Top 5 Fee-Only Financial Planning Firms

Selecting the right financial planning firm is one of the most important decisions you can make for your long-term financial security. Among the many options, fee-only financial planning firms stand out for their transparent pricing and client-first approach. Unlike commission-based firms that may promote certain products for a cut, fee-only advisors are compensated directly by their clients—meaning the advice they give is purely in your best interest. This model fosters a more honest and aligned relationship, offering peace of mind that your financial goals are the true priority.

Acadia Wealth Advisors

Acadia Wealth Advisors, founded in 2010 by Frank Gristina in Charlottesville, Virginia, began as Tell-tale Capital and has evolved into a trusted name in data-driven financial planning. Frank brings over 25 years of experience in institutional equity research and investment management, with accolades including the Forbes StarMine 2006 Stock Picker’s Award. Inspired by the stability and natural order of Acadia National Park, the firm applies the same principles to long-term financial strategy, offering personalized, growth-focused planning for individuals, professionals, and multi-generational families.

The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services including growth-at-the-right-yield portfolio management, high-growth and passive investment strategies, pre-estate and wealth transition planning, and retirement planning.

If you are looking for an estate planning financial advisor in Virginia, Acadia’s service model is built around precision, adaptability, and transparency you could trust. They allow clients to evolve their strategies as life circumstances change.

Next Play Financial Solutions, LLC

Founded in 2018 by Melanie Brophy and based in Ashburn, Virginia, Next Play Financial Solutions, LLC was created to offer unbiased, fee-only financial guidance to individuals in need of personalized, tax-optimized wealth planning. Melanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance, launched her career in 2001, and now brings over two decades of experience to the firm. She holds both the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) designation and the IRS Enrolled Agent status, allowing her to deliver expert-level tax and financial planning with a fiduciary commitment.

Next Play operates with a strict no-commission policy, ensuring that all advice is delivered without the influence of product sales or referral incentives. The firm specializes in helping clients over 40 who are looking to maximize employer compensation programs, plan for retirement, and minimize investment costs. With a clear legal obligation to act in their clients’ best interest, Next Play Financial Solutions positions itself as a reliable, transparent, and deeply supportive partner in long-term financial success.

West Financial Services

West Financial Services, headquartered in McLean, Virginia, has served clients across the country for over 40 years with a reputation rooted in conservative, ethical financial advice. The firm operates on a fee-only basis and upholds fiduciary principles, meaning clients receive unbiased guidance without commission-based conflicts. West Financial caters primarily to high-net-worth individuals, providing tailored solutions for investment management, financial planning, and long-term wealth preservation.

A key figure in the firm is Kirstie Martinez, Director of Portfolio Management and Relationship Manager, who brings more than 24 years of experience in financial services. She plays a vital leadership role, overseeing both client strategy and portfolio operations. Her contributions have been recognized through industry accolades, including the Five Star Wealth Manager award in 2023. While specific operational details such as staff size or international reach are not disclosed, the firm’s long-standing history, experienced team, and dedication to client-first service clearly define its place in the financial planning landscape.

Vesteer™ Wealth Management

Vesteer™ Wealth Management is a fee-only financial planning firm located in Charlottesville, Virginia, founded by Rodney Sullivan. With more than 25 years of experience in the financial industry, Rodney also serves as a faculty member at the UVA Darden School of Business, bringing a unique blend of academic and practical knowledge to his advisory role. The firm is committed to acting as a fiduciary, delivering independent, commission-free advice across all areas of financial planning.

Vesteer™ serves a broad range of clients including retirees, families, business owners, and individuals experiencing significant financial transitions. Their services include retirement income planning, tax strategy, investment management, education planning, and long-term wealth protection. Clients can access consultations through virtual or phone meetings, making the experience flexible and accessible. With credentials such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designations, the firm combines rigorous analytical expertise with a client-centric, values-driven approach.

Glassman Wealth Services

Glassman Wealth Services operates as an independent, fee-only advisory firm with offices in Vienna, Virginia, and North Bethesda, Maryland, and also offers virtual meetings to serve clients nationwide. The firm is built around a “Just One Client” mindset, emphasizing personalized attention and strategic planning for each individual. By refusing commissions, referral fees, or any compensation tied to product sales, the firm ensures that all guidance is truly objective and aligned with the client’s best interest.

Glassman’s services are designed for individuals and families with a minimum of $2 million in investable assets, offering advanced financial planning and investment strategies to prepare for long-term goals. Associate Client Advisor Patrick McNamara exemplifies the firm’s commitment to unbiased planning, delivering advice with clarity, professionalism, and transparency. While the firm’s structure does not prioritize international or physical logistics, their virtual-first approach broadens accessibility and reflects a modern, responsive service model suited to clients with complex financial needs.

Conclusion

Choosing a fee-only financial planning firm is a powerful step toward taking control of your financial future. These firms offer more than just investment advice—they build a long-term relationship with you based on clarity, integrity, and shared goals. With no commissions or sales agendas in the way, your advisor’s focus stays exactly where it should be: on helping you achieve your financial aspirations. Whether you’re planning for retirement, managing generational wealth, or navigating life transitions, aligning with the right fee-only planner ensures your finances are handled with care, objectivity, and strategic insight. Take the time to explore these firms and find the one that fits your path best.