I often get asked if investing exclusively in dividend-paying companies will bring the best results. There is no simple answer, but history shows that dividend income is an important part of your total return when investing in common stocks. Increasing stock prices help build your wealth and beat inflation, but dividends provide a steady return on your investment through thick and thin. I also receive questions from investors asking me to compile a list of stocks to begin building their initial portfolios. Whether you are a new investor or an experienced pro, or whether you are young or old,...