What we do
Learn how we can help you and your family better realise dreams and financial aspirations
Our mission is simple:
To empower our clients and help them live the life they desire for themselves, their families, and their communities.
As experts in financial planning, we guide you through the crucial decisions that can impact your future. Whether it's determining if you have enough savings to retire comfortably, setting the right price for selling your business, or making the necessary preparations for a new chapter, we provide the guidance you need to make informed choices.
Our financial planning services are designed to help you achieve the lifestyle you desire, not just now, but in the long term. We develop holistic plans tailored to your specific needs and aspirations, delivering the results you deserve.
Our six-stage process for personal financial planning ensures that we cover all aspects of your financial journey, from assessing your current needs to planning for retirement and beyond.
During this process, we work together to identify your life goals, thoroughly review your financial situation, and create an actionable plan that sets you on the path to the life you truly want.
Together, we can create a plan that not only meets your current needs, but also adapts to your future aspirations. Once your plan is established and implemented, we will continue to work with you, re-evaluating your desired lifestyle objectives and ensuring that your plan remains aligned with your dreams.
Where is our expertise?
Whilst retirement is the time to turn your dreams into reality, approaching it can be overwhelming. This is where expert guidance and support can make all the difference.
We understand the significance of securing your financial future and ensuring that your retirement years are truly fulfilling.
Through personalized strategies tailored to your unique goals and circumstances, we can help you create a comprehensive plan that not only safeguards your assets but also maximizes your retirement income. From optimizing your pension and social security benefits to exploring investment opportunities, we will work closely with you to build a strong foundation for your retirement.
However, our commitment doesn't end there. We firmly believe that knowledge is power, and we strive to empower our clients by providing educational resources and regular updates on the ever-changing financial landscape. Our goal is to equip you with the information and tools necessary to make informed decisions and adapt your retirement plan as needed.
Remember, retirement is not just a destination; it's a journey. Let us be your trusted guide along the way.
As a busy business owner, you may find yourself contemplating your exit strategy. Planning for the perfect exit is a deeply personal endeavor, but there are key considerations that every business owner must address.
- Will the sale price, after accounting for taxes and fees, provide enough financial support for you and your family for the rest of your lives?
One of the most critical aspects of your exit strategy is ensuring that the sale of your business generates the right amount of money. You want to ensure that the proceeds can sustain your lifestyle and fulfill your family's needs for the rest of your lives, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labor and achieve financial freedom. - What level of involvement and risk will you still have after the exit?
Exiting your business doesn't necessarily mean completely severing ties. It's crucial to consider what level of involvement and risk you are willing to maintain after the exit. Some business owners may prefer a clean break, while others may want to retain a certain level of involvement, such as serving as a consultant or advisor.
Understanding your desired level of engagement will help you plan your exit strategy accordingly and ensure a smooth transition for both you and the new owners. - How will your life change once you are no longer running a business?
Leaving your business behind marks a significant turning point in your life. It's essential to reflect on how your life will change once you are no longer running a business. Consider the impact on your daily routine, responsibilities, and overall sense of purpose. Some individuals may feel a sense of loss or emptiness, while others may embrace newfound freedom and explore new opportunities.
Understanding and preparing for these changes will help you navigate the transition with ease and find fulfilment in the next phase of your life.
At our firm, we recognise that many of our clients are eager to start a new chapter and immerse themselves in the captivating lands of Europe and beyond.
Our team of seasoned financial advisors is well-versed in navigating the complex world of international finance. From unravelling the intricacies of foreign tax regimes to optimising your investments and assets, we empower you with the knowledge and strategies to make informed financial decisions that pave the way for a thriving life abroad.
When you take the leap and relocate, our sister company - Smart Financial International - will seamlessly take over the plans and arrangements that have been meticulously put in place, supporting you throughout your entire lifetime.
Unfortunately, many relationships reach their breaking point, leaving individuals in a whirlwind of emotions and uncertainty.
Our team, led by a Resolution accredited specialist, possess extensive knowledge in divorce proceedings and will work alongside your legal and emotional support professionals to focus on the financial implications that arise during this time. Whether it involves managing assets, dividing property, or establishing a budget, we will work closely with you to create a roadmap for financial stability and independence.
At Smart Divorce, we firmly believe that the end of a relationship should not mean the end of your happiness or financial security. We are fully committed to providing a holistic approach to divorce support, helping you not only overcome the immediate challenges, but also prepare for a fulfilling and prosperous future.
Our six step process
Through our six-stage process, we provide you with the necessary tools and guidance to navigate the complexities of financial planning, investment, retirement and divorce. Here's a closer look:
First Contact
In our first conversation, we’ll speak with you to establish your circumstances, your priorities and your financial goals. This initial conversation also gives you a chance to find out how we work.
Discovery
Our second consultation will be used to gain a deeper understanding of your current situation. This step allows us to gain a more comprehensive picture of your affairs, but we're happy to meet without any commitment from you to move forwards.
Research and planning
Once we’ve established your goals and expectations, our team will explore the best options for you and put together a plan based around what you want to achieve. We’ll present a plan to you, or potentially several different options, which we’ll talk through with you in detail. Just let us do all the hard work, so you can be sure that your money is working hard for you.
Recommendations
We’ll request information on your current financial status and any financial products you may have, such as investment bonds, ISAs, collectives and life assurance. We’ll advise on what you can do to improve your financial situation, both when it comes to making the most of your existing financial products and on wider issues such as your retirement options.
Implementation
This is the point where we make sure you’re entirely comfortable with the financial plan that has been drawn up and we put our recommendations in place. We set up new investments and financial products that we have agreed are right for you and keep a firm eye on your finances to make sure they are in order.
Review
As time passes, your needs, circumstances and goals may evolve, so we’ll regularly review your plan with you, so we can make changes when and where necessary. That means we can make sure your money is continuing to work as hard as possible for you, putting you in the best position to achieve your objectives. You can get in touch with us whenever you like if you believe any changes need to be made.
Don't just take our word for it
Here's what our clients say
“I approached a financial planner as I was downsizing and having cash left over. Smart Financial offer general sound advice which is suitable to my senior age group, requirements and possible future wishes. Also they help by allaying fears at time of general financial uncertainty. I rely on Smart Financial's professional capabilities entirely.”
May McCallum
“Their help, support and advice has meant that despite the distance I prefer to stay with Smart and I hope they feels that it is worthwhile looking after us. In any event we discuss matters either by phone, email or FaceTime but I travel the 2.5 hrs for the review meeting as it is important to me to be face to face for a full discussion.”
Mark Hodgson
“I retired and wanted some good long term advice. Smart Financial have helped me in many ways! They have advised me on a wide range of issues. I have unquestionably seen the outcome that I had hoped for.”
Kevin Wharton
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