Making financial decisions can feel overwhelming – especially when life, goals and priorities are constantly changing. From saving for a first home to planning for retirement, many Canadians know they should be thinking ahead but aren’t always sure where to start.
That’s where the right financial advisor can make a meaningful difference.
As part of the fifth season of Wealth Wednesday with FirstOntario Credit Union, Larry Boyle, Senior Wealth Advisor at FirstOntario and Aviso Wealth, shared why financial advice isn’t just for people with significant savings — it’s for anyone who wants more clarity, confidence and direction.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that people need to have everything figured out before they meet with an advisor,” says Boyle. “In reality, that’s exactly why advisors exist.”
Advice for every stage of life
Many people put off meeting with a financial advisor because they feel intimidated by financial jargon, aren’t sure what questions to ask, or believe they need to reach a certain income or savings level before advice is worthwhile.
But according to Boyle, you don’t need to be wealthy to benefit from advice – you simply need to outline some goals to aspire to.
A financial advisor can help bring the different pieces of your financial life together and create a plan that feels clear, practical and manageable. That support can include budgeting, debt management, saving for a home, education planning, investing and retirement planning.
“Financial advice is really about helping people make better decisions at every stage of life,” says Boyle.
Why a plan matters
While many people think financial success comes down to choosing the right investment, Boyle says long-term success is often built on something much simpler: consistent decision-making.
Research has shown that households working with financial advisors often accumulate more financial assets over time than those who don’t. A big part of that comes from building stronger habits, staying disciplined and having a plan in place.
An advisor can help simplify complex choices, keep goals on track and provide guidance when priorities shift.
What to ask when choosing an advisor
For anyone meeting with an advisor for the first time, start with a few key questions:
- What services do you provide?
- What credentials and experience do you have?
- How are you compensated?
- How often will we meet?
- How will you help me reach my goals?
- What products are you licensed to offer?
These questions can help you understand how the relationship will work and whether the advisor is the right fit for your needs.
Your plan should evolve with your life
Financial planning isn’t a one-time conversation. As your life changes, your plan should change too.
Check in with your advisor at least once a year, as well as whenever you experience a major life event, such as a new job, marriage, the birth of a child, retirement, an inheritance or purchasing a home.
“The right advisor can simplify your financial life, help you avoid costly mistakes and give you confidence that you’re moving toward your financial goals,” says Boyle.
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. With the right guidance, financial uncertainty can become a clear, practical plan for what comes next.
Dream, plan, achieve – with FirstOntario and Aviso Wealth.
FirstOntario Credit Union in partnership with Aviso Wealth has an experienced team of advisors specializing in various areas of wealth management, including retirement planning, investment management, estate and succession planning, individual financial risk management and more. These professionals are here to help you plan for the future and reach your financial goals. Visit FirstOntario.com/Investments or call 1-800-616-8878 ext. 1700 to connect with a FirstOntario advisor and start growing your wealth today – your way.