Michael Hart, CFP®
Flat Fee Advisor in Central New Jersey
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Serving Clients Nationwide
Flat Fee Advisor in Central New Jersey
Areas of Focus
- Estate Planning
- Financial Life Planning
- Investment Management
- Retirement Planning
- Taxes
About Michael Hart, CFP®
Hi, I'm Michael Hart, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and the founder of OPEN BOOK FINANCIAL PLANNING. We're an advice-only, fee-for-service financial planning firm that believes financial guidance should be TRANSPARENT, as CONFLICT-FREE as possible, and accessible to everyone.I became a financial advisor because I saw too many hardworking individuals struggling with financial uncertainty while dealing with an industry where the asymmetry of information is staggering, and I wanted to provide clear, conflict-free advice that empowers people to take control of their financial future.
I love helping clients simplify complex financial concepts, giving them the confidence to make informed decisions about their investments, taxes, and long-term financial strategies.
The most powerful lesson I’ve learned is that financial success isn’t about making the most money—it’s about making intentional, informed choices that align with your goals and values.
What I value most is being on the same side of the table as my clients. No hidden fees, no commissions, no conflicts. Just honest, thoughtful guidance from someone who genuinely cares.
My Career
After graduating magna cum laude from the University of Maine at Presque Isle, I gained 18 years of experience in wealth management, tax planning, and estate strategies. During this time, I saw firsthand how often clients were being sold products they didn’t need or given advice that wasn’t in their best interest. That experience is what drove me to launch Open Book: to be a true fiduciary and an open, honest partner to those navigating financial decisions.
On a Personal Note
I'm an active member of the New Jersey chapter of the Financial Planning Association (FPA).
Outside of work, you’ll often find me with my wife, Allison, and my daughter, Cecilia. My hobbies include playing the guitar, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, or "reading" a good audiobook.
Professional Designations
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ®
Affiliations
-
Financial Planning Association
- National Association of Personal Financial Advisors
- XY Planning Network
- National Association of Personal Financial Advisors
Primary Location
3 Charred Oak Ln, East Windsor, NJ 08520
Compensation Methods
- Offers Advice-Only Services
- Fee Only
- Flat Fee
- Hourly Rate
- Subscription
What to expect in the first meeting
Click the 'Book Intro Call' button above to schedule an introductory conversation. The first meeting will be the “Get to Know YOU meeting” There is no charge for this meeting. I just want to get to know you, get a feel for what your concerns/goals are, and if we’d be a good fit to work together. I look forward to speaking with you.About Open Book Financial Planning
At Open Book Financial Planning, we believe TRANSPARENCY IS EVERYTHING. Our firm was built to eliminate the conflicts of interest that often cloud traditional financial advice.We charge a flat hourly or subscription-based fee, so you know exactly what you’re paying and what you’re getting. We do not sell products or manage investments for a percentage fee, because we believe the best advice comes from someone who’s not trying to sell you anything.
Our approach is straightforward:
✔️ Provide personalized advice based on your goals, values, and current financial situation.
✔️ Educate you along the way so you feel confident and in control of your decisions.
✔️ Create flexible, actionable plans that evolve with your life.
✔️ Prioritize savings, tax efficiency, risk management, and estate planning as key pillars of long-term success.
We focus on helping young and middle-aged professionals, families, and pre-retirees build a strong foundation for the future—whether that means buying a first home, optimizing cash flow, planning for college, or preparing for retirement.
We’re not here to impress you with complexity. We’re here to help you feel clear, confident, and supported. ALWAYS. We believe financial planning should be COLLABORATIVE, EMPOWERING, and even ENJOYABLE.
Education
Magna cum laude graduate of the University of Maine at Presque Isle
Hobbies and Interests
- Family
- Music
- Reading
- Working Out
SEC Lookup
View DisclosureWho We Serve
- Baby Boomers
- Corporate Executives
- DIY Investors
- Dual Income Family
- Families
- Gen X
- Gen Y / Millennials
- Individuals
- Intergenerational Families
- Parents
- Women Professionals
- Young Families
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