Must-ask questions for first meeting with CPA

[Lane Babin]

I'm preparing to open an LLC so that I can dive into REI. As part of this preparation, I am meeting with local CPAs to introduce myself and interview them for a potential fit for assisting me with tax related items. What are some of the "must-ask" questions that I should be asking each of these CPAs in order to ensure that I am getting the right individual for my needs?

[Steven Hamilton II]

Originally posted by @Lane Babin:

I'm preparing to open an LLC so that I can dive into REI. As part of this preparation, I am meeting with local CPAs to introduce myself and interview them for a potential fit for assisting me with tax related items. What are some of the "must-ask" questions that I should be asking each of these CPAs in order to ensure that I am getting the right individual for my needs?

 Lane,

As @Linda Weygant said please wait until after April 18th. We are all swamped and you may find some of us quite grumpy with the looming deadline and clients dropping items off last minute.(Believe me we charge extra for that behavior)

Here is some information that has been compiled here and a link to a thread I helped consolidate a ton of questions to ask.
You definitely need someone qualified, does not have to be a CPA, could be an Enrolled Agent or an attorney. Just make sure they specialize in tax and have significant experience dealing with real estate investors.

Here is a great list of questions to ask a potential accountant: http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/70447-questions-to-ask-a-cpa

Also check out the www.NAEA.org page in your search. It should help you find someone local. If someone comes to me, I'll send them your way.

If you need help in your search or want to verify something don't hesitate to ask.

For example: I have clients worldwide and things are just as easy as I e-mail them, talking on the phone. I even use Skype and TeamViewer to communicate with clients so I'd highly recommend looking for one of the best with great references that interviews well with you.

So look for someone you can connect with that works out for your situation.

Feel free to ask here if you have questions