Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is financial planning and how can you help me?
Financial planning is more than just investments or retirement, it’s about understanding your goals, your values, and your priorities, then building a roadmap that connects your money to the life you want to live.
How do you get paid, and are there any hidden fees?
There is a flat free structure based on what tier of service you are getting. I do not make money selling any products or services.
Do I really need a financial planner if I’m just starting out?
Many people have the misconception that in order to use the services of a financial advisor, you need to already have money to invest. I believe the opposite to be true in that using a financial planner in the early stages can help you set things up to maximize long term success.
What’s your overall process—from our first meeting to ongoing reviews?
We always start with a free introductory meeting to get to know each other & your goals. Our second meeting, which is also complimentary, will allow us to review everything we’ve discussed so far and figure out which course of action to take.
Are you a fiduciary?
As a CFP® professional, I am held to a fiduciary standard to make sure your interests and goals are always placed first
What is your investment philosophy and how does it align with my goals?
Our investment philosophy is to build a simple portfolio of low-cost, index-based ETFs tailored to your risk tolerance. We aim to hold no more than 10 positions in your portfolio at a time, which will keep you well-diversified while still working towards your goals.
What unique value do you provide that I can’t do myself?
The unique value I provide is in three areas: clarity, expertise, and accountability. Think of it this way: you could build your own workout plan, but having a trainer helps you get results faster, avoid mistakes, and stay motivated. That’s what a financial planner does for your money and your future.
How do you approach tax efficiency, including asset placement and tax-aware withdrawals?
I take a proactive approach to taxes by placing the right investments in the right accounts and planning withdrawals in a way that minimizes lifetime taxes. It’s about keeping more of what you earn while still making sure your investments can work harder for you.
How do you measure performance?
Performance isn’t just about how much money your portfolio earns, though that’s certainly important. I measure performance by how well your financial plan is helping you move closer to your goals and giving you confidence along the way.