I don't know if it's the same as the UK but about 10 years ago I went to see an Independant financial advisor to see where I could put £5000 that was burning a hole in my pocket. He said I could let him take the commission from the investment company and pay him nothing, or pay for his time, about 2 hours - £150 i think - and I would get the commission.

The Commission was £750! So from day one I was £600 up on the deal. Nice