When I started out, I didn’t have to purchase the other therapist’s client list. The clinic I was working at simply provided it to me. This isn’t a unique situation; here in Ontario we don’t usually sell our client lists. We can sell entire practices, in that a business owner who has spent years building a business can certainly sell the practice (and the client list with it!). But selling just a client list is not usually seen, because as health care providers we are required to ‘pass on’ care of our clients to someone else when we become unable to continue to provide care.

I read one article a while ago, aimed at someone looking to sell his or her practice. Maybe the contents will help you determine the value of that client list.

http://www.mtcoach.com/E%20News%20June%202007.htm

Finally, I wanted to say that in my own experience, only about 50% of someone else’s (former) clients will stick with you. People may choose not to continue getting massages from you for a variety of reasons, ranging from preferring the touch and techniques of the other therapist to deciding not to continue with massage at all, since they were really only going because they really liked the therapist they were seeing. I’m sure that has crossed your mind, but keep it there when you are negotiating a price for that client list.

Good luck!

I read your posting with interest as I am currently starting my own massage practice and have the opportunity to purchase another therapists client list, or a portion of it, from them.

However, I have no idea how to value this list. How can I work out a price for this list? What was your experience and what would you recommend.

Thanks in advance for your reply.

Jacqui