Some People Don’t—And That’s Okay
There’s a common message in the financial industry that everyone needs an advisor. I don’t believe that.
If you take pleasure in managing your own finances, have the time to remain involved, and possess the discipline to make confident decisions, you will likely be just as successful as someone who hires an advisor. There are plenty of capable, self-directed investors.
In fact, an advised portfolio will almost always be pricier than a self-managed one. And when all things are equal, it’s unlikely to outperform. But all things aren’t always equal.
When Doing It All Yourself Starts to Lose Its Appeal
Even highly capable investors reach a point where their time or interest in managing everything starts to fade. Life gets more complicated. Tax rules change. Goals evolve. Maybe the plan that made sense ten years ago doesn’t quite fit anymore—but the next move isn’t obvious.
That’s often the point where people decide they want an advisor. This is not due to a lack of self-sufficiency, but rather a desire to no longer navigate alone. They want someone to bring structure, context, and a fresh set of eyes.
A Plan Is More Than a Portfolio
The biggest misconception about financial advice is that it’s all about investment management. That’s just one part of it.
Real planning includes:
Retirement projections and withdrawal strategies
Tax planning and multi-year coordination
Estate and beneficiary planning
Education funding
Charitable giving
Insurance and risk analysis
Business transitions
What seems like an investment question often turns out to be a bigger planning issue. Should I sell this rental this year or next? When should I start Social Security? How should I coordinate Roth conversions and RMDs? These aren’t about market performance—they’re about life decisions with financial consequences.
Having a plan won’t eliminate uncertainty. But it gives you a framework for decision-making. It gives you clarity on what really matters.
What It Costs—and What You Get
At ATX Portfolio Advisors, we separate planning and portfolio management to give you flexibility:
Comprehensive Financial Plan: $3,000
It includes investment management for year one, if you want it. This is ideal for those who want clarity, coordination, and a plan that brings everything together.Ongoing Planning: $1,500/year
For clients who want to keep the planning relationship active after year one—without ongoing asset management.Portfolio Management: 0.75% on the first $1 million
All-inclusive of financial planning. Ideal for clients who want to delegate investment oversight and maintain a continuous planning relationship.
This structure lets you engage in the way that fits your needs. No hidden fees, no commissions, and no upsells.
What I Do—and Don’t—Believe
I don’t believe in pitching planning as a magic solution. And I don’t think everyone needs a full-time advisor.
But I do believe in thoughtful coordination. I believe that tax timing, estate strategy, and behavioral coaching often matter more than fund selection. And I believe that for the right person, good advice can be a very worthwhile investment—not because it guarantees better performance, but because it leads to better decisions.
What It’s Like to Work With Me
At ATX Portfolio Advisors, I work with a small group of clients who value clarity, structure, and partnership. Here’s what that means:
You get a real plan. Not a fancy binder. A living plan that drives decisions.
You’re in control. My job is to make your decisions easier—not to make them for you.
We stay aligned. You’ll know what we’re working on, what’s coming next, and where things stand.
There’s no judgment. Whether your spreadsheets are pristine or your statements are unopened and dusty, we’ll meet you where you are.
You don’t have to be overwhelmed or “behind” to work with an advisor. You might just want a guide—someone who helps you connect the dots, prioritize with purpose, and move forward with confidence.
If that sounds like you, let’s get acquainted.