Alere Planning LLC is an independent Registered Investment Advisory firm focused on helping clients successfully navigate change in their busy lives. Whether preparing for, or experiencing such change, it is our desire to provide a diligent, caring, and constructive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Your future self is depending on you to make quality decisions and keep improving them. Real self-compassion is about not letting that person – all the future versions of yourself – down.” - Annie Duke author of How to Decide
What is the First Step?
Our process begins with an open, candid discussion (Discovery meeting) to determine if the fit is right to pursue a long-term working relationship. It is an opportunity for you to learn more about us, why we do what we do, and how we may meet your expectations. For us, it is an opportunity to learn about you, understand your vision and purpose, and what you are seeking in an advisory relationship. If the client and advisor mutually agree that we have a good fit then the next step is an extensive discovery process. This typically involves understanding your goals and objectives and gathering of personal financial information.
How do We get Compensated?
In circumstances when financial planning is done on a standalone basis, a fixed fee arrangement is agreed upon by the advisor and client. Compensation for fiduciary asset management services generally varies from 0.65% to 1.25% annually of the market value of client assets managed by our firm. We feel this arrangement best aligns our mutual goals of growing and protecting your wealth.
What Technology do You use with clients?
We use industry leading eMoney for goals-based and/or cash-flow planning and client tailored financial data aggregation, reporting and secure document storage. Morningstar Office is used for investment tracking and reporting. Finally, we leverage Riskalyze for in-depth risk assessment and management.
Who does Alere Planning use for Securities trading and SAFE KEEPING Of client assets?
We partner with Charles Schwab Advisor Services for securities trading and asset custody services. Schwab is a trusted industry leader in providing these services to help independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms like ours better serve our clients. Recently Schwab lead the industry by eliminating online trading commissions entirely for all stocks, ETFS, and options.
Do you sell products?
If and when a client expresses an interest in a specific financial product we research and present options for consideration. Ultimately, the client makes the final decision. We are insurance licensed and can offer suitable insurance and annuity products to fit within the context of an overall financial life plan.
How is Alere Planning Different?
Potential clients are typically introduced as they face life transitions that may be complex and emotional. We believe that gaining a deep understanding of a clients life situation is essential to providing effective direction, clarity of thinking and a sense of confidence as clients navigate these important life events. A structured process of financial life planning helps clients better understand and embrace the strategies and actions necessary to gain control over their lives. Morgan Housel captured it best in his wonderful book The Psychology of Money - “The most important part of every plan is planning on your plan not going according to plan.” That is why a trusted partner is so valuable.
What should I bring to the first meeting?
We prefer a first meeting to be a relaxed and informal sharing of ideas around big picture topics like personal goals, objectives, expectations, fears/worries, life events, and visioning. Bringing along current documents pertaining to your financial situation generally help support the discussion (click here for further details on what to bring).
What Investments Are used in client portfolios?
Portfolios are typically constructed using a combination of actively managed and/or index based mutual funds and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) from leading global asset managers. Examples include: BlackRock (iShares), T Rowe Price, State Street Global Advisors (Spiders), Vanguard, VanEck (Vectors), Alger, Brown Advisory, and others. Positions in individual securities may be implemented as well.
do you advise on Insurance solutions?
Yes, we are licensed to consult on and place insurance solutions for clients. Clients generally seek our guidance on life, health, disability and long-term care coverages along with annuity products. Our independence gives us the flexibility and latitude to research and recommend the right trade off of benefits and costs offered by an array of leading insurance companies.
Can you service clients outside the Baltimore area?
Yes we can and do everyday! Our clients live all over the country - California, Texas, Colorado, Virgin Islands and all up and down the east coast. We leverage tools like Microsoft Teams and other cloud technologies to stay connected with clients.