I'm (very) new to the world of saving, having worked hard over the last couple of years to pay off all of my existing debt (except the morgage!!!). I have a good credit history (no CCJs ever or late payments in the last few years), and can save ~£500 each month, plus I have a lump sum of £10k coming in the next couple of months that I could probably tie up for 12 months. I have a number of options for regular savings - ISA, Mortgage overpayments, Pension AVCs to name a few...

I think I might be best speaking to a financial advisor, but I have no idea really what to look for - how do I pick the good from the bad?

Cheers,

SM.

Well firstly I would say seek the advice of an Independent Financial advisor that will offer the whole market to you and is not tied to a specific brand or institution. Furthermore research the advisor in the field of what they know and what you specifically need ie are they experienced in retirement planning mortgages etc

Good starting point: www.ifabrokers.co.uk free advice and a good staring point for the questions you may have, it even as a search facility for your nearest IFA.

Regards,

Paul