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Navigating Your Financial Future: A Guide to Choosing an Investment Advisor

  • Parkview Partners Capital Management
  • Jan 16
  • 3 min read

Understanding the Role of an Investment Advisor


An investment advisor is a professional who provides guidance on portfolio management, financial planning, and long-term strategy based on an individual’s goals and circumstances. Choosing an advisor is an important decision, as the relationship often plays a central role in shaping financial organization over time.


This guide offers an educational overview of factors commonly considered when evaluating investment advisors.


Clarifying Your Financial Needs


Before selecting an advisor, it can be helpful to understand what type of support you are seeking. Financial needs vary widely depending on life stage, asset complexity, and planning priorities.


Questions to Consider


  • Are you seeking investment management only, or comprehensive planning?

  • Do you have complex tax, estate, or business considerations?

  • How frequently do you expect communication and review meetings?

  • Are there multigenerational or philanthropic goals to address?


Clarifying these needs helps narrow the type of advisor relationship that may be appropriate.


Person writing in a notebook at a desk with a laptop and 'DEFINE YOUR GOALS' text.


Fiduciary vs. Suitability Standards


One important distinction among advisors is the standard under which they operate.


Fiduciary Standard


Advisors acting as fiduciaries are required to place client interests first and disclose conflicts of interest. This standard typically applies to registered investment advisors (RIAs).


Suitability Standard


Some advisors operate under a suitability standard, meaning recommendations must be suitable for a client’s circumstances but are not required to be the best available option.


Understanding which standard applies can provide clarity around advisor responsibilities.


Advisor Credentials and Experience


Professional designations and experience can offer insight into an advisor’s background and areas of focus.


Common Credentials


  • CFP® (Certified Financial Planner®)

  • CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst®)

  • CPA (Certified Public Accountant)


Credentials do not guarantee outcomes, but they may reflect formal training and adherence to professional standards.


Compensation Structures


Advisor compensation can influence how services are delivered. Common compensation models include:


  • Fee-only: Compensation comes solely from client fees

  • Fee-based: A combination of fees and commissions

  • Commission-based: Compensation tied to product transactions


Understanding how an advisor is compensated helps clarify potential conflicts and cost expectations.


Scope of Services Offered


Advisors vary in the breadth of services they provide. Some focus primarily on investment management, while others offer integrated wealth management that may include:


  • Financial planning

  • Tax-aware investment coordination

  • Retirement income planning

  • Estate planning coordination

  • Risk management and insurance review


Evaluating service scope helps ensure alignment with long-term needs.


Communication and Relationship Style


The advisor-client relationship often spans many years. Compatibility in communication style and expectations can influence the effectiveness of the relationship.


Considerations


  • Frequency of meetings and reviews

  • Clarity of explanations and reporting

  • Availability during major life or financial events

  • Willingness to collaborate with other professionals


A transparent, communicative approach may support long-term engagement.


Regulatory History and Due Diligence


Investors can review an advisor’s regulatory background through public resources such as FINRA BrokerCheck or the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database.


This step may help confirm registration status, disciplinary history, and firm affiliations.


Two professionals discuss at a table with the overlay text "ASK TOUGH QUESTIONS" in a bright office.


Evaluating the Long-Term Fit


Choosing an advisor is less about short-term results and more about establishing a long-term planning relationship. Evaluating philosophy, process, and alignment with personal values may be as important as reviewing credentials.


Taking time to compare options and ask thoughtful questions can support a more informed decision.


Conclusion


Selecting an investment advisor involves understanding personal financial needs, evaluating professional standards, and assessing the structure of the advisory relationship. By focusing on transparency, alignment, and long-term perspective, individuals can choose an advisor relationship that supports thoughtful financial planning over time.



Investment advice offered through Stratos Wealth Partners, Ltd., a registered investment advisor. Stratos Wealth Partners, Ltd and Parkview Partners Capital Management are separate entities. Neither Stratos nor Parkview Partners Capital Management provides legal or tax advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. The information presented is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as individualized investment, tax, or legal advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. For more information, please review our Form ADV, available upon request.


 
 
 

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Financial Advisor, Investment Advisor, High Net Worth, Wealth Management, Tax Planning, Risk Management, Financial Coordination, Retirement Planning, Charitable Giving, Columbus Ohio, Parkview Partners Capital Management

291 East Livingston Ave.
Columbus, OH 43215


Phone: (614) 427-2132

Fax: (614) 427-2132

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