No disrespect to anyone, but if you aren't in the business of financial planning or investment planning, how do you expect to have all the tools that the pros do? Despite what you may read in Money magazine or hear from Suze Orman, its not that easy to evaluate and determine the best way to invest your money. You need to take into account overall portfolio, time frames, financial goals, age, tolerance to risk, etc. And...those asset allocation tools that you see on web sites aren't worth much. There are many more sophisticated methods available to professionals (i.e., Monte Carlo analysis) to help you best invest your money. It's like most things....you're gonna get what you pay for.
Yes, I'm in the business, so I am a little biased. But, I would much prefer an investmentprofessional looking after my financial well being, just as I would prefer a capable doctor looking after my physical health, a dentist looking after my oral health, an accountant looking after my taxes, a lawyer looking after my legal affairs, etc. It would be my hope that these people, because of their education and training, continuing education requirements, and tools would be better able to help me.
If you would like to talk, please contact me via my email.
Good Luck!