Stated: I am a financial nincompoop. However after several tries I have landed at Stifel Nicolaus and am very pleased. They are a true fiduciary. They do offer no-load funds, but they are seldom the cheapest per transaction. You did not really state whether you were looking for a broker or an investment tip.
I got out of "retirement plans", IRA and Roth, when I came of age, to get away from government rules. No mutuals ever again. With Stifel's help and easy online research, I manage my own account with a mix of bonds, equities, and preferreds. My goals were security, income and principle maintenance. 33% muni bonds, 66% equities and preferreds. I weathered the 2008 debacle nicely. You may want to look into it, ask lots of questions,your tax situation will dictate your best path.
