Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is there a minimum amount of money that I need to have to become a client?
A. In many cases, we look for a commitment to savings and coach-ability more than a minimum investment.
Q. What is the fee for services?
A. We customize our fees according to our clients. Some prefer to pay a separate fee and some prefer to have the insurance or mutual fund companies pay us a commission. Consultation or financial plan fees can be charged separately or waived if product is purchased through us.
Q. Is there a consultation fee for you to review my current finances and devise a financial plan?
A. This service is free of charge.
Q. What services do you offer?
A. Our services include retirement planning, investment management, debt management and insurance planning to help clients achieve financial goals.
Q. How often do you meet with clients once financial strategies are in place?
A. We meet based on client preference. Depending on client needs and preference, we can meet in-person or virtually and are available by telephone or email.
Q. Do you take referrals?
A. Referrals are the ultimate compliment you can pay to a financial advisor. We take care of your referrals like family.
Q. What do I need to do to get started? What can I expect at my first meeting?
A. For a full retirement plan, we recommend bringing your latest investment, bank account, credit card, loan and mortgage statements, as well as your insurance information to the initial meeting. Once we analyze cash flow, we can recommend where to save on interest and insurance costs to improve your wealth creation strategies.
Q. Will I have access to my investments online?
A. Yes, signing up for manulifeonlineaccess.ca is quick and easy and provides access to your account information online.
Q. Do you work with clients that are out-of-province?
A. We are licensed to work in a number of provinces.
Q. Do you hold any professional certifications or designations?
A. I hold the widely recognized Certified Financial Planner and Certified Investment Manager designations.
Q. How are you regulated?
A. Our work is regulated through the compliance areas of Manulife Securities Incorporated and Manulife Securities Insurance Inc. On a broader scale, our standards of service, ethics and continuing education are upheld by the Financial Planners Standards Council (FPSC) in Canada.