Looking for the right financial adviser in London today? Smart move—whether you’re planning for retirement, investing, managing inheritance, or getting your finances in order, having a qualified and trustworthy adviser makes all the difference.
Here’s a simple guide to help you find the right one today, with clarity, confidence, and zero stress:
🎯 Step 1: Know What You Actually Need Help With
Before contacting anyone, define your goals. Are you looking for help with:
- 💼 Investments or portfolio management
- 🏠 Pensions or retirement planning
- 🧾 Tax optimisation or inheritance planning
- 🧒 School fees or family wealth planning
- 💳 Debt management or budgeting
- 🏦 Mortgages or property finance
Knowing what you want makes it easier to match with an adviser who specialises in that area.
🕵️ Step 2: Look for Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs)
An Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) can recommend products from the entire market—not just from one bank or firm. This means:
- You get tailored advice
- Not restricted to “in-house” products
- Often more transparent and client-focused
Use sites like:
You can filter by:
- Location (e.g. Central London, East London, etc.)
- Specialisms
- Fee structure (see below)
💷 Step 3: Understand How They Charge
Advisers can charge in different ways:
| Fee Type | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Fixed fee | One-time fee for a review or advice |
| Hourly rate | Charged by the hour (common for planners) |
| Percentage of assets | Often 0.5–1% per year of what they manage |
| Initial advice fee | A set fee for initial consultation + report |
✅ Ask upfront how fees work—and whether the first meeting is free (many are).
📞 Step 4: Reach Out & Ask the Right Questions
When contacting advisers, ask:
- Are you independent or tied to a specific provider?
- What areas do you specialise in?
- How do you charge for your services?
- Are you regulated by the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority)?
- Do you provide ongoing support or one-off advice?
📎 Also ask if they offer a discovery call or free intro meeting—many do via phone or Zoom.
👥 Step 5: Check Credentials & Reviews
Look for:
- FCA registration (Search the FCA register)
- Membership in PFS or CII
- Strong client testimonials on Unbiased, VouchedFor, or Google
- A good personality fit – trust and comfort matter!
Bonus Tip: Prepare Before the Call
- Have a list of your current financial goals
- Be ready to talk about income, assets, pensions, savings
- Think about your risk comfort (are you cautious or open to growth?)
Want Help Right Now?
If you’d like, I can:
- Help you draft a quick message to send to IFAs
- Find a shortlist of well-reviewed advisers in your part of London
- Help compare a few options you’re already looking at
Just let me know your area (e.g. Shoreditch, Kensington, Canary Wharf) and what kind of financial advice you’re after!