Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What makes Family Wealth Strategists different from other advisors?

Accepted Answer

We start with your life, not your portfolio. Most advisors begin with investments. We begin with a conversation about what actually matters — your family, your priorities, your vision for an exceptional next chapter — then build a financial strategy around that. We coordinate everything as one integrated picture. We act as fiduciaries, think in decades, and stay close.

Question 2

What does 'Just Live It™' mean?

Accepted Answer

It's the philosophy behind everything we do. Before building a financial plan, build a life plan. Get clear on what truly matters today. Organize your finances to support that life — now and in the years ahead. A great life doesn't happen after the plan. It is the plan.

Question 3

Are you a fiduciary?

Accepted Answer

Yes — always. Family Wealth Strategists, LLC is a registered investment advisor with a fiduciary duty to act in your best interest in every recommendation, every conversation, every decision.

Question 4

Who do you typically work with?

Accepted Answer

Successful families — business owners, professionals, and executives — who have built meaningful lives and want to live them more fully. Most have between $1 million and $25 million in investable assets. What they share is a desire to live with more clarity, intention, and confidence that the financial side of life is organized around what actually matters.

Question 5

Do you work with people approaching retirement?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this is one of the most common moments when families reach out. Approaching retirement often surfaces a deeper question: is everything organized around how I actually want to live? That's exactly where we start.

Question 6

What services do you provide?

Accepted Answer

Life-centered financial planning, disciplined investment management, family conversations, and next generation education — four integrated parts of one relationship, all coordinated around your priorities.

Question 7

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Discovery takes one to several conversations depending on complexity. Design takes 2–4 weeks. Implementation takes 2–4 weeks from signed agreements. Most families have a fully implemented plan within 6–8 weeks — though we always move at the pace that feels right.

Question 8

Do I need to transfer all my accounts?

Accepted Answer

For investment management, yes — we need discretionary authority to implement your portfolios. We also coordinate with accounts held elsewhere and incorporate them into your overall picture.

Question 9

How much do you charge?

Accepted Answer

Our advisory fee is based on assets under management — typically 1.00% on the first $1 million, declining at higher levels. Combined with platform and investment fees, total all-in cost is typically 1.2–1.8% annually. In certain circumstances — standalone planning or specific project work — a predetermined flat fee may apply, scoped in advance. All fees are fully disclosed before any agreement is signed.

Question 10

How are you compensated?

Accepted Answer

Our advisory fee is based on assets under management, with fees fully disclosed before any agreement is signed.

Question 11

Are there any hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No. Every fee is disclosed before you sign anything. No surprises.

Question 12

What is your investment philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Our investment process integrates regime-based analysis, multi-asset diversification, multi-manager implementation, and a long-term perspective. Our AI CIO Office synthesizes eighteen institutional disciplines — drawing from frameworks used by Goldman Sachs, Bridgewater, PIMCO, BlackRock, and others — reviewed and applied through human fiduciary judgment specific to your situation.

Question 13

Do you use alternative investments?

Accepted Answer

When appropriate, yes. We may use liquid alternative strategies for diversification. In certain circumstances, we may also use interval funds available through our platform, which offer periodic rather than daily liquidity. We do not use illiquid private partnerships. All alternatives are selected based on what is appropriate for your specific situation.

Question 14

How do you handle market downturns?

Accepted Answer

With discipline, context, and proactive communication. We maintain systematic rebalancing, implement behavioral protocols, and communicate more — not less — when markets are difficult. You'll always hear from us before you wonder what's happening.

Question 15

How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Quarterly reviews are standard — in person, phone, or video. Annual comprehensive reviews go deeper. Unlimited access between meetings. During major transitions or market stress, we meet more frequently.

Question 16

Will I work with Jeff directly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will work directly with Jeff and the Family Wealth Strategists team.

Question 17

What if I need to access my money?

Accepted Answer

You have access to your money as needed, subject to the liquidity terms of your specific investments.

Question 18

What should I bring to our first meeting?

Accepted Answer

Before our first meeting, you'll receive a short priorities survey — a few thoughtful questions about what matters most to you. Take your time with it, and bring your responses. It helps us start somewhere meaningful rather than from scratch.

Question 19

Can I end the relationship if it's not working?

Accepted Answer

Yes — at any time, with written notice. No lock-up periods. No exit penalties.

Question 20

Do you work with clients outside California?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with families across the United States. Most meetings are by video, with in-person visits as appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Family Wealth Strategists

Who You Work With

Services & Process

Fees & Costs

Investment Approach

Working Together

We're happy to answer anything you'd like to know.

Join our newsletter for updates & education