Retirement Planning Advice in Perth…

YOUR RETIREMENT BLUEPRINT

For many, achieving financial freedom in retirement is a key goal, but figuring out where to begin can be daunting. That’s where Westmount Financial steps in.

With a clear and comprehensive retirement blueprint as the foundation, we focus on optimizing your investment returns, safeguarding your assets, and navigating the challenges that inevitably arise along the way.

At Westmount, we believe retirement planning is deeply personal. That’s why we reject a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we take the time to understand your unique vision for the future, crafting strategies that align with your goals, values, and lifestyle preferences.

Contact us for a second opinion.

Starting Your Retirement Planning Early…

Retirement planning is often overshadowed by more immediate financial priorities, yet it ranks among the most impactful financial decisions you’ll ever make. Starting early not only ensures greater financial security but also minimizes stress and provides long-term benefits that late planners may miss.

Let’s delve into why initiating your retirement planning sooner rather than later is both prudent and essential…

Harnessing the Power of Compound Interest…

Starting early allows you to capitalize on the extraordinary potential of compound interest, where your investments generate returns not only on the principal amount but also on accumulated earnings. For example, saving $500 monthly starting at age 25, with a 7% average annual return, could grow to over $1 million by age 65. Waiting until age 35 to start would result in just over $500,000 with the same contributions and returns.

The earlier you begin, the more time your investments have to multiply, making compound interest your strongest ally.

Easing Financial Pressure…

Early retirement planning enables you to distribute your savings over a longer period, reducing the strain of aggressive saving later in life.

A consistent, long-term savings approach alleviates anxiety about financial security and having a well-laid plan provides flexibility to handle unexpected challenges, such as medical emergencies or job losses, without derailing your retirement goals.

Expanding Investment Opportunities…

A longer time horizon gives you access to a wider array of investment options, including those with higher potential returns. For example, younger investors can afford to take calculated risks, such as investing in shares, as they have time to recover from market fluctuations.

Starting early enables diversification—a balanced mix of growth and stability across different asset classes. In contrast, late starters often need to prioritize low-risk, low-return investments, limiting their savings potential.

Learning from Mistakes…

Investing comes with a learning curve, and early starters have the advantage of time to recover from missteps, as poor-performing investments are less detrimental when you have decades to adjust and recover. Late planners must adopt a more conservative approach, leaving little room for error.

Inflation Protection…

Rising costs can erode your purchasing power over time, making it essential to plan for inflation in your retirement savings strategy. Starting early ensures you save enough to maintain your lifestyle despite rising costs.

Achieving Financial Independence…

Early planning not only secures your retirement but also accelerates your journey to financial independence—the freedom to live without relying on active income.

Early savings and investments can allow you to pursue hobbies, travel, or even retire early. Starting late often requires working longer or compromising on your lifestyle to achieve similar goals.

Addressing Health-Related Costs…

Healthcare expenses typically increase with age, making it crucial to incorporate them into your retirement planning. A well-prepared retirement plan ensures access to quality healthcare without financial strain.

Avoiding Difficult Choices…

Procrastinating on retirement planning can lead to tough decisions later in life, such as delaying retirement, downsizing, or relying on family for support. Early planning helps maintain your desired standard of living in retirement.

Conclusion: A Brighter Future Starts Today…

The advantages of early retirement planning are undeniable. From harnessing compound interest to achieving financial independence, starting sooner sets the stage for a comfortable and stress-free retirement.

The good news? It’s never too early—or too late—to begin. If you haven’t started yet, take the first step now: assess your finances, set goals, and explore your savings options. Every contribution brings you closer to a secure and fulfilling future.

Downsizing your home?

Many retirees find they want a smaller home, or a home more suited to their empty-nest requirements. For some, selling the family home can be a great way to release built-up equity to pay for retirement living expenses or in-home support that will allow them to stay home longer.

From 1 July 2018, Australians aged 65 years or older have been able to make a non-concessional (after tax) contribution into their super account from the sale proceeds of their family home.

As a leading financial advisor, we understand how to get the most out of your super account beyond selling your home. From designing realistic investment strategies to minimising fees, Westmount Financial can help demystify the often complicated world or retirement planning, superannuation, and taxation, so you can move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

FAQs