Big financial institutions have some of the answers, but they often focus on selling an image and promoting their own proprietary products. Because of this self-interest, their representatives can lack the objectivity of an independent advisor, and the ability to customize a plan for each individual.

Some large firms have abundant locations and investment representatives, but limited products and strategies. These limitations can penalize clients and force them to pay too much in taxes, or cause them to feel like a square peg in a round hole.

Choosing the right advisor can be confusing. But sometimes smaller is better. An independent advisor can offer a more flexible and objective experience for the client. This experience can afford the client with more personalized and diversified solutions.