FAQs
Frequently Asked
Questions
FAQs
Frequently Asked
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers. Straight talk. No jargon.
People 40+ come to St. George Wealth Management with real questions — about retirement, taxes, investment strategy, and whether their current advisor is truly guiding them forward.
Here are the questions we get the most… and the ones you should be asking any financial advisor.
What exactly do you do as a financial planner?
I build and maintain a comprehensive plan that pulls together your retirement, investments, taxes, cash flow, insurance, estate, and (if applicable) business planning into one coordinated strategy. Through the Anchor Process, we move from discovery to design to implementation and ongoing stewardship, so you’re not guessing your way to retirement.
Do you only work with people who are close to retirement?
No. I work with professionals, families, and business owners at different stages—typically from their 40s through retirement—who want a structured plan and ongoing guidance. The focus might shift (more accumulation and cash flow earlier, more tax and income strategy later), but the framework stays consistent.
What is The Anchor Process?
The Anchor Process is my step-by-step planning framework: Groundwork, Insight, Design, Launch, and Stewardship. We start by understanding your full picture, then analyze your current setup, build a personalized blueprint, implement it, and review it regularly as life changes.
Do I need a certain amount of assets to work with you?
Some investment platforms I use have minimums (typically starting around $250,000), but planning services are available even if you don’t have an investment account with me yet. The right fit is more about your complexity, goals, and willingness to engage in the planning process than a specific number.
How are you compensated? Will I understand what I’m paying?
Yes. I use a transparent, fee-based structure: flat planning fees, asset-based fees for investment management, and occasional hourly consulting when needed. There are no product sales commissions or hidden add-ons—your costs are clearly outlined before we start.
Will you manage my investments, or just give me a plan?
Both options exist. Every relationship starts with a plan, and you decide whether you also want ongoing portfolio management. If I manage your investments, I use a disciplined, data-informed approach designed to be long-term, tax-aware, and aligned with your overall strategy—not headline chasing.
Do you do tax planning? Do you file my taxes?
I do tax planning, not tax preparation. Using tools like Holistiplan, I review your returns for planning opportunities and integrate those into your financial strategy. I don’t prepare or file tax returns; instead, I coordinate with your CPA so planning and filing stay in sync.
Will you work with my CPA, attorney, or other advisors?
Yes—and I strongly prefer it. Your financial life works best when everyone on your team is aligned, so I regularly coordinate with CPAs, estate attorneys, and other professionals with your permission.
How often will I hear from you?
You can expect proactive communication and regular review meetings, typically two to four times per year depending on your service level. You’ll know when to expect check-ins, and you can reach out anytime life throws you a curveball.
What happens when the market drops?
We plan for volatility from the beginning and build portfolios designed to weather normal drawdowns. My job is to keep you grounded, rebalance when needed, and help you avoid emotional decisions that could derail long-term progress.
What if my life changes after we build the plan?
That’s expected. Big events—new job, retirement, business sale, move, divorce, inheritance, health change—are exactly when we revisit your plan. The Anchor Process is built for ongoing adjustments so your strategy reflects your real life, not a moment in time.
Can we work together if I’m not local to Lake Norman?
Yes. Meetings can be in person or virtual, and the planning process works well either way. Secure technology lets us share documents, review your plan on-screen, and collaborate efficiently regardless of location.
What does it cost to get started?
Planning engagements are tiered based on complexity, with clearly defined scopes and starting fees. Before you commit, you’ll know which tier fits you, what’s included, and how long the engagement runs.
Clarity. Confidence. Control.
No matter where you are on the path to retirement — early planner, mid-career strategist, or 5-year-out finisher — the Anchor Process helps you make smarter decisions, reduce taxes, and design a retirement you actually enjoy.