David Robinson

Dividends can be a good way to get investment income, but many investors focus on this so much that they reduce their potential total portfolio gains.

There are different ways to invest in real estate, each carrying different inherent levels of risk, liquidity and transparency.

Though there may be little you can control in the realm of investing, there are at least four things that you can. They include knowing your risk tolerance, being aware of how tax rules affect your investments, being mindful of the fees you pay, and looking for conflicts of interest in your advisor. Tending to these four considerations will increase your chances of success.