How to find the best financial adviser in Port Macquarie
If you could achieve your financial goals by simply putting money away in the bank, you wouldn’t need a financial plan. Unfortunately, life is a little more complex. It’s hard to understand the intricacies of investment, taxation and ever-changing regulations, so many people seek professional help. Knowing who to turn to for financial advice is essential. To help you choose the best financial adviser for your needs on the Mid Coast, we’ve created a checklist to consider in your search.
Choosing the best financial adviser for your needs on the Mid North Coast
Put simply, financial advisers make managing your money simpler. Financial advisers can be used for life-long advice and help you make the most of your superannuation. They can also help you meet a specific goal, like saving for a house. There are many different types of financial advisers, with different specialisations. Some are mortgage experts, while others focus on retirement or the self-employed. It’s important to know what type of services you need before you try to hire your financial adviser or planner.
Know what you’re paying for up front
Once you know what type of services you require, you can find out the costs up front and it will be easier to understand the cost breakdown when your financial adviser presents it to you.
Financial advisers are typically compensated in one of three ways. We’re breaking this down so you can be prepared when you start shopping.
- Fee-Only
Fee-only services are based on each service that the financial adviser provides you. If your financial adviser lists their services as fee-only, you should expect a list of services that they provide with a breakdown of those fees.
- Fee-Based
Fee-based advisers charge an upfront fee and then earn commission on the financial products you purchase from them.
- Commission
Commission based advisers only earn money based on the products you purchase from them. They are typically paid through a third-party company.
Finding the best financial adviser on the Mid North Coast – do your research
When looking for a good financial adviser, the best place to start is to ask for referrals from family, friends, colleagues and neighbours who are in a similar financial situation as you. Do they have a trusted financial adviser and what do they like about them? Asking for referrals is a good way to get to know a financial adviser before you even meet them.
Finding the best financial adviser on the Mid North Coast – qualifications and memberships
You may be looking for an adviser who focuses on insurance planning or retirement. Make sure you ask about qualifications and specialties at your initial consultation so you’ll know you’re headed in the right direction with your financial adviser from the start.
Finding the best financial adviser on the Mid North Coast – Lee Riske
Lee Riske, a director and senior financial planner at Smarter Financial & Insurance Solutions, commenced with the industry in 2000. He is an Authorised Representative of NSW Complete Financial Services, has an Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning and is undergoing his Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning. Lee is also a member of the Association of Financial Advisers (AFA).
Finding the best financial adviser in Port Macquarie – Ashley Stapley
Ashley Stapley has been a financial planner since 2003, helping many people reach their financial goals. As a director and senior financial planner at Smarter Financial & Insurance Solutions, Ashley is an Authorised Representative of NSW Complete Financial Services. He has a Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) and has obtained the Certified Financial Planner® designation.
The best financial advice team on the Mid North Coast – Smarter Financial & Insurance Solutions
Assisting clients all over the Mid North Coast, our skilled and experienced team are passionate about assisting our valued clients to better their financial future. Although located in Port Macquarie, we are also able to assist clients via satellite offices in Wauchope and Taree by appointment.
For enquiries, get in touch with us today on 02 6584 2166. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with our latest news and information.