Empowering Your Financial Confidence
Our Mission and Values
Financial Planning That Fits Your Life, Not Your Commute
At University Financial Strategies, we believe your financial future shouldn’t be sidelined by a busy schedule or the hurdle of office visits. We’ve removed the traditional barriers to professional guidance by bringing our expertise directly to you, wherever you are.
Why Virtual Planning Works for You:
- No Office, No Traffic: Skip the commute and the sterile conference rooms. Our virtual-first approach means you can receive high-level strategy from the comfort of your home or office.
- Overcoming "Analysis Paralysis": Financial planning can feel like a daunting mountain of work. We break down complex decisions into manageable, bite-sized tasks, turning "too much work" into a clear, actionable path forward.
- Real-Time Collaboration: By leveraging digital tools, we simplify your investments, cash flow, and tax strategies in a way that is transparent and easy to track.
- Consistent Momentum: When help is just a click away, it’s easier to stay on track. We remove the friction of scheduling, making it simple to keep your financial goals moving forward without the administrative burden.
By removing these common obstacles, we empower you to take confident control of your financial future. No more delays, no more complexity—just personalized guidance tailored to your unique life.
Personalized advice that puts you in control, one step at a time.
Our Story: A Commitment to Fiduciary Integrity
The foundation of University Financial Strategies was built on a simple observation: in the world of high-finance, there is a profound difference between selling products and providing strategy.
The Genesis of Our Approach
I worked many years at firms such as Fidelity Investments, TD Ameritrade, and TIAA. Having also worked at Bank of America Private Bank, I saw firsthand the institutional constraints that frequently limited what could truly be done for clients. I found that these large organizations often work in silos, making it inherently challenging to coordinate a truly comprehensive approach. Due to the massive scale of these firms, employees are often constrained in providing specific aspects of advice, hindered by internal boundaries that prevent a holistic view of a client’s financial life.
During my tenure at these institutions, I recognized an inherent "Institutional Gap." Large brokerages and banks are often designed to provide guidance —high-level, generalized information aimed at the masses. What I saw missing was a dedicated strategy —the granular, tax-optimized, and deeply personal planning required for families navigating complex retirements. I founded this firm to bridge that gap, moving away from the institutional model to a boutique, fee-only fiduciary practice where the client's needs are the only priority.
The Fiduciary Difference
A Higher Standard of Care
The Brokerage Model (Suitability)
- The Goal: Facilitate transactions and sell products deemed "suitable."
- The Conflict: Representatives may be incentivized to recommend proprietary funds or products that generate commissions.
- The Relationship: Primarily transactional; the firm’s ultimate duty is to its shareholders.
Our Model (Fiduciary)
- The Goal: Provide specialized advice mandated to be in your best interest.
- The Alignment: As a Fee-Only firm, we accept no commissions. Our success is measured solely by your progress.
- The Relationship: A legal and ethical obligation to put your needs above our own at all times.
Why We Are "Fee-Only"
To many, "Fee-Only" sounds like a billing preference. At University Financial Strategies, it is our Fiduciary Standard of conduct.
- Exclusivity: We are compensated exclusively by our clients. We do not accept commissions, "load" fees, or referral bonuses.
- Objectivity: This transparency removes the "sales" element from your wealth strategy. Our only loyalty is to your net worth.
Guidance vs. Strategy
| Feature | Institutional "Free" Planning | University Financial Wealth Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Objective | Asset retention and product placement. | Holistic optimization of total net worth. |
| Tax Integration | Automated "Tax-Loss Harvesting." | Multi-year Roth ladders and withdrawal sequencing. |
| Customization | Algorithm-based "Model Portfolios." | Bespoke portfolios integrated with estate/legacy planning. |
| Accountability | Revolving representatives or help-desks. | Long-term partnership with a dedicated expert. |
Exposing the "Hidden Costs"
A common misconception is that brokerage accounts are cost-free if no advisory fee appears on a statement. Large institutions often monetize your capital through less transparent methods:
- The Cash Spread: Firms retain institutional interest on your cash balances, passing only a fraction to you.
- Proprietary Expenses: Plans are often populated with "house-brand" funds where management fees generate the firm’s profit.
- Revenue Sharing: Brokerages may receive "shelf-space" payments from fund families to be featured.
The Alignment of Interests
We utilize an Assets Under Management or Advisement (AUM/AUA) model because it ensures we are always on the same side of the table.
- Direct Incentives: Our compensation is tied to your success. If your accounts grow, our firm grows.
- The "Tax Alpha" Factor: We focus on the tangible value created through Social Security timing, NUA optimization, and minimizing lifetime RMDs.
Is This the Right Partnership For You?
If you are looking for a simple "fund picker," the free tools at a discount brokerage are excellent. But if you seek a long-term fiduciary partner to navigate the nuances of tax-efficient wealth management, we invite you to join our story.
Step-by-step guidance for confident financial choices
Our Baby Step process breaks down complex financial decisions into manageable actions. It may start with building a small emergency fund if you don't have one, we guide you through each phase to reduce stress and increase clarity.
How Our Baby Step Process Simplifies Your Financial Journey
Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers to common inquiries about our financial planning approach and services. We focus on simplifying complex topics to help you make confident decisions.
What is the Baby Step process?
The Baby Step process breaks down financial goals into manageable stages, allowing you to build a solid foundation before moving to the next step. This method reduces overwhelm and promotes steady progress.How do virtual meetings work?
We conduct all consultations via Zoom, providing flexible scheduling and the convenience of meeting from your home or office. This approach ensures timely advice without the need for travel.What services do you offer?
Our services include personalized financial planning, investment guidance, cash flow management, and tax strategy reviews to help you retain more of your income.How do you handle tax planning?
We actively review your tax returns to identify opportunities for savings and optimize your financial plan accordingly, ensuring you keep more of your money.Can I start financial planning at any stage?
Yes, our process is designed to meet you where you are financially and guide you step-by-step toward your goals, regardless of your current situation.
Need More Help?
Contact us to discuss your specific questions or schedule a consultation. We're here to support your financial journey with clear, practical advice.
Step confidently toward your financial future
Begin your journey with University Financial Strategies
