Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a financial advisor is an important decision, and we understand you may want to learn more about us before scheduling a conversation. Below are answers to some of the questions we're asked most often. If you don’t see your question here, we'd be happy to talk.
- We primarily serve successful individuals and families with significant assets and increasingly complex financial lives. Many of our clients are balancing multiple priorities – from investment management and retirement planning to tax considerations, estate planning, charitable giving, business interests, or caring for multiple generations. Our role is to bring those moving pieces together into a coordinated strategy, helping clients simplify complexity, make informed decisions, and move forward with confidence.
- Financial decisions rarely exist in isolation. Investment choices can affect taxes. Retirement decisions can impact estate plans. Business decisions may influence personal financial goals.
Our role is to bring all of those moving pieces together, helping simplify complex financial situations and providing thoughtful guidance that gives our clients greater clarity and confidence.
We build long-term relationships by taking the time to understand what matters most to our clients and delivering personalized advice with exceptional service. - Our advisors bring decades of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s most important financial decisions.
• Annette has been serving clients since 1992 and earned her CFP® certification in 2006.
• Leslie has been serving clients since 2011 and earned her CFP® certification in 2010 and her CDFA® (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®) designation in 2016.
Both advisors hold Series 7 and Series 66 registrations through LPL Financial, as well as life and disability insurance licenses. - Yes.
As CFP® professionals, we are committed to acting in our clients' best interests. We are held to the CFP Board's fiduciary standard whenever providing financial advice.
In addition, when providing investment advisory services and financial planning, we are legally required to act as fiduciaries, putting our clients' interests ahead of our own.
We believe trust is earned through transparency, thoughtful guidance, and a commitment to always acting in our clients’ best interests. - The first meeting is an opportunity for us to get to know one another. We'll talk about what’s important to you, your financial goals, and what's prompting you to seek financial guidance. We will also share our approach, explain how we work with clients, and answer any questions you have about our services.
By the end of the conversation, we'll both have a better sense of whether we're the right fit to work together. If we both decide to move forward, we will clearly explain the next steps and what you can expect from the process. - Every client relationship is different, but most clients meet with us semi-annually, with additional meetings as needed when life changes or opportunities arise. Our relationship doesn’t begin or end with scheduled meetings, we are available throughout the year whenever questions come up or important decisions need to be made.
- We meet with clients in person or virtually via Zoom, depending on their preferences and needs. Between meetings, you can reach us by phone, email, or text. Our Client Service Specialist is also available to assist with many day-to-day questions and requests.
In addition, we provide regular market updates and timely financial insights to help keep our clients informed. - Yes. We believe the best outcomes often come from collaboration. When appropriate, we work closely with your CPA, attorney, and other trusted professionals to help ensure your financial, tax, and estate strategies are aligned.
- We believe transparency is important. Depending on the services you choose, we may be compensated in one or more of the following ways:
Financial Planning Fees
We offer comprehensive financial planning designed to help you make informed decisions within the context of your overall financial life. Planning fees are based on the complexity of your situation and the scope of work involved. If you later engage us for ongoing investment management, future plan updates are included as part of your advisory relationship.
Investment Advisory Fees
For clients who engage us to manage investments, we charge an ongoing advisory fee based on the value of the assets we manage on your behalf. The fee is calculated annually and billed quarterly.
Insurance and Other Commissions
In certain situations, we may recommend insurance products or investments that pay a commission. If we recommend a product that pays a commission, we’ll fully disclose that before you make any decision. For insurance products, commissions are paid by the insurance company and do not increase the cost of your policy.
Start the Conversation
A thoughtful conversation can bring clarity.
Choosing a wealth advisor is an important decision. We welcome the
opportunity to learn more about your priorities, answer your questions,
and explore whether Stonebridge Wealth Advisors is the right fit for you.