The retirement mistakes that cost people most are often made before they leave work, when there is still time to fix them, and have real consequences if they don't.

Because this is not just about whether you can afford to retire. It is about whether you can afford the retirement you have been picturing; the travel, the flexibility, the choice to help your kids, stay in your home, or stop worrying every time markets fall.

In this episode, Paul breaks down the five things to get clear on before you retire, so you can spot the gaps while there is still time to act, make the decisions that could strengthen your position, and avoid walking into retirement only to realise the plan was shakier than you thought

In this episode:

• How to know whether your retirement plan actually stacks up, before it's too late

• The financial shock that can hit harder close to retirement

• Why the last few working years could be some of the most valuable of your life

• The super opportunity you might not want to waste

• How your home could shape your retirement income, whether you stay or downsize

• The big question to get clear on before you retire

FOR PERSONALISED RETIREMENT PLANNING ADVICE: Book an appointment with Paul here. WANT TO STAY ACROSS WHAT'S MOVING THE MARKETS?: Subscribe to GainingCHOICE, our weekly email unpacking the key headlines and what to pay attention to.

GOT A FINANCE QUESTION FOR PAUL?: Send it to [email protected], and it could be featured in his Ask an Expert column each Sunday in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald.

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