What experience do you have?

I started in the financial advice business in 1993 with Merrill Lynch.  Over the past decades, I have lived through a variety of market conditions and have advised clients through many life altering financial events. 

What are your qualifications?

In 2001, I passed the Certified Financial Planner exam and have been practicing as a licensed CFP®.  The CFP® designation requires a licensee to demonstrate knowledge in financial planning topics such as:  insurance; tax planning; investments; estate planning and retirement planning.  I also hold standard licenses for securities and insurance. 

What services do you offer?

Most clients hire me to put together a holistic financial plan to address one or more of these needs:  investment and savings; insurance needs; college planning for kids/grandkids; retirement income; estate planning and help controlling expenses.  I evaluate what is needed during a free consultation.  I present a plan.  If there are solutions that I can provide, I will lay out those recommendations in the plan along with fee for service options. 

Will you be the only person working with me? 

Yes- if you decide to hire me as your financial planner, I will implement the plan; answer questions and provide advice on an ongoing basis; and service any invesment and/or insurance accounts. 

How will I pay for your services?

I am transparent about fees that I am paid.  A majority of my clients pay me advisory fees on an annual basis.  In some instances, it is cheaper in the long run and more financially prudent to pay a one-time transaction fee.  Those options are discussed and disclosed upfront before any fees are collected. 

How much do you typically charge?

This depends on the assets under management and the complexity of the situation.  The industry average is typically around 1%.  My advisory fees average 0.5% per relationship.  But they range from 0.05% to 1% depending on the size of the investment relationship. My commitment is to support a cost model that is less expensive than other financial advisors. 

Do you have a minimum asset size that you work with?

Generally, I am looking for clients that will invest at least $500,000 within a 5-year period.  This is where I offer exceptional value with a combination of experience, wisdom and low fees. 

Do you pay referral fees to other financial professionals that refer clients to you?

No- when CPAs, attorneys or other professionals refer business to me they do so because they have confidence in my work and character.  I do not share fees or compensation with other professionals.  Nor do I receive any compensation for referring business to other professionals. 

Have you ever been publicly disciplined for any unlawful or unethical actions in your professional career?

No