If you're reading this, you've likely decided to look for a financial advisor. It's important to find someone who fits your specific needs, but that can be difficult to determine from an introductory meeting or call. Given the number of people calling themselves financial advisors, it's crucial to start your search with objective criteria to narrow down your options and ensure you find a capable professional with whom you can build a long-term relationship. Here are some key factors to consider before you begin.

Areas of Expertise: Why Industry Expertise Matters in Houston

If you live and work in Houston, there's a good chance you're in one of our renowned industries, such as engineering, aeronautics, medicine, or energy. Choose a financial advisor who understands the nuances of your field. From insurance and benefits to retirement plan options, it's essential that your advisor has a solid grasp of the opportunities and challenges associated with your profession.

Meaningful Credentials: Fiduciary Duty, What It Means for You

"Financial advisor" is an unregulated term. Technically, an advisor is anyone who gives advice in a particular field, meaning anyone can use the title. However, the term alone tells you little about a person’s credentials or motivations.

Look for an advisor who adheres to a fiduciary standard, someone legally required to put their clients’ interests above their own. Even better, seek a professional with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.

CFP®s take a holistic approach to financial planning, considering more than just your investment portfolio when offering advice. Your advisor should strive for a complete understanding of your financial picture before making recommendations because, after all, it's hard to give good advice with incomplete information.

What to Expect: Actionable Guidance, Ongoing Services

Your advisor should help you make informed financial decisions, addressing key issues early in your relationship and guiding you through necessary adjustments as your plan evolves. Over time, they should assist with major financial milestones, such as changing jobs, buying a home, or planning for retirement.

Get in Touch: Advocates Wealth Planning Can Help

At Advocates Wealth Planning (AWP), we’re locals through and through. We love Mattress Mack, the Houston Astros, and we're holding out hope for the Texans. We've eaten BBQ at the rodeo, had a beer at St. Arnold’s, and consumed enough kolaches, tacos, and seafood to feed a small nation. We know Houston because we’re from here.

As fiduciary financial planners, we're dedicated to helping Houstonians succeed. With decades of experience in Houston-centric industries, we offer personalized financial advice tailored to you and your family—helping you achieve the future you want.