Beginning a financial planning relationship with Ancona Financial Advisory involves a very significant series of events. We want to meet in our office, where we can get to know each other in a relaxed setting. In most cases, we consider a couple to be our clients, so we should talk with both spouses. We can, however, work effectively with single people or one person from a couple. There are often good reasons for such relationships.

In the initial meeting, we want to learn about the issues that motivate our clients to seek financial planning services. Hearing you discuss your aspirations is very important. Reviewing your financial information with you will also add insights Click here for a summary that will help you prepare for an initial meeting.

If you and we concur on an approach to your situation, we will quote a fee for an Initial Planning Project, typically your Financial Diagnostic™ ; an Engagement Agreement will be signed; and we will proceed.

The Financial Diagnostic™ is a very important part of the period when we form lasting relationships with clients. This is our chance to test whether we have heard you clearly. Before we begin a diagnostic project, we have probably met you through a referral or other contact, invited you to explore this web site, delivered our disclosure information, and engaged in at least one initial meeting. Through this process, we will give you much information about the services you can expect from us, and we will attempt to develop a clear understanding of your situation. Illustrative of the topics covered in this phase:

Your Financial Diagnostic™ is a comprehensive look at the five major arenas of your financial world. For each, we will:

• Describe your current situation
• Present our professional opinions of strengths and weaknesses
• Recommend specific actions going forward on these, and other, issues raised by the client
• Describe the ongoing relationship we hope to develop; with specific reference to:
  • the communications methods and frequency best suited your needs;
  • the issues that should be addressed in the near and distant future;
  • a description of the relationships between AFA, you, and the brokerage firm(s);
  • the retainer fees calculation process;
  • an initial INVESTMENT MIRROR™
  • Any issues that may hinder a long-term relationship.

Clearly there is much to be covered in the Initial Planning Projects. This is the place where we really get to know you and the things we can do for you. It forces us to think deeply about the information you provide and see deeply into your situation, providing the highest value to you.