Chartered
Business Valuation
Services
WHAT WE DO
Transaction Services
Business Valuations for transaction services provide an indication of the notional Fair Market Value of the business prior to market entry. They support negotiations identifying value drivers in order to arrive at a negotiated price of the planned transaction.
Financial Reporting Purposes
Financial Reporting business valuations derive the Fair Value of Intangible Assets and Goodwill to establish them for Purchase Price Allocations. Impairment testing is undertaken for the Goodwill and indefinite Life Intangible Assets to assess if a charge needs to be applied to reduce the carrying value to its deemed Fair Value.
Tax Purposes
Business Valuations prepared for Tax Purposes use Fair Market Value to affect an estate freeze of existing shares or a rollover of qualified assets for a corporate reorganization. Valuations are undertaken to provide support to the accountant’s application for tax disclosures.
Internal Use Purposes
Firms that actively manage their corporate strategy need to measure the success of the strategy’s implementation, a measurement which allows management to assess how the business value has changed from one period of time to another.
Litigation Purposes
As part of litigation proceedings, a business valuation is undertaken to quantify value of the underlying asset in dispute. An independent business valuation provides support to the courts in understanding the complexity of the value of assets.
How We Do It
Combining Processes, People & Technology
Seasoned Professionals
The Beacon Valuations team includes seasoned business valuation professionals who come from a diverse range of experience and business backgrounds. Our valuators join us from accounting, real estate, corporate, and legal industries.
Technology-Driven Practice
At Beacon Valuations, we believe that there are better, more efficient ways of serving our client’s time and resources. We employ the latest technology in all areas related to confidentiality, valuations, marketing, and financial disclosure.
Advanced Valuation Assessment
We utilize sophisticated quantitative methods, advanced algorithms combined with historical market transaction information, and dozens of data touchpoints to assess the sellability of a business and its value.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is at the heart of each of our business valuation mandates and every step of our process. We use secure and encrypted data rooms to store our client’s financial information.
Global Valuations
The team at Beacon has completed business valuations in Canada, United States, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. We provide business valuation services to global clients through remote services or on site as required.
Cutting Edge Processes
We employ research and market data methodologies that allow us to generate a well supported business valuation based on the latest market data and macro economic conditions.
Who We Are
Experienced Valuation Professionals

Steven Rayson
CBV, CFE, CEPA
valuations@beaconadvisors.com

M. Will Fischtein
JD, MBA, IM&A, M&AP
mwfischtein@beaconadvisors.com

Clint Cronkite
ASA
valuations@beaconadvisors.com
Our Services
Professional Business Valuation Services
Mergers, Acquisitions & Divestitures
Business valuation is essential to mergers, acquisitions and divestitures. It helps a valuator advise on the timing of a sale, price expectations, and more.
- Buy / Sell side valuation services
- Corporate Finance – Capital (debt or equity)
Financial Reporting Purposes
Management Internal Monitoring
Litigation and Quantification of Damages
Shareholder and Management Buyouts
Partner & Shareholder Disputes
Tax & Estate Planning
Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOP)
Corporate Reorganization Title
Family Law and Divorce
Our Affiliations




What Our Clients Say
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We engaged Beacon Mergers for a business valuation, and we were thoroughly impressed with the outstanding service we received. They delivered a high-quality report promptly, meeting our expectations and requirements. Not only did they address all our inquiries promptly, but they also provided comprehensive and accurate responses. The level of communication throughout the process was exceptional, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience. Without a doubt, we wholeheartedly recommend Beacon Mergers for their exceptional services.
Arta Gallery
May 21, 2023I had a great experience working with Beacon right from the onset. Beacon helped me evaluate and sell my business and were incredible professionals to work with throughout the entire process. Both Will and Alex were always available to answer my questions, provide detailed explanations at every step, and assist me though all phases. Beacon found the eventual buyer of my company, negotiated the deal, and provided excellent support right through to closing. If anyone is considering selling their business I highly recommend Beacon.
Nick Findlay
April 10, 2023 -
Very professional. They managed the process to help get the deal done. M&A is hard! Beacon has decades of experience with multiple buyers and sellers that they've seen everything so when stuff came up, as it inevitably does, they were calm, cool and collected which is what you need when emotions (and expenses) are running high. I would work with them again and recommend them to anyone looking to buy or sell a business.
jon lewis
March 10, 2023Thanks to Beacon, we sold our business and couldn't be happier. The team is attentive and professional. They work tirelessly as needed to deal with prospective buyers. Their advice is on point, and their honesty is appreciated. We felt like we were in good hands during the entire process, from evaluation to final sale.
Kelly Siskind
February 10, 2023 -
I had a very positive experience working with Will and his associates at Beacon. From our very first phone call, Will answered all of my questions thoroughly without talking down to me, and offered helpful insights and advice. He and his team made themselves available when I wanted to talk, and their work was detailed and delivered in a timely manner.
Marnie Rabinovitch Consky
January 10, 2023Alex was very helpful and a pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend Beacon for anyone looking to buy or sell a business.
Julian Di Lorenzo
December 10, 2022 -
We were very pleased with Beacon's services - they were very professional and responsive, helping us through the business valuation as well as the entire sell-side process. They identified a strategic buyer who was a great fit for our business and assisted in negotiating a transaction that worked for everybody. If you are looking for a professional business broker and advisor, I would highly recommend them.
Igor Goldshtaub
November 10, 2022We used Beacon Mergers & Acquisitions services to evaluate and sell our business. They found a buyer which was a perfect match, and helped us through the entire negotiations and sales process.
Nimrod Geva
November 10, 2022 -
Top of the line service by Will and Sven. Both of them took the time to answer any questions we had and follow up on any details needed. Very professional and punctual. Thanks again, pleasure working with these guys.
Alex Ferris
November 10, 2022Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value. I have had the pleasure of trusting this great firm to handle the valuation of our company. They went above and beyond to explain the valuation process, provide insight, and complete the work within our tight deadline. I would highly recommend this company to anyone who is in need of a valuation. Thank you to the whole team for your excellent work!
Ryan McLaughlin
November 10, 2022 -
Had a fantastic and educational experience working with the Beacon team. Patient, exceptionally knowledgeable, and happy to share professional opinion and offer guidance. A well-made investment.
Michael Shuster (FerroqueSystems)
September 10, 2022We had a pleasant experience working with Beacon. Will and Sven were able to complete our valuation within our tight time frame. They were very professional and knowledgeable.
Lisa Sanders
August 10, 2022 -
I had an amazing experience with Will from the first contact. I needed an evaluation of a company I am considering of buying, and he was very helpful through out the process. He took his time to understand my requirements, asked detailed questions from the Seller, and gave me a thorough brief at the end. I truly appreciated his professionalism and responsiveness, and highly recommend Beacon M&A.
Michael Chidane
July 10, 2022I had an excellent experience with Will and his team at Beacon. Everyone was very responsive to my questions and the turnaround time for my valuation was great. I really recommend their team.
Natalia J
May 10, 2022 -
Very professional and thorough. Would use their services again and refer them to other business as well
Steven Rizzuto
May 10, 2022Wonderful experience. The entire team is extremely professional and knowledgable. I highly recommend them.
Jonathan Psaila
May 10, 2022 -
The team at Beacon are professionals and took the time to understand my needs and the uniqueness of my business by asking LOTS of questions! I'd be happy to recommend their services.
Scott Hutchings
May 10, 2022We required an evaluaiton for our company to obtain share values , to remove a shareholder. Very professional , accurate and timely . Highly recomnended.
Jewels Ramundo
May 10, 2022 -
I found dealing with Beacon was excellent. They asked all the right questions while being patient while I responded. I fully intend to continue interaction. Thanks to Mohor, Sanjna and Will for working with me, it is definitely worth it to a business owner to get a grounded perspective of a business' value.
VEI
May 10, 2022It was a good experience dealing with Beacon. They were professional, thorough and met all expected timelines. I was impressed with the detail they provided and their understanding of our business. I would highly recommend them as a business evaluator.
Mark Madigan
May 10, 2022
Our Deliverables
Valuation Reports

Calculation Valuation Reports

Estimate Valuation Reports

Comprehensive Valuation Reports
Past Clients, Mandates & Sectors
- Accounting offices
- Legal offices - valuation support
- Business owners
- Investment companies
- Private equity firms
- Family offices
- Banks
- Sovereign wealth funds
- Independent and advisory valuations for buy side and sell side transactions
- Tax reorganizations under Section 85 rollovers and Section 86 estate freezes
- Purchase price allocations for financial reporting
- Intangible asset valuations for financial reporting
- Goodwill impairment testing
- Education
- Resources (oilfield services, agricultural, mining concessions)
- Services (engineering consultancy, hospitality, medical, advertising)
- Wholesale (lumber, lube blending, paint)
- Retail (grocery, flooring, HVAC, retail telecommunications, fleet leasing, car rental, retail service stations, property development)
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Valuations
What is a business valuation?
A business valuation determines the fair market value of a company based on financial performance, assets, market position, and future earning potential. Valuations are conducted using standardized methods to provide an objective view of what a business is worth. They are crucial for a variety of strategic, legal, and financial decisions. A properly conducted valuation gives owners and stakeholders clarity and confidence.
Why would I need a business valuation?
You might need a business valuation if you are planning to sell your business, bring on investors, engage in estate or tax planning, or resolve a legal dispute. Business valuations are also critical for succession planning or internal management reviews. Understanding your company’s worth can help you make informed strategic decisions. It ensures you maximize value and minimize risk when major changes occur.
How long does a business valuation take?
The length of time for a business valuation depends on the size, complexity, and quality of the company’s financial records. On average, a valuation typically takes between 2 to 6 weeks from engagement to final delivery. Factors like missing documentation or complicated ownership structures can extend the timeline. Beacon Advisors works closely with clients to minimize delays and keep the process efficient.
How much does a business valuation cost?
Business valuation costs vary depending on the level of detail required, the purpose of the valuation, and the size of the company. A basic Broker Opinion of Value may cost less, while a Chartered Business Valuator (CBV) report is more detailed and therefore more expensive. At Beacon Advisors, we tailor our pricing to each engagement to ensure it is fair and reflective of the work required. We always provide a quote up front so there are no surprises.
What information do I need to provide for a business valuation?
To complete a business valuation, you typically need to provide three years of financial statements, tax returns, a list of assets and liabilities, shareholder agreements, and key operational data. Additional documentation like leases, customer contracts, and business plans may also be requested. The more complete and accurate your information, the more reliable the valuation will be. Beacon Advisors will guide you through exactly what is needed at the outset.
How is my information kept confidential during the valuation process?
Confidentiality is a top priority during a business valuation at Beacon Advisors. We enter into confidentiality agreements (NDAs) and use secure data handling procedures to protect sensitive client information. Your financials, operational details, and personal data are only shared with those directly involved in preparing your valuation. Protecting your privacy is central to our professional standards.
What methods are used to value a business?
Common business valuation methods include the Income Approach (such as Discounted Cash Flow analysis), the Market Approach (comparing similar business sales), and the Asset-Based Approach (focusing on tangible asset values). The chosen method depends on the company’s industry, maturity, and specific valuation purpose. A combination of methods may be used to cross-validate the result. Beacon Advisors customizes the approach to fit each client’s unique situation.
How do I get started with Beacon Advisors for a valuation?
To get started with a business valuation at Beacon Advisors, simply contact our team through the website or by phone to arrange a consultation. We’ll assess your needs, provide a quote, and outline the information required to begin. Our experts make the process as smooth and transparent as possible. Whether you’re selling, planning, or just curious about your business’s worth, we are ready to help.
What is the difference between a Broker Opinion of Value and a Chartered Business Valuation (CBV) report?
A Broker Opinion of Value is a less formal estimate designed for early-stage discussions, marketing, or general strategic planning. In contrast, a Chartered Business Valuation (CBV) report follows strict professional standards and is appropriate for legal, financial reporting, and tax purposes. CBV reports are typically more detailed and defensible if challenged. Beacon Advisors offers both options depending on client needs.
How often should I update my business valuation?
It’s recommended to update your business valuation annually or after any major business event such as rapid growth, restructuring, or ownership changes. Regular updates ensure you always have a current, realistic understanding of your company’s market value. Valuations can quickly become outdated due to shifting economic conditions or internal changes. Beacon Advisors encourages ongoing assessments for proactive management.
How does industry type affect my business valuation?
Your industry type heavily influences your business valuation because different industries carry different risks, growth expectations, and profit margins. For example, technology firms often have higher multiples than manufacturing businesses. Industry trends and regulatory factors can also impact valuation outcomes. Beacon Advisors analyzes sector-specific data to ensure an accurate and fair valuation.
Can intangible assets like brand value or customer relationships be included in the valuation?
Yes, intangible assets such as brand recognition, intellectual property, customer loyalty, and proprietary technology are critical components of many business valuations. These intangibles can significantly enhance the value of a company beyond its tangible assets. Valuators assess the contribution of these assets to the company’s earnings and market position. Beacon Advisors ensures intangible factors are properly factored in.
How do non-recurring expenses affect valuation?
Non-recurring expenses are removed (or “normalized”) during a business valuation to reflect the company’s true, sustainable earnings power. These could include one-time legal settlements, unusual repairs, or extraordinary pandemic costs. By adjusting for these items, the valuation presents a clearer picture of what a buyer or investor could expect. Normalization helps both buyers and sellers focus on long-term profitability.
Will outstanding debts or liabilities impact my business valuation?
Outstanding debts and liabilities absolutely affect a business valuation because they represent future cash outflows and risks to the business. Typically, valuators calculate the enterprise value first and then deduct debts to determine the equity value. Higher debt levels usually lower a company’s ultimate market value. It’s important to disclose all obligations to ensure an accurate assessment.
How are owner-specific expenses treated in the valuation?
Owner-specific or discretionary expenses like personal vehicle leases or family travel run through the business are adjusted during the valuation. These expenses do not reflect the true operating costs of the business and must be normalized to show the real earning power. Adjusting for discretionary expenses often increases reported profitability. Beacon Advisors carefully identifies and adjusts for these items to maximize value.
Do I need audited financial statements for a valuation?
While audited financial statements can strengthen the credibility of a business valuation, they are not strictly required. Valuators can work with internally prepared or reviewed statements as long as they are accurate and complete. However, if your company is planning a sale or external financing, audited financials may enhance buyer or lender confidence. Beacon Advisors will work with whatever financial data you have and advise on best practices.
How are working capital and cash flow factored into a valuation?
If your business had a bad year, valuators will usually normalize the earnings by considering multi-year averages or removing one-time disruptions. A single poor year does not necessarily tank the business valuation if the underlying fundamentals remain strong. It’s important to explain the reasons behind anomalies, whether they were industry-wide or internal. Beacon Advisors looks beyond short-term fluctuations to assess long-term value.
How do I prepare my business for the best valuation result?
To prepare your business for a valuation, ensure that your financial records are clean and up-to-date, customer contracts are well documented, and operational risks are minimized. Reducing customer concentration, strengthening management teams, and showing growth strategies can all enhance your valuation. Beacon Advisors also recommends identifying and removing any unnecessary personal expenses from the business books. Preparation can make a significant difference in perceived value.
Can projections or forecasts be used in a valuation?
Yes, financial projections and forecasts can be a valuable part of the business valuation process, especially for companies in growth stages. However, projections must be realistic, well-supported, and consistent with historical performance and market trends. Beacon Advisors carefully evaluates forecasts to ensure they are reasonable and defensible. Forecasts can help demonstrate future earning potential to buyers or investors.
When is the best time to get a business valuation?
The best time to get a business valuation is when you are considering a major business event, such as a sale, merger, ownership transition, or significant investment. Even outside of these events, regular valuations keep you informed about your business’s market position. Timing matters because internal changes or market conditions can quickly affect business value. Beacon Advisors recommends proactive valuations to avoid surprises.
Can a valuation help in securing financing?
Yes, a professional business valuation can greatly assist in securing financing from banks, investors, or private lenders. Lenders want to understand the collateral value and earning potential of your business before providing capital. A credible, third-party valuation increases transparency and strengthens your case. Beacon Advisors provides valuations that align with lender and investor requirements.
How does market volatility affect valuation?
Market volatility can significantly impact a business valuation because it influences risk assessments, discount rates, and investor sentiment. During volatile periods, buyers may demand higher returns, which can lower valuations. Valuators adjust their models to reflect increased uncertainty or shifts in comparable transactions. Beacon Advisors takes prevailing market conditions into careful consideration when determining value.
What role does growth potential play in valuation?
Growth potential is one of the most powerful drivers of a higher business valuation because future earnings matter as much as current performance. A company with strong expansion plans, scalable operations, or new market opportunities often commands premium pricing. Buyers are willing to pay more for businesses that demonstrate credible growth paths. Beacon Advisors highlights and quantifies growth opportunities during the valuation process.
Is a valuation necessary for legal disputes?
Yes, a business valuation is often necessary for legal disputes involving shareholder disagreements, divorce proceedings, or partnership dissolutions. An independent valuation provides objective evidence that courts or arbitrators can rely on. Without it, outcomes are based on subjective claims, which can prolong litigation. Beacon Advisors prepares valuations specifically for legal purposes and can assist with expert testimony if needed.
How is confidentiality maintained during legal proceedings?
Confidentiality is strictly maintained during legal proceedings by controlling access to valuation reports and limiting disclosures to authorized parties. Sensitive business information may be sealed by court order or presented in closed sessions. At Beacon Advisors, we prioritize client confidentiality throughout legal engagements. Protecting your private financial and operational information is a fundamental part of our process.
Can a valuation be used for tax reporting purposes?
Absolutely, business valuations are commonly used for tax reporting purposes such as estate freezes, corporate reorganizations, capital gains calculations, and gifting of shares. Tax authorities often require formal, well-documented valuations to verify declared values. Beacon Advisors ensures that valuations intended for tax purposes meet CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) standards. A defensible valuation can prevent disputes and audits.
What is the role of a valuation in mergers and acquisitions?
In mergers and acquisitions, a business valuation is critical to determining fair market value, supporting negotiations, and structuring the deal. Both buyers and sellers rely on valuations to justify pricing and terms. A strong valuation can also identify deal risks and opportunities before closing. Beacon Advisors frequently supports clients on both the buy-side and sell-side of transactions.
Are there professional standards governing business valuations?
Yes, business valuations must follow strict professional practice standards to ensure objectivity, consistency, and credibility. In Canada, valuations must comply with standards set by the Canadian Institute of Chartered Business Valuators (CICBV), which outlines mandatory procedures, ethical guidelines, and reporting frameworks. International engagements may also follow the International Valuation Standards (IVS) for cross-border consistency. Beacon Advisors strictly adheres to these standards, ensuring each valuation is defensible and trustworthy.
Does Beacon Advisors offer valuations for international businesses?
Yes, Beacon Advisors provides valuation services for businesses operating internationally or with cross-border interests. We consider foreign exchange risks, market conditions, and legal differences when valuing international companies. Our team has experience with valuations across North America, Europe, and emerging markets. Whether you are buying, selling, or restructuring abroad, we can assist.
Can Beacon assist with valuations for startups or early-stage companies?
Yes, Beacon Advisors specializes in valuing startups and early-stage businesses where traditional valuation models may not apply. We consider factors like intellectual property, scalability, addressable market size, and funding stages. Valuations for startups often require more emphasis on growth potential and risk analysis. Our team adapts methodology to fit each stage of business development.
How long does the valuation process typically take?
The typical business valuation process at Beacon Advisors takes between two and six weeks, depending on the complexity of the company and availability of information. If clients provide timely documentation and respond to information requests quickly, timelines can be shortened. Urgent or expedited valuations are available under special circumstances. Our team keeps you updated throughout every step.
How can I initiate a valuation with Beacon Advisors?
Initiating a business valuation with Beacon Advisors is simple — you can fill out a contact form on our website, send an inquiry email, or call our office directly. Our team will schedule a free consultation to understand your needs and provide a customized proposal. We strive to make the start of the valuation process seamless and straightforward. Contact us today to get started.