History and Background
Our office location and family business story
Our Office Location
Operating for several years in various locations as the only fully independent financial planning and investment firm in Northern Ontario we found a permanent home when we purchased the historic Barry Property on Bellevue Avenue shown below, located on an acre of land on the shores of Minnow Lake, which had just become available on the passing of Mrs. Barry, a pioneer resident of the area at age 89 in 2000. This property was zoned commercial so was ideal for our purpose although renovations were necessary to the home which was built in the 1930's. It was conveniently located close to our residence which made it even more attractive as we can walk to work. Our clients appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this fine old building.
The office is located at 1546 Bellevue Avenue close to the corner of Bancroft Drive and Bellevue Avenue in Minnow Lake as shown on the map above. Watch for signs on the fence. Office hours are weekdays 9 to 5 with appointments after hours.
A Family Business
Financial Decisions is locally owned and operated by the husband and wife team of John Lindsay and Linda Cartier and daughter Melanie Cartier. The firm recently received a 25 year membership plaque in the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce. Linda is President of the company since its formation and has had extensive experience in the financial services industry and as a community volunteer together with her partners.
As strong advocate for higher standards in financial planning, she taught the CFP (Certified Financial Planner) Course at Cambrian College and financial education courses for the general public. Linda was the first financial planner in Northeastern Ontario to hold both the CFP (Certified Financial Planner) and R.F.P. (Registered Financial Planner) designations. She is also a PRP (Professional Retirement Planner) and an ELP (Enhanced Lifestyle Planner) and is a CFDS (Chartered Financial Divorce Specialist). She is the proprietor of the Academy of Financial Divorce Specialists that trains Canadian qualified financial professionals to help those dealing with financial matters in separation and divorce. The website is www.afds.ca for more information.
She has been involved in numerous volunteer activities and received awards for this work and continues to support local initiatives as do both Melanie and John.
FAQs and Endorsements
Recognition, client feedback, and how we support you through key life stages.
Linda received recognition as Favorite Financial Planner on three separate occasions in newspaper polls.
Financial speaker, educator and author Talbot Stevens had this to say: "I am sincerely impressed with Linda Cartier's professionalism. Financial Planning is about identifying individual goals, detailing a plan to achieve these goals and following it through. Linda takes the time to get to know her clients and provide the most comprehensive financial plans I have ever seen."
D.M Thomson R.N. B.A. B.ScN "I have worked with Linda Cartier as my personal financial planner for over 25 years. I have referred others to Linda in the expectation they will enjoy the same financial achievement as myself. Linda has been prompt in returning all my phone calls and answering questions. She possesses extensive knowledge and the patience to assist people in coming to a full understanding of their financial situation and to assist them in constructive solutions."
Focus on Lifestyle and All Aspects of Financial Planning
As our name implies, we help clients determine the best financial decisions based on their own and/or their families lifestyle goals and objectives. This is done though the development of a comprehensive financial plan which will consider all aspects including consideration of debt reduction and control through budgeting as well as saving and investing. Also protection through appropriate insurance if required. These plans are updated on a regular basis or as circumstances change.
Change and the Stages of Life from Starting out to Retirement
The earlier you plan the better the results which include investing, as even small amounts grow to large over time. This is also the time to establish budgeting habits that endure over a lifetime. Marriage, starting a family and possibly home ownership, can mean setting and realizing goals through thoughtful financial planning. Considerations such as future education costs for children and putting aside money for other goals including eventual retirement. Besides short term savings for unexpected expenses and even vacations, investing longer term in Tax Free Savings Accounts and Registered Retirement plans can help. Not to be forgotten is protection through insurance. Entering into retirement requires careful evaluation of sources of income and lifestyle requirements as aging progresses. Later estate planning considerations become important. At Financial Decisions we have had years of dealing with clients at all stages of their life journey and enjoy helping with their lifestyle and financial matters so to the greatest extent possible they can realize their goals and dreams.
Life's Challenges - Separation and Divorce
It is unfortunate but many marriages end in separation and divorce. Linda Cartier is a Chartered Financial Divorce Specialist (CFDS) as well as her other professional designations, and has assisted many individuals and couples in dealing with the financial issues involved in this process. She acts as a neutral in these situations often working with life coaches, lawyers and mediators to achieve the most favourable outcomes for those involved. For more information please visit the website www.afds.ca or call the office at 705-525-7526.