Where we’re going
together.

How do I properly diversify? What type of investment products? How much risk should I take on?

We learn your story. Gather data. And create a custom investment plan for you. Including a disciplined investment strategy, regular rebalancing, and a customizable investment mix.

Summit Story:

Several years ago, a young professional was approached by her superior about investing in a substantial commercial real estate development. Even though her earnings were on the uptick and projected returns were promising, the deal required a pledge of assets that far exceeded her current net worth. After several meetings with her Summit advisor, she decided to invest a small percentage of her assets. The deal did not pay off; a larger share would have potentially put her in desperate financial straits.

When should I tap into Social Security? Have I saved enough? How can I use my savings to help my family?

It’s never too early, or late, to plan for retirement. We’ve helped many clients cross the finish line, and that expertise can help you finish strong.

Summit Story:

When a physician and her husband came to Summit for a retirement analysis, their advisor recommended which products to keep and which to consolidate or eliminate. Feeling confident that they had more than enough money for retirement, the couple decided to fund their grandchildren’s college savings plans and provide annual gifts to their children. What’s more, since she is no longer worried about money, the physician now devotes more time to work that gives her personal fulfillment.

At Summit, financial planning is a lot more than choosing investments for you. From tax strategy to retirement planning, with a whole lot in between, we help you make smart financial decisions. So you can focus on making the most out of life. 

Summit Story:

During a planning meeting, a 62-year-old attorney and his wife were asked to write down five accomplishments that defined happiness. Later, their advisor remarked that they had already achieved everything on the list. They left feeling great. The next week, the attorney called to say that he just had one of the best days in his career. “Before our meeting, I was hoping that our financial situation would allow me to retire sooner,” he said. “Now I am wondering how long I can continue to practice law!”

How do I manage tied-up equity? How do I set-up a succession plan? How do we maximize our charitable giving?

Your business is personal, and it should be a part of your personal financial plan. Whether your goals are growth or succession, we help you maximize those decisions.

Summit Story:

An executive ran a successful family-owned business with his brothers. He hired Summit to prepare his personal financial plan, manage his portfolio and help him assess the buy-sell agreement being negotiated. Because most of his net worth was in the business, if the executive were to become disabled or die, his wife and children would have had no assets until his brother liquidated the company. Summit found solutions to help him feel confident about his family’s financial future.

How do I set-up my family for the future? How can I maximize my estate?

The truth is, plans change. Shifting your plan from personal wealth to family-focused wealth is as simple as making a few smart decisions. 

Summit Story:

A couple was advised to make annual tax-free gifts to their children in order to reduce their taxable estate. After her husband passed away, the widow worried that it was unfair to make gifts to her children based on the number of grandchildren involved, because that would divide her money unequally among siblings. Summit helped her resolve this dilemma with annual gifts of equal amounts to each of her three children, who could then decide whether to allocate any of the funds to the grandchildren.

How much cash should we keep in an account? How do we budget? Should we pay off outstanding loans?

Creating the right balance is key. We want our clients to have the peace of mind that comes with having cash on hand, while still maximizing assets through smart investment.

Summit Story:

A recently retired couple had never needed to budget for cash flow. Upon retirement, they decided to establish $100,000 in cash reserves, using investment accounts for living expenses. This unfamiliar arrangement was very uncomfortable at first. Summit arranged for an amount equal to their pre-retirement paycheck to transfer monthly into their checking account, periodically sweeping some of the extra cash back into investments. The new arrangement has put the clients’ minds at ease.

When is the right time to invest in a vacation home? Can we afford it?

You’ve worked hard to meet your goals. Our goal? Get you into that vacation home with a smile on your face and a plan for maximizing your value.

Summit Story:

A couple in their 60s had been planning their retirement for years. They decided to purchase a second home for the summer months, which would eventually serve as their primary retirement home. Summit assisted them by preparing projections on their finances assuming different values and financing options for their second home, as well as the tax impact of establishing residency in another state. The couple eventually purchased the home with cash and set aside enough money to fund annual maintenance and upkeep.