“You get what you pay for.” It’s a phrase that rings true in many aspects of life—but when it comes to financial advice, it’s worth a second look. At Sensible Portfolios, we believe intelligent investing begins not with speculation or trend-chasing, but with cost control. That’s why we’ve built our entire philosophy around the idea that you don’t have to overpay for exceptional financial guidance.
As a low cost financial advisor based in Reno, NV, we provide the same high-touch service, long-term investment strategies, and retirement planning as high-fee firms—without the inflated price tag.
A Low-Cost Advisor’s Perspective on High Fees
High fees can quietly erode your wealth over time. The impact isn’t always obvious at first, but compounding fees can cost you tens of thousands—sometimes hundreds of thousands—of dollars over the course of your investment journey. That’s money that could be working for your future.
In fact, a Morningstar study found that low fees are one of the most consistent predictors of strong investment performance. Investors who focus on minimizing costs often see better outcomes than those who chase the latest “hot” fund or try to time the market.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) echoes this sentiment:
“Along with the other factors you think about when choosing either a financial professional or a particular investment, be sure you understand and compare the fees you’ll be charged.”
Our pricing is simple and transparent. We charge based on assets under management, not commissions or hidden markups.
We charge 0.70% annually on the first $1 million we manage for you. For any amount above $1 million, the fee drops significantly to just 0.10% annually.
For example, if your portfolio is $3 million, your annual advisory fee would be $9,000 total. That breaks down to $7,000 for the first $1 million (at 0.70%) and $2,000 for the remaining $2 million (at 0.10%). This results in an effective fee rate of just 0.30%—a fraction of what many traditional advisors charge
Our tiered pricing means as your portfolio grows, your effective fee rate declines. That’s real value for high-net-worth individuals and families looking for low cost wealth management without sacrificing quality.
A Closer Look: The Long-Term Cost of Fees
Fees may seem small in percentage terms, but over time, they have an outsized impact on your portfolio.
Just look at the chart below from our analysis of a $100,000 investment over 20 years with a 4% annual return:
A 1.00% fee (green line) reduces your final portfolio by nearly $30,000.
A 0.50% fee (red line) reduces it by about $10,000.
A 0.25% fee (blue line) allows your investment to compound with far less drag.
Even small reductions in cost make a big difference. Our low fee financial advisors understand this and build portfolios that respect your hard-earned money.
We Recommend What We Invest In
We don’t push expensive products or receive kickbacks from fund companies. As a fee-only fiduciary, our only obligation is to you.
To keep costs low and performance reliable, we recommend evidence-based investments from trusted fund families like Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA) and Vanguard. These firms are globally respected for offering academically backed portfolios with extremely low internal expense ratios.
When you combine those low-cost funds with our efficient advisory structure, you get a total solution that puts more of your return where it belongs—in your pocket.
Markets Are Unpredictable. Costs Are Forever.
No one can control the stock market. But you can control what you pay to participate in it. Costs are one of the few variables investors can predict and manage.
That’s why Sensible was founded on the principle that lower fees can help you keep more of your investment returns. We’ve been practicing that principle in Reno, Nevada since 1994, helping families, professionals, and retirees build wealth with confidence and clarity.
We don’t believe in fancy jargon or trying to outsmart the market. Instead, we focus on:
- Globally diversified, tax-efficient portfolios
- Low-cost investment vehicles
- Personalized retirement and financial planning
- Transparent, consistent communication
This is low cost wealth management the way it should be—honest, simple, and aligned with your goals.
Why Clients Choose Sensible?
We may offer lower fees, but we never cut corners on service. Clients come to us—and stay with us—because they know we put their interests first. Here’s what sets us apart:
Fiduciary Standard – We’re legally and ethically obligated to act in your best interest.
Fee-Only Structure – No commissions. No hidden incentives.
Decades of Experience – Serving clients in Reno and beyond since 1994.
Transparent Billing – Clients can choose to have fees deducted directly from their accounts or pay by credit card. Fees are collected monthly or quarterly.
Flexible Accessibility – Virtual meetings, responsive service, and modern tools to keep you informed.
Let’s Make Investing More Sensible
Choosing a financial advisor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Don’t let high fees chip away at your future.
If you’re looking for a low fee financial advisor in Reno, or anywhere in the U.S., we invite you to experience the Sensible difference. Our approach is grounded in logic, backed by research, and focused on helping you keep more of what you earn.
Reach out today for a free consultation. Let’s build your financial future together—without overpaying for it.
Sensible Portfolios
High value. Low fees.
Trusted since 1994.
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