[RWebb]

This is not rocket surgery and you can learn what you need and DIY.

1/3 in cash is a lot but that depends on the factors I list below

Just to echo seahawk, sooner & pwds...
low expenses mutual funds - 80% stocks/20% bonds is typical but more in bonds for the risk averse, elderly, those who need it sooner, & those with less total $$

The richer you are, the more risk you can take and not worry...

Keep 1/2 year expenses to 1 year in cash as an emergency fund. You get that from your budget - you DO have one, written out, right???

Live frugally.

Don't chase returns or worry about the business cycle.

Be happy with what you have.

Don't follow leaders; watch the parking meters.



The best knowledge is to be found in Finance Depts. in a B-school and is already known.

If you use a FA - they should be on a fixed fee; have a written & signed stmt. that puts your interests first ("fiduciary") and know what they are doing.