FAQ
The idea of the family office originated when America’s first industrialists employed a staff of full-time professionals to provide tax and estate planning, investment reporting, trust administration and philanthropy management. Today, we can offer Cornerstone clients these services in the private luxury of a modern-day multi-family office.
Yes, Cornerstone Family Office is a Registered Investment Advisor with the Ohio Division of Securities, for the sole purpose of our client bill paying service. As such, we are subject to process requirements and examination by the Division for adherence to those procedures. Our ADV form is offered annually to our clients and is available to others, upon request.
The three characteristics that distinguish us from other firms are the longevity of our client relationships, the level of client service, and the credentials and experience of our staff.
Longevity: While we welcome new clients each year, we are particularly proud of the longevity of our client relationships. Most of them have been with us for over 10 years and many date back over 30 years. In addition, many client relationships include children and grandchildren, allowing us to strategize for generations to come.
Intensive client service: Under our retainer relationship, our services are multifaceted and include many meetings and conversations throughout the year. As a trusted advisor, we are in a unique position to monitor and understand changes in family dynamics or philosophy over time. In addition, Cornerstone clients enjoy a low ratio of clients per professional.
Credentials: Members of our staff hold the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification and are Certified Public Accountants (CPA’s). The Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) is perhaps our most prestigious designation because it requires additional experience, education and references that set us apart from other financial planners. All three of our senior staff hold the PFS credential and collectively have over 100 years of experience serving the needs of wealthy clients and their families.
Yes, Cornerstone Family Office welcomes the opportunity to work with your current team, including your investment advisor, attorney or other professional service provider. This allows us the flexibility to collaborate with your other professionals and the objectivity to offer you alternatives, if desired.
Fees are set based upon your financial needs and our level of involvement. Most of our client relationships are based upon a quarterly retainer, while some clients prefer an hourly arrangement. There are a few clients that have elected to have a fee share component in place which serves to offset the cost of our services. Retainers are reviewed annually and reset, as necessary.
There is not a specific minimum or maximum wealth threshold. While our services can be beneficial to individuals of any means, it is often true that the benefits become most apparent when wealth is in excess of 20 million dollars. Cornerstone can and does effectively serve clients whose wealth is well in excess of 500 million dollars. We welcome a discussion to explore whether our type of firm and level of service are a good fit for you and your family.
