FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
How often will we meet once I initiate the process?
Our No-Stress Prospect Process can take as little as a couple of weeks or as long as a few months. It depends entirely on your schedule and comfort level. We never want you to rush such an important decision.
If we decide to move forward together, we will meet several times the first year to ensure we are aligning all elements of your plan with your goals and needs. After that, we typically meet with clients once or twice a year (again, depending on your schedule and comfort level), and more often when life calls for it.
How do you work with clients across the country?
While our headquarters are in Santa Barbara, CA, we work with clients nationwide through virtual meetings, both over the phone and Zoom.
In fact, we’ve found that conversations about money, family, and the future are often best had in a setting where you feel most comfortable—whether that’s your living room or a hammock on the beach. Technology allows us to stay connected, no matter the distance.
Where will my money be held, and do I still own my accounts?
Yes, you always own your accounts. We work with respected custodians, like Charles Schwab, to hold your assets in your name. Our role is to manage them on your behalf with your authorization. You have online access to your accounts and can terminate our relationship and our management at any time.
How do transfers work if I move accounts to you?
Transferring your accounts is simple and secure. Assets typically move “in kind,” which means they transfer without selling anything unless you choose to make changes. You maintain ownership throughout, and we won’t make any investment changes until we’ve discussed your personalized strategy with you.
Why should I hire a financial advisor?
Because your financial security, freedom, and peace of mind is too important to leave to guesswork. A good advisor helps you make confident decisions—about investing, taxes, your legacy, and more. We act as fiduciaries, always putting your best interests first, and we guide you through complex choices so you can focus on enjoying life, not stressing about money.
How are you compensated?
We are compensated through an asset-under-management (AUM) fee, which is a percentage of the assets we manage on your behalf. Our fees begin at 1.20% annually.
Because our fee is based on the value of your portfolio, our incentives are aligned with yours: when your portfolio grows, we grow together. We’re always happy to walk through our fee structure and answer any questions.
Do you work with people who haven’t inherited wealth?
Yes. While many of our clients have inherited assets, we also work with individuals and families who have built their wealth over time, or who are experiencing other financial windfalls, such as business sales, divorce, and insurance payouts.
What matters most is whether there’s a good fit—shared values, trust, and a mutual desire for long-term partnership.
Do I have enough to work with you?
Most of the individuals and families we serve have $2 million or more in investable assets. This typically includes a combination of inherited wealth and accumulated savings.
As fiduciaries, we are obligated to act in your best interest at all times. In order to do that well, we ask to manage all assets available for direct investment. This allows us to see the full picture and provide advice that is thoughtful and comprehensive.
Do I have to give you every single account I own?
To provide truly holistic, coordinated advice, we typically ask to manage all accounts available for direct investment. This lets us see the full picture and helps us make the best decisions for you as fiduciaries. That said, we’re flexible when it comes to small personal accounts that don’t affect your broader plan.
Can I cancel at any time?
Yes. Our services are designed to add consistent value, not lock you into long-term contracts. If you ever feel we’re not providing what you need, you can cancel with simple notice, verbally or in writing.
Do you offer proactive tax planning?
Yes. While we don’t prepare tax returns, we identify opportunities that may positively affect your tax situation, like timing income, Roth conversion strategies, capital gain management, and charitable strategies. Good tax planning helps make your money last longer.
Do you help with insurance planning?
Yes. We review and advise on insurance needs including long-term care, life insurance, and liability coverage like umbrella policies.
I’ve just gotten a divorce—does that make me an inheritor?
In some ways, yes. Divorce can create many of the same financial questions and opportunities that come with an inheritance.
If you’re navigating that transition, we’re here to listen and help you determine whether our services align with your needs during this new chapter.
What types of investment vehicles can you help me with?
We manage many investment vehicles, including but not limited to, stocks, bonds, options, commodities, Exchanged Traded Funds (ETFs), and Mutual Funds.
What topics can I rely on your for information and advice?
By means of one-on-one meetings, video conferencing, webinars and seminars, blog posts, and other materials, we help our clients in the areas of:
- Inheritance
- Personal Finance
- Retirement
- Wealth Management
- Financial Planning
- Tax Planning & Tax Management
- Estate Planning
- Financial Investments & Valuations
- Financial Risk Management
- Philanthropy & Charitable Giving
Are you a fiduciary?
Yes. Being a fiduciary means we’re committed to transparency, objectivity, and putting your goals first.