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When we work together on an open retainer, we systematically go through every area of your finances.  For one sometimes tax-deductible fee, we develop a comprehensive plan and mental vision of your financial future. 

With most clients, in the first year we meet 3-4 times either in person, or on the phone and internet. We go over every area of your finances. We cover the following topics:    

Retirement + education funding

We believe that it’s important to make this as simple as possible so that you understand the assumptions, variables and results of this planning. We return to this yearly. As you understand the methodology, your peace of mind grows because you know that your long-term goals are being attended to.

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Investment strategy

Our philosophy is to invest for the long term and take risk that is appropriate given your life situation, attitude, and time frame. Together we do a personal risk assessment to help you understand the true risks you face. Next, we create an investment strategy together. Then, we periodically review your situation to make sure you stay on track. 
 

Principal residence / real estate analysis

For most clients, their principal residence is the single biggest investment that they make. We look at how your principal residence is working with your entire investment strategy. We analyze real estate investments. So, if you own a two flat or an apartment building, we go over the rent you should be charging, the return you should be getting, and the pluses and minuses of selling. We give unbiased advice because we're not selling real estate or stocks.
 

Tax planning

Together we look at your tax situation during the year, not after the year is over. We help you plan for deductions and investments while there is still time to implement the strategies. Because we work with both tax and investments, we can provide integrated tax investment strategies to help you make more on your investments and pay less in taxes. 
 

Insurance review

For many people, working with us is the first time they have gotten any insurance advice from someone not trying to sell them products. Together we look at each of your insurance policies and answer questions to help you save money while reducing your risk exposure.
 

Goal setting

Financial peace of mind is an emotional and, for some, a spiritual state. Together we address progress needed to reach your goals. This helps you:

 

• Understand your financial goals 

• Test them against reality 

• Engage your imagination and visualize what you want. 
   

Estate planning

We explain the tax consequences of dying and help you plan your will and your legacy.  We review wills, powers of attorney and other estate documents to make sure they work with the other elements of your financial plan.  If you don't have an attorney to draft a will, we can recommend one.

In addition to our meetings, working with us also includes: 
 

Open engagement

You can call or email whenever you have financial questions, and if necessary, we can set up additional appointments at no additional cost to you. We want to make sure that all of your questions are answered and all of your concerns are resolved. 

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