Newbie wondering what CPA services should cost

[Patricia Miller]

I'm guessing that a range of costs for CPA services is going to be determined by region - NYC, LA, SF being more expensive than the midwest, south, etc? I will be investing in the Denver area and want to secure a relationship with a firm BEFORE beginning so I can get some early guidance as well as have a solid outfit handling my tax returns. I don't even know how to ask what constitutes a reasonable cost for services. A per/hour rate? A cost for a business tax return for a small start-up REI business? Is there a range I should look for? I'm not looking to secure the least expensive, I just want to make sure I don't buy the cadillac plan for simple needs. Is this even a question anyone can answer??