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Wealth Advisor Fee Impact

Compare the long-term cost of different advisor fee structures

Chapter 33

Selecting a wealth advisor is one of the most consequential decisions you'll make after your exit. The fees you pay compound dramatically over decades, directly reducing the wealth available for your lifestyle. This calculator reveals the true long-term cost of different advisor fee structures, helping you make an informed choice.

Whether you're comparing a 1% AUM fee, a flat retainer, or a commission-based advisor, understanding how these costs compound on your exit proceeds is critical. This tool models the gap between investing with and without advisor fees, showing you exactly what you're paying for the advice and services.

Fee Model Comparison

Fee-Only Model

Ending Portfolio $3,847,000
Total Fees Paid $267,000
Fee Drag (Lost Growth) $267,000
Net After Fees $3,847,000

Commission-Based Model

Ending Portfolio $3,551,000
Total Fees Paid $553,000
Fee Drag (Lost Growth) $553,000
Net After Fees $3,551,000

The fee difference costs you $286,000 over 20 years — that's the difference between ending with $3,847,000 (fee-only) vs $3,551,000 (commission-based).

Year-by-Year Comparison

Year Fee-Only Value Comm-Based Value Fee Difference
1 $2,100,000 $2,050,000 $50,000
Fee-only advisors align their interests with yours. Commission-based advisors may have conflicts of interest. Over 20 years, this fee difference could be substantial.

Frequently Asked Questions