Individual financial solutions must be tailored to fit the unique circumstances of every client. That said, the steps we take to ensure a successful outcome (regardless of one’s state of affairs) are consistent and critically important. Here are 7 steps a prospective client can look forward to when working with The Carter Group.
Get Organized
A comprehensive approach to finances and investing begins with a thorough discovery process and taking charge of what you already have. An example of this would be consolidating all of your existing savings and investments to one institution and on to one set of reports. For taxable investors, a customized summary for your accounting professional will reduce errors and costly accounting fees.
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Have a plan you can understand
We prepare an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) for every client that describes in plain language the investment objectives, risk parameters and costs associated with their portfolio. This document covers the basics of how your funds will be invested and will typically have a sample portfolio attached for review before your funds are invested.
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Remain accountable and measure results
Regular performance reporting makes it easier to see if your plan is on track. Annual review report cards are produced for every client and more frequent performance reporting is available upon request.
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Cut your costs and raise your returns
Very few investors are aware of the
costs associated with their investments. Surprisingly, established investors paying higher management fees and costs don’t always receive better service or expertise. And rarely do higher fees lend themselves to better long-term results. Our fee is typically a fraction of what conventional mutual fund portfolios or WRAP programs charge and includes the transactional and custodial costs you would pay extra for with other portfolio managers. Not only are our fees competitive, they are also easily explained, reported annually for accounting purposes and entirely transparent.
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Be connected
Frequency of contact is something we understand from our clients to be of upmost importance. Weekly e-mails and investor bulletins, quarterly phone or in-person meetings and annual comprehensive reviews means you always know we’re in touch and that you’re in step with your investments.
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Embrace change
Individual and family circumstances are prone to change and it’s critical that your investments are adjusted accordingly. As well, today’s investment environment, retirement benefits and tax legislation are evolving faster than ever before.
Diligent portfolio review, a careful watch and open communication between advisor and client are critical to long-term success.
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Never Stop Learning
Our team is committed to continuing education and promotes learning for investors of all levels of sophistication as well. We work with every client to help them better understand the rationale behind their portfolio holdings.
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