Your investing questions, our clear answers.

Our response:

There is more than one factor involved in determining what will save you money in the long run. It is important to look at the cost of fees, together with the potential value of the investment. These factors should be reviewed on an individual basis in consultation with your registered financial advisor.

Front-end load fees are paid at the time you buy your units or shares. This is a percentage of the amount you are investing in a fund. It is paid to the registered firm that sells you the fund. You can negotiate this fee with your advisor.

Deferred sales charges are paid at the time you sell your units or shares. You will pay less if you hold the fund longer.

For more detailed information about these fees, learn more about mutual fund fees on GetSmarterAboutMoney.ca.