Frequently Asked Questions about Financial Planning
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Financial Consulting and Session Information
What should I expect during my financial consultation session?
Our first session will be exploratory in nature. I’ll use it to get a sense of what you’re looking for and a high level view of your current financial picture. From there, I'll recommend the service that best aligns with your goals and needs. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and decide what next steps feel right.
Are there money topics you won’t cover and/or financial services you won’t offer? (What’s not included?)
Yes. Certain areas are best handled by specialized professionals, such as tax filing and estate legal documents. I’m happy to provide education and explain how these topics apply to your situation, but I do not prepare returns or draft legal documents. I am happy to point you in the right direction.
I also do not actively manage assets. I’ll build a comprehensive investment strategy (what to buy, where to hold it, and why) but I don’t place trades or provide ongoing portfolio oversight.
Do the sessions included in the Going Deeper and Full Financial Services packages expire?
Yes. They must be used within a year of our first discovery session. Clients see the most progress when we meet consistently. You’re welcome to continue meeting after the year ends under a new agreement, but unused sessions do not roll over.
What happens if I want to continue meeting after the included follow up sessions end?
If it is within the year of our first discovery meeting, all subsequent sessions will be offered at a prorated rate of $200 per hour. After our first year, we will create a new agreement that covers the frequency of our meetings tailored to your specific needs.
Are you available to meet in person?
All inquiry calls and initial consultations are held virtually or over the phone. Once you’ve selected a package and we begin working together, I’m happy to meet in person. I have office space available in the Decatur area for clients who prefer face-to-face sessions.
What should I bring to my first session?
Just bring yourself, your questions, and your expectations for what you’d like to get out of the conversation. If we decide to move forward together, I’ll send you a step-by-step guide outlining exactly which documents to upload for the next phase.
Questions About Blue Otter Financial Planning
Do you only work with women?
No. My business is intentionally designed as a welcoming and supportive space for women- because the industry is overwhelmingly male- but I’m happy to work with anyone, spouses included, when it’s a good fit.
How are you different from the other advisors out there?
The simplest distinction is that I work on a flat-fee basis. You pay only for the work I do and the sessions we have, nothing more.
If you’ve been quoted a management fee (a percentage of your portfolio), that typically includes ongoing investment management. That can be a great fit for someone who never wants to touch their portfolio.
But my philosophy is different: I help you build the right investment strategy without charging fees that eat into your returns over time.
Pricing and Session Costs
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. I’m happy to meet you where you are and work within your means. Payment plans may affect the timing of deliverables, but we can create a solution that works well for both of us.
Do I need a certain income or net worth to work with you?
No. I specifically offer solutions for people who are just getting started on their wealth building journey. There’s no minimum income, net worth, or “readiness” level required, just a willingness to engage and take the next step.
Please note that while I can help you build a strong financial foundation, I do not specialize in debt consolidation strategies.