Choosing the right financial advisor isn’t just about trust—it’s about clarity, alignment, and results. If you’re actively building wealth or starting to think more seriously about retirement, it’s time to find a planner who matches your needs and mindset.
Here’s a guide to help you choose a financial advisor who will help you grow—not guess or speculate—your way to financial freedom.
Why the Right Advisor Matters More Than Ever
Today’s financial landscape is complicated. From market volatility and inflation to tax law changes and investment options, it’s not enough to simply “set it and forget it.” You need a partner who understands your goals, keeps your plan agile, and acts in your best interest.
If you’ve ever searched “best financial planner near me,” you’ve probably seen dozens of options. But the reality is, not all advisors are the same—and many don’t even work in your best interest.
1. Always Ask: Are You a Fiduciary?
An important first step: make sure your advisor is a fiduciary.
A fiduciary is legally required to act in your best interest at all times. That means no kickbacks, no commissions for selling financial products, and no hidden agendas.
There are three main types of financial advisors:
- Fee-Only Fiduciaries – Paid directly by you. No commissions. No product sales. These advisors are required to act in your best interest at all times.
- Fee-Based Advisors – May charge a fee, but also earn commissions from selling products like life insurance or annuities.
- Commission-Based Advisors – Earn income from selling financial products. This creates potential conflicts of interest.
Quick Tip: Ask directly: “Do you operate under a fiduciary standard at all times?” If the answer is anything but a clear yes—consider other options.
2. Understand Their Compensation Model
Knowing how your advisor gets paid can help you avoid costly surprises. Here are the common structures:
- Flat Fee or Hourly: Pricing is based on specific services.
- Assets Under Management (AUM): A percentage of the assets they manage for you.
- Commission-Based: Compensation from financial products they sell you.
🚩 Red flag: If the advisor can’t clearly explain how they’re compensated—or their fee structure seems confusing—this could be a sign of hidden costs or conflicted advice.
3. Look for a Comprehensive Financial Planning Approach, Not Just Investments
A financial advisor should do more than talk about your portfolio.
They should address the full picture, including:
- Life goals and financial needs
- Tax efficiency
- Equity compensation
- Retirement planning and IRAs
- Estate planning
- Risk management
- College savings and charitable giving
You deserve an advisor who sees your life in context—not just your balance sheet.
4. Credentials Matter, But So Does Chemistry
When comparing financial planners, look for professional designations such as:
- CFP® (Certified Financial Planner)
- CIMA® (Certified Investment Management Analyst)
- CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst)
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant) for tax planning expertise
These indicate a commitment to continued education, ethics, and rigorous standards.
But credentials alone aren’t enough. You also want someone who:
- Communicates clearly
- Listens without pushing products
- Understands your goals and risk tolerance
- Stays proactive—not just reactive
You’re not just hiring expertise—you’re hiring a long-term partner.
5. Ask the Right Questions Up Front
Before committing to working with an advisor, ask:
- Are you a fiduciary 100% of the time?
- How are you compensated?
- What services are included?
- Who will be my primary point of contact?
- How often will we meet?
- Do you offer customized financial plans?
- Do you integrate tax and estate planning into your advice?
Their answers will reveal how seriously they take your financial future—and how well they’ll serve you over time.
6. Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore
🚩 Vague or confusing answers about fees
🚩 High-pressure sales tactics or product pitching
🚩 Limited focus on investment returns only
🚩 No clear planning process or roadmap
🚩 Unwillingness to collaborate with other professionals (like your CPA or attorney)
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it most likely is.
7. The Smith Bruer Difference
At Smith Bruer, we specialize in serving clients who are actively building wealth—and ready to be more intentional about it.
We are:
- Fee-only fiduciaries, 100% of the time
- Focused on comprehensive financial planning and evidence-based investing
- Committed to working with high-net-worth individuals to help them grow and protect their wealth with clarity and confidence
If you’re looking for guidance that’s aligned with your values and goals, we invite you to start the conversation.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re searching for a financial advisor in Tallahassee, Colorado Springs, or connecting virtually from elsewhere, choosing the right partner is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Let’s talk about how Smith Bruer can help you build a strategy that works.
Serving Clients Locally and Nationwide
Smith Bruer Advisors proudly serves clients in Tallahassee, Colorado Springs, and across the country. Whether you prefer in-person meetings or virtual guidance, our fiduciary advisors are here to support your long-term financial goals with clarity and confidence.
