Retirement planning remains top ‘advice driver’

The number of consumers searching for an IFA specialising in investment and savings remained at 27%, and this topic continued to be the second most popular advice driver in September. Demand for independent financial advice on these specialist areas continues to be high as consumers consider their investments and long-term financial planning for the future.

Unbiased.co.uk’s ‘find a mortgage adviser’ statistics also reveal first-time buying remained the highest search topic over the last month, representing 37% of consumer enquiries for a local, whole of market mortgage adviser. Remortgaging advice remained the second most popular advice driver despite falling by 3% in the last month, with 30% of consumers searching for help with remortgaging.

Karen Barrett, chief executive of unbiased.co.uk, commented: “Everyone should think about what they will do when they stop working and how they will pay for their lives in retirement.

“The numerous retirement planning options are confusing and complex and it’s no surprise that retirement planning advice is the most sought after area of independent financial advice.

“It is equally crucial for people who are looking for a first-time buyer mortgage or who are remortgaging to seek advice from a mortgage professional who can access products from the whole of the market rather than just a small selection.”