answering service to prescreen sellers

[Dan Miller]

I'm a new investor, just getting started and trying to start both my marketing and set up my virtual office (if I need one). Before I order bandit signs, I'm tryig to determing if I need a 24/7 answering service. I have a full time job and I'm generally hesitant to have random people calling my cell phone, so I was thinking it may make sense. However, I don't know how much it would cost since the costs vary depending on minutes and # of calls. Can anyone give me a sense for a) if I should get such a service; b) which companies are reputable; c) general costs per month for this type of service for someone just starting out?

I'm also confused on 800 numbers, answering services, and live operators. Are all 3 different? Do I buy an 800 number first, then pay for an answering service which or may not include live operators?

Thanks,
Dan