When it comes to planning for retirement, managing investments, or simply trying to get your financial house in order, you want a financial advisor who can help get you to your goals. But how do you know when it’s time to make a change and find a new advisor?
First, let’s talk about the red flags. If your financial advisor isn’t communicating with you regularly or isn’t transparent about the fees they’re charging, it’s a sign that it might be time to look elsewhere. Your financial advisor should be proactive, keeping you informed about how your investments are performing, and how any changes in the market might affect your financial goals. If you’re left in the dark, it’s a clear indication that your advisor might not be prioritizing your best interests.
Let’s not forget the importance of trust either. Your financial advisor should be someone you feel comfortable with—someone who listens to your concerns and takes them seriously. While experience, knowledge, and credibility are all important, doing what’s best for the client is perhaps the most important thing a financial advisor can do.
That’s why when you’re evaluating your current advisor, you should check if they’re a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ™ Professional, or CFP®. There are many designations that mean different things, and it’s always important to choose an advisor with demonstrable credentials that align with your goals. Designations like the CFP® show they are trained to act with honesty, integrity, competence, and diligence while always acting in the client’s best interest.
Lastly, if your advisor is just talking about investments, it’s time to change. There’s more to being a financial advisor than picking stocks or picking index funds. You shouldn’t pay someone to tell you to ride through the market. What your advisor should be doing is actively managing your portfolio like rebalancing your portfolio to actively take advantage of what’s happening in the market.
Equally as important is having a team of financial professionals around your advisor to coordinate all your needs. Chances are if your financial advisor is also acting as your tax expert, they might be missing some key strategies. For example, here at Lineweaver Wealth Advisors, we have a team of dedicated tax professionals who always stay updated on the latest tax changes. They’re able to analyze your specific situation and design a tax plan tailored to fit your particular needs.
So, when should you start looking for a new advisor? Ideally, you should evaluate your relationship with your financial advisor at least once a year. We understand the importance of having a trusted financial advisor to help guide you toward your financial goals. If you want a second opinion on your portfolio, our dedicated team of seasoned advisors is committed to assisting you and finding the best financial strategies for your situation. Call us today for a complimentary, no-obligation meeting today. We’re here to help!
Lineweaver Wealth Advisors, LLC., is a Registered Investment Advisor.