Getting out of high-priced bank

[Roadster1]

Guys, I have most of my IRAs (Roth, old 401Ks, etc.)held in Wells fargo Advisors. This outfit charges very high prices for stock trades therefore I haven't made a transaction in years but I've just watched the values go up and down with the market. I would like to move everything (approx. $250K)into a much cheaper bank. Should I move to a place such as E-Trade or Ameritrade? Other suggestions would be appreciated. Also, how would I transfer to the new bank? Will all cost basis information transfer from my old bank to the new bank?
My goal for this money is moderate growth with some safety if possible.

Thanks!

[Petunia 100]

Guys, I have most of my IRAs (Roth, old 401Ks, etc.)held in Wells fargo Advisors. This outfit charges very high prices for stock trades therefore I haven't made a transaction in years but I've just watched the values go up and down with the market. I would like to move everything (approx. $250K)into a much cheaper bank. Should I move to a place such as E-Trade or Ameritrade? Other suggestions would be appreciated. Also, how would I transfer to the new bank? Will all cost basis information transfer from my old bank to the new bank?
My goal for this money is moderate growth with some safety if possible.

Thanks!

In addition to Wells Fargo Advisors, Wells Fargo also offers Wells Trade brokerage accounts, which are self-directed. You can also get 100 commission free trades per year by opening a PMA checking account. Because of the balance in your IRAs, they will waive the monthly fee for the PMA.

My traditional IRA is in a Wells Trade brokerage account, and I pay nothing at all. Couldn't be more pleased.

[snafu]

I suggest before you change to another institution or to a self directed a/c remaining with WF you work out the changes you plan to make for allocation of existing value. Know what you will/expect to buy for the remaining 9 months 2013. Understand that you are making these decision based on your knowledge NOT a certified, licensed advisor.

If you are planning to buy Mutual Funds [MF] pay particular attention to MER {Management Expense Ratio] as well as fees. I believe your success revolves around Asset Allocation, percentages invested in equities/bonds/international and specialties if you can tolerate risk whose factors are within your control. You can't control shifts in the economy, wars or ghastly nature's outbursts [like Japanese earthquake/tsunami/nuclear plant collapse] that throws everything in the gutter.

Buy and hold are no longer safe, you will need to devote time each week to monitor your investments, stay current with the news so that you don't get sideswiped, and be able to forgive yourself for making errors. If you don't like that idea a lot of SA folks use Vanguard timed MFs but you are relinquishing control to another manager.

[tripods68]

Guys, I have most of my IRAs (Roth, old 401Ks, etc.)held in Wells fargo Advisors. This outfit charges very high prices for stock trades therefore I haven't made a transaction in years but I've just watched the values go up and down with the market. I would like to move everything (approx. $250K)into a much cheaper bank. Should I move to a place such as E-Trade or Ameritrade? Other suggestions would be appreciated. Also, how would I transfer to the new bank? Will all cost basis information transfer from my old bank to the new bank?
My goal for this money is moderate growth with some safety if possible.

Thanks!

As former WF employee....they are the one of the highest paid FA anywhere. I could go on and on but just leave now. My suggestion is take your money out and open a TDAMERITRADE and do it yourself for a lot cheaper.