I met Nick a few years ago, via an introduction from a close friend. I was at the stage in my life where I really needed to think more strategically about my finances, and planning for the future and ultimately my retirement.
My story
I met Nick a few years ago via an introduction from a close friend. I was at the stage in my life where I really needed to think more strategically about my finances, and planning for the future and ultimately my retirement.
I felt a little intimidated about seeking professional advice at the time as my own knowledge base on financial matters was pretty low, which had led to me procrastinating for several months. I knew that my finances, although not in bad shape, were not being optimised. I wanted to ensure that I was making the right decisions to allow me to achieve my ambitions in terms of purchasing another property and also retiring at 60.
My first interaction was a phone call – I recall this quite clearly as I was sitting in my car. The conversation was easy, lots of questions about what I wanted to achieve and what my concerns were as well as reassurance that lots of people don’t know all the details of pensions, taxation and mortgages! I felt I was being listened to, and that any proposed next steps were tailored to my needs.
Over the last few years, we have worked together on a number of different aspects of my financial planning including ensuring that I have optimised my pensions, reviewed investments, started some ISAs and also gained a very clear plan on financing options for properties.
The main benefit I have gained has been the peace of mind to know that I have a great understanding of my own financial situation, I have a clear plan for saving for retirement that allows me to optimise my available funds for the future while still allowing me to enjoy today! I have also gained confidence in my choices – which has allowed me to stop at least some of my procrastination!
Now, I feel far better informed and confident about my financial situation. I understand now that I am a little risk averse, but I am making decisions about both spending and saving that I am comfortable with and importantly, I know the consequences of those decisions.
I really appreciate the mix of strategic planned reviews and also the ability to have quick catch ups when required. Having a sounding board to chat through options and decisions has been very valuable.
I have happily recommended Nick to a number of friends and colleagues, all of whom I know have been really impressed with the bespoke service, and advice that they have received. I now actually really enjoy the discussions with the team and learning more about how I optimise my finances – I am only sorry it took me so long to seek proper financial advice from knowledgeable and experienced professionals.