Though stocks surged Monday, the markets are still down over all, which has many Long Islanders wondering if it?s a good time to buy in.

In recent weeks, many stock values have dropped 40 to 50 percent. Financial advisor J.J. Burns says now is the time for long-term investors to get involved in the markets. The key phrase is long term though, Burns emphasizes. ?We have awhile to go,? Burns says. ?It?s going to go in fits and furies. Don't invest all of your capital at once use good solid investment fundamentals.?

Still, Long Islanders seem to be more cautious. Terri Finaro, of Mineola, says she?s going to ?keep the money where it is and hopefully it will come back up.?

For those who take the opportunity to invest, Burns says it?s best to have a diversified portfolio. ?What people need to understand is this is not going to be a V-shaped recovery, where the market goes down then goes right back up.?

Financial advisors also recommend looking into municipal bonds, which have a guaranteed rate of return as an alternative to stocks.

Mark J. Snyder Financial