Choosing a Financial Planner: What to Look ForMoving forward, the help of financial advisors and planners will be an indispensable part of the success of the reverse mortgage program.However, it’s important for consumers to know that not all financial planners are created equal and they should seek out someone geared toward their specific needs that will provide crucial information on the state of their retirement and what they will need to make their retirement suitable.According to an article published by Reverse Mortgage Daily, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has taken the necessary steps in order to ensure seniors are receiving the help they need by releasing a guide that will help them make the right decision when the time comes.In truth, if someone will be advising you on how to, and how not to, handle your finances, it should be someone you trust, feel comfortable with and will not cost a lot (depending on your means).For consumers who are still on the fence about seeking out the advice of a financial advisor, they should arm themselves with all the tools to make an informed decision. The “know your financial advisor” guide is definitely one of them, helping seniors navigate the many titles under which financial planners categorize themselves.“Veteran’s advisor,” “retirement advisor” and “senior specialist” are some of the categories under which consumers can look for the financial advisors although the CFPB stresses that just because an advisor carries the title doesn’t mean they know everything about the topic.In fact, consumers should take into consideration the education of the advisor, the amount of time they spent getting their degrees and whether or not the degree they received was from a highly regarded and ethical university or program.CFPB has stated:“…credentials and promises alone don’t guarantee expertise or the quality of someone’s training. It’s up to you to look closely at the training, background, and quality of service when picking someone who promises to help you protect and grow your well-earned nest egg.”For me, it’s not so much credentials, although that is a part of it, especially if they’re just starting out, but also ethical practices and testimonials. If a professional has been in the field for more than five years and has not managed to get any testimonial or proof that they are the best at what they do, how can you trust them?Consumers should evaluate the needs they have against the training of the financial advisor and choose accordingly, especially if they market themselves under a specific niche. For example, I specialize in reverse mortgages, so I have experience working with Americans 62 years of age and older. I have testimonials that back up, not only my services, but my experience as well.Any important financial decision should be backed up by a lot of research and plenty of confidence in your decision. You efforts will be rewarded in the future.Interested in a reverse mortgage or simply have more questions? Give PS Financial Services a call at  (888) 845-6630 or send us an email at info@PSReverseMortgage.com. We do not pressure those who inquire. We are simply here to help.