Future Planning

If purchasing a new home is one of your financial goals for the new year, you are probably taking all the necessary measures to prepare. From saving for a down payment to finding the perfect home, there is a lot to consider.   But did you know the time of year you buy a house can make a big difference in the price you pay? Just like buying a car or TV, certain times of the year are more favorable for home purchases – and shopping during the winter will often get you the best bang for your buck. In this…

Purchasing a home is a significant financial investment that takes time and dedication. While house hunting can be exciting, you need to complete several steps before ensuring you’re ready financially to become a homeowner.   The following guide will walk you through a series of actions you should take to confirm you’re prepared for the long-term commitment of homeownership. Each step will help ensure you have all your financial ducks in a row, leaving no loose ends in your pursuit of becoming a homeowner.  Check Your Credit Score  Financing a home is a long-term commitment, with mortgage terms often extending up…

As we bid farewell to another year and usher in the promise of a new one, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our financial habits and make some smart resolutions for 2024. In the spirit of the classic holiday song, “The 12 Days of Christmas,” we present you with 12 financial resolutions to help you achieve your money goals and secure your financial future. So, let’s sing along and embrace these twelve money-wise commitments!  Day 1: Create a Budget  On the first day of financial resolutions, commit to starting your financial journey by creating a budget. A well-structured budget…

Heading off to college is an exciting time. You’ll meet new people, explore new places, and experience new things. But it’s no secret that college isn’t cheap. That’s why it’s crucial that you have a budget that’s both realistic and flexible.   To help enhance your college experience, we’ve put together ten tips to help take your money further while limiting how much you need to borrow in student loans.  Creating an Ideal Budget  Before we jump right into the money-saving tips, you must start with a reasonable budget. College life is always on the go and forever changing, so you…

Whether you are college bound or heading into the workforce, there is something all young adults need to know about: your credit score. Think of this three-number score as your financial GPA. It holds the keys to your dreams of owning a car, renting your first place, or even landing that dream job.   The best part? Laying the foundation for a great score requires minimum effort. The trick is to get started early. The following guide will highlight strategies to build your credit score and tips to keep your score favorable. It’s easier than you think and can tremendously impact…

Amidst the countless shared experiences with friends and family, it’s easy to focus on the here and now. But there’s a chapter of life that we all must consider – one where we’re not present to guide and support our loved ones.  No one wants to picture a world without them; however, planning for this scenario is one of the most generous tasks you can undertake for those you love. It provides peace of mind, direction, and comfort, knowing your intentions will echo through the years – offering guidance when others need it most.   What is Estate Planning?  People commonly…