How can I find a new financial advisor?
Finding a new financial advisor is an important decision that can significantly impact your financial well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find the right advisor for your needs:
1. Identify Your Needs
Are you looking for retirement planning, investment advice, tax planning, estate planning, or a combination?
Decide if you want ongoing advice or just a one-time consultation.
2. Decide on the Type of Advisor
Fee-only advisors: Paid only by clients, not by commission. Often seen as more objective.
Fee-based advisors: May earn commissions and fees.
Commission-based advisors: Earn money by selling financial products.
Fiduciary advisors: Legally required to act in your best interest.
3. Search for Advisors
Referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations.
Professional Organizations:
Work with a Family Office President, like Amy Parvaneh of Select Advisors Institute, who can serve as your tailored concierge in the process. Learn more here.
4. Check Credentials
Look for designations like CFP (Certified Financial Planner), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or CPA (Certified Public Accountant).
Verify credentials through FINRA’s BrokerCheck or the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure.
5. Interview Multiple Advisors
Ask about their experience, specialties, and how they get paid.
Inquire about their investment philosophy and approach to financial planning.
Request sample financial plans or references.
Not sure what to ask? Reach out to Amy.
6. Ask the Right Questions
How do you get paid?
What are the technology platforms you offer so I can track my needs when you’re not around (ie. the weekends or after hours)?
How many clients do you have? If over 30, how do they manage this all?
Besides investments, what services do you offer? If they say tax planning, push further: What exactly does that mean? Can you do my taxes?
Besides putting me in stock and bond funds, what is your investment approach? Do you offer any other unique investment opportunities?
How will we communicate and how often? Who do I call when I need help on the weekends?
Amy Parvaneh is a former wealth management faculty professor, has worked with 100s of advisory firms around the globe, and has served as a wealth manager herself at Goldman Sachs. Reach out so she can guide and coach you through this daunting process of finding a new wealth manager.
7. Understand Fees
Typical models: Hourly, flat fee, percentage of assets under management (AUM), or commission.
We have written more about advisor fees here.
Make sure you’re clear on all costs before you commit.
8. Review Disclosures and Agreements
Ask for Form ADV (disclosure document for investment advisors).
Review the contract and privacy policy carefully.
9. Check for Red Flags
High-pressure sales tactics, promises of guaranteed returns, lack of credentials, or reluctance to share information.
10. Start with a Trial Period
Consider starting with a limited engagement before committing long-term.
Would you like help finding specific advisors in your area, or do you need a checklist for interviewing advisors?
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