Advice on sourcing gradual transition deals?

Hi everyone, I am currently searching for a business in the home services industry where the owner wants to hire their replacement via an equity buy-in (phased buyout), rather than a clean break 100% sale. For those who have successfully structured a slow buyout or management transition: Did you find these opportunities better through direct mail campaigns or through specific brokers? Any leads on processes, lessons learned, or intermediaries specializing in complex transitions would be appreciated.