[Ripcord13]

I just got back from an investment seminar with Fross and Fross and set up an appointment with them are they really into pushing variable annuities? I may just be wasting my time.

[rjm1cc]

Originally Posted by Ripcord13

I just got back from an investment seminar with Fross and Fross and set up an appointment with them are they really into pushing variable annuities? I may just be wasting my time.

Don't know the company but someone has to pay the marketing costs. What ever you decide to do postpone any decision for 3 to 6 months to see if you change your mind or find something better.
Annuities serve a purpose but with the low interest rates we have now I would postpone an annuity purchase until rates get back to what ever will be normal.

[Roaddog53]

What I have read and found is to stay away from variable annuities. Read "Beware of your financial advisor" by L. T. Drake. It is a free book with Kindle. Short but some very good information in it. Taught me to also ask some better questions.

[Ripcord13]

Thanks guys, I figured as much, nobody is gonna look out for your financial future more than you yourself.

[2 Oldcrabs]

The only one who TRULY cares about your money is you! Read about every type of investment you can. DO NOT invest in anything you do not understand. You may want to investigate Vanguard. It is own by the investors

[NJblue]

Originally Posted by Ripcord13

I just got back from an investment seminar with Fross and Fross and set up an appointment with them are they really into pushing variable annuities? I may just be wasting my time.

I had a series of meetings with them a couple of years ago. I liked their "bucket" approach to investing. However, they wanted to put a significant portion of my portfolio in variable annuities and another large chunk with some money managers who appeared to have a great track record ... until you read the fine print that much of this track record was based on simulations of how their customers would have made out if the company had been in existence for the 10-year priod that they were showing results for - which they hadn't been.

Someone has to be paying for their polo team and the million dollar building ... and it must be the clients.

[tommy steam]

Originally Posted by rjm1cc

I think advisers are compensated by being paid for the investments they sell or by billing your directly for their services. The latter are called fee only advisor. I think this organization may help you find one Fee-Only Financial Advisors Home - NAPFA - The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors. I listen to an advisor on itunes but have no firsthand experience. He will work with clients not in his area. I think this is the type of person you are looking for. I think he charges about 1% of your portfolio value per year. Brian Preston's "Money Guy" Blog and Podcast

great information..as I understand a fee only guy is the way to go.

[brackxgd]

We were very satisfied with Melissa Klug of Grace Advisory Group. she was very helpful and easy to work with. Her contact information follows

Melissa Klug

Financial Advisor
Oakland Hills Professional Plaza
13940 US Hwy 441, Bldg 900, Suite 903
Lady Lake FL 32159

Tel (352) 750-6118 Toll Free (866) 481-5550

Fax (352) 750-6119

Email: melissak@gracetax.com

[Mallory Voice]

Originally Posted by hulahips

am looking for a "financial advisor" not a planner who wants to sell me some product just someone to ADVISE where or what to invest in during these volatile times and perhaps look over our portfolio to see if we're heading in right direction. any advise?

YES - the only ones we now use is Fross & Fross at Sumter. They are wonderful professionals, smart, and they do it right. Most investment companies around here want to sell you life insurance, annuities, long term care, etc. because they make Big commissions on these products. Be proactive and smart with your assets. Advisor/planner what matters is your asset protection and income for the long haul!
MV

[cab1948]

My husband and I also use Fross & Fross. Never tried to push annuities on us and so far we have been very happy. My advice would be to interview the different companies yourself and see who is the best fit.