As we move into our 40s our finances are naturally pulled in different directions by competing priorities.

During this period, we are probably nearing the peak of our earning powers, yet it’s also a time that our expenditure is at its heaviest:

  • Your mortgage is probably relatively large
  • You may want to move to a larger house, which requires additional borrowing
  • Your children may still be young, with the cost of childcare putting a strain on your finances
  • Of course, they may be getting older, which brings with it additional financial burdens
  • They might also be considering university or higher education and you want to provide financial assistance

So how do you reconcile planning for the future, which we all must do if we hope to retire, while meeting your day-to-day expenditure, and living the lifestyle you want?

“Our goals can only be reached through the vehicle of a plan in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success.” Pablo Picasso

How do we help?

Our job is to help you manage those competing priorities.

Where possible we will consider ways in which you can reduce your expenditure. We will also start planning for your future by understanding your goals and objectives for both you and your family.

That means, practically speaking, we will:

  • Consider your mortgage to understand whether it is currently arranged in the most appropriate, cost-effective way
  • Ensure your finances are robust enough to withstand a short-term financial shock
  • Make recommendations to ensure that your family’s financial security is not put at risk if you suffer a serious illness, or worse, die unexpectedly
  • Consider how your medium-term objectives in relation to your children, for example helping with the cost of university or getting on the housing ladder, can be met
  • Ensure that your savings and investments are held as tax efficiently as possible, in a way which matches the risk you need and are prepared to take
  • Help you understand your retirement objectives and the progress you have made to date. We’ll then make recommendations to bridge any shortfall, while making sure you are taking advantage of every possible option available to help you meet your retirement objectives
  • Discuss the benefits of making a will and explain how this will ensure your wishes are carried out, especially in relation to your children, should you die while they are still dependent

You may not have worked with a financial adviser or planner before, but the evidence shows that the sooner you start, the better prepared you will be for the future*.  The Value of Advice report by Unbiased found that those who took advice on pension saving earlier in their careers saved an average £34,300 more than those who took no advice.

The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax planning or will writing. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other loans secured on it.

Sources

* Unbiased.co.uk

A client's story...

What do our clients have to say?

We were particularly impressed with the support and guidance Ben provided on what to expect in the early years of retirement and how we should organise our finances. We highly recommend Ben, we know he gives us good well-informed information and advice. Lynn & Julian
We were keen to ensure that our retirement planning was on track and that when we retired, maintain our standard of living. The service we received was professional, suited to our requirements and, most importantly, easy to understand. We would highly recommend Cactus Financial Planning. Stephen & Rachael
We needed investment advice after we had received an inheritance. After discussions with Ben he put into place a strategy where we were able to use these investments to help supplement our retirement income. We have been able to use this money to help pay for holidays and even a house extension! We have always found Ben a friendly and approachable person who understands our needs and requirements. Roger
I have recently started working with Ben who provided some investment advice. He explains things in a clear and concise manner, and is approachable and proactive. I have been delighted in the advice and ongoing service provided. Les