Frequently Asked Questions
Get The Answers You Need
To Make One Of Life’s Most
Important Decisions
Choosing a financial partner for retirement is a big step. These are the questions we hear most
often from people who have built meaningful wealth and want to be confident it will last.
If you don’t see your question below, we’re always happy to talk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who do you typically work with?
We work with individuals and couples who have built meaningful savings and want a clear, coordinated plan for the rest of their lives.
Most of our clients are within five years of retirement or already retired. They’re disciplined savers, often with $1M–$5M in assets, who want to move from accumulating wealth to using it confidently without fear of running out.
our clients
Q: Do I need a certain amount of assets to work with you?
Yes. Our planning is designed for people with $1M or more in investable assets.
That threshold allows us to deliver the level of coordination, tax planning, and ongoing guidance required for a 30+ year retirement. If we’re not the right fit, we’ll always try to point you toward a better option.
our clients
Q: What happens in the first meeting?
The first meeting is a relaxed, no-pressure conversation.
We’ll talk about what prompted you to reach out, what you’re concerned about, and what you want retirement to support. We’ll also explain how we work and answer any questions you have.
There’s no obligation to move forward. Our goal is simply to see whether we’re a good fit for one another.
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Q: What does your process look like after that?
After the introductory call, we move into a deeper discovery meeting where we gather an understanding of your full financial picture, priorities, and comfort with risk. From there, we build and present a coordinated retirement plan that shows how income, taxes, investments, and timing work together.
If you choose to move forward, we implement the plan and continue working with you over time, updating and stress-testing it as life, markets, and tax laws change.
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Q: How are you compensated?
We are fully transparent about how we’re paid.
Our compensation is based on the scope of planning and assets we manage, not on selling products.
We don’t receive commissions for recommending investments, insurance, or strategies.
That structure allows us to give advice that’s always rooted in your best interest.
ABOUT US
Q: Will you try to sell me products or move all my accounts?
No.
We don’t sell products, and we don’t believe good planning starts with moving money. Our focus is on building the right structure first, then making thoughtful decisions together.
Any changes to accounts or investments happen only when they support your plan and after you understand why they matter.
WHY SWM?
Q: How do you work with my CPA and estate attorney?
Rather than working in silos, we collaborate directly with your CPA and estate attorney to align tax strategies, estate planning, and investment decisions.
This coordination helps prevent gaps, missed opportunities, and conflicting advice.
our clients
Q: How often will we meet once we’re working together?
Most clients hear from us multiple times per year through scheduled reviews, planning updates, and check-ins. We also reach out when tax laws change, markets shift, or opportunities arise.
You’re never left wondering whether your plan is still on track.
WHY SWM?
Q: What if this doesn’t work for me or it’s not the right fit?
That’s a fair concern, and we take it seriously.
Our process is designed to build clarity early, before long-term commitments are made. If at any point our approach doesn’t feel right, we’ll be honest about it and help you think through alternatives.
Our goal is not to “win” your business. It’s to help you make the right decision for your future.
ABOUT US
Q: Do you work with clients outside of San Diego?
Yes.
While our office is located in North County San Diego, we work with clients across California and throughout the United States. Most meetings can be held virtually, and many clients prefer that flexibility.
Whether we meet in person or remotely, our planning process, communication, and level of service remain the same.
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Still Have Questions About Your Retirement?
You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out.
If you’d like to talk through your concerns, understand what your retirement could realistically
support, or simply see whether our approach makes sense for you, the next step is a conversation.
