John Howson

Review from verified client

February, 2024

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

I needed to arrange my pensions and investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am happy with the progress and look forward to seeing future financial statements.

How has John Howson helped you?

John has answered all of my queries and advised me on the aims and outcomes of his plans. Leaving me feeling confident about my future finances.

What could they have done better?

So far nothing, I am happy with all he has done.

John's reply

Thanks for your great review Ken and always good to catch up with you. It is certainly appreciated, and all the best, John

Review from verified client

February, 2024

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

Help with mortgage and pension advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes thanks

How has John Howson helped you?

Sorting out my mortgage and pension advice

What could they have done better?

None

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Phil. It was good seeing you recently and I'm pleased we helped. Thanks again and all the best, John

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Pension pot to be invested.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, seen a steady growth.

How has John Howson helped you?

He has advised me on my investment and initially provided mortgage advice.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, extremely happy with the service I have received.

John's reply

Thanks for your great review Tina, it certainly is greatly appreciated. It was good to see you and glad that all is going well.

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Helping with my pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has John Howson helped you?

Giving me advice when I ask and looking after my pension

What could they have done better?

Not a lot

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Rachael, and taking the time to do it. It was good to see you and hear all is well. All the best, John

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so

How has John Howson helped you?

John explained clearly and concisely a strategy for growth and income utilising the quilter platform which targets my specific goals

What could they have done better?

Nothing comes to mind

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Graham and taking the time to do this. This is always appreciated and certainly helpful for us to make any improvements. In the meantime I wish you both all the best for 2024, John.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Pension advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has John Howson helped you?

Having known John for many years he has always been very approachable and extremely helpful

John's reply

It was good seeing you last month, and it's always good catching up as well. Thank you for your great review John and all the best for 2024 for you and Kathy, John

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Some one who knows what they are doing

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has John Howson helped you?

Good advice

What could they have done better?

Nothing

John's reply

It was good catching up last month and hearing all is going well. Thank you for your great review Nigel and all the best for 2024 for you and Lisa, John

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

advice on pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

How has John Howson helped you?

sorted out all i asked

What could they have done better?

none

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Barry, it is much appreciated, and glad to hear all is going well for you too. Thanks again, John

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

I have known John for 40 years, then bumped into him by chance again where he gave me some advice , I then made an appointment to see him for more in depth advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In the current climate I wish I could invest more

How has John Howson helped you?

By regular annual meeting s we can keep a track of my pension

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Don, it is certainly appreciated, and always good to catch up with you. All the best, John

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Preparation prior to commencing retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Probably too early but everything appears on track so far

How has John Howson helped you?

Guidance and advice in relation to pensions accrued during work

What could they have done better?

Nothing

John's reply

Thank you for this great review Barry, it is much appreciated. It was good to catch up with you a few weeks ago too. All the best, John

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

Advise on where I am at this stage and to get advise on how I might achieve my goals going forward

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes so far we are well on track for my goals to be achieved

How has John Howson helped you?

We meet up once a year for a review which is very thorough and if things need changing then we make those changes and so far his advise has been excellent

What could they have done better?

I don't see any problems at all so far

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Garry, it is much appreciated. It was good to catch up last month and to hear all is well and your plans are on track. All the best, John

Review from verified client

September, 2023

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

The minefield of information, disinformation and huge choice surrounding financial planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, very much.

How has John Howson helped you?

John has reviewed our finances over the years and guided us to the best financial position we think we can enjoy. He has advised and set up pension plans that seem to work very well for us.

What could they have done better?

Truthfully, not a lot.

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Jeremy, it is very kind and always appreciated. It was a pleasure to catch up last week and hear of your exciting changes, and always good to hear from you. Thanks again and all the best, John

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

Financial planning after reaching 60

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has John Howson helped you?

Given me impartial and trusted advice

What could they have done better?

Nothing

John's reply

Thank for your great review Winston, it certainly is appreciated. It was great to see you and catch-up last week. Thanks once again, John

Review from verified client

January, 2023

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

Wanting to retire early and having several private pensions combined

How has John Howson helped you?

John advised me and accumulated my private pensions into one pot to give me the best possible benefits from them.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I am not aware of anything that could have been done better

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Val, it certainly is appreciated. Good to hear that all is well with you and Bill, and hope your exciting plans are starting to take shape. Thanks again, John

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Retirement planning

How has John Howson helped you?

After an initial meeting he assessed my pensions and investments and arranged them in a way that should reach my discussed goals

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we have a yearly review and adjust things if required

What could they have done better?

Nothing im very happy John provides very knowledgeable, friendly and professional advice with good results

John's reply

Hi Garry, A Happy New Year to you and your family. Many thanks for your great review, it certainly is appreciated and most kind. I look forward to catching up with you in the near future. Thanks again, John

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Pensions advice needed.

How has John Howson helped you?

Advice and actioning the drawdown of one pension. Evaluation of our attitude to risk and subsequent advice on investment of remaining pensions. Ongoing reviews of financial situation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Due to the downturn in pension investment values of recent years, it hasn’t been as fruitful as hoped for. However, investments have been relatively stable considering this.

What could they have done better?

Not sure.

John's reply

Thank you for your kind review Dave and Maxine, I certainly appreciate this and am always glad to receive feedback. I look forward to speaking to you again and in the meantime may I wish you well for this festive time of year. John

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Forward planning for my retirement

How has John Howson helped you?

Advice and help in arranging my pension and subsequent outcomes

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far the outcome from the arrangement is working well

What could they have done better?

For me I’m not sure anything at this stage could be better

John's reply

Thanks for your review Barry, much appreciated. Look forward to speaking to you again soon, and best wishes for the time of year. John

Review from verified client

May, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Change of mortgage and the need to take lump sum from pension for divorce

How has John Howson helped you?

Change of mortgage and the need to take lump sum from pension for divorce

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes thanks

What could they have done better?

None

John's reply

Thank you for your review Phil, it is certainly appreciated. Best wishes, John

Review from verified client

May, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Invest in a pension

How has John Howson helped you?

Comprehensive advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Over and above

What could they have done better?

Nothing

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Susan, it certainly is appreciated. Glad to continue to help and I look forward to our next meeting. All the best, John

Review from verified client

March, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I had 2 pensions, one a Company one from many years ago plus a Peoples Pension. John advised on how to combine these into one fund which was great for me.

How has John Howson helped you?

As above all the advice was clear, concise and simple.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Initially yes but as with any investments the current climate has seen them fluctuate. John had always advised me that this is a long term investment and I don't think anyone could have foreseen what has happened over the last month.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, everything John did was targeted to meet my specific circumstances and long term objectives.

John's reply

Thanks for your great review Mark, it certainly is appreciated. It was good to see you and hear all is going well. Thanks and best, John

Review from verified client

February, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I have been using John for decades. I first used John when I opened my first bank account. I think at the time, it was mortgage advice that I needed.

How has John Howson helped you?

I can't remember then. But over the recent years he has been advising me regarding my investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Until recently reviews were not regular enough. But that's fine now as they are annual, although he is always there for you in between.

John's reply

Thanks for this great review Jacqueline, I most certainly do appreciate it. Yes, looking back it has been quite a number of years since I first started advising you. It is reassuring to see that your plans are working out and you are in a good position. Thanks and best, John

Review from verified client

February, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I needed professional advice which I knew John is capable of.

How has John Howson helped you?

John advise me where to place my pension funds for my retirement.it’s

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It’s a long term strategy and appears to be the outcome I was hoping for.

What could they have done better?

John gave me good advice I don’t know how he could improve.

John's reply

Hi Barry, thank you for you great review, it is certainly appreciated. Good to hear your year has started well, and looking forward to catching up with you soon, John

Review from verified client

January, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

My pension Plan was not moving so I found John Howson and he made it work for me

How has John Howson helped you?

Sorted my pension out for me

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and more

What could they have done better?

Not that I know of

John's reply

Thank you for you kind review Rachael, that is greatly appreciated. It was great to catch up, albeit on video, and here all is going well.

Review from verified client

January, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I wanted to bring a number of pension funds together in a product that would allow me to draw down in the future and wanted help and advice through this process.

How has John Howson helped you?

John provided advice on which product to choose and expedited the transfer for us. He took time to understand our attitudes and requirements and was very helpful, approachable and efficient.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. I am very happy with the outcome.

John's reply

Thank you for your kind review Chris, it is most appreciated. Great to see you at the end of last year and hear your plans.

Review from verified client

January, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Early Retirement

How has John Howson helped you?

Offered advice on investing lump sum

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing excellent service

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Tony, it really is appreciated. I wish you well in your retirement and will be interested to hear about your trips in the new camper. Thanks and best, John

Review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Initially someone that could advise on the Financial market and savings advice

How has John Howson helped you?

John recommended suitable funds to invest in

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the investments have been quite profitable

What could they have done better?

The service Johns provides very informative and easy to understand

John's reply

Thanks for your great review Graham, that really is most appreciated. I always enjoy chatting with you and Brenda, and it is so good to hear that the big step of moving to NI is working out well. Looking forward to our next catch up, John

Review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Knowing that there were people out there like John who were knowledgeable about financial planning to a level that I would never be able to reach. For some things, it makes sense to call on expert advice!

How has John Howson helped you?

Friendly advice and, after ascertaining what our needs and hopes were, practical solutions to achieve the best possible outcomes for our future within our financial constraints. Then, keeping in touch and making sure things are going the right way wherever possible, markets allowing, and offering reassurance when they don't!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much. Within our budget and risk allocation, we are seeing a comfortable return that gives us confidence that we are doing the right things, thanks to John's guidance and behind-the-scenes work.

John's reply

Dear Jeremy and Petra, thank you very much for your excellent review. I certainly do appreciate this and it is so pleasing to know that the advice has helped in your retirement planning. I wish you the best as always, and look forward to our next reviews. Thanks and best, John

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has John Howson helped you since your last review?

John has produced an annual review and met with is to discuss our future plans.

John's reply

Thanks for your great review Chris. It was good to meet up last week and hear your of plans, and I certainly appreciate your kind review. Thanks and best, John

Review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Took early retirement

How has John Howson helped you?

Face to face and phone calls to discuss options

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far all good

What could they have done better?

Don’t think they could have done anything better

John's reply

Hi Barry, thank you for this review. Always very grateful to receive feedback and really appreciate this good review. Thanks and best, John

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has John Howson helped you since your last review?

The pension fund has continued to grow as have the investments.

John's reply

Thank you Peter and Christine for you great ratings and review, it is always appreciated. It was good to catch up and hear of your progress in your new home. Best wishes, John

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has John Howson helped you since your last review?

John has continued to monitor the performance of my pension plan and has made recommendations where appropriate to change the distribution of funds.

John's reply

Dear Carole, Thank you so much for your kind review, and I am pleased to see that progress is going well with your pension. In the meantime I look forward to catching up in the New Year and our next meeting. Thanks and best, John

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has John Howson helped you since your last review?

Our financial affairs are still handled by John after over 20 years of using John. They are structured in such a way that we don't have to make any changes or monitor them. We have a yearly review with John which meets our current requirements.

John's reply

Dear John, Thank you for your great review. It is certainly appreciated, and I look forward to catching up with you and Karen in the near future. Thanks and best wishes, John

Review from verified client

November, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I had money to invest.

How has John Howson helped you?

Advised the best route to take with my money

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Certainly have

What could they have done better?

I am completely happy with the service.

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Ian, it is much appreciated, and I look forward to catching up again, John

Review from verified client

September, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I needed to move/set up a pension

How has John Howson helped you?

He moved my pension into a better scheme

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Over and above - it has performed better than expected

What could they have done better?

Nothing. A faultless service.

John's reply

Thank you Susan very much for your brilliant review. We certainly appreciate your kind words and more importantly are very pleased that the new pension set-up is progressing well. Best wishes, John

Review from verified client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Needed advice on my financial planning

How has John Howson helped you?

After he understood my expectations he proposed a workable and sensible solution

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Not a lot, service is more than acceptable as it is.

John's reply

Thank you for your kind review Dan, it is much appreciated. Great to meet up and hear how you are getting on. Thank you and best wishes, John

Review from verified client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Multiple old pension schemes- needed to consider merging into one "pot"

How has John Howson helped you?

He reviewed all my pension plans and where beneficial merged them into a single provider

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes.

What could they have done better?

I'm very happy with the way the pension is performing, so nothing could have been done better

John's reply

Thanks Rick for your great review, I certainly appreciate this, that is most kind. Good to hear all is going well, and look forward to catching up next time. Best wishes, John

Review from verified client

June, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Investment of a lump sum upon retirement.

How has John Howson helped you?

John has consistently advised us regarding safe and medium risk companies that have yielded a good return over the past 12 years. He has also helped us cash in some of the investments in order to realise capital.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Indeed

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything

John's reply

Dear Eric and Helen, thank you so much for your very kind review, this really is appreciated. It was good to catch up and hear all is going well for you. Thanks once again, and best wishes, John

Review from verified client

May, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Financial settlement following divorce.

How has John Howson helped you?

Initially John explained the options open to me, the short and long term views. He gave a full financial review and we set a goal for annual income on retirement. On each yearly review he is well prepared and explains how the funds are progressing and if any changes are needed but the decision is always mine. I am confident in his advice and do not have to worry about the investments as he will contact me if necessary. I am able to contact John at any time if I have a query and he is always happy to hear from me and give his advice. My adult children came to me with financial queries and I have been able to direct them to John confident that they will be given sound advice for their circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

John works to a high standard and I have not noted an area in which he could do better.

John's reply

Thank you very much for your great review and very thoughtful comments. It certainly is appreciated and good to know that you are happy with our progress and service. Always good to catch up and hear from you, thanks and best, John

Review from verified client

May, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Came into a large sum of money

How has John Howson helped you?

He advised me where to put the money to maximise my investment

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Jamie, I certainly appreciate your kind feedback. I am pleased to have helped and look forward to speaking again soon. Thanks and best, John

Review from verified client

May, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I have been using John for over 20+ years, his advice and execution is always exemplary.

How has John Howson helped you?

John has helped find us various mortgage deals over the 20+ years we have been using him, as well as insurance policies and retirement planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

John's reply

Thank you for your great review John, it really is appreciated. I hope you Karen and family are all still well, and I look forward to catching up soon. Thanks and best, John

Review from verified client

April, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

To simplify my total pension when I approached retirement

How has John Howson helped you?

He combined the numerous pension plans that I had into a single pension pot

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

John's reply

Thank you for your review Graham, it is most appreciated and helpful for our customers to see. Wishing you the best, John

Review from verified client

April, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I thought an annuity would not give me the life style I wanted.

How has John Howson helped you?

He explained the benefits of drawdown in simple understandable terms and chose an appropriate fund.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, my pension pot has out performed the market by a distance.

What could they have done better?

Nothing!

John's reply

Thank you for your great review Peter and Christine. We really appreciate it and are pleased to find all is going well. In the meantime I wish you the best as ever, John

Review from verified client

March, 2021

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

I had a personal pension, and received a cold call one day saying they were doing a review on my pension, John was an old friend who I bumped into at a football match and he would look into my pension atlffairs.

How has John Howson helped you?

Even though the cold call was not a scam, John gave me questions to ask when the advisors came to collect the paperwork, and on this basis I cancelled and ask John to assist in my pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been with John for about 15 years now, and he explains things to me as a friend so I understand, I have never been financially savvy.

What could they have done better?

Ask me again when I retire

John's reply

Thanks for the review Don, certainly is appreciated and great to know you've been happy with our advice and service. Keep in touch and best wishes as ever, John

Review from verified client

February, 2021

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

Wanting to retire early, however, had multiple pensions and was unsure of how to proceed

How has John Howson helped you?

John amalgamated all my pensions and gave sound advice on where l would get the best return to support me in retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, Johns approach makes it easy to understand

What could they have done better?

I feel at the moment there are no area that l am disappointed in

John's reply

Thank you for you kind review Val, and great to hear you are happy with your pension set up, and most importantly that you and Bill are enjoying your retirement. Best wishes, John

Review from verified client

February, 2021

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

Divorce money matters and mortgage e

How has John Howson helped you?

Change of mortgage and pension involving divorce

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing!

John's reply

Thank you for you kind review Phil, and great to hear all went well with the new pension set up for you. Awatys happy to help, best wishes, John

Review from verified client

February, 2021

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

I needed advice on my existing pensions

How has John Howson helped you?

John recommended transferring one of my pensions to another company. John also recommended changing some of the funds in my work pension which were inline with my risk assessment.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. My pensions have gained in value over the years

What could they have done better?

Not sure.

John's reply

Thank you for you kind review Carole, and great to hear you are happy with your pension set up. I am pleased the way the funds have been working for you, always happy to help, John

Review from verified client

January, 2021

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

Awareness that I needed to do some work on my pension pot

How has John Howson helped you?

Organised bringing pensions together and advice on what I needed to do for my future

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days yet but feel much more confident about finances in my future

What could they have done better?

Nothing

John's reply

Thank you for your kind review Amanda, it is certainly greatly appreciated, and I am pleased that you are happy with the outcome. Many thanks, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Wanted advise to do what I could to secure my finances for the future

How has John Howson helped you?

He assessed my situation and asked what I wanted for the future and then put in a plan together to achieve my goals. Very professional, thorough and informative

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I haven't reached retirement yet but John reviews my finances regularly and the plan put forward is well on track to achieve my goals

John's reply

Dear Garry, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I had a number of pensions and wanted to look at consolidating them into a single place for ease of management and also get some advice around long term plans

How has John Howson helped you?

John Howson helped by explaining the various options in an easy to understand way and managed the process of consolidation into a single managed fund. He also helped to bring further company pensions into the same fund when needed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I can now easily review and manage my pension from a single place which makes it easier to understand my options around retirement. I have a yearly review of my position which helps with longer term thoughts and planning.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

John's reply

Dear Tony, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Going through a divorce

How has John Howson helped you?

Helped with a new mortgage and investment.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

John is helpful and very knowledgeable.

John's reply

Dear Tina, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Didn’t know where to start!

How has John Howson helped you?

By finding a package that is right for me and providing me with a full understanding of how investing in a pension may help my future financial standing.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet as it’s a long term investment.

What could they have done better?

Perhaps a biscuit with my coffee, that said I am lactose and gluten intolerant so not easy to please.

John's reply

Dear Nicky, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I was 65 and needed help and advice with my finances.

How has John Howson helped you?

He looked up, accessed and advised me about my pensions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am happy with John's advise and will ask John to advise me when I reach 75. At which time I will need to cash in or consolidate my pensions.

What could they have done better?

I am completely happy with John's advise and have no suggestions.

John's reply

Hi Ken, Yes all well here thanks, hope you are too. Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Re-mortgage, pension planning, investments following an inheritance

How has John Howson helped you?

John asks key questions to help inform the advice given. He's super easy to talk to, friendly and in no way a 'salesman'. It's clear that John has his clients best interests at heart. A huge factor here is trust and I trust John.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I received the advice I needed to make an informed decision

What could they have done better?

not sure. John is local to me which is a great bonus, he's open to visiting you at home (in non-Covid times). all good!

John's reply

Dear Victoria, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

We needed a Pension and john was recomended.

How has John Howson helped you?

He gave us great advice on which pensions we may be interested in.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

nothing

John's reply

Dear Helen, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I had a number of pensions and wanted advice on combining them so that I could draw down an income after retirement

How has John Howson helped you?

John provided the advice, suggested a provider and organised the consolidation of the existing funds

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

John's reply

Dear Chris, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

When I retired I needed to amalgamate my numerous pensions that I accumulated during my 47 years of employment

How has John Howson helped you?

John successfully amalgamated my pensions and I now have 1 pension pot in an investment account

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have, despite the recent conditions

John's reply

Dear Graham, Thank you very much for your review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Due to divorce and needed to sort out lump sum from pension and start a new pension scheme

How has John Howson helped you?

Lump sum from pension and new pension scheme

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Couldn't have done it better, I'm deaf so everything was done via email.

John's reply

Dear Phillip, Thank you very much for your review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I needed a mortgage and they have a bigger market to search in

How has John Howson helped you?

I’ve been using John for 20+ years and he has never let me down

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

John's reply

Dear John, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I was very unsatisfied with my previous adviser and I knew John of old. A trusted professional suggested I reconnect with John and I am so glad I did. He has been unstinting in his help to me, above and beyond expectations in fact.

How has John Howson helped you?

He rescheduled my major investments and incorporated some minor ISAs too.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My investments with John have successfully been rescheduled. As far as results are concerned it is only a couple of months on in fluctuating times and still early days, but the prospects look good.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

John's reply

Dear Bill, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

As well as being a financial advisor I have known John for some 20 years and he has helped in all financial matters which includes Mortgage, Savings & Pension advice.

How has John Howson helped you?

In Mortgage, Savings & Investment and Pension advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, John has provided good advice

What could they have done better?

John provides a friendly and understandable advice, especially has in recent times I now live in Northern Ireland

John's reply

Dear Graham, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I wanted to be sure that my pension plans had been invested correctly to ensure maximum return without taking unnecessary risks.

How has John Howson helped you?

An initial meeting was arranged to discuss my pensions and I completed a questionnaire to assess which funds were most suited to my investment needs. John Howson then advised which funds to invest in. An annual meeting is ongoing to ensure my Invested funds work for me, and if necessary are changed to ensure maximum return.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have not reached retirement age so my pensions are still growing, but I am confident the advice given will ensure I will have the return I expect.

John's reply

Dear Carol, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I had a number of pensions and wanted to get them all together in one place .

How has John Howson helped you?

He did all the work getting the pensions together and found the best place for them to grow ,

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes i have a draw down pot that i'm happy with , John does review my my circumstances every year to make sure i'm happy with the product .

John's reply

Dear Trevor, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with John

John has listened to what I want from my,pension He has advised about another product I have and his guidance is clear and honest

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I was retiring and did not like the return from an annuity. Also my investment ISA return from my bank was poor.

How has John Howson helped you?

John suggested income drawdown from my retirement pot and an independent ISS provider.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes the outcome has been really good, in fact better than I envisaged.

What could they have done better?

I’m not sure what more he could have done. He was always friendly and explained everything to my satisfaction.

John's reply

Dear Peter, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

I had some money to invest. Laterly I was coming up to retirement and needed to invest for it.

How has John Howson helped you?

He showed me all the alternatives and advised me on my best options taking all my circumstances into account.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most definitely.

What could they have done better?

I am very happy with the service from my advisor.

John's reply

Dear Ian, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Pension advice and mortgage/Re-mortgage

How has John Howson helped you?

John sourced best mortgage for us and advised on consolidating pensions etc.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing apart form get a better brand of coffee!

John's reply

Dear Pete, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Planning for my retirement

How has John Howson helped you?

John scheduled some meetings in order to plan out my requirements asked a few questions and set things in motion.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

These are early days as yet but at present things appear to be going very well

What could they have done better?

I’m not sure anything could have been improved during the process. The main element in anything like this is transparency and so far everything appears to be quite clearly stated.

John's reply

Dear Barry, Thank you very much for your great review, and taking the time to do this. For us it means a lot and really helps our standing. In the meantime I wish you well, and until we speak again, kindest regards, John