With all the information and online trading options available now, many people are choosing to manage their investments on their own.
Many do-it-yourself projects require spending a great deal of hours doing research to teach yourself what professionals already have experience in. Do-it-yourself investing is no different except now you could impact your future. Plus, the more money you make, the more complex your finances become.
A good financial advisor goes through rigorous training and certifications which require them to complete more training each year. Working with an experienced professional, as your financial coach, can help you make smarter decisions with your money.
Financial advisors can help craft a sound financial plan whether you have $1,000 to invest or $1 million. Even if you just want to save money for their kid’s college or retirement, a professional advisor can help you determine how much you need to determine your goals, how much you need to save, and which quality investments will help get you there. As you gain wealth, a good advisor can be critical in helping strategize with you on more complex investment and tax planning needs.
While managing your own finances may seem like a good way to save money but it can end up costing you a lot of time, effort, and costly mistakes in the long-run. It doesn’t matter whether you’re just starting out or on your way towards retirement, the help of a knowledgeable and reputable financial advisor can make things a lot easier.
Once you’ve decided to work with an advisor, it is important to do your due diligence and select an advisor that is a good match for you. Essentially, you’re hiring someone to help guide you through some of life’s biggest decisions, and it isn’t a decision you should make lightly or quickly. Most advisors will offer a complimentary consultation, so don’t be shy about meeting with a few advisors.
Before you start asking your potential financial advisor any questions, it’s important you have your goals and priorities set. This can help you determine what you need to look for in an advisor and what kind of help you need.
Here are some questions you may want to ask a financial advisor before you hire them:
- Are you a fiduciary?
- What licenses do you carry?
- How are you paid for your services? Fee-based or fee-only?
- What financial services do you offer?
- How often will we communicate/meet?
Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself while narrowing down your choices:
- Was I given a clear pricing structure?
- Do they communicate well?
- Is this somebody whose recommendations I could trust?