FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Unlike many financial advisors, our pricing is completely transparent. We charge an affordable fee for our financial planning services that is free from hidden commissions. The fee is paid either on a one time or ongoing basis depending on the needs of the client. Our services and corresponding fees can be found on the "Services" page of our website.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We start by getting to know you, your values, your goals and your dreams. We then work with you to figure out your current financial life with all its opportunities and challenges. Once we've done this we will work collaboratively to build a financial plan customized for you. This plan will provide you with specific strategies and action items you will be able to use to make progress towards your goals. For most clients, a typical first year of planning will contain: -Introductory meeting to determine scope of planning required -Initial data gathering and financial behavior assessments -Planning review meeting to verify information and make sure everyone is on the same page -Financial plan review meeting to finalize the plan, set initial objectives and make recommendations -Mid year plan review meeting -Ongoing guidance, support and followup as needed to help keep you on track, motivated and accountable -Secure, online access to all your financial planning information After the initial year, the number of planning meetings will vary depending on each client's needs, but typically occur once or twice. In addition to the formal meetings, continuous, ongoing support and follow up will take place throughout the year as will online access to your plan and related documents.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I earned the CFP® designation in 2006. Most people think all financial planners are "certified," but this is not true. While others may call themselves financial planners, only those who have met the rigorous requirements and standards established by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. are rewarded the CFP® distinction. Those who have acquired the designation are held to a much higher standard of professionalism, competency, and ethics than a typical financial advisor. We are held to a fiduciary standard of care in which we are required to act in the best interest of clients. In order to obtain the distinguished CFP® mark and become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, an applicant must: -Hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university -Complete a CFP® Board-registered education program -Pass the 10-hour CFP® certification exam -Have at least three years of qualifying full-time work experience in financial planning -Pass a professional fitness standards and background check Once appointed, a CFP® professional must meet continuing education requirements every other year in order to maintain the certification. You can read more about the CFP® designation by visiting the "CFP Board" website