Lake Avenue Financial

Lake Avenue Financial

Reviews Summary

Customers consistently praise the financial advisors for their exceptional professionalism, deep expertise, and personalized guidance. Many highlight the team's honesty, responsiveness, and ability to simplify complex financial concepts, fostering trust and confidence. Long-term clients appreciate their ongoing support, tailored advice, and family-like care. The advisors are commended for reducing financial stress, providing clear strategies, and prioritizing clients' best interests. A few note access to exclusive markets and thoughtful problem-solving. Overall, the firm delivers outstanding service, earning strong recommendations for both new and experienced investors.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals
Risk Management
Complex Situations
Multi-state Experience

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Tax Planning
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals
Risk Management
Complex Situations
Multi-state Experience

Contact Information

Address

301 N Lake Ave #830

Pasadena, California 91101

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Nothing but great things to say about Lake View Financial . Alex and Rosa have been extremely supportive and helpful with tips on how I can better manage my money. They're always accesible to me and easy to reach, whether it's through email, phone call or video call . I appreciate how honest Alex is, he is always looking out for my best interest. Gives me a big peace of mind to run things by him whether that's looking to buy a new car, renting a new apartment, or simply planning what life throws at you. Ver

Alex, Rosa and Lake Ave financial have been taking care of my family and I for three generations now. Recently, I had some financial challenges and Alex presented a solution that was workable and made me feel like I was in control again. I am ever grateful for their counsel.

For over 10 years Alex and Rosa Chalekian have been my families financial advisors. Alex has always responded in a timely manner to all calls and emails with the many questions I have posed.. Alex is always straightforward, knowledgeable and honest in the information and guidance he has shared. In our last lunch meeting I shared that I am a visual learner and he took the chop sticks off the table and showed me how the growth of my investments are moving... we laughed but I appreciated the time he took to b

Alex and Rosa are the friends you've always wanted, who also happen to be savvy financial advisors. They are both thoughtful, kind and helpful. My husband and I couldn't be happier that we've started working with this dynamic duo!

I recently had the opportunity to work with Rosa and Alex my financial advisers. Working with them has been a rewarding experience. They not only helped me clarify my financial goals but also provided the guidance and expertise necessary to achieve them. This partnership has been instrumental in setting me on a path toward financial security and peace of mind. I highly recommend seeking out their knowledgeable and trustworthy financial advisers for anyone looking to enhance their financial well-being.

Alex is, quite simply, the financial planner you want on your side. He and Rosa continue to go to great lengths to ensure that I am comfortable, supported, educated and making smart financial decisions. He strikes the perfect balance between protecting my assets and empowering me to do more. If you experience a big financial event, whatever that might be, Alex should be your first call.

Alek and everyone at Lake Avenue Financial have been so responsive and helpful. I greatly appreciate all the support and attention with such important matters.

I highly recommend Lake Avenue Financial. Alex, Rosa, and their team have been wonderful to work with. I have peace of mind knowing my financial portfolio is being handled with care. They're always available to answer any questions or concerns I may have while keeping my best interests at the forefront. It's nice to have an advisor who listens to what matters to me and gives me guidance on how to proceed confidently.

I cannot begin to tell you how incredibly wise, competent and generous this financial advisor is, Alex Chalekian. We have had a top-notch experience at Lake Avenue Financial and completely trust Alex and his team to handle our family's finances. Working with money and finances can be extremely stressful and he has made our life so much easier by his effective, comprehensive and supportive counsel. We are so grateful to him for financial wisdom and counsel and to our family member who referred us to him.

Working with Alex & Lake Avenue Financial has been incredible! I have had several virtual and in person meetings with Alex, each of which has left me feeling better and more confidant about my financial future and general outlook on life. In a very short period of time he has already reduced stress & complexities associated with my financial goals, and I'm super excited to continue working with him.

Alex and team at Lake Avenue Financial were amazing to work with! When we reached out to them, my wife and I knew we were generally doing ?what we were supposed to do? in terms of saving for retirement, but we had no idea about specifics or even how to start thinking about future finances in a structured way. We wanted to know if we could upsize our housing, how many kids we could afford to have, and how much we could afford to spend on a new car. We also wanted to know how much doing those things now could

Alex, Rosa and the entire team at Lake Avenue have been a part of our family for over 20 years. They have undertaken the tasks of getting our children off on the right financial footing as well and there isn't a question that hasn't been answered over the years by this phenomenal team of caring professionals. Put your trust in them and you will not be disappointed!!

This financial practice is ?la creme de la creme?! Excellent customer service, topped only by extraordinary competence and deep knowledge of the industry. Don't be fooled by Alex Chelakian?s youth; his wealth of knowledge (pun intended) along with great listening skills confirms that you are in good hands. Rosa Chelakian, the compliance officer (along with many other responsibilities) makes certain that everything and everyone is perfect! I could not have found a better financial firm. You'll be very happy

Alex has built a phenomenal practice and is well known for his professionalism, honesty, and as an industry leader. I never doubt that Alex will always do the right thing and am proud to know the incredible value the Lake Avenue Financial team brings to their clients.

I have known Alex for years. He is honest, smart, and caring. With me he went through a kind of diagnostic test of the amount of risk I could comfortably sustain. He puts client need above his own. I find him a first rate financial planner who I trust. I recommend him without qualification.

I've worked with Alex and his team for 20 years, and am always impressed by their consummate professionalism, astute advice, ability to explain and teach me about financial matters, and most importantly, their trustworthiness. They treat their clients like family!

Alex and Rosa have taken care of me for several years now and have patiently walked me through all the financial pros and cons to navigating and updating all the electronic data management. A wonderful family owned business who adopts their clients.

At first I was hesitant to work with a financial advisor, then I was referred to Alex by a few different friends/colleagues. Alex's professionalism has been outstanding.He takes made sure I understood all the financial tools and everything else before he moved forward. He really brings meaning to the quote "You don't know what you don't know"

I have been doing business with Lake Avenue Financial since they first opened I can't remember how long that's been but Alex has always been very honest and forward when it comes to giving me advice on things that "I think I can do with my money" He always tells me where the pitfalls are and why (I shouldn't do what I'm thinking). Since then I've just trusted him to make all the moves that need to be done financially for me and it's always worked out you can trust him

Most importantly, Alex has given us confidence in our financial plan. He also gives us access to markets we otherwise wouldn't be able to tap into. Thank you Alex!

I have been working with Alex for a long time and really enjoy his input. I totally will and have recommended Lake Avenue to all my friends. Keep up the great work.

I've done business with this company and I all I can say is that the service is A++ from the moment you arrive the professionalism and the attention to detail is seen. The staff is very well trained and the partner is knowledgeable. My wife and I are very thankful because we came in knowing nothing and left with a lot of useful information that helped us go through the process very easy. Thank you Lake Avenue Financial!

Lake Ave Financial was Terrific! Alex and his team helped me organize my investments and created a great plan for retirement! Thank You!

I've been working with Alex and his team for the last few years and everything has been first class. I would recommend them to anyone who is looking for a financial planner.

I was very impressed by the professionalism exuded by Mr. Alex Chalekian. Mr. Chalekian?s knowledge of financial planning is first class and he explains things so that I can understand them clearly. I highly recommend his services. Thank you

Alex and his team provide amazing service that fits your needs. He explains things in an understandable way and always looks out for his clients.

Alex is very knowledgeable and it's a pleasure to discuss the financial markets with him.

I've been Investing with Alex for a long time and his service has been exceptional . I would highly recommend his service!!

We have enjoyed working with the team at Lake Avenue Financial on our retirement plan.

The people at Lake Avenue have always shown that they care about the return on my investment and the security of my future. That is why I stay with them.

An astute observer of the markets and consummate financial planner, always working to respond to his clients? needs.

Great advice and guidance! Alex and the team are very helpful and friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.

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