Here are some good write ups on setting an RIA-only practice (aka "fee only"). Actually, the last is a link to a long list of related blog posts.
I have always enjoyed reading these types of articles, but I realized there wasn't an in depth resource for any option that includes a broker-dealer affiliation--even the hybrid RIA configuration, like I am currently in (or at least one written by someone who had "been there, done that" and was still in the field doing it).
That's why I'm here...and hopefully why you are.
- http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2015/09/28/going-independent-several-choices-several-solution?t=going-independent&page_all=1
- http://www.goodfinancialcents.com/start-financial-planning-investment-business-firm-practice/
- http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/08/25/should-i-stay-or-should-i-go-independent?page_all=1
- http://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/kitces-roundup-financial-advisors/