What is your educational background? I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Financial Management and Investments from Clemson University. I am a Certified Financial Planner. I completed the Financial Planning Program at DePaul University in Chicago, which included retirement planning, investment planning, insurance planning, estate planning, income tax planning, employee benefits planning and ethics.
How long have you been offering financial planning services? Since 2000.
What further education in financial planning do you plan to pursue? It is imperative that I obtain a certain number of continuing education credits each year in order to maintain my certification as a financial planner. I frequently attend educational seminars given by the Financial Planning Association, read the Journal of Financial Planning and I work closely with a CPA and other CFP professionals to keep me astute on tax and financial related issues.
Are you a member of any professional financial planning association? Financial Planning Association (FPA)
Will you provide references? Absolutely.
Do you do the work or will I be turned over to another employee in your firm? I do all the work for my clients directly, from beginning to end.
What is your approach to saving and investing? Pay yourself first for you dreams and goals. Invest in securities and assets that fit within your risk profile and will accomplish your realistic goals in a prioritized manner.
Will you provide an individualized financial plan? Can I look at a recent example of a plan prepared for someone in similar financial circumstances? Yes, every financial plan I develop is individualized, there is no cookie cutter approach to financial planning since your goals and specific financial situation are the basis for the plan. I cannot show you a plan of another client, all my plans are confidential by nature. I could show you examples of strategies that may be effective in your situation and would be happy to supply you with some client references.
What kinds of communications can I expect from you on an ongoing basis (account statements, newsletters, etc.)? Monthly statements of assets that are directly under my management, quarterly consolidated statements of all your assets, annual meetings to review your goals and plan, and anytime there is a change in financial policy or laws that will affect you or your financial plan. Optional newsletters on a monthly basis via e-mail or mail.
How often will you review my portfolio? Asset management is an ongoing commitment that involves continuous review of funds and alternative investments. You can be assured that your personal portfolio will be adjusted based on our in-house review of various investment options. If you are not in the best performing investments available to you within your risk tolerance, your portfolio will be re-allocated. Otherwise, your portfolio will be re-balanced no less than every 3 months.
How are you compensated for the services you provide? I am a fee-only planner; I am paid solely by my client and never accept commissions, kick-backs, or referral fees. I am not obligated to sell any products or services of any investment company or insurance company. I charge an hourly fee for consultation and a asset management fee for portfolios that I manage directly.
What, if anything do you expect of me during our relationship? Candid comments regarding your financial goals and situation. Preparedness when it comes to my data gathering needs. Honest feedback when the plan is presented and a willingness to be involved in the strategies to meet your financial goals. It is important for us to work together as a team if we are to be successful in solving financial issues and realizing your goals. Ongoing communication regarding any life changes affecting your financial plan or goals would be essential; my priority and full time job is to manage your assets appropriately, based on your risk profile and the goals you set forth, it can only be accomplished if we work together.
What if I do not have a financial plan?
You may not have a plan for possible devastating financial problems
You may not be using available tax advantaged programs
Your achievement of financial goals and dreams may not be reachable
Your loved ones may be left without
What if I didn't have continuous asset management and guidance?
Complex financial markets and fees may make it difficult to achieve your goals.
Your assets may have excessive risk exposure if they are not diversified properly and re-balanced accordingly.