No, investment management is completely optional. While we offer evidence-based, low-cost investment solutions, our primary focus is comprehensive financial planning. You can implement investment recommendations with us or elsewhere – the choice is always yours. Many clients start with planning only and add investment management later when it makes sense for them.

Our planning fees are reduced by any investment management fees you pay. For example, if your planning fee is $7,500 and you pay $5,000 in investment management fees, your remaining planning fee would be $2,500. Additionally, while financial planning fees are not currently tax deductible, investment counseling fees within a non-registered account often are. We'll help you structure fees in the most tax-efficient manner possible.

We focus on simplifying complexity rather than creating it. Our experience from small-town practice to Bay Street showed us that many financial solutions are unnecessarily complex. We prioritize clear, effective strategies you can understand and feel confident about. Our independence means we're free to recommend what's best for you, not what's best for a parent company. We also coordinate directly with your other professional advisors to ensure everyone is working toward your goals.

We have structured semi-annual reviews in spring (tax and corporate planning) and fall (estate and insurance planning), with additional meetings as needed for specific opportunities or challenges. You'll also have direct access to us between meetings for questions or decisions that arise. We're proactive in reaching out when we see opportunities or need to address changes in your situation.

We understand that choosing a financial partner is a significant decision. We're happy to start with a complimentary consultation to understand your needs and explain our approach. There's no pressure to proceed until you're completely comfortable.

We actively coordinate with your professional team, enhancing rather than replacing these relationships. We speak their language and help translate complex recommendations into clear actionable steps. If you need recommendations for other professionals, we maintain relationships with excellent practitioners in various fields.

Our service adapts to your evolving needs. Whether it's a career change, practice expansion, or family situation, we adjust our planning approach accordingly. There's no need to renegotiate fees mid-year for changed circumstances.

We pride ourselves on responsive communication. You can typically expect same-day responses during business hours, and we make ourselves available for urgent matters outside normal hours when needed.

While we aim for long-term partnerships, we understand circumstances change. Our engagement can be ended with 30 days' notice, and we'll help ensure a smooth transition of your financial affairs if needed. Any pre-paid fees will be pro-rated to the date of request, and a refund will be returned to the client.

Frequently Asked Questions