Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
13 Questions to Ask Financial Advisors
Below are the questions that you should ask every financial advisor, and for your convenience, we have provided our answers.
(1) How do you get paid?
The primary way we are paid is by charging a percentage of the investments that we manage for you. We like this structure because we do better only when you do better. If we manage less than $750,000 for you, we also typically charge a quarterly financial planning fee that varies in cost depending on complexity.
(2) How much money do I have to have to become a client?
Our minimum for new clients is $750,000 in investments (excluding real estate). If a new client doesn't meet our minimum, we typically charge a quarterly financial planning fee that varies in cost depending on complexity.
(3) Are you a Fiduciary?
Yes, we are Fiduciaries. That is important because it means we're legally and ethically bound to act in utmost good faith, in a manner we believe to be in your best interest. It is an important position of trust that we take extremely seriously. Believe it or not, not every financial advisor is a Fiduciary.
(4) What type of clients do you specialize in?
While we work with a wide variety of clients, we do our best work for diligent savers with at least $750,000 in investments or high earners with income over $200,000.
(5) What services do you provide?
In addition to actively managing your investment portfolio, we provide financial planning in the areas of retirement, cash flow, education, taxes, estate, and insurance.
(6) What makes Reston Wealth different from other firms?
Our Holistic Planning Philosophy is based on caring for the whole person, getting to know you as a friend as well as a client. Our distinct referral-based approach means we work with a limited number of families and can provide you with exceptional service.
(7) How much experience do you have?
Bob Tucker, our President, has been a financial advisor for 30+ years. Bob, Alex and Chloe are all CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™ (CFP®), and Crystal is a Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS®). Check our team bios for more!
(8) How often will we meet?
During the first year of our relationship, we typically meet 3 to 4 times or more depending on your personal situation. After we have a solid foundation, we typically meet with clients for a comprehensive review once a year. Outside of the review meeting, we call to touch base quarterly to review timely subjects (i.e tax planning in December). Because we work with a limited number of families, we also make ourselves available anytime a need or question arises for you.
(9) Will I work with only my advisor or the entire team?
When you become a client, you join the Reston Wealth family. One of our advantages is the variety of expertise our team members have. While you'll work with a dedicated advisor and a client service specialist, you may interact with other team members from time to time based on your needs and their particular role.
(10) How will you invest my money?
We invest your portfolio based your unique goals and risk tolerance, primarily with low-cost funds. Using our investment philosophy as a baseline, we choose a mixture of stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, and alternative investments, with a focus on lower expense ratios.
(11) Could I see a sample of your financial plan before becoming a client?
Yes, absolutely. During your initial consultation, we can provide samples of the types of planning and reports we provide our clients. Then, during your free Financial Checkup you will be provided an analysis of our recommendations before you make any decisions about hiring us.
(12) Where will my money be held?
Our primary custodian is Charles Schwab, though we work with a variety of companies depending on the client and account type.
(13) I'm interesting in learning more about your services! What now?
Schedule a 15-minute introductory call with one of our advisors so we can make sure we are the right fit to serve you. After all, you wouldn’t see a neurosurgeon for a root canal! If we are not the best fit for you, we will introduce to one of the many great advisors we know. If you prefer, you can also call our office at (703) 481-2280 to schedule a call or email us at info@restonwealth.com.