Paul Drake

Paul Drake

Opal Financial Management Limited

Reviewed for

Mortgages ( 1 )

Pensions ( 4 )

Retirement income (annuities, drawdown) ( 2 )

Investments and Savings ( 43 )

Inheritance Planning ( 3 )

Financial Planning ( 13 )

Financial Mentoring ( 3 )

Reviewers' assets

£500k+ ( 2 )

£200k - £500k ( 6 )

£100k - £200k ( 2 )

£50k - 100k ( 5 )

Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had some money left to us, we did not know the best way to invest it, so we got in contact with Paul Drake for his advice.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He advised us of different options on how to invest our money, which we are very pleased with.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we are very pleased with the investments we have made.

What could they have done better?

Just leave things as they are.

Paul:

Many thanks for taking the time to do a review for me and for your kind comments. I'm glad you are pleased with my services. I'll look forward to our next meeting. All the best, Paul
Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was worried about inheritance tax. I'd met Paul many years ago in a local Building Society branch. When I found him on Vouched for, I decided to make contact.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul has helped me to set up a trust fund

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes all completed

What could they have done better?

The service that Paul provided was faultless

Paul:

Many thanks for taking the time to do a review of my services and I look forward to our review meeting next year.
Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had some money we wished to invest.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Tremendously well over the years always very helpful

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing really

Paul:

Thank for your kind words and for taking the time to do a review on my services. I'll look forward to seeing you again next year. All the best, Paul
Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Inheritance, sale of house and retirement. Co- op bank withdrew their financial advisors, and I knew of Paul through them.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Been friendly, and helpful with making safe investment decisions. I always feel I can ask questions without sounding stupid.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Always stayed ahead of the curve, so very pleased.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Paul:

Thank you very much for your review and for your kind words. I'm glad that you are pleased with my services. I look forward to our next review meeting. Best wishes, Paul
Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was without a financial adviser for a few years and my investments needed updating.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He has invested the money in the appropriate investment funds.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

As with any investments they go up and down and when I need to draw on this money, I hope the market will be going in the right direction. At present everything seems to be going in the right direction.

What could they have done better?

I have no complaints.

Paul:

Thank you for taking time to do this review. It is my pleasure assisting you with your financial planning. Looking forward to seeing you again soon! All the best, Paul.
Review

by a verified client in Surrey

4 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

An heritance received some 9 years ago that I needed guidance in how to manage and invest.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Very much so. He has provided guidance to match my expectations an the level of risk I have been prepared to take with these investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

They have performed very much in line with Paul's recommendations.

Paul:

Thank you very much for taking the time to do a review and for your kind words. I look forward to our next meeting. Thanks again.
Review

by a verified client in Devon

4 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I first met Paul when he worked for Bristol & West and he helped me and my Mother sort out our finances. He was so helpful that when he left and became an independent financial advisor we stayed with him. Since I have had to give up work to look after my brother Paul has been very helpful in putting my finances in place so that I can concentrate on looking after my brother.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul takes the time and trouble to understand our financial situation and advises accordingly. He always is available to help with any queries and I wouldn't change from him. He really does go the extra mile to try and resolve any issues and allay any worries.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. I feel like Paul understands what we need so wouldn't change from him.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. I am happy with the way things are and have always found Paul to be efficient, friendly and understanding.

Paul:

Thank you for taking the time to do a review. Thank you very much for you kind words and I've enjoyed being your adviser over the years. All the best, Paul
Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Financial Advice

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Consistent, good financial advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

no

Paul:

Many thanks for your kind review and for taking the time to do it. I'm very glad that you are happy with the services that I have provided you with.
First impression

by a VouchedFor user

5 months ago

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Paul

Arrived on time. Very easy to talk to.

Paul:

Many thanks for your kind first impression review. I very much look forward to working with you going forward.
Review

by a verified client in Devon

6 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Yes.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

.

Review

by a verified client in Somerset

7 months ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had an inheritance and needed help with planning my future

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He let me know all my options, and enabled me to feel reassured about my future

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I believe I have as savings are looking very healthy, and I'm very pleased with my portfolio

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Felt like having a good friend assist me, and I know I can ask him for help and advice whenever I need it now.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To invest money

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul has given sound advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Long term investment

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He has given us solid advice over the years, listened carefully to our plans and tailored investment opportunities accordingly

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Without a doubt. The last year has been turbulent with the financial market, however we were prepared for the highs and lows

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To receive the best advice

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Professional and expert advice always received

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Difficult to answer because of events and difficulties in the country

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I first used Paul many Yeats ago when I had some redundancy money to invest and have followed up with his advice with a couple of small inheritances.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul guided in the direction after assessing risk attitudes, was always helpful in his explanations and when changes need to be made.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

On going

What could they have done better?

Don't know

Review

by a verified client in Devon

2 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had some money I wished to invest in savings

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Very helpful with solid advice and guidance as to the correct investment for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes over the past years it's been good.

What could they have done better?

Not a lot I've been more than happy with the service I receive.

Review

by a verified client in Surrey

2 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

An inheritance.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Provide advice as to where and how much to invest.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Allowing, of course for "the markets".

What could they have done better?

I am satisfied with the service I have received.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Looking for good investment growth.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Advice, service and investment services.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Service was very good.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had a small inheritance

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Pointed in right direction

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Mostly

What could they have done better?

Don't know

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Inheritance

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Pointed us in the right direction

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Fairly substantial lump sum available to invest with help needed to do so

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul provided the advice needed, assessed attitude to risk and made investments required

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes but economic situation has reduced returns

What could they have done better?

Nothing that we are aware of

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Looking to invest

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Giving advice on investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

No

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Various over the years, including pensions and inheritances

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul has always given sound advice about what products would be the most suitable

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Ongoing advice

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He helps me to achieve my financial goals

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far and obviously the markets go and down which Paul cannot do anything about.

What could they have done better?

I have no complaints and feel that everything is being done to my requirements

Review

by a verified client in Surrey

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had an inheritence which I needed advice as to what to do with it.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He was recommended to me. He explained the best way forward and helped me consider the various risks in the world of investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

All has worked out fine.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To invest a lump sum

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Always found Paul to be knowledgeable, efficient and trustworthy with his advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Do not think they could have been

Paul:

Thank you for the kind review, I'm really pleased to hear you are happy with the service.
Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

On selling my business I had capital from my sale to invest and wanted advice.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

I've know Paul for many years and I trust him to advise me well on my finances which he has done very well.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we've both my wife and I been very pleased with the interest we've gained.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really we are both very happy as things are.

Paul:

Thank you for your review and I'm very pleased you are happy with my service.
Review

by a verified client in Devon

3 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I sold my house, retired and was widowed so had money to invest but did not know how.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He advised safe ways to invest and protect my savings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It has exceeded my expectations.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Paul:

Thank you for the kind review, I'm really pleased to hear you are happy with the service.
Review

by a verified client in Devon

4 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needed advice for investments because my previous financial adviser left the company I was dealing with and I also had moved out of the area.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul Drake arranged to reinvest my money in better performing investment accounts.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, it is improving even in these volatile times.

What could they have done better?

I am very happy with the service I receive.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

A need to grow my and provide a small additional income.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He has matched my needs regarding investment and keeps me informed of any changes that may be needed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - even in the last three challenging years (re Brexit) I can now see small improvements post 31/01/20

What could they have done better?

I have confidence in Paul Drake's professional advice.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I inherited some money and property and needed advice

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He helped me to invest soundly and also set up trusts for my grandchildren

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes definitely

What could they have done better?

Nothing really, two of my grandchildren are now homeowners thanks to his investment advice

Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Family inheritance

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Gave impartial advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had savings we wished to invest.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He advised us and guided us safely to finally make a decision which suited us.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we are very pleased with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really he is first class.

Review

by a verified client in Surrey

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had money from an inheritance to invest.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Paul advised, arranged and set up portfolios to accommodate my situation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Paul gives advice based upon a wide-view, well researched method

Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

How best to invest a small inheritance

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Very good, explained potential risks in easy to understand language

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing springs to mind

Review

by a verified client in Somerset

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To move my pension

How has Paul Drake helped you?

By moving my pension and investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing a good genuine good person with good advice

Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Did not understand the paperwork, and Coop had stopped face to face advice.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Explained in plain English.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of any way in which he could improve

Review

by a verified client in Devon

5 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Had received an inheritance and required advise on its investment

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He considered our personal information and position and have helpful advice as to invest

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing as far as I am aware

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Pension investment.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Gave me excellent advice & took time to explain my different options. In a way that was easy to understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No as I have only just invested my money.

What could they have done better?

I was very pleased with pauls consultation. He is very professional & very respectful.He is very polite.& always dresses immaculately. You can see he is very passionate about his job.& wants the best for his client. He has that friendly personal touch. & is always ready on the end of the phone. That is why my partner & I are so glad we have invested with him.Paul is a credit to your company.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We wanted a mortgage to build an extension.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He found the mortgage, gave us some consolidation advice, and helped us through the process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Eventually, yes.

What could they have done better?

Paul was very proactive about sorting out the delay with the mortgage lenders solicitor. I wonder if more pressure should have been placed on them earlier.

First impression

by a VouchedFor user

8 years ago

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Paul

Hi haven't met Paul yet ,he is on holiday next week meeting on the week beginning the 5 June, Thank you for your help Veronica

Review

by a verified client in Surrey

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Inheritance matters following the death of a close relative.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Advised on how money could be invested in a portfolio and consequently set up various options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Paul's advice and distribution of options has paid off.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had a sum of money that I wished to invest and was looking for a better return than that available on the " high street ".

How has Paul Drake helped you?

All options for investment were considered by Paul after a full review of my circumstances and of my attitude to investment.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

To date I have been very happy with the investments made.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I am aware of

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had a small surplus that needed investing and had dealt with Paul in his previous career.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He did a full financial review and advised us on where to invest whilst explaining the costs and potential risks involved.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Broadly speaking yes.

What could they have done better?

Show his costs on each report as a value not an obscure percentage.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed savings advise.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

He advised me as requested.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

the results of this advise exceeded my expectations.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needed good advice.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Very good advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Better than other investing looked into.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Need to raise funds to pay management charges when bank interest rates were rubbish.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

Prepared an investment plan for my wife and myself.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Nearly.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really.

Review

by a verified client in Devon

8 years ago

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Because I wanted someone locally to advise me,and not a phone call to a company who didn't know me from Adam.

How has Paul Drake helped you?

A first class chap who listens to you as well as advising you.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and more.

What could they have done better?

I'm not sure he could do anything for me better than he has already done.