Author: Hana Proctor

What Does an Investment Advisor Do?

Hana Proctor Financial Advisor , , , , , ,

Help you choose low-cost investments to minimize drag on your returns. Identify tax-efficient strategies like asset location and withdrawal order to maximize after-tax wealth accumulation.

Advisers must pass the Series 65 exam, a comprehensive exam administered by FINRA. This exam covers a range of topics from investment advice to federal securities laws. Contact Investment Advisor Nashville for professional help.

1. Customized Financial Portfolios

Advisor

Personalized financial portfolios align investments with your personal values and financial goals. Unlike generic investment solutions that blanket everyone with the same portfolio, customized investments are meticulously designed to align with your unique circumstances and risk tolerance. This approach ensures that every investment decision is a stepping stone toward your overarching financial goals.

Investment Advisors offer a range of services to assist with the development and management of customized financial portfolios. These services include providing research and investment ideas, asset allocation, diversification, rebalancing, and other critical aspects of effective investing. In addition, they can help you set up tax efficient strategies to potentially reduce your tax liability and maximize after-tax returns.

A registered investment advisor is a fiduciary who has a legal duty to always act in your best interests. They have professional experience and resources to make sound, data-driven recommendations that can enhance your portfolio performance. Their guidance can also serve as a buffer against impulsive decisions influenced by emotions or market volatility, helping you stay disciplined in turbulent economic conditions.

Many advisors utilize model portfolios to build their clients’ investment strategies. While these models can be useful, they can’t perfectly capture the uniqueness of each client’s financial situation. For this reason, some advisors choose to customize off-the-shelf models to better align them with their clients’ needs. This process can be time-consuming, and the changes may introduce additional costs or risks.

When modifying an existing portfolio, it’s important to be mindful of how each change might impact the overall cost structure and investment risk. For example, if you decide to substitute an existing fund for another, the new fund may have higher fees than its predecessor. Or, if you tweak the strategic asset allocation to better align with your clients’ moderate risk preferences, you may increase their exposure to US stocks at the expense of international markets. To avoid unintended consequences, it’s vital to consider the overall cost, risk, liquidity and tax efficiency of each modification. This can be done by assessing each adjustment to the original portfolio before making any changes.

2. Personal Attention

As you meet with potential financial professionals, make sure you understand the distinction between an Investment Advisor and a Financial Planner. While the words “advisor” and “adviser” have similar meanings, only those who are officially registered as Investment Advisers can offer fiduciary advice – which means they must always prioritize your financial interests over their own. Financial Planners and other non-registered individuals may be held to a lower standard of care, and their recommendations may have incentives that conflict with your own.

Depending on the state, it’s also important to find out how your prospective advisor is regulated and what their credentials are. Verify they are licensed and registered with regulatory bodies like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or your state securities regulator, and check for any disciplinary actions against them. You should also find out if they are compensated through fees for specific services, commissions on products sold or a combination of both.

For example, some Advisors are “fee-only” and only earn money through the services they provide. Others are paid a salary from their employer or through a combination of fees and commissions on the sale of products like insurance policies. You may also want to determine if they can only offer advice about products manufactured by their employer or if they are permitted to sell other companies’ investments, as well.

If you are seeking comprehensive financial planning, such as budgeting, debt management, retirement planning, tax planning and estate planning, a Financial Planner may be the better choice. However, if you have already established a substantial investment portfolio and only need expert advice on managing your assets, an Investment Advisor Representative may be a good fit.

In the video below, Scott Leonard, CFP®, explains that the difference between the spellings is not significant and is often simply a branding preference chosen by financial professionals or firms. The key distinction is that an Investment Adviser is a professional whose advice meets the fiduciary standard required by the SEC, while an Advisor is not. The fiduciary standard requires that an Investment Adviser always act in the best interest of his or her clients.

3. Tax Planning

Investment Advisors who provide tax planning services help clients understand the tax impact of their financial choices. This can include how to manage investment tax deductions, how to minimize capital gains and dividend taxes, and strategies for minimizing wealth tax. They also help plan retirement and estate plans, and assist with rebalancing portfolios for tax efficiency as the client ages.

Tax considerations are unique to investing, and they can have a significant effect on the client’s overall financial picture. It is important that Investment Advisors have a thorough understanding of these considerations and can effectively communicate their knowledge to the client. A strong relationship with an Investment Advisor can help to minimize the client’s exposure to tax surprises and can reduce the amount of money that the client has to spend on taxes.

Most importantly, Investment Advisors are required to provide their clients with up-front disclosures on their qualifications, what services they offer, how they are compensated, possible conflicts of interest, and any record of disciplinary action against them. Clients can check an advisor’s credentials through resources like FINRA’s BrokerCheck and the SEC’s IAPD system, and they can conduct an in-person interview to gauge whether they are comfortable working with an investment adviser.

Investment advisors who do not incorporate tax planning into their services typically only focus on managing the client’s investment portfolio and maximizing returns. However, when an advisor offers comprehensive financial planning in addition to investment management, it gives the client a complete picture of their finances and helps them make more informed decisions about their long-term goals.

Government officials should develop a process to review and select an investment advisory firm on an ongoing basis. The selection process should consider the firm’s suitability to meet the government’s investment objectives, and it should be conducted in a cost-effective manner. The GFOA has developed a Guide to Selecting an Investment Adviser, and a sample Request for Proposal is available in the GFOA Resource Center. Moreover, it is recommended that the governing board or review committee of the government entity conduct a formal evaluation and selection process at least every five years to ensure that the investment adviser is still meeting the agency’s objectives and needs.

4. Investment Advice

Investment Advisors offer clients a wide range of advice on investments, such as stocks, mutual funds, and real estate. They can also advise on long-term strategies to build wealth by implementing compounding strategies and advising investors about the risks involved in any particular investment. Investment Advisors are also required to adhere to strict fiduciary responsibilities, meaning they must act in the client’s best interest at all times.

Investment Advisors can either be individual consultants or large firms that provide investment advisory services. They are also required to comply with the regulations set by SEBI (India’s Securities and Exchange Board). All advisers must pass NISM-Series-X-A & X-B Investment Advisor certification exams and obtain a SEBI registration number (RIA). Moreover, they cannot accept product commissions from product issuers or guarantee returns for their services. Investment Advisors must also disclose any potential conflicts of interest and fees they charge, as well as their record of disciplinary actions.

To determine whether a potential advisor is a good fit for you, research their website and firm to get a sense of the types of services they offer and the type of clients they serve. You should also review their disciplinary records and credentials through resources like FINRA’s BrokerCheck and the SEC’s IAPD system. Ultimately, it’s important to find an Investment Advisor whose approach to financial planning and investing aligns with your own.

In addition, Investment Advisors can help you understand and manage risk by conducting thorough risk assessments to identify your risk tolerance, financial goals, and financial services needs. They can then suggest various investment portfolios that are designed to meet your specific objectives and risk tolerance. They can also advise you on tax-efficient strategies, potentially saving you money by lowering your taxable income or increasing your after-tax return.

Finding the right Investment Advisor can save you time and effort while ensuring your financial future is in competent hands. It’s crucial to thoroughly evaluate each candidate, including their credentials, services offered, and fee structure. Make sure to hire an investment advisor with a track record of successful, ethical investment management and adherence to the fiduciary standard.

How to Choose an Emergency Plumber

Hana Proctor Plumbing , , , , ,

A plumbing disaster rarely occurs at a convenient time. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe that is flooding your home or foul odors in your kitchen, you need an emergency Plumber to get the problem fixed as quickly as possible.

Plumber

But how do you know when to call for help? And how do you find a reliable, trustworthy emergency Carlsbad Plumber?

When a plumbing emergency occurs, you need a professional plumber right away. This plumber should be available 24/7 and have the skills to diagnose and fix the problem quickly. The plumber should also be able to explain how the problem occurred and provide preventative tips for the future.

There are many reasons to call an emergency plumber, from clogged drains to burst pipes. These problems can cause serious damage and affect your water supply. In these situations, it is important to call a plumber immediately so they can repair the issue before it gets worse.

A good emergency plumber will take the time to understand your needs and provide quality service. They will also have the tools and equipment necessary to handle your emergency. In addition, they will be able to offer you a range of solutions that fit your budget. In some cases, a plumbing emergency may be covered by your insurance company or the city’s water department.

Before hiring an emergency plumber, ask for references and check online reviews. It is also helpful to ask for pictures of previous jobs. Lastly, be sure to choose a plumber who is licensed and insured. This will ensure that you are getting a high-quality service at a fair price.

It is important to hire a reputable emergency plumber to avoid expensive repairs in the future. They can save you money by identifying the source of the problem and finding the best solution. They can also help you save on energy bills by detecting any leaks or faulty appliances. They can also recommend other services that you might need to improve your home’s efficiency. These services can include installing insulation, replacing your old water heater, or fixing a broken toilet.

Availability

When a plumbing emergency strikes, it can be extremely stressful. It can also lead to expensive property damage if left unchecked. You should always call a professional plumber to help you with serious plumbing emergencies, such as burst pipes or sewage backups. They will be able to solve the problem quickly and minimize the damage. You should ask about their availability and pricing before hiring them. In addition, you should also know whether they charge extra for night or weekend work.

Having access to hot water is essential for many home functions, such as showering and washing clothes. A faulty hot water heater can be an inconvenience, but it is not necessarily an emergency that requires the services of an emergency plumber. If you have a hot water heater that is constantly breaking down, it may be time to replace it.

An emergency plumber is available to address any problems that affect your daily routine, such as a clogged toilet or a broken shower head. They can also fix leaky faucets and restore water pressure in your home. Emergency plumbers are also trained to deal with hazardous situations, such as a burst pipe or sewage backup.

While both a broken pipe and a sewer backup qualify as emergencies, the latter poses a greater threat to your health and safety. A sewage backup can cause significant damage to your home and can also lead to mold growth. In some cases, the sewage can even leak into your kitchen and living rooms, creating an unpleasant odor. You should call an emergency plumber right away if you notice signs of a sewer backup, such as sewage water in your toilets or pools of sewage in your yard.

Licensing

When choosing an emergency plumber, you need to find one who is licensed in your area. This will ensure that the plumber has met certain qualifications, including passing a background check and having liability insurance. In addition, a licensed plumber will be more likely to provide quality work and comply with local regulations. You can verify a plumber’s license by checking online databases provided by licensing boards or regulatory agencies.

Licensed plumbing professionals are also trained to handle emergency situations in a safe and efficient manner. They can assess the problem and recommend the best course of action for the situation. They can even help prevent future emergencies by conducting routine inspections and maintenance. For example, a regular inspection by an emergency plumber can identify potential problems and fix them before they become a serious issue.

A licensed plumber can handle a wide range of issues, from burst pipes and sewer backups to gas leaks and clogged toilets. They are available 24/7 and can respond quickly to any plumbing emergency. They can also provide advice on proper maintenance and upgrades to improve your home’s plumbing system.

When you are facing a plumbing emergency, it is important to take steps to mitigate the damage and minimize the costs. The first step is to turn off the water supply valve on the affected fixture. This will stop the flow of water and buy you some time to call a plumber. If you are unable to locate the shut-off valve, try turning off your main water line at the house meter. If you are not sure where to find the meter, contact your local government office for assistance.

Insurance

Whether or not your homeowner’s insurance covers emergency plumbing repairs depends on several factors, including policy language and the circumstances of the damage. Generally, homeowners’ insurance provides coverage for damage caused by sudden events, also known as perils. These include fire, theft, and floods.

When you have a plumbing problem, it is important to call an emergency plumber right away. This will help to minimize damage and save money in the long run. You should also try to prevent plumbing emergencies by taking precautions such as not pouring grease or oil down the drain and only flushing toilet paper. It is also a good idea to have your home plumbing regularly serviced by a licensed plumber.

If you do have a plumbing problem that requires immediate attention, it is crucial to choose an emergency plumber who will be available around the clock. Some emergencies, such as a burst pipe or sewage backup, can cause serious damage to your property and health if not addressed immediately. An emergency plumber should be able to respond quickly and arrive fully equipped to handle the issue.

When choosing an emergency plumber, be sure to find one who is licensed and insured. It is also a good idea to check for reviews and testimonials. This will give you an idea of the quality of work that they provide. In addition, you should ask the emergency plumber to give a clear estimate before starting the job. This will help you avoid hidden charges and overcharging. You should also make sure to read the terms of service carefully, as many companies have different policies for their services. You may be charged a flat rate for a certain period of time, or you may be required to pay a percentage of the total repair bill.

Reputation

It is important to look for a plumber with an excellent reputation, as this can save you time and money. This can be done by checking their reviews online, and if possible, asking friends and family members for recommendations. It is also important to consider their experience and qualifications. For example, a plumber with extensive experience in the industry will be more familiar with the various problems that can occur.

Another important factor to consider is whether the emergency plumber provides background checks for their employees. This is especially important if you are having someone come to your home late at night. This is to ensure that the individual has not been convicted of a crime, and has no criminal record. This can help protect you and your family against any potential harm or theft that could happen while the plumber is working at your house.

A reliable emergency plumber will be available 24/7 to provide you with the service you need when you need it most. They will also be able to offer advice and preventative measures to keep your plumbing system running smoothly. They may even be able to recommend some products that you can use in your home to prevent future plumbing disasters.

Choosing the right emergency plumber can be a challenge, but it is worth the effort. The most reputable plumbers will be licensed and insured, which will give you peace of mind that they have the necessary skills to handle any emergency situation. You should also be sure to compare plumber fees, and make sure that they are transparent about the costs involved. A good emergency plumber should be able to provide a detailed quote that clearly itemises all parts of the planned work, so there are no unexpected surprises later on.

How to Help Your Child With Potty Training

Hana Proctor Potty , , , ,
Potty

Children may be ready for potty training at any age, but some need a little help. If your child is pulling at their diaper, or they seem to be holding in urine and/or poop, then it might be time to start toilet training.

It can be difficult for children to let go of ownership of their diapers, but this is a vital part of the potty training process. Visit https://nextdaypotty.com/ to learn more.

1. Let Your Child See You Use the Potty

Your child will learn most of what they know about the potty through your example. So, take them to the toilet while they are wearing diapers and explain what you’re doing. It can also help to set a schedule, such as having them sit on the potty chair after waking with a dry diaper or 45 minutes to an hour after drinking lots of liquids. This will help your child to recognize their own “got to go” signals and learn that they can get rid of the diaper once they’re ready.

Be patient if they have an accident, and don’t make them feel guilty about it. Accidents are a natural part of the potty training process and will happen from time to time. You can help them by letting them feel the wetness of their clothes so they understand that it happens when they don’t use the potty when they need to.

Some children have performance anxiety and will hold their pee even after they’ve sat on the potty. This is usually because they are afraid that the toilet will flush parts of their body away or they’ll be sucked into the toilet (which isn’t true, but they do think it is!). Luckily, most of these issues can be resolved with some patience and understanding.

For example, if they’re holding their pee because they’re scared of the toilet flushing, try dumping the contents of their dirty diaper into the potty chair and toilet to show that it will not flush them. If they’re scared of pooping in the potty, you can set a routine where they poop in their pull-up behind the sofa or somewhere else, until they’re comfortable enough to poop on the potty.

Once your child is successfully using the potty, praise them and give plenty of positive reinforcement. You can also help them to avoid accidents by getting them into underwear, and making sure they stay on the potty until they have urinated or passed a bowel movement. If they’re having trouble, be patient and gently encourage them to continue trying.

2. Let Your Child See Other Children Use the Potty

Many children take interest in other children’s behavior and like to imitate it. Showing your child pictures of other young children using the potty can encourage their curiosity about the process. Also, read books about potty training together and discuss the topics in a way that your child can understand.

The best time for children to use the potty is when they have a full bladder and can feel that they need to go. Some kids will let you know by asking for a diaper change when their bladder or bowel is ready to empty. However, some kids do not feel the urge until they are very full and may not realize it until they have a leaky diaper or bowel movement. It is important to try to catch your child before this happens by taking them on the potty regularly, especially when they seem a little antsy or fussy.

You should make trips to the toilet part of your child’s daily routine, such as after waking or after meals and before and after naps. A regular routine will help your child become accustomed to the location, the seat, and how to sit on it comfortably. It will also allow you to monitor your child’s progress toward reaching the potty milestone.

Choose a potty chair that is low enough for your child to place their feet firmly on the floor and will not tip over easily (Picture 1). Be sure to talk to your child about how they are going to use it and what they should do when they are sitting on it. It is also helpful to teach your child a word for their body parts and the process, such as pee or poop.

Some children do not feel comfortable exposing their genitals, so they may be reluctant to use the potty at first. This is normal. Do not force your child to sit on the potty if they do not want to, and encourage them to stay on longer than they did at first by rewarding them with a sticker or telling them they are a big boy or girl now.

3. Let Your Child See You Wipe

Once your child has mastered using the potty by themselves, it’s time to move on to wiping. This is the most difficult physical aspect of toilet training for many children and it’s not uncommon for them to need a little bit of help.

One way to help set them up for success is to let them watch you and their older siblings use the bathroom. This will give them a clear picture of how to do it properly and helps them feel confident in their ability.

During this process, it’s also important to explain how much toilet paper is needed to wipe and encourage them to count how many squares they need on their own. This will prevent them from using too much which can clog the toilet and makes it harder for them to clean their behind thoroughly. The ideal amount is about 4 squares.

When kids are learning to wipe, it’s important to teach them that they must spread their legs apart to get a thorough clean. They’ll also need to fold the paper so that it lays flat against their bottom and doesn’t leave a mark. It’s also vital for both boys and girls to wipe from front to back to avoid introducing germs from their rectum into their bladder or vagina.

After a thorough wipe, it’s important to have them check themselves to make sure they got everything. This will ensure that they aren’t leaving any poop behind which could lead to uncomfortable genital bacterial infections and even serious health complications.

Once they’ve wiped, it’s helpful to teach them to wash their hands well. This will help them stay healthy and prevent infection, so they’ll be more likely to wash them after going to the potty as well.

Getting kids to remember all of these steps can be tricky, especially if they’re tired or grouchy. A good solution is to create a checklist they can use to remind themselves before taking them to the potty. There are free printable ones online that are easy to read and include both words and symbols for pre-readers, or you can have them draw their own. Posting it somewhere that’s visible in their room or bathroom is another great way to keep them on track.

4. Let Your Child See You Wash Your Hands

Your child is at the stage when they love to mimic their parents, so this is a great time to start teaching them about proper hand washing. They will want to follow you everywhere and into the bathroom, so let them sit beside you and watch how you wash your hands and why. After you’re done, praise them for their hand-washing skills and tell them how important it is to keep their hands clean so they won’t get sick.

Your child can now follow your lead with most of the potty training, but there may be times when they have an “oopsie.” Most experts agree that these are a normal part of the process and should not be treated as failures. Accidents can happen when kids are tired or sick or when they are preoccupied and don’t have a chance to go before the urge passes. Embarrassment can be a big issue for some children, so be sure to talk with your child about the potty journey and that having accidents is okay.

In the beginning, it is helpful to have a daily schedule for your child to encourage the use of the potty. Many families find that it helps to take them to the potty every 30 or 60 minutes, and this should include waking up, right after meals, after naps, and before bedtime. It is also a good idea to have them sit on the potty during nappy changes, so they will know that it is for pee and poo.

Once they have a firm grasp on sitting in the potty, you can begin to teach them to stand up to pee. Some children prefer to do this because they are more likely to be able to empty their bladder completely. Regardless of their gender, it’s best to have them sit down to poop, too.

Once they’ve learned to stand up to pee and poop, you can move them from the potty chair to the “big toilet.” This is a milestone for most toddlers, and they usually let you know when it’s time to make the switch.