WELCOME HOME: The 1DB Multi-Family Office
1DB clients realize that building and preserving wealth depends on assembling the right team, not mastering every detail themselves.
Drawing on four decades of experience, I’ve crafted the WELCOME HOME strategy to transform how affluent families manage wealth. Instead of each family building their own costly infrastructure, this model introduces a virtual multi-family office for high-quality services at accessible costs.
Understanding the Family Office Concept
A family office typically operates as a private wealth management firm dedicated to serving ultra-high-net-worth families. Think of it as having a personal CFO, along with an integrated team of specialists who manage every aspect of your financial universe—from investments and tax planning to estate issues and philanthropy.
- Single-Family Offices (SFOs): Serve one extremely wealthy family, often requiring tens of millions to justify costs.
- Multi-Family Offices (MFOs): Serve multiple families simultaneously, sharing costs while maintaining high service levels.
- Virtual Multi-Family Offices (VMFOs): A modern version that coordinates independent specialists rather than hiring in-house staff. Your fiduciary advisor acts as quarterback, assembling the right team for your needs.
The WELCOME Framework
W – Wealth Optimization
Covers your entire balance sheet—asset allocation, tax efficiency, and cash flow—for proactive wealth growth.
E – Estate Architecture
Partnering with estate and trust attorneys to structure solutions for:
- Asset Protection
- Tax Considerations
- Succession Planning
- Privacy Protection
- Charitable Integration
L – Legacy Cultivation
Prepares heirs, fosters family values, and establishes a multi-generational vision through governance, education, and structures for unity.
C – Coordinated Counsel
Serves as a central coordinator, enabling CPAs, attorneys, insurance specialists, and advisors to operate as a unified team.
O – Organized & Opportunistic
Identifies investment opportunities (private equity, real estate, direct deals) and implements strategies to mitigate risks while positioning for growth. Real estate opportunities are offered separately through a licensed real estate professional.
M – Multi-Generational Governance
Facilitates family decision-making, financial literacy programs, and stewardship across generations.
E – Enrichment & Philanthropy
Turns wealth into impact by aligning charitable vision with giving strategies, foundations, or donor-advised funds.
The HOME Platform
HOME = Hub of Oversight, Management, Execution
Advantages of a VMFO include:
- Cost Efficiency through shared resources
- Flexibility with teams assembled for specific needs
- Access to Expertise without full-time staffing costs
- Personal Attention from your lead advisor
- Scalability as your wealth grows
Why a Team Matters
Building wealth is one challenge; preserving it for generations is another. A coordinated team can help shift from a reactive to a proactive approach to wealth management.
- Synergy: CPA identifies tax savings → Advisor implements → Attorney aligns with estate goals.
- Blind Spots: An insurance specialist flags liability risks, while an estate attorney helps avoid unnecessary taxes.
- Objectivity: Provides level-headed counsel during volatile markets or significant life events.
Considerations for Team Selection
- Fiduciary Responsibility: Is your advisor legally bound to act in your best interest?
- Relevant Experience: Do they serve families like yours?
- Compensation Transparency: Fee-only, fee-based and commission, or hourly rate—know potential conflicts.
- Communication Style: Do they listen, explain clearly, and commit to your success?
The WELCOME HOME strategy transforms wealth management from a collection of disconnected services into an integrated, proactive approach. It’s designed for successful families seeking sophisticated oversight once available only to the ultra-wealthy.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult with qualified professionals before making financial decisions.