Should I Invest On My Own Or Use A Professional Advisor?

DONE

To help answer the question, the following chart provides an overview of the differences between investing on your own and using a professional advisor.

Subject Do-It-Yourself Using An Advisor


Control over financial and investment planning

Total

As much or as little as you want

Fees

Minimal, with use of discount brokerage such as e-trade or schwab.


Can be extensive and, if you're not careful, fees can be excessive.


Satisfaction/fulfillment

Can be enjoyable.

Less stress

Risk of Loss

Can be great due to inexperience or lack of immediate knowledge


Can obtain sound financial and investment planning from an expert who works at making investment
decisions full-time

"Value Added" services

None


Generally includes portfolio management, administration, and research