Xanuda: Maybe we are addressing two different things here.
I refuse to include a comparison of a FP who is NOT for the best interest of his/her client. So saying a FP is biased because of a special relationship is relevant here is where I disagree.
The assumption (and a fair assumption at that) is that the FP does whats best. And they have every right to get paid for giving advice. (How is a completely different subject).
A FP who knwos what he/she is doing and wants to do whats right WILL NOT give crap (as you say).
Many people (and I am not saying you) use Money etc. as the "end to all means" financial advice! Money says so, so it must be right! Nonsense! Thats the biggest bunch of garbage....but the reality is that MANY MANY people believe this.
I, personally am a valuable asset to people because I give them BOTH sides of the equation. Money etc. does not. I give advice based on each family, not "one size fits all" Money etc. sure does!
People come to me because they DON'T want to do all the research. And, even if they did, they want to make sure its done RIGHT!
They want someone to implement and follow through on a financial plan for them.
Let me put in into an analogy:
Anyone can build their own car. The question is, Do you want to build your own car?, and if so, do you feel comfortable that you will build it right?
If the answer is NO, you want/need a FP.
If its yes, do your OWN research. Money, etc. MAY be a start, not an end.
I personally don't follow what Money, CNBC, Wall Street, the companies I deal with, etc say.
I do my own research and that is always the right choice!