Frequently Asked Questions
What services does Rowhouse Financial Partners offer?
We provide comprehensive financial planning and tax-intelligent strategies tailored to your unique situation. With dual financial advisors and CPAs on our team, we help clients with everything from retirement and investment planning to tax preparation and estate planning.
We're a one-stop shop for your financial life — all under one roof, right here in your community.
What does it mean to work with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)?
At Rowhouse Financial Partners, all three of our advisors are also CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS® (CFP®). This designation means an advisor has completed rigorous education and passed one of the financial industry's most challenging exams (with a pass rate typically under 65%*).
A CFP® designation also means the advisor is held to a fiduciary standard — meaning we're required to act in your best interest, not ours. Working with a CFP® means you get advice that's grounded in expertise and guided by your goals.
*Source: CFP Board, 2025
How are your fees structured?
We believe in transparency, meaning you always know what you're paying and why. We'll walk you through our fee structure during your first conversation so there are no surprises.
What makes Rowhouse Financial Partners different from a big national firm?
We're your neighbors. As a local, independent, boutique firm located in Baltimore and Glen Burnie, we know our clients by name and take the time to understand their full financial picture. You won't get passed around to call centers or handed a generic plan. You'll work directly with our team, and we'll be here when you need us.
Because we're independent, our advisors aren't tied to product minimums or sales quotas. That means when we recommend something, it's because we believe it's right for you, not because we need to meet a target.
Who is Avantax by Cetera, and what is their role?
You may notice the Avantax by Cetera name associated with Rowhouse Financial Partners. Avantax by Cetera is our broker-dealer. Think of them as the large, established firm that handles the regulatory and custodial infrastructure behind the scenes, so we can focus on what we do best: giving you personalized financial guidance.
Avantax by Cetera is a tax-focused independent broker-dealer working with a nationwide network of financial professionals, delivering tax-intelligent wealth management solutions with a goal of minimizing clients' tax burdens. Their tax-first philosophy is also a big reason we chose to partner with them — it aligns perfectly with our own approach to financial planning.
What is tax-intelligent financial planning, and why does it matter?
Most financial advisors focus on returns. At Rowhouse Financial Partners, we also focus on what you keep. Tax-intelligent planning means we consider the tax impact of every financial decision — from how your investments are structured to when you take Social Security — so more of your money stays in your pocket over the long run.
How do I know if I need a financial planner?
If you've ever wondered whether you're saving enough, paying too much in taxes, or on track to retire comfortably, those are signs it's worth having a conversation with a financial advisor.
Financial planning isn't just for the wealthy; it's for anyone who wants to make smarter decisions with the money they work hard to earn.
Do you work with clients at all income levels?
Absolutely. We believe everyone deserves a plan, regardless of income level. Whether you're just starting to build wealth or planning for retirement, we'll meet you where you are and build a financial plan that fits your life and your goals.
How do I get started?
Just reach out; we'd love to connect. We'll start with a conversation to learn about your goals, answer your questions, and see if we're the right fit for each other.
No pressure, no jargon. Just a friendly, honest talk about your finances and how we can help. If you’re curious, you can learn more about our process here.