Independent, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Bend, OR
The right financial advisor for you depends on how you weigh location, expertise, experience, the clients they typically serve, and how they work with you.
When you're planning for college expenses, you want an advisor who understands how to balance saving now with preserving financial aid eligibility later. Without this insight, you might save in ways that reduce your chances for aid or create unexpected tax consequences. Independent advisors here operate without firm constraints, which can mean more flexible advice tailored to your family's unique situation.
- Account type guidance. Confirm they explain the differences between 529 plans, UTMA accounts, and other savings vehicles, including tax benefits and impact on financial aid.
- Contribution strategy. Ask how they recommend timing and amounts of contributions to maximize growth while keeping options open.
- Coordination with financial aid. Ensure they consider how your savings affect aid calculations and suggest ways to optimize your family's financial picture.
- Investment options. Look for advisors who discuss the range of investment choices within college savings accounts and how they align with your timeline and risk tolerance.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Eric B
Series 65
Bend, OR
Edgewood Wealth Management
Eric Berlin in Bend, OR specializes in college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by his Series 65 designation and experience with cash flow and retirement withdrawal planning. His firm, Edgewood Wealth Management, offers a mix of passive and active investment strategies with flexible fee options like flat fees and hourly rates, catering to individuals and high-net-worth clients seeking tailored financial planning.
Experience: 0 years
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Michael M
Series 65
Clackamas, OR
Pinnacle Wealth Advisors
Michael Musco specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, offering independent advice tailored to families in Bend, OR. His firm, Equilus Group Inc, emphasizes client-directed portfolio management with a flat-fee subscription model, which may appeal to those seeking transparent ongoing planning costs and personalized investment options aligned with their values and timelines.
Experience: 2 years
Avg account: $584,818
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Stephen S
Series 63, Series 65
Bend, OR
Wychick Investment Advisors, Inc.
Stephen Swenson specializes in college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, with 23 years of experience in Bend, OR. His firm manages $29.1 million across 95 clients, offering flat-fee and hourly financial planning options, which provides flexible pricing compared to typical AUM fees, making him suitable for families seeking tailored, independent advice on education funding.
Experience: 23 years
Avg account: $313,462
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David R
Series 66
Bend, OR
ValMark Advisers, Inc.
David Rosell offers expertise in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, backed by 25 years of experience and a Series 66 designation. Operating independently with ValMark Advisers, he provides flexible flat-fee arrangements and access to diversified, goal-based portfolios, distinguishing him from others by combining seasoned insight with tailored investment management in Bend, OR.
Experience: 26 years
Avg account: $554,438
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Farrell G
Series 66
Bend, OR
Aspire Wealth Advisors, LLC
Farrell Griswold offers expertise in college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, with 15 years of experience and a Series 66 designation. As founder of Aspire Wealth Advisors in Bend, he provides independent, flat-fee financial planning tailored to families, combining discretionary investment management with specialized services like divorce and liability planning, setting him apart from other local advisors.
Experience: 16 years
Avg account: $821,223
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