Frequently Asked Questions
We believe that everyone deserves confidence in their financial future. We understand that navigating the world of finance can often feel overwhelming. To help you make informed decisions about your money, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about financial planning.
Why would I choose a small independent firm over a larger well-established bank or wire-house?
Smaller firms like us, are able to focus on clients much more effectively than large banks or other firms. Since we have very little overhead to pay for, we can charge lower fees and provide a higher level of service. At a large firm, you really are just another account. With us, you will likely become a friend. We would much rather give great service to 50 clients, than poor service to 500. Additionally, we’ve partnered with Charles Schwab as our custodian so we can be the boutique firm you might expect from a small independent firm but access to all the technology from a well established firm.
Why should I pay you a fee to manage my money?
If you have the time and can manage your investments better than us, then you shouldn’t. Successful people pay us to manage their money for a variety of reasons. Some would like to reduce their stress of emotional investing, free up their time for other activities, desire for someone to help with a spouse if they pass, or just don’t want to do the work involved. The fee is approximately 1 tenth of 1 percent per month, so for the fee to be worth it, we need to earn you or save you that much each month over time.
What’s the difference between a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) and a Financial Advisor?
CFPs often call themselves financials advisors but it’s important to point out that not all financial advisors are CFPs. There isn’t a specific license or certification process required to become a financial advisor. Usually the financial adivsor would have passed a licensing exam to buy and sell you a securities or an insurance product. Regardless, anyone can become a financial advisor and help you manage your money. Most important, financial advisors may or may not be a fiduciary depending on the product they are discussing with you. In other words, they might be a fiduciary one minute and the next minute, they might not be. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ must undergo years of training, coursework and pass an examination. Additionally, a CFP® continues their education even after receiving their certification. A CFP® provides comprehensive financial planning services and may also provide investment advice and recommendations. They also must act as fiduciaries when providing financial advice to their clients…not some of the time, but ALL of the time.
Then why don’t I pay fees at my broker, bank or investment firm?
It’s likely that you weren’t told what you paid, how you paid and probably don’t understand the investments you were sold. Nobody works for free, so if you bought a bond, mutual fund annuity or stock, YOU PAID. We would be happy to evaluate your account to determine how much it’s costing you each year.
