Top private / alternative investments financial advisors in Fort Walton Beach, FL
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.
If you're considering private or alternative investments, you likely want to diversify beyond traditional stocks and bonds to potentially enhance returns or reduce risk. A common mistake is underestimating the complexity and unique risks these investments carry, which can lead to unexpected losses or liquidity issues.
- Risk assessment expertise. Confirm how the advisor evaluates the specific risks tied to private deals or alternative assets, not just general market risks.
- Liquidity planning. Private investments often have limited access to cash; ask how they incorporate this into your overall financial plan.
- Tax implications. Even without state income tax in Florida, federal taxes and property or sales taxes can impact returns; check how they address these factors.
- Alignment with goals. Ensure the advisor connects alternative investments to your broader objectives, not just the asset's potential upside.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Joseph W
Series 65
Miramar Beach, FL
Mariner
Joseph Wilcoxon specializes in private and alternative investments, supported by his Series 65 credential and experience at a large firm, Mariner Wealth, which offers diverse services including tax and retirement plan consulting. His flat-fee structure and focus on high-net-worth clients differentiate him from others, while his background with brands like Under Armour adds a unique perspective on values-based and socially responsible investing.
Experience: 2 years
Avg account: $2,116,909
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Gerald S
Series 66
Destin, FL
Clear Harbor Wealth Management
Gerald Skalsky specializes in private and alternative investments, leveraging 16 years of experience and a Series 66 designation to manage risk and liquidity for clients in the Fort Walton Beach area. His firm, Clear Harbor Wealth Management, serves individual and high-net-worth clients with a risk-based asset allocation approach and manages $48 million in discretionary assets, differentiating him through a blend of fundamental and technical analysis and access to a private pooled investment vehicle.
Experience: 17 years
Avg account: $744,237
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David Z
Series 63, Series 66
Niceville, FL
Charles Schwab
David Zhang specializes in private and alternative investments, real estate investing, and multi-state taxation, making him well-equipped to handle complex investment strategies in Fort Walton Beach. Operating from Charles Schwab, a large firm serving high-net-worth clients with a 0.80% AUM fee, he offers access to discretionary managed accounts and integrated operational support, distinguishing him from smaller local advisors.
Experience: 7 years
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Tamara K
Series 63
Destin, FL
Merrill
Tamara Kotaska offers expertise in private and alternative investments, supported by 33 years of experience and a focus on wealth management, estate planning, and tax strategies. Based in nearby Destin, FL, she works within Merrill's large-firm environment, providing a 1.10% AUM fee structure and serving mid-career professionals and high earners, which may suit clients seeking seasoned guidance with comprehensive financial planning.
Experience: 33 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Kevin K
Series 66
Miramar Beach, FL
Realta Investment Advisors, Inc
Kevin Kelly's 25 years of experience and Series 66 designation equip him to handle private and alternative investments with a deep understanding of risk and liquidity considerations. Operating from Miramar Beach, FL, he offers flat-fee financial planning and access to diverse investment options through Realta Investment Advisors, which manages $343 million and serves 1,900 clients, providing both discretionary and non-discretionary portfolio management.
Experience: 26 years
Avg account: $311,930
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