Great Oak Wealth Management

John R. Sarian serves as the firm's Founder, CEO, and Chief Investment Officer, per public record. He leads the investment committee and is responsible for asset allocation and portfolio construction decisions. The structure is typical of an owner-operated RIA where the principal holds both executive leadership and investment oversight roles.

The firm uses a fee-based model common to independent RIAs, charging clients a percentage of assets under management and offering flat-fee planning arrangements rather than relying on commissions. This fiduciary structure removes product-sale incentives and aligns the firm's revenue with client portfolio growth. The exact fee schedule is disclosed in the firm's Form ADV Part 2A and negotiated directly with clients.

The firm primarily serves mass-affluent and high-net-worth individuals and families in southeastern Pennsylvania and the broader Tri-State area. Client profiles typically include pre-retirees, retirees, business owners, and professionals seeking integrated financial planning. The practice competes directly with regional banks and wirehouse advisors who serve similar household balance sheets.

Yes. As a registered investment adviser, Great Oak Wealth Management is bound by the fiduciary standard under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, which requires the firm to act in clients' best interests. This distinguishes the firm from broker-dealer representatives who operate under the suitability standard. The fiduciary duty covers both investment advice and the broader financial planning relationship.

The firm constructs portfolios across equities, fixed income, and alternative investments, with allocations shaped by each client's planning objectives. Equity exposure is typically implemented through individual securities and ETFs, while fixed income uses municipal and corporate bonds for tax-conscious yield. Insurance-based vehicles — including annuities, long-term care policies, and life insurance — are integrated when estate and risk-management planning requires them.