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DIY Investing: Are You Really in Control of Your Money?

 


 

DIY Investing: Are You Really in Control of Your Money?

 

If you’d like to check whether your DIY portfolio is still working for you, I can introduce you to my financial planning partner, John Kirkwood at Quilter, who can provide full financial planning support when needed.

 

Many people manage their own investments, and for some, it feels empowering. But DIY investing only works when you truly understand what’s happening behind the scenes. Without the right information, a portfolio can quietly drift off course, exposing you to risks you didn’t intend to take.

 

Below are a few simple questions that every DIY investor should be able to answer confidently. If any of them give you pause, it may be worth getting a second opinion.

 

1.       Where is your money actually invested?

 

Most DIY investors can name the platform they use; but not the underlying funds, sectors, or regions. Your long‑term outcomes depend on what you’re invested in, not just where you hold it.

 

2.       Do you understand the level of volatility you’re exposed to?

 

A portfolio that looks “steady” today may be far riskier than you realise. Different investments behave differently during market swings, and understanding this helps you avoid surprises.

 

3.       Is your asset allocation appropriate for your goals?

 

Your mix of equities, bonds, property and alternatives determines most of your long‑term performance. If your allocation doesn’t match your timelines or objectives, your strategy may not be working as well as you think.

 

4.       Do you know what it’s costing you?

 

DIY platforms often have multiple layers of charges:

 

  • Fund fees
  • Platform fees
  • Transaction costs
  • Bid/offer spreads

 

Small costs compound over time, and can quietly erode returns.

 

5.       Is there a rolling strategy behind your decisions?

 

Many DIY investors buy reactively, based on headlines, trends or gut feeling. That’s fine for short‑term dabbling, but not for long‑term planning. A structured strategy helps keep your investments aligned with your goals as life changes.

 

6.       When DIY becomes ‘Do I Need Help?’

 

DIY investing isn’t wrong, but it does require clarity, structure and ongoing review. If you’re unsure about any of the questions above, speaking to a financial adviser can help you:

 

  • Match your investments to your timelines
  • Ensure the risk level is appropriate
  • Reduce unnecessary costs
  • Build a long‑term strategy
  • Keep your goals on track

 

Just let me know, I’m always happy to help.

 

Best wishes,

Julie Welsh Mortgage & Protection Adviser

Border Mortgage Services

 

M: 07828 914 154

E: julie@borderms.co.uk

W: www.borderms.co.uk

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