Opening an investment account is no more difficult than opening a checking account or Certificate of Deposit at your local bank. First time investors will find it to be a straight-forward process, designed by the investment firms and regulators, to attract new customers, expedite account activation, and handle the legal requirements. Most investment firms understand that this is the first and most critical point of contact in the relationship with a customer.

Most investors can achieve their investment goals using discount brokerage firms or mutual fund companies. These firms provide basic services but little in the way of investment advice. The responsibility for making investment selections rests with the investor. If this is beyond your comfort zone and you feel you need some hand holding in the investment selection process, you should consider using a full service brokerage firm. These firms provide advice but at a greater cost than the discount brokerages. Investors who are following the investment and planning model presented here at InvestorTrainer.com and in the book Investing for Retirement - Surviving a Financial Tsunami, will find that discount brokerages and/or mutual fund companies, can provide the investments and services which fit their needs.

The process is really not difficult. It may be a new experience for you, but it is essential, if you are serious about reaching your financial and retirement goals.

Also, see Chapter 11 in Investing for Retirement - Surviving a Financial Tsunami.