my needs.

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  • ★★★★★ — Troy Nesbitt

    Congratulations to Munro’s for achieving 50 years of service to WA, with a special thanks to Mike and his team for looking after us through our business, personnel and financial journey.

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