APPROACH

Because Droms Strauss Advisors are seasoned financial planning and investment management professionals, we tap into our knowledge of best practices. That said, we never apply a one-size-fits-all solution in your financial and investment planning.

The fact is, even when different peoples’ long-term objectives seem quite similar, the paths to get there are invariably unique.

How we guide you, and the approaches we ultimately recommend, are totally personalized. They depend on factors including: how you live now; how you might wish to live in the future; whether your retirement is near, distant, or current; and of course, your specific comfort-level with risk.

Create Your Plan

Early in our work together, we meet with you several times to learn about your current situation and understand your vision for what your life will look like in 10, 20, or more years from now. This involves establishing milestones for your future and clarifying your priorities.

We then advise you of various ways you might work toward achieving your objectives. When you’re comfortable that we’ve identified the right strategy, Droms Strauss prepares a detailed, formal Investment Policy Statement which documents your investment objectives and defines the asset allocation plan you’ve agreed is most appropriate for you. 

Because your unique asset allocation is critical to achieving long-term investment success, this is one of the most important investment decisions that you must face. The asset allocation decision drives the returns and determines the risk level of your portfolio.

Implement Your Plan

To implement, we begin with your present holdings (e.g. stocks, bonds, cash, etc.) and gradually move into the asset classes and allocations described in your Investment Policy Statement. The new tools usually include no-load mutual funds, bonds and/or bond funds, and separate account managers. Through the use of newly available technology, Droms Strauss Advisors also has the ability to manage the assets in your company provided 401(k) or other retirement plan.

Importantly, your funds are always held by an independent custodian. Our preferred custodian is Charles Schwab & Co. You’ll receive monthly, independently produced account statements directly from Schwab, providing you with a totally transparent picture of all of your investment holdings.

Continuous Access

We’ll regularly consult with you to review the progress toward your long-term objectives. It is normal that new considerations arise, and that your financial situation will change over time. That’s why it’s important to know that we’re always available to discuss all your financial issues, and especially to help you determine how your long-term objectives may be altered when situations in your life change.

Beyond your investments, you may want help determining whether to purchase long-term care insurance, reviewing of your estate plan, or considering something as routine as whether to lease or buy a new vehicle.

With over 30 years of experience guiding people through virtually every type of financial decision, clients say it’s nice to know we’re here to help and frequently tell us we’ve exceeded their expectations as their investment manager.