Top questions we get asked at financialAdvice.co.uk
Whilst there are a variety of questions that we answer on the website, there are a number of questions that are raised on a regular basis. We all have different areas of our finances that we wish to address at various times in our lives, but generally the users of the site share the same common goal; financial peace of mind and reassurance be it in relation to their mortgage, pensions, protection or savings and investments.
With the housing market gaining momentum, we are finding that more and more people are now looking to move. Their concerns are two-fold; how much can I borrow and where can I find the best mortgage deal? On both counts, we can help by providing the guidance and advice in a competitive mortgage market.
The need for the right advice in this area is becoming even more important, particularly with the introduction of the ‘Help to buy’ scheme. On this basis, we are here to provide advice as to what deposit will be required and whether you should be looking for a fixed, discounted or tracker rate, depending on your own individual circumstances.
Whilst we are all want to find our dream home, we are also finding that the questions posted show that we are also looking to our long term future and life after work. It is a difficult balancing act between paying the mortgage and the bills and planning for your retirement; how much should I be saving each month and what income will I need when I retire? This varies from person to person, but it is important that this is addressed sooner rather than later. By getting the right advice, at the right time, a plan can be tailored to your needs. It’s certainly not the case that there is a ‘one size fits all’ solution to retirement, so getting the right advice will give you the peace of mind that you will be able to enjoy your retirement years with your family and friends.
We also find that many approaching retirement aren’t aware of the options available to them with regards to the many pension plans that they have in place after years of working. On a regular basis, many are asking whether they need to take their pension with their current provider or shop around for the best deal. In addition, we also see concerns about whether the lump sum should be taken or whether it should be left to contribute to your pension payments. These are all areas that we can help with.
So, in between buying your first home, moving up the property ladder and planning for your retirement, what else do we need to consider? Well, to have the ideal home and to enjoy your retirement, we need to make a long term financial commitment, but what happens if you’re not able to do this?
Many of the questions posted reveal an ongoing concern of providing for their family if someone should die, or be seriously ill and cannot work. The bills still need to be paid and this needs money to do so. Typically we are asked what sort of cover do I need and how long do I need it for? Of course, we are also asked how much it will cost! By reviewing your ever-changing needs and working within your budget, it is possible to get that peace of mind as well as being able to manage all those other financial commitments. This is where we come in; we can advise you where you need cover, and help you prioritise what you feel is important.
As many of you have commented in the conversations we have had with you, there is also a frustration in making our savings grow. There is a feeling that after working so hard to build-up savings, the returns over the last few years have been disappointing. We find that many are asking where you should put your money in order to get the best returns? Or what is the best way to build-up your savings for a rainy day or for your children’s future?
Whilst low interest rates have benefitted mortgage holders, they have not helped the savers amongst us. There are numerous ways to look at this, and to tailor a plan that looks at saving in the short, medium and long term. Again, it is not the case of there being an ‘off the shelf’ solution, but getting specialist advice that gives you a route to your own individual goals, be it the holiday home or the children’s university education.
Regardless of the question asked, we will find that it is one that has been asked before. Whilst we are all different, we all have the same concerns when it comes to our finances. We want the peace of mind and reassurance that we are taking the right steps for our and our loved ones financial future.
Andrew Gurton,
Financial Adviser
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