FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Unlike most advisors, I do not sell financial products, receive commissions or any other form of conflicted compensation. I also don't charge fees based on a percentage of your assets. The fee for initial financial planning is based on anticipated time to perform the services to address your situation and a specific allocation of time. Financial planning project fees typically range between $2,500 and $5,000. Since our fees are customized to your personal situation, in order for us to quote a fee, we need to know you better. We offer an introductory consultation for this very purpose.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Entering into an advisory relationship is an important decision that has significant lifelong implications. For this reason, we offer a no-charge, no-obligation introductory consultation. During the introductory consultation, you will have up to 60 minutes to discuss your goals, objectives, and concerns. At the the conclusion of our meeting, if we're in a position to help you and we're a good fit, we'll follow up with a written proposal and next steps. Since we customize the engagement to your needs and requirements, the subsequent course of action will be dependent upon our mutual agreement. Typically, when we initiate financial planning services to address multiple goals, objectives and concerns, we continue to meet with you on a two to three week cycle until the point at which you have the answers to your questions and are comfortable with the direction of your plan specific to your goals, objectives, and concerns. This time varies depending on your individual circumstances but in most situations, most people reach this point in anywhere from 30 to 90 days. REAL financial planning is a process, not a destination. Over the course of our ongoing discussions, we will talk through your financial circumstances, attitudes and objectives, counsel you on suitable strategies and develop a course of action that addresses the issues most important to you. By working together, we develop a living, financial framework – one that will help you make shrewd, informed decisions with confidence. If you opt for ongoing services, we offer continuous monitoring and review services in addition to on-call access for questions or issues.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
For more than 30 years, I have helped to shape the well-being of others by providing seasoned guidance and solutions. I value education as a way to better serve you and have earned the following: - Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) - Certified Retirement Counselor® (CRC®) - Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS®) - Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultant (ChFEBC℠) - Certified Financial Education Instructor℠ (CFEI℠) Professional Associations: -- Financial Planning Association (FPA) -- National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) -- Institute for the Fiduciary Standard -- Financial Therapy Association -- National Association of Estate Planners & Councils -- International Foundation for Retirement Education (InFRE) -- National Financial Educators Association -- Western Pension & Benefits Council