FAQ

Question 1

What is a fiduciary and what is the importance of the term?

Answer

A fiduciary is, "One who acts in utmost good faith, in a manner he or she reasonably believes to be in the best interest of the client." (CFP Board) Not all financial advisors are fiduciaries. Whether or not an advisor is a fiduciary determines whose interests take priority; the advisor's or client's. Fiduciaries are legally obligated to act in the best interest of their clients.

Question 2

Why should I use a financial planner?

Answer

In our opinion, the financial planning profession exists because of the many complex financial decisions that individuals and families face. A competent advisor can help guide you through certain tax and financial planning opportunities that may be challenging to recognize. These opportunities, when paired with a sound investment plan, can lead to a peace of mind that may be difficult to achieve without the help of a professional.

Question 3

How many meetings should I expect to have before becoming a client?

Answer

On average we meet with prospective clients four to six times before a decision is made. Before proposing a plan, we want to ensure that we have a complete understanding of your financial situation, your expectations, and that we are the right fit for one another.

Question 4

How long will it take my accounts to transfer to Oceanside?

Answer

TD Ameritrade Clearing, Inc. (“TD Ameritrade”) is the firm that we use to custody our client assets. It typically takes 3-14 days once the paperwork is submitted.

Question 5

How do I become a client?

Answer

You can get started here.

Question 6

What does CFP® mean? What does CFA mean?

Answer

These are both gold-standard designations in the financial industry. Below are excerpts from the websites of the Certified Financial Planner™ Board and the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute that elaborate on these credentials. "Although many professionals may call themselves "financial planners," CFP® professionals have completed extensive training and experience requirements and are held to rigorous ethical standards. They understand the complexities of the changing financial climate and know how to make recommendations in your best interest." - CFP Board "CFA charterholders are trained to understand what drives value in all dimensions of your financial life. They have mastered more than just the art and science of securities analysis and asset allocation. They also have expert-level portfolio management skills and the ability to work effectively with tax and intergenerational wealth planning experts to design an investment strategy specific to your objectives." - CFA Institute

Question 7

What are your fees and how are you compensated?

Answer

We are a fee-based financial advisory firm. Information about our fees can be seen here.

FAQ