Insider Jeff Fleming

Getting Your Feet Wet

Jeff explains how to begin the process of securing your financial future. Also, why size doesn't matter when it comes to investing.

Dear Jeff:
What is a good resource for a neophyte investor? My family did quite well investing in real estate, and I know nothing about the stock market. Where do I begin, and is it too late? My husband and I have four children; next year two kids will be in college, and we also have a 6-year-old and a 9-year-old.

Jeff Says:
It is never too late to start learning about investing in the stock market; nor is it ever too late to start actually doing it. The first question you should ask yourself, though, is whether or not you really want to begin investing on your own without professional guidance. Alternatively, you should consider working with an investment advisor who can help you get started and avoid mistakes. Later, when you feel more comfortable, you can then tackle your investments independently.

Regardless of the method you choose to invest, you should do a little reading about the stock market, investment strategies, and specific types of investment vehicles. Certainly, the Internet is chock full of information on any of these issues. A great starting point is right here in the money section of ThirdAge: visit the InvestEd Center to find just about everything you need to get started.

With the continually increasing popularity of the Internet, it is very easy to overlook another great resource for free information--your local library. That is where I started nearly sixteen years ago. I was so intrigued by financial planning and investing that I read nearly every book in the section. I am sure you will find some books appropriate for your level of investing experience.

Also, browse ThirdAge's own bibliography of basic investing and financial planning books.