Cynthia Wutchiett, CPA

My partner and I are opening a hospital and we're concerned about our accounting structure. Is a local accountant with a good reputation adequate, or should we find someone who specializes in veterinary medicine? What kind of costs can we expect?

Conflict closed this practice's doors for good. Don't suffer the same fate.

Here are the factors owners say they weigh most heavily when deciding about an associate's ownership potential.

Of course, greater earning power and financial gain rank as important reasons for ownership. Yet there are more reasons to take this step. Here are some other benefits to owning a practice.

The numbers prove it: Selling a part interest to your associate boosts practice value and increases your net worth?plus, this step gives you a clear succession plan. Associates: You win with a buy-in, too.

My practice has a steady client base, but we'd like to increase our new clients. What's the most effective way to grow?

A veterinarian I don't know that well offered me an opportunity to work for a clinic she's purchasing, promising that if we're compatible, she'll allow me to buy in. How do I formalize our agreement?

A potential buyer will want to know what it would cost to provide the same services you offer.