I've known my parents' financial advisor for years (we used to hang out at the pool drinking beer decades ago), and imo, they don't get squat in return for the "fees"...underperforms actually (like a WHOLE bunch of them do). That's OK with me though...they're comfortable with him, and I've got their back covered
. I seriously took charge of mine in my late 30s (always financially savy and investing since college). I walked away from a lucrative corporate gig at 48 (outsourced, but tired of the bs). I don't trust my 911 with a dealer, and I care more about my $$$ than anyone else. I'm no dummy and it just takes a little bit of effort...no regrets and not looking back. It's not for everyone however...YMMV