What is a good - easy to practice - investing strategy for long term growth with a budget of appx $5K - $8K?

First, I would make sure you have at least 3 months salary saved up in the bank or in a money market fund for an emergency fund. Financial disasters like getting layed off or sick happen to all of us.

Second, I would pay off all high interest debt. Pay off everything you can except the house mortgage. Paying off debt is one of the best investments you can make. You will have more money in the future because you won't have credit card bills to pay.

Third, if you have money left, start investing in stocks, bonds, and money market funds. You want to buy a diversified portfolio of stocks, as individual stocks are too risky. For most folks this means buying mutual funds. I like Vanguard.com, other people like Fidelity, TIAA-CREF, and DFA. Buy no-load, low cost funds. If you are like most people you will invest part of your money conservatively, in money market funds and bond funds, and part aggressively in stock funds. Vanguard.com has an on-line questionnaire which will give you an idea how aggressive you want to be.

Investing in a mutual fund IRA for retirement may give you an income tax break. Talk to your tax adviser. You may also be able to invest in a stock mutual fund via a 401K plan at work.

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use an advisor

Long Term growth is always the key. Try sharebuilder.com. You'll be able to invest in high end stock without having the large sum needed to purchase these stocks. Good luck, it's a really good market now just do your research.