To help you learn more about Capital Advantage, here are answers to questions that our clients frequently ask.
Q
Is Capital Advantage a fiduciary advisor? What does that mean for me?
Yes, Capital Advantage is a fiduciary advisor. As an SEC-registered investment advisor (RIA), Capital Advantage is held to a strict fiduciary standard, which means that we are not only committed—but also legally obligated—to put your interests before our own.
Q
Does Capital Advantage offer a no-cost consultation?
Yes, we offer an initial no-cost, no-obligation discussion with one of our expert advisors, which we use to get to know you, explain more about what we do, and give you a chance to see if our firm is the right fit for you. You can reach us at 925-299-1500 or send us a message.
As part of our initial consultation, we will discuss your specific needs and goals, assess your current financial situation, and offer suggestions for how you can improve your financial health.
Q
How long have you been in business?
We were founded in 1982 and have been in business for over 40 years. Today, Capital Advantage continues to grow and has the privilege of serving over 1000 clients.
With over 40 years in our community, we strive to become lifetime partners for our clients, their children, and even their grandchildren.
Q
How much contact should I expect?
We believe in proactive communication. We pride ourselves on being responsive, available, and accommodating. When you call our office during business hours, you can expect to speak with a real person—not a computer.
We like to have regularly scheduled meetings, customized to meet your needs. We work with your schedule and can meet in person, by phone, or by video conference for your convenience.
In addition, you will receive quarterly investment letters detailing our thoughts on the economy and our investment strategy, monthly newsletters to keep you up to date on personal finance subjects, and other updates throughout the year relevant to you and your finances.
Q
Is Capital Advantage a fee-only advisor? How do you get paid?
Yes, Capital Advantage is a 100% fee-only SEC-registered investment advisor (RIA). Our fee-only structure enables us to make independent decisions based on what is best for our clients and their financial goals.
Our standard annual fee for investment management services–which includes ongoing financial planning and retirement planning–is calculated based on the balance of your assets under management, with a minimum quarterly fee. See our schedule of fees.
Q
What does your new client onboarding process look like? How do I get started?
Our new client process allows us to create a personalized plan that aligns with what’s important to you today and supports your goals for the future.
We start with a no-cost initial consultation; this meeting will give us both a chance to make sure that our expertise is the right fit for your needs.
Learn more about our new client process so you can know what to expect.
Q
Do you charge extra for financial planning and retirement planning?
No, both financial planning and retirement planning are included in our investment management fee. A key component of our investment approach is to make sure that we are clear on what your goals are and that you’re clear on how your wealth will be managed.
Q
Will you personalize my investment strategy and create a financial plan for my unique needs and goals?
Yes, your unique financial goals are at the core of everything we do.
At Capital Advantage, we take the time to build meaningful personal relationships—the end result being that together, we can develop a financial strategy unique to your life, your family, and your goals.
Our investment strategy is designed to manage and make the most of your wealth in the current economic environment through fundamental research, disciplined valuation techniques, and a long-term focus—and is always motivated by your financial objectives.
Q
What services are included in your fee?
Our transparent fee includes the management of your investment accounts and ongoing financial planning, which includes these expanded areas of expertise:
- Retirement Planning
- Education Planning
- Estate Plan Guidance
- Investment Tax Planning
- Risk Management Planning
- Charitable Gift Planning
- Inheritance/Windfall Planning