Charles Schwab

Unfortunately, we have left my husbands funds with Charles Schwab for nearly 2 years now. After no gains (in a year that should have gotten great gains – 2013−2014) the first year we finally insisted on a change. Our previous advisor was no longer there (he apparently got a promotion or something) and we got a new guy. He acted «shocked» that the previous guy had put us in that portfolio. He insisted we would realize better results this year. So far we have lost about 8% overall. I left my retirement funds with my previous employer and last year gained at least 10% and this year have gained more than 10%. Unfortunately, that’s a tiny account compared to my husband’s. We are done with Schwab.

I have been a customer for over 25 years and will share my experience. I had 7 figures in multiple accounts when CS in their infinite wisdom declared one of my securities non-​marginable. I had a written and signed agreement with them allowing me to margin that particular security. They gave me two weeks to payoff the margin or fund another broker. But that is not the end of the story, a day before they unilaterally changed the rules I had written a check for $ 4,000. Even though I had been with CS for over 25 years, had never not covered a maintenance call and had 7 figures in equity they refused to pay the check. If this is how you want to be treated, this is your firm. But there are plenty of firms that want your business that care more about the customer and not there perceived risk position.

Maybe because I only had a 5k account for my child but my experience was much different. After two visits and dozens of phone calls they could not convert all of my (6) stocks into one account. It has been a year and nothing has been resolved. My helpful money manager told me he just wasn’t very good with paper work.

I finally got my consultation with CS earlier this week and I couldn’t have asked for a more pleasurable experience!
I am very on top of my finances now & have been doing my research and homework. I arrived late my fault leaving my house late, but the parking was validated and beautiful driving through the alley, it is easy to park and sophisticated. The building is very close to the parking.
Upon my arrival, I apologized to the reception and was greeted with hot coffee and cream & sugar. I did not even wait too long to see Adam Torres, who will be my future financial advisor. He is very analytical, thorough, and excellent to deal with concerning my financial situation and goals. He gave me a plethora of information to review and I love how CS teaches one to be empowered financially.
After sharing my current situation, stories, and a few investment situations and laughs, I sadly departed CS. I hope to return soon and have the pleasure of working with such a professional team from the reception guy to my advisor.
I just know I am in good trusted hands here. I love their analytical approach and direct manner in looking at finances. I left feeling like I will achieve all my financial dreams and it will only be a matter of time. I came out realizing I am so blessed with how I have set myself up to have a very comfortable future all because CS will help me become top notch at what I do.

If you’re going south on Lake, the office is located on your right after you pass Colorado. It’s next to the Pasadena Towers and you can park in the structured lot. Every time I’ve went I had an appointment so they validate the parking for free.
The office is clean, spacious and you are greeted very nicely as you walk in.

This branch is located near Chase bank on the corner of Colorado and Lake. The building itself is very nice and well kept.
Parking:
Street parking is available in front of the building on Colorado, as well as on Lake. Parking structure also available in the back. Entrance located on Lake as well.
Décor:
Clean and simple. I uploaded a couple of photos of the front desk and waiting area. As you can tell, the branch is kept in top shape and the waiting area is quite comfortable.
Service:
When I came, there were only two representatives available. I waited no more than 10 minutes. After that, it was a quick and easy transaction. The representative was nice and friendly.
Will definitely be back.