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October 24, 2007 8:05 AM   Subscribe

Does anyone know of a good financial advisor in the Northern VA/DC area?
posted by gogomickey to Work & Money (3 answers total) 2 users marked this as a favorite
 
(Disclaimer: I used to work for Prudential Securities before they became Wachovia Securities)

My guy is Alan Cohan of Wachovia Securities. Honest, forthright, a straight-shooter. Educates his clients, engages them in the process. Very well-respected. I trust him completely. He's done a nice job for me. He's out of the Bethesda branch, but is licensed in many states, including VA and DC.
WACHOVIA SECURITIES
7600 WISCONSIN AVENUE
SUITE 100
BETHESDA MD 20814
(301) 961-0100/(800) 368-2704
alan.m.cohan@wachoviasec.com
jon.b.lindenberg@wachoviasec.com (His associate, also a stand-up guy.
posted by Corky at 8:31 AM on October 24, 2007


My guess is that Alan is a great guy...but my advice is to avoid working with financial planners (this includes insurance agents and accountants) who have incentives to sell particular products. (reverse disclaimer - I work for a large brokerage firm) I would seek out a fee only financial planner...here or here...they will typically offer a no charge consultation to figure out what you need and then provide an estimate that fully discloses the fees you pay. It may feel more expensive on the front end but knowing that the advisor is working for your interest only is worth it. You may still need access to a broker to execute trades but there are loads of brokerage alternatives that only provide execution and don't push products with advice. A good advisor will help you sort through those choices as well. Good Luck.
posted by cyclopz at 9:59 AM on October 24, 2007


I agree with cyclopz... stear clear of anyone who is incentivized to sell specific products. Ask a lot of questions! He also deals with fee-only accounts, so that isn't an issue.
posted by Corky at 11:33 AM on October 24, 2007


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