Working With a Financial Advisor
What Is a Financial Advisor?
A financial advisor helps you make sense of your money — what you’ve got, what you need, and how to make it work for you. We help folks plan for what’s right in front of them and what’s coming down the road. That might mean saving for the future, getting your investments in order, planning for retirement, or making sure things are set up for your family later on. You don’t have to have it all figured out — that’s what we’re here for. We’ll help you sort through what you’ve got and talk about what makes sense next.
Not Sure Where to Start?
That’s okay — most people aren’t. Sometimes the next step is as simple as picking up the phone. You don’t have to know what to ask or even what you need. We’ll help you figure that out together and make sure you leave the conversation knowing exactly where to go from here.
Making Sense of What’s Next
Money decisions can feel overwhelming — especially with so much noise out there. Our job is to help you cut through it, understand your options, and take clear, practical steps that fit your situation. Whether you’re just starting out or realizing it’s time to make a few updates, it’s never too early — and never too late — to get things on track. We’ll help you make decisions that make sense today and still work for you down the road.
Straight Talk, Since 1987
For decades, we’ve helped hardworking folks — families, business owners, retirees, and professionals in education, agriculture, and beyond — make confident financial decisions without the fluff. We listen first, talk straight, and design practical strategies that match your goals and stage of life.
Built on Trust, Backed by Experience
When life shifts, your finances should too. That’s not a sign something’s broken — it just means it’s time for an update. The financial world changes every year: new tax laws, new tools, new ways to plan smarter. What worked ten years ago, or even five, might not fit your situation anymore — and that’s okay. We’ll help you adjust course, use what’s available today, and keep your plan working for the life you’re living now.
Liza Christian Firmin, CFP®, carries forward the legacy her father, Wayne Christian, started in 1987 — serving hardworking families, business owners, and professionals with honesty, care, and clear direction. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, Liza is held to the highest fiduciary standard and holds our team to those same expectations of trust and accountability.
What Does ‘Fiduciary’ Really Mean?
In simple terms, being a fiduciary means we’re required to put your best interests first. But for us, it’s more than a rule — it’s how we’ve always done business. You deserve advice that’s straightforward, unbiased, and focused on what helps you, not what benefits a company or product.
Doing what’s right isn’t optional — it’s the whole job. Our recommendations are based on what’s best for you, not what pays the most or checks a corporate box. We’ll always explain our reasoning so you can feel confident in every decision.
Liza Christian Firmin, CFP®, is held to the highest ethical standard — what’s called the fiduciary standard. That means she’s legally and morally required to act in your best interest. She takes that responsibility seriously and holds our entire team to that same level of care and professionalism.
Money talk shouldn’t be murky. We’ll walk you through how we’re paid, what you’re paying for, and why something may or may not be a fit. The truth is, financial services can be complex — but our goal is to make sure you never feel in the dark about what’s happening with your money.
Commissions – Some products, like mutual funds or insurance, pay our firm directly. The cost is built into the product — you don’t pay an extra fee on top.
Fees – For managed accounts, we charge a flat percentage of the assets we manage. That covers ongoing planning, advice, and service throughout the year.
The way we’re paid doesn’t drive our recommendations. Sometimes a commission-based product is the most cost-effective option and keeps more of your money working for you. Other times, a fee-based approach offers more flexibility and ongoing support. Our job is to help you find what fits best — not what pays us more.
Ready to Talk with a CFP® Professional?
Sometimes the next best step is just starting the conversation. We’ll help you make sense of where you stand and find clear, practical next steps that fit your goals.