As fee-only financial advisors, we are compensated solely from fees paid by our clients and do not accept commissions or compensation from other sources.  This fee-only method of compensation provides us with the independence to select the best solutions for our clients. 

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT – ANNUAL FEE

The annual fee for investment management is based on the assets we manage.  The fee includes both ongoing investment management and financial planning.  Services include the selection and ongoing management of investments, preparation of a financial plan, annual meetings to review investments and financial plans, reporting on investment holdings and performance, year-end tax reporting for taxable (non-qualified) investment accounts and ongoing education on a variety of investment and financial topics.  As needed, we also provide coordination between tax preparers, estate planning attorneys and insurance providers.  

The charge for investment management is approximately 1% for the first $1,000,000 under management plus .75% for additional assets under management. The minimum fee for this service is $10,000 ($1,000,000 under management). 

Our annual fee is calculated at the beginning of each year by applying the fee schedule to the prior year’s ending values for the managed assets.  This annual fee is then divided into four equal parts, which are billed at the end of each quarter.  Most of our clients prefer to have their fee deducted directly from their investment accounts. 

Additional fees may apply to clients needing services beyond those described here; however, these additional fees are not common and are always approved by the client in advance. 

FINANCIAL PLANNING – HOURLY FEE

Effective July 1, 2007, we are no longer accepting new hourly financial planning engagements.  We feel that we can best help clients achieve their goals by working with them on both the creation and implementation of their financial plans – a process that takes time and more frequent interactions.  We would welcome the opportunity to talk to you about ongoing investment management, which includes comprehensive financial planning services.
Financial planning clients who worked with us on an hourly basis prior to July 1, 2007 may return periodically for plan updates. 

In addition, we may work with associates and family members of existing clients on an hourly basis.  This work is billed at a current rate of $250 per hour.

There is no charge for a preliminary, one hour informational meeting about our firm, its services, and our investment philosophy.  In looking for a financial advisor, we recommend that potential clients consider the following issues: