“I’ve managed my own finances for decades,” Linda told us recently. “But now with retirement, Social Security decisions, and trying to figure out what to do with my house, I realized I needed professional guidance. I just didn’t know where to start.”
Linda’s situation isn’t unique. Whether you’re wondering about the best time to start collecting Social Security, considering options for your home equity, or simply want to ensure your retirement savings will last, that first step toward getting professional financial guidance can feel daunting.
Making That First Meeting Count
Your initial meeting with a financial advisor is simply a conversation—one where you do most of the talking. “I was surprised,” says Tom, a recent retiree. “I expected to be overwhelmed with financial jargon, but my advisor mostly asked questions about what I wanted my retirement to look like.”
Before Your Meeting: Document Checklist
- ✓ Recent bank statements
- ✓ Investment account statements
- ✓ Latest tax return
- ✓ Social Security statements
- ✓ Pension information
- ✓ Property documents
- ✓ Insurance policies
- ✓ Estate planning documents (if any)
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything—bring what you can.
What Really Happens in That First Meeting?
Questions Your Advisor May Ask
- What does your ideal retirement look like?
- What concerns keep you awake at night?
- How do you feel about investment risk?
- What are your plans for your home?
- Do you want to leave a legacy for family?
Marie was surprised by her first meeting: “I thought we’d jump straight into numbers, but we spent most of the time talking about my goals. I want to travel to see my grandchildren more often, and I worry about healthcare costs. My advisor helped me see how these pieces fit together.”
Addressing Common Concerns
“Am I Too Late to Start?”
“I kept putting it off because I felt behind. But my advisor showed me options I didn’t know existed. We created a plan that worked with where I was, not where I ‘should have been.'”
“What If My Situation Is Too Simple?”
“I thought my situation was too basic. But having someone look at the whole picture—my home equity, Social Security timing, and retirement accounts—helped me make better decisions than I could have on my own.”
Signs to Watch For
While most financial advisors are trustworthy professionals, protect yourself by watching for these red flags:
- • Pressure to make immediate decisions
- • Reluctance to clearly explain fees
- • Promises of unusually high returns
- • Lack of proper credentials
- • Unwillingness to answer your questions
Building a Lasting Relationship
Financial planning isn’t a one-time event. Your needs will change, and regular check-ins ensure your strategy stays aligned with your life. Carol notes, “When my husband passed away, having an advisor who already knew our situation made navigating those difficult decisions much easier.”
Need Help Finding the Right Financial Advisor?
At Silver Compass Property Group, we specialize in helping seniors navigate important life transitions. Through our network of trusted professionals, we can connect you with qualified financial advisors who understand the unique needs of seniors and their families.
Ready to take that first step? We’re happy to provide referrals to trusted financial advisors in the Portland area.
Thanks for reading : )
Peter Lindberg
Lead Broker – Silver Compass Property Group
503-806-4277
