Why We Became Fee-Only Financial Advisors

by Steven Witter, CFP®
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Why We Became Fee-Only Financial Advisors in Buffalo, NY

At our core, we’ve always been driven by a simple mission: to help people make smarter financial decisions and feel confident about their future. That mission has only grown stronger over time—and it’s why we made the decision to become fee-only financial advisors right here in Buffalo, NY.

This wasn’t about stepping away from something—it was about moving toward a better, more transparent way of working with clients. Here's what being fee-only really means, why it matters, and how it benefits you.

A Natural Evolution Toward Fee-Only Financial Planning

Our previous firm gave us valuable experience, but we saw a growing need for something more client-focused. As financial advisors in Western New York, we wanted the freedom to provide unbiased, conflict-free advice—tailored to the unique needs of our neighbors in Buffalo, Amherst, and beyond.

By becoming independent, fee-only fiduciaries, we gained that freedom.

Now, every recommendation we make is based on one thing: what’s best for you.

What Does “Fee-Only” Mean?

In the financial services industry, “fee-only” is more than a buzzword—it’s a promise of transparency.

As fee-only advisors, we are only compensated by our clients. We do not receive commissions, kickbacks, or incentives from investment funds, insurance products, or annuity sales. We don’t sell financial products. We sell financial advice—plain and simple.

This approach eliminates the common conflicts of interest that often exist with commission-based or fee-based advisors.

When you work with a fee-only financial advisor in Buffalo, you can trust that our guidance is 100% aligned with your best interests.

What Makes Financial Advisors Different?

Not all financial advisors are required to put your interests first. In fact, many are only obligated to recommend investments that are “suitable,” not necessarily the best.

Here’s how the models compare:

  • Commission-Based Advisors: Paid when they sell financial products like annuities or insurance. Often held to a lower “suitability” standard.
  • Fee-Based Advisors: Charge a fee for planning, but also earn commissions—introducing conflicts of interest.
  • Fee-Only Fiduciary Advisors: Only paid by you. Required by law to act in your best interest at all times. No commissions. No sales quotas. No hidden agenda.

As full-time fiduciaries, we offer a clean, conflict-free model of financial planning that puts our clients first.

A Better Way to Plan for the Future

Becoming a fee-only financial advisor was one of the most important steps we’ve taken—for our business and for the clients we serve.

It allows us to build deeper, more trusted relationships. It gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re receiving financial advice that’s honest, objective, and always in your best interest.

If you’re looking for a fiduciary, fee-only financial advisor in Buffalo, NY, we’d love to help you gain clarity and confidence in your financial life.