Financial planning is essential when it comes to investment, putting a plan together involves choosing the right investment and developing a strategy that will work best for you.  Here is some advice to get you started.

Understand your current financial circumstances

You should begin by getting a clear and accurate picture of your finances. Work out your income and expenditure by documenting what you owe, and what you own.

What are your goals?

You can’t invest without a goal; you are investing for a purpose be clear on what it is and write it down. Your goal is going to be the backbone for your investment plan, for instance, you might aim to become a millionaire by the time you retire. Or you might want to pay off your home within ten years.

How much risk are you prepared to take?

If you have a large goal you should be prepared to take a large risk. You can’t expect to make $1,000,000 with a $500 investment. The more you invest the more you will make; however, there is a risk of losing some or all of your money if the economy goes bad.

Short term investment goals

If you want to save enough money to for a deposit on a house within three years you might want to consider the following:
Pay off debts and credit cards so that you have additional money to add to your savings.
Save a fixed amount of money from your monthly pay checks.
Make sure that you have a budget that has been cut down so that you are only paying for the bare essentials.
Choose a term deposit, or a savings account that provides easy access to your savings.

Long term investment goals

If you have long term investment plans such as early retirement within fifteen years, you will have to find the most effective tax strategy for you. You can join a super fund and make extra contributions.

Final thought

No matter what your investment goals are, it is essential that you have a plan. It is advised that you make an appointment with a financial advisor who will best be able to point you in the right direction to ensure that you meet your investment goals.