1. Decide what type of investments you intend to trade (i.e. stocks, mutual funds, bonds, etc.). Every brokerage firm is different and some cater to certain areas better than others. Also, they have different rates for which they charge on each different type of investment.

2. Figure out how much money you have to invest. Usually a brokerage will require at least $1000 to get started. Some firms are better for customers with greater amounts of money to invest, while others serve beginner investors with limited capital.

3. Determine what type of investing you plan on doing. Will you plan on making several trades each week? Or do you plan on investing your money and letting it grow over time? Again, different brokers will cater to different types of investors.

4. Once you have decided on the things above and have selected a brokerage, do some homework on the firm. Read others reviews, opinions, and ratings. Talk to friends, family, and other investors who may have used them before. And, finally, make sure that the brokerage is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.

5. Always read the small print. There are many different fees and commissions that brokerages charge that depend on different types of variables. These charges may seem small at first, but they can really add up. Find the brokerage firm that works best for you and your investing needs.