“Listening is a critical skill that greatly contributes to the success of my clients. I do my best to understand their situations to help me identify practical solutions that will meet their unique needs.”
Blaine has been with Swart, Lalande & Associates, P.C. (SLA) since 1989. In his role as shareholder, he is the firm’s go-to professional for complex tax planning and problem solving matters. Blaine plays a key role in the firm’s Estate, Trust & Wealth Management Department, where he oversees tax compliance and planning activities and works closely with clients to achieve their goals and objectives. He also works within the Real Estate Department, providing high level tax compliance and planning services. In addition, Blaine regularly serves as an independent trustee for clients and as a court-appointed conservator for elderly individuals.
Blaine began his professional career in 1983. Prior to joining SLA, he worked for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for six years, including four years as a revenue agent in the Examination Division. More recently, Blaine worked for two years as a special agent in the IRS’ Criminal Investigation Division, where he was also a distinguished graduate of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia.
Blaine’s extensive and diverse background has been instrumental in his abilities to help clients achieve their long-term goals. In one example, he helped a family efficiently transfer a multi-unit apartment complex to current and future generations by implementing a family management structure. Blaine assisted another family, following the death of a parent, to keep its farm in the family and ensure the parent’s children were all provided for equitably.
Blaine developed an interest in accounting during college. He specifically enjoyed working through problems to determine the best possible solutions. Today Blaine attributes his professional success to maintaining his strong work ethic and compassion for his clients and understanding the life situations of others.
Raised in the Midwest, Blaine moved to northern Virginia during his senior year of high school. He currently resides in Fairfax with his wife of over 26 years. Together they have two children. Outside the office, Blaine enjoys bowling and being in the country.
