What is a Fee-Only Advisor?
Fee-Only financial advisors are compensated solely by the client, typically through a combination of hourly, financial planning, and/or asset management fees. Willow Creek Financial Services, Inc. was founded in 1984 with the goal of providing impartial financial advice and building long-term, mutually satisfying relationships. You will encounter no conflicts of interest, commissions or "product" sales pitches.
From the client’s perspective, the advantages of the fee-only model include the following: no incentive for an advisor to generate commissions through the unnecessary buying and/or selling of securities (churning); no suggestions to convert non-cash assets (such as real estate and collectibles) to cash and securities so that the advisor can generate commission income. A fee-only advisor is able to focus on providing ongoing professional advice, timely information about accounts, and updates on the world’s financial markets as your personal objectives or the economic climate changes.
Why is a Fiduciary Duty so Important?
As a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), Willow Creek is required by the SEC to have a Fiduciary relationship with our clients. Not all those who call themselves financial advisors are bound by this law. Many brokers, or registered representatives earn commission revenues on each trade and often sell proprietary products, generating even more income. This system creates a conflict of interest in which the client's interest does not always come first. As a Fiduciary we always put our client’s interests first.
What is Wealth Management?
Wealth management is sensible, disciplined investment management combined with ongoing financial planning. We make it a point to keep up to date with your family as well as your personal balance sheet to ensure you meet your short-term goals and are positioned for long-term success.
At Willow Creek Financial, you work with a team of professional advisors, all of whom have earned their CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) designation, the most recognized financial planning mark in the world. Our advisors have decades of financial experience, providing us with a deep understanding of financial and investment planning, real estate transactions and planned giving scenarios.
Why is trust so important in picking an advisor?
Money is one of the most emotional and anxiety-producing issues people have in life. So picking an advisor is a complicated proposition with the many (and often confusing) choices available. Eliminating conflicts of interest is only the first step in building a trusting relationship with Willow Creek. We work continually to understand every client's unique perspective on money and wealth as a key to understanding diverse financial needs. Over the years, Willow Creek has focused on building its practice and reputation on the foundation of client trust.