If you're a new investor (with less than $10k), and have your account at a discount broker, you can add a minimum of 1% per year in fees just for the privilege of having an account. That brings the total up to 4% in annual expenses. Talk about adding insult to injury.
But the economy of making each investment in the stock market does come with a price. It will require self-denial (the money invested is not spent for goods or services). Economy and self-denial, I'm afraid go hand-in-hand. To truly benefit from a stock market investment, a savings plan should be adopted and a systematic approach of dollar-cost-averaging (buying the same stock at different prices) should take place; and when the purchase should take place, economically clearly defined.
Step One - Learn the basics:
Ownership of real estate is evidenced by a valid deed. When you buy property the seller signs a deed that transfers his ownership interest to you. Most states use a Warranty Deed. With that deed the seller warrants that title to the property is as he has described. You would buy title insurance in case some defect in title was discovered after the transfer of ownership. Recording the deed is notice to the world that you are the new owner.