Expert RE CPA Needed in CA

Expert RE CPA Needed in CA

Member since 2025 · 6 posts · 3 votes

Hi,

I see others have a similar question...

Yes, I am looking for a CPA with extensive experience in real estate, like others,

but I have the following criteria:

Must be based in CA (any city is ok)

Must have experience at one of the top 5-10 accounting firms

Would prefer in house bookkeeping service (I know this is not common--not a deal breaker)

Must be able to do cost segregation or work with a team that does

Must understand and have extensive knowledge in small/medium business tax preparation

Prefer no hourly rate

I have about 4 LLC's and one S-Corp in addition to my personal return.

I have spoken to most of the big accounting firms and would be a good candidate for them 

but I just don't want to pay $20,000/yr.  Further, I find most have a less experienced CPA do most of the work.

I'd like the experience of a big firm in a small firm.

Thanks,

Paul

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Kristen AmbroseBusiness Member
Accountant · FL · Member since 2024 · 78 posts · 34 votes
1y

Hi Paul, thanks for laying this out so clearly.

I run a bookkeeping firm that works exclusively with real estate investors in California. I’m also an investor myself, so I understand the challenges that come with managing multiple entities, tracking property performance, and coordinating with tax professionals.

We support multi-entity clients with everything from monthly financials to CPA collaboration on cost segregation and proactive tax strategy. Because we specialize in real estate, we know how to categorize rehab costs correctly, maintain clean books across LLCs and S-Corps, and deliver the kind of reporting that drives better decisions.

If you're looking for a bookkeeping partner who actually understands the business you're in, I’d be happy to connect and learn more about your setup.

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  • Accountant · NY · Member since 2019 · 99 posts · 69 votes
    1y

    @Paul Fogarty - Good morning.  I know you are looking for a CPA firm that has in-house bookkeeping.  I would encourage you to have a bookkeeping firm and a CPA firm.  I know it's more to handle and work with, but it's another set of eyes looking at your finances.  The worst mistakes I have seen as a bookkeeper are with everything under one roof.  Just my thoughts.

    • Member since 2025 · 6 posts · 3 votes
      1y
      Quote from @Todd Lennig:

      @Paul Fogarty - Good morning.  I know you are looking for a CPA firm that has in-house bookkeeping.  I would encourage you to have a bookkeeping firm and a CPA firm.  I know it's more to handle and work with, but it's another set of eyes looking at your finances.  The worst mistakes I have seen as a bookkeeper are with everything under one roof.  Just my thoughts.


       Thanks.  Excellent point.  It's just that over 50% of the return comes down to bookkeeping so when they are in the same office there should be good communication, in theory.

  • Kristen AmbroseBusiness Member
    Accountant · FL · Member since 2024 · 78 posts · 34 votes
    1y

    Hi Paul, thanks for laying this out so clearly.

    I run a bookkeeping firm that works exclusively with real estate investors in California. I’m also an investor myself, so I understand the challenges that come with managing multiple entities, tracking property performance, and coordinating with tax professionals.

    We support multi-entity clients with everything from monthly financials to CPA collaboration on cost segregation and proactive tax strategy. Because we specialize in real estate, we know how to categorize rehab costs correctly, maintain clean books across LLCs and S-Corps, and deliver the kind of reporting that drives better decisions.

    If you're looking for a bookkeeping partner who actually understands the business you're in, I’d be happy to connect and learn more about your setup.

  • Bradley BuxtonBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · NV · Member since 2023 · 1k+ posts · 712 votes
    1y

    @Paul Fogarty

    I sent you a PM with a few CPAs that fit most of your criteria. 

  • CPA and Attorney · San Diego, attorney · Member since 2022 · 301 posts · 219 votes
    1y

    @Paul Fogarty

    I think I may know a CPA in the San Diego area that meets almost all of your criteria.  Feel free to send me a message if you're interested in the contact information.

    *This post does not create an attorney-client or CPA-client relationship.  The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.  Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

  • Matthew SchumacherBusiness Member
    Member since 2025 · 43 posts · 26 votes
    1y

    It sounds like the real challenge isn’t just finding a CPA who understands real estate, but finding someone who can serve as a true partner in long-term, bookkeeping, Tax compliance and tax planning—especially within the context of California’s tax landscape.

    We are not Cali based, but we work with alot of California clients! 

    Tavola Group — More Than a Tax Return.4.730 Reviews
  • Jason MalabuteBusiness Member
    Accountant · Los Angeles, CA · Member since 2016 · 2k+ posts · 897 votes
    1y

    Nice to see your post, Paul. It sounds like you have very clear expectations and requirements, which is great — but also quite a tall order. Finding a CPA with that level of experience, plus the added services, while also avoiding higher fees might be a bit challenging.

    You may need to weigh which factors are most important to you, since the firms or professionals that check every single box often come with the higher price tag you’re hoping to avoid.

    Malabute & Company CPAs525 Reviews
  • Mohamed YoussefBusiness Member
    Accountant · Brea, CA · Member since 2018 · 105 posts · 59 votes
    1y

    Hi@Paul Fogarty, my firm meet all the requirements. Please feel free to check out our business profile and website and let me know if we can help with anything.

  • Aaron ZimmermanBusiness Member
    Accountant · Chicago, IL · Member since 2018 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    1y

    Agreed with@Jason Malabute that this is a tall order. Many accountants are moving to fixed price arrangements, so should be able to find that. As for top 5 or top 10 experience I don't feel like is necessary. You definitely want someone with other public accounting experience. Top 5 or 10 firms don't often do a lot of the returns that you have. 

    additionally, I'd look to go with someone that may not be in California. You may find the cost to be more reasonable. 

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