Natalia Lingiah, Independent financial adviser

An introduction to Natalia Lingiah

Your career to date?
Following my Masters degree in Economics and Management I have been working in the financial services industry since 2003, helping clients to make the most of their money at whatever stage they are in of life. I believe that my clients appreciate that they found someone who will listen to them, understand their requirements and use extensive experience to make all aspects of financial planning simple, straightforward and effective for their specific circumstances.

In delivering a high quality service backed up by strong industry experience, I believe that it is important to keep pace with changing legislation and to enhance awareness of development that may provide my clients with an edge. I have therefore embarked on a relatively new qualification with the Chartered Insurance Institute and to date I have obtained Diploma status and I am 80% completed towards my Chartered status in financial planning (the highest grade of formal qualification available for an Independent Financial Advisor).

My areas of expertise include investments, retirement planning and advising women. I also provide a range of second opinion services - so if you have received financial advice that you are unsure about, that worries you or makes you feel uncomfortable you can obtain a free and unbiased second opinion from me. I offer a free, no obligation, initial consultation to discuss your requirements and to help you understand your options.

What do you specialise in?
Mortgages, Occupational Pension Transfers, Equity Release and Home Reversion Plans

If you could offer one piece of financial advice to an individual, what would it be and why?
"When I first meet a client, my advice is always to start with a overall financial review.

This process highlights their objectives and any shortfalls or improvements that can be made for their specific situation. From this process, a specific plan can be implemented to maximise client wealth and to achieve their general financial objectives. "

What is the most common mistake you find individuals make in financial planning?
"We're all busy and so, the most common mistake that I find is the simple 'lack of a clear financial plan or strategy'.

When meeting with new clients, a number of them will have a list of financial products purchased over the years from various salespeople, their bank, advertisements or perhaps based on tips from friends. This is all fine and we can help them work through what is working for them and what could be improved, however, it is critical to establish an overall strategy - a financial 'roadmap' to acheive future financial wellbeing. This is my role and the one that gives me the most satisfaction when I see it improving the quality of my clients lives. "

As an independent financial adviser what, for you, are the main benefits of being a part of Honister Partners Ltd?
Not only does Honister Partners provide me with a compliant infrastructure which allows us to focus all of our time and energy on advising our clients - it also provides us with a vast resource of knowledge and support from our Research Department. The value of this in-house resource to our clients is unquantifiable and incredibly valuable.