Can anyone recommend a franchise investment company? i.e. Schwab over Edward Jones, etc.?

As a young, first time investor, I want to make sure that I find a group with great service, who are willing to REALLY explain options. I am hoping to find a company familiar with my demographic, and who won't scoff at the admittedly small amount I have to start with. Thank you!!

Both companies are good choices for different reasons.

Edwards Jones specializes in good advice. Financial planning. Personal Service. They're interested in small accounts because... over time it develops a larger account.
You work with a planner. Usually in Mutual Funds (a good choice for a newbie). The only negative is.... you pay for the service (it's only right). Purchase of a Mutual fund averages 5.75% of the investment.

Charles Schwab is the original "on-line" broker. They're great for the newbie because they have all the tools you need to be successful plus help is just a phone call away. They're less expensive than Edward Jones.... but you've got to learn the basics on your own to make the combination work.
Schwab has many funds that you don't pay a sales fee to get into (no load). Stock trades are $12.95 each (on line).

I've been with Schwab since 1985. I trade with "ThinkOrSwim" (great service for the experianced trader). I have a friend that works for edward jones and I've had friends (and relatives) go to each.

Schwab or Jones are a good choice for you. Each appeals to a different investor;

Schwab: For the do it yourself new investor.
Jones: For the investor that wants someone else to do the "work".

good luck!

etrade and schwab and ameritrade all have similar products

the only demographic they consider about you is how much iinvesting you will do, with how much money


but starting out is fairly cheap, no more than $15 for any trade and discounts for volume.

just pick one and start, but if you don't have $500 to invest there isn't much reason to invest now in any stock, just study and wait untill you have more