Crescendo Financial Planners is a fee-only financial planning firm founded in 2011 and owned by Certified Financial Planner and Certified Public Accountant Elizabeth Buffardi. The firm specializes in comprehensive, personalized financial planning for individuals and families, covering areas such as tax planning and preparation, retirement planning, estate planning, budgeting, and risk management. Crescendo distinguishes itself by focusing on the client's entire financial life rather than just managing investments. The firm does not sell insurance or investment products, nor does it accept commissions. Crescendo operates on a non-discretionary basis, meaning clients always give prior approval for any trades. Services are offered primarily through Open Retainers for ongoing holistic planning, Project Retainers, Financial Reviews, and Custom hourly projects.
Fee Structure
Crescendo Financial Planners offers an Open Retainer service that provides comprehensive, ongoing financial planning for a fixed annual fee. Depending on your situation, initial year fees range from $3,300 to $20,000 or more, calculated based on your adjusted gross income, marketable assets, and overall complexity. For clients with marketable assets over $7,000,000, the fee is a flat 0.50% of marketable assets.
What is included in the initial year:
- 6 to 11 scheduled meetings (lasting 90-120 minutes each) to build your plan in segments
- Tax preparation (or a lower fee if tax prep is excluded)
- Retirement planning, tax planning, cash flow budgeting, asset allocation, and estate planning review
- Unlimited phone, email, and face-to-face consultations
Renewal years typically feature 3 to 4 scheduled meetings and reduced fees due to lower planning needs after the first year.
- Financial Review — A flat fee of $3,000 for a one-time review focusing on 1 to 4 specific areas chosen by the client, including written recommendations and a 30-day follow-up period.
- Custom Project — Hourly consulting charged at a rate of $250 per hour for limited, specific planning needs, with an upfront cost estimate provided.