Define the case for change
Document the practice, current platform, pain points, goals, client needs, non-negotiables, and the reasons staying may still make sense.
How Continuum works
A clear process for decisions that do not align with a template.
Platform searches and practice transactions require different diligence. Both begin with alignment, preserve confidentiality, and move at the pace the decision deserves.
Or call Rick directly: (303) 246-4352
You control the pacePermission before outreachSupport after the decision
Choose the workstream
Start with the decision in front of you.
Choose the question that is most urgent. When the paths overlap, we keep platform, ownership, and succession implications connected.
Platform search process
From current-state question to supported transition.
There is no required deadline. Some searches move quickly; others pause while an advisor gathers evidence or waits for the right timing.
Build the 6C profile
Weight culture, community, compatibility, capability, compensation, and capital before any firm is asked to present.
Gather evidence
Coordinate introductions, demos, references, economics, operational diligence, and a consistent side-by-side comparison.
Decide and transition
Support negotiation, client communication, onboarding, issue resolution, and the first 180 days on the new platform.
Decision discipline
The 6C profile is the brief, not the answer.
It tells each firm or counterparty what matters and gives every claim a consistent place in the decision. The score never replaces judgment; it makes the judgment easier to explain.
Explore the 6C FrameworkBefore meetingsSet the priorities, weights, gaps, and proof required.
During diligenceOrganize presentations, references, documents, and economics.
At decisionMake tradeoffs visible instead of relying on the strongest pitch.
After signingTrack whether the promised capabilities show up in execution.
M&A and succession process
From practice objectives to a transition that can hold.
Transaction timing depends on readiness, counterparties, structure, diligence, financing, approvals, and the intended transition. We keep the work moving without manufacturing urgency.
Clarify the outcome
Set the financial, client, team, control, role, timeline, and continuity objectives before a buyer or seller defines them for you.
Prepare the practice view
Evaluate revenue, growth, clients, team, operations, readiness, value drivers, and the risks a counterparty will examine.
Compare alignment and terms
Identify aligned counterparties, review structure and economics, coordinate diligence, and pressure-test negotiation tradeoffs.
Close and transition
Coordinate the specialists, client and team communication, platform work, handoffs, milestones, and post-close follow-through.
Three non-negotiables
Your decision stays yours.
We create momentum when the evidence supports it - and space when the decision needs more time.
Nothing moves without your approval.
No firm, buyer, seller, or candidate is contacted until you explicitly authorize it.
Compensation is clear upfront.
Fees and potential conflicts are explained before introductions or transaction work begins.
The right experts stay involved.
We coordinate with attorneys, CPAs, compliance teams, platforms, and other specialists without replacing their advice.
FAQ
Questions about the Continuum process.
How long does a platform search take?
The timeline depends on your urgency, the number of options under review, diligence needs, offer timing, and transition complexity. Continuum moves at your pace and can pause the search at any stage.
What do I need for the first call?
Nothing formal. The first conversation is exploratory. If you decide to continue, a practice overview, recent production or revenue information, current platform context, and your initial priorities help build the analysis.
How is confidentiality maintained?
Continuum does not contact a firm, counterparty, or candidate without your explicit approval. Your current firm, clients, colleagues, and team are not informed by Continuum.
Can I pause or stop the process?
Yes. This is your decision and your timeline. You can pause, change direction, or stop whenever the evidence or your circumstances call for it.
Does Continuum represent buyers and sellers?
Yes. Continuum works with advisory practice buyers and sellers. The role, compensation, and any dual-representation issue are disclosed clearly so the parties can decide how to proceed.
How is Continuum compensated?
For platform transitions, the receiving firm pays Continuum after a completed move and the advisor is not charged. M&A and practice-sale engagements use a separate transaction fee structure, explained before the engagement begins.
A confidential starting point
Every process starts with one private conversation.
Bring the question. Rick will help identify the right workstream, the information that matters, and the next useful step.
- You control the pace
- Permission before outreach
- Support through execution
Rick KerstiensCo-Founder & CEO
Speak directly with Rick
Schedule a confidential call
Choose a time that works for you.
A Decision Brief conversation. He responds within one business day. Staying is a valid outcome.
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