Is The Grass Always Greener On The Other Side?

Main Questions Asked:

• When is it time to look for a new financial advisor?
• Who should I listen to when the market goes up or down?
• What life events trigger the need for a financial fresh start?

Whose Predictions Are Right When the Market Goes up or Down

• It’s hard to predict the market. Therefore, it’s important to have a plan in place to protect and grow your assets when the market goes up or down.
• We don’t know who will be right with their market predictions, but we do know that having a solid plan can protect against volatility.

The Grass Being Greener on the Other Side

• Should I find a new financial advisor if my advisor makes a mistake and costs me money? Most advisors wouldn’t admit they made a mistake. If your advisor admits and corrects it, that is a high level of honesty.
• My advisor’s business is too big, and I never talk to him. This isn’t a reason to leave at all. Associate advisors can do a great job. If you aren’t getting good service, then it is time for an honest conversation.
• Should I leave my current advisor because I went to a seminar and the new advisor is more entertaining and engaging? No, unless you think they have a better handle on things than your current advisor.
• I recently moved. Should I work with someone local? This is personal. You don’t have to leave just because you are in a different state.
• I lost a ton of money when the market crashed. Do I need a new advisor? If this was a complete surprise, then you may need a new advisor. Did your advisor prepare you for the chance of this happening?

Major Life Events that Require Financial Counseling

• A job change – Retiring or switching companies is a big change. This is a time to assess whether you are on track or not. You also need to think if you should roll the money over or leave it behind. Consider healthcare and your spouse’s situation.
• After a divorce – This is a situation where you start over again with your assets. You should get someone involved before the divorce to discover the things you should be thinking about. You need to know how your pension will be split up, what you will do about Social Security and 401(k)s.
• Receiving an inheritance – Do I pay off my mortgage? Do I path my debt? Do I set money aside for my kids and grand kids? Do I need to set up a trust or put life insurance into that trust? An inheritance needs to be a fresh start where you put together a plan beginning with day one.