Your financial advisor should be a dependable, caring personal shoulder to lean on, sounding board and idea person

Happy Holidays! This is my fifth anniversary of sending wishes to my readers through North Fulton Living. It has been such a joy and privilege working with them and for you. My heartfelt thanks.

If you would like to view past holiday articles and check out some unique ideas for staying within your budget during a potential budget-busting time of year, visit my Web site at www.carperwealthmanagement.com.

Though December is a time for festivities and often overindulging, we also tend to eagerly plan towards the future. We spend December reflecting, finishing projects we have started, and most importantly, envisioning our future— exercises that make us feel good. In reflection, this has been one of my busiest years, and the reason gave me this issue’s topic: Seeking a trusted advisor.

Though the markets have begun to come around this year, most of you have not forgotten the past 12 to 15 months, nor have most of you fully recovered from the market’s tumultuous decline. You may also remember how your broker or financial advisor was just not there for you—either not answering calls, not listening to you or just plain not responding to requests. Consequently, and fortunately for me, many of you ended up at my door step.

What should you seek in a financial planner? Certainly it is personal, but let me make some suggestions. First and foremost ask yourself if that advisor is credible and trustworthy?  Check into their credentials, and ask for references. Credentials are licensed through the SEC at www.sec.gov. As well, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioners can be found, in good standing or not, at www.cfp.net. You expect that professional to make recommendations (just like when you go to a doctor, lawyer or other professional). Do you have high regard for this professional’s advice?

Is the advisor proactive and respectful? It is your money and your financial future. Your opinions, goals and objectives should be the basis for recommendations you receive.

Is your advisor working on your behalf or for a company? Meaning, do you feel you are being ‘fitted’ into a mold versus partnering with your best interests at heart? Your advisor should be reliable, approachable and extend a personal interest in your wellbeing. Your financial advisor should be a dependable, caring personal shoulder to lean on, sounding board and idea person. However, they should allow you to maintain control and have the last word.

If you lost 20 to 30 percent or more during this last bear market, and enough is enough, it just might be time for a change. If your investing does not seem to coincide with your values, comfort zone or align with your goals, it just might be time for a change. Your financial advisor should be an accountability partner you trust. I can’t tell you how much having an accountability partner, for me professionally, has kept me on task and moving forward.

Your financial advisor should be as important as your doctor, accountant, lawyer or other professional you rely on for guidance and well-being. You should be confident they are putting your best interests first. Your financial future could depend on this invaluable choice.

by Erin Carper , CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER

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Erin Carper, CFP® is an Alpharetta Financial Planner and the owner of Carper Wealth Management. Call 678.566.3682 or e-mail erin@carperwealthmanagement.com, www.carperwealthmanagement.com

Erin is an Ameritas Investment Corp. (AIC) Investment Advisor Representative. Securities and financial planning offered through AIC, Member FINRA/SIPC. AIC and Carper Wealth Management are not affiliated. The above information is intended to provide general information. It is not intended as, nor may be considered, as tax or other legal advice for you. Please consult the appropriate professional advisor for your specific circumstances