The negotiations come as asset managers seek to increase the amount of money they oversee amid growing pressure to slash fees.

Michael LaMena's exit continues the management shake-up at the Chicago-based RIA.

"This is a challenging time for the firm with the DoL rule," CEO Paul Reilly said.

Outlook for faster growth is supporting developing-nation bonds despite the increase in U.S. and European rates over the past year.

"Banks traditionally pay higher valuations, but [RIAs] should go into deals with eyes wide open," Dave DeVoe says.

As daunting as creating a transition strategy seems, the sooner advisers start the more successful it is likely to be. Here are some tools to start the process.

"It’s never been a better time to be a seller," says investment banker Liz Nesvold.

Critical criteria that can raise the market price of an advisers' book.

Second-quarter costs increased in almost every category for the asset manager including compensation and distribution.

Marketing and sales strategies are better received when firms provide information advisers are actually seeking.