From your first conversation to ongoing partnership — here's how it works.
This is a casual phone or video call where we get to know each other. You share a bit about your situation, goals, and any concerns. I explain how Summit works and what the process looks like. You ask any questions you have.
There's no pressure and no sales pitch — just a straightforward conversation to see if we're a good fit for each other.
This is where we take a deep dive into your complete financial picture. We'll gather and review key information — income, expenses, assets, debts, insurance coverage, estate documents, and tax returns.
We'll discuss your goals in detail — retirement timeline, travel plans, legacy wishes, education funding, and anything else that matters to you. We'll also talk about your risk tolerance and investment experience so I can understand what kind of approach will work best.
Using everything we discussed, I build a personalized financial plan and an investment strategy tailored to your goals, timeline, and risk tolerance. The plan incorporates tax-efficient strategies — Roth conversions, tax-loss harvesting, and withdrawal ordering — designed to help you keep more of what you earn.
If applicable, we'll also look at Social Security optimization to maximize your benefits. We review the plan together, discuss any questions, and refine it until it feels right.
We open accounts at Charles Schwab or transfer your existing accounts via ACAT — a standard process that typically takes one to two weeks. I handle the paperwork and coordination to make it as smooth as possible.
We deploy your investment strategy and set up any needed account structures — joint accounts, IRAs, Roth IRAs, trust accounts, and more. If it would benefit your plan, I coordinate with your CPA or estate attorney to make sure everything is aligned.
This isn't a set-it-and-forget-it arrangement. We meet regularly — at least semi-annually, more often if needed — to review your progress and make sure your plan stays on track. Your portfolio is continuously monitored and rebalanced, and I look for tax-loss harvesting opportunities throughout the year.
Life changes? We adjust the plan. New job, retirement, inheritance, health changes — whatever comes up, we address it together. You always work directly with Michael — no call centers, no getting shuffled around. I'm available by phone or email anytime.
Having these documents handy helps us make the most of our time together. Don't worry if you don't have everything — we'll work with what you have.