
Derek Merkler, CFP®
Financial Planner
The Hour
- Ask a financial advisor anything about investing in one hour
- No commissions, products, or sales pitch
The Plan
- An 8 week program to achieve a strategic plan for your financial life
- Get an 8+ page financial plan
- $0 due now, pay after your 1st meeting
The Ongoing
- Ongoing support and accountability when you need it
- Quarterly video calls & unlimited emails
- Annual 2 page financial checkup
About Derek
Bio
Many paths can lead to the same destination. I tend to look for the ones that others overlook. By nature, I am somewhat contrarian. Markets, tax strategies, and financial planning trends often move in cycles, and following the crowd is not always the best way to reach long-term goals. I try to evaluate decisions based on fundamentals rather than fads. That mindset shows up in small ways in my own life as well. While many people seek the newest homes, vehicles, or cities, I live in an 1880s brick home, drive a 40-year-old European sedan, and prefer the quiet pace of farm life. You do not need to be unconventional to work with me, but if you value thoughtful analysis, independent thinking, and a planner who is willing to challenge assumptions, we will likely work well together. Contact me for specific pricing on the following: - Long-term Roth Conversion Recommendations - Detailed Current Year Tax Projections
I Can Help You With
I Enjoy Working With
Personal Stuff
Outside of financial planning, I spend much of my time helping my family in our racehorse breeding business. We are a tiny operation but definitely punch above our weight.

Education & Designations
Experience
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Hour: You'll fill out a short intake form so we can learn about you and your goals for our meeting! In your Nectarine account, you can also enter your personal financial information (net worth and budget details) as well as upload files to your Secure File Vault. We also recommend that you have any necessary account login information ready.
The Plan and The Ongoing: You'll get access to a financial planning portal where you can share your numbers, link your accounts, and upload the requested documents (we'll share a list).
The Hour: Yes, you will receive an email summary with important takeaways and resources so you'll know what to do next.
The Plan: Yes, you will receive a 8+ page roadmap on your full financial picture with detailed information on the next steps. Your advisor will be available to help you implement any items.