Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I choose Halberstadt Financial Consultants?
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We take pride in our strong credentials, years of experience and high ethical standards. As fee-only
advisors, we put your interests first.
- Brokers are not prevented from having conflicts of interest with their clients such as selling an
investment that may have better alternatives but helps them meet a sales quota or is a company-
managed fund that generates higher income for the financial institution. There are no NASD
regulations requiring brokers to always clearly disclose potential conflicts of interest.
- Where is my money held?
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While you grant Halberstadt Financial Limited Power of Attorney to execute purchases and sales on
your behalf, you remain in control of your assets. You will receive monthly brokerage statements
mailed directly from the custodian. Your account is held in your name with a large, nationally-
recognized custodian; we use Schwab Institutional and TD Ameritrade Institutional to hold client
assets.
- Whom would I work with?
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All our clients work directly with our experienced advisors. Together, they coordinate every aspect
of each client's investment portfolio and tax and financial planning issues. Unlike our competitors,
our top priority is to provide high quality, personalized service; we do not pass off your accounts to
new, inexperienced advisors.
- Will you keep my information confidential?
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We keep all client information completely confidential. We provide a written privacy statement to
all of our clients that affirms our commitment to confidentiality. Your information is not released
without your express authorization.
- Do you require discretionary authority over my account?
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Clients that choose to retain us as their investment advisor may choose to have a discretionary or a
non-discretionary account. Frequently for new clients, we recommend a non-discretionary account
wherein we call you before placing any trades. This gives us both an opportunity to spend the time
to discuss each trade and why it is recommended.
- What does is cost to have you manage my money?
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We charge an Assets Under Management (AUM) fee that is based on a percentage of the market
value of the account(s). This fee ranges from 1.00% to 0.50% of the value annually based
on the size of the account and the level of services requested. This fee is charged quarterly.
We provide services continuously; there are no large, up-front commissions or payments.
- What if I am interested in investment consulting or financial planning services? How do
you determine the fee for these services?
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Investment consulting fees to review your current holdings and recommend additions and/or
changes are based on the time is takes us to review your current investments, obtain information
as to your time frame and other factors and meet with you in person or over the phone to discuss
our recommendations. Financial planning services are based on the time required to complete the
project and answer your questions. Hourly rates for both services are $285 per hour; the minimum
charge for clients that do not engage us to manage their investment portfolio will be for 2 ½ hours.
You will receive an up-front estimate before we start any work.
- Clients can choose to work with us on a one-time or continuous basis.
- I want to visit the office and meet with someone. What do I do?
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Please call 609-921-0180 and we will arrange for you to speak with one of our advisors so you
can get answers to your questions and determine whether our services fit your specific needs. If
interested, please click here!
- How do I get started?
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The first step is for you to contact us so we can answer your questions. We offer a no-cost, no-
obligation “Get Acquainted” meeting in person or over the phone. The meeting is an opportunity for
you to learn more about us and to determine which of our services are most appropriate for your
needs. These meetings are scheduled between 9-6, Monday through Friday; however, expanded
office hours are available.
