When shopping for a home, it can be exciting to hear how much a bank is willing to lend you. But homeowners, especially first-time homebuyers, need to be cautious about maxing out that loan. NBR asked several financial planners their opinions and advice on how to wisely go into purchasing a home. From NBR …
Hang on! Tempted to buy more of your winners and dump your losing investments? Read tips from investing pros (including me!) on how to avoid that mistake. Tips from Investing Pros The editorial team at ETF Reference surveyed 57 ETF investing experts in search of the best tips for exchange-traded fund investors. The…
The payoff? Wondering if you should pay off your mortgage early or stick with those monthly payments? You’re not alone. In this article from dynamicnsurance.com, I’m asked whether getting rid of your mortgage is actually a good idea. I advise…. “If a client thinks they’ll be in a house for 10 years after…
If you’re paying more than 28% of your salary on rent… …you’re paying too much. In this article from Credit.com, I detail how your monthly expenses should be allotted. Let’s take a look If you’re like many Americans, you have debt. This is especially prevalent among young college grads. That has to…
Let’s get detailed about reverse mortgages. This isn’t the first time I’ve tackled this subject. But Investopedia recently published a more detailed article (written by yours truly) that provides more information about reverse mortgages and whether or not they’re right for you. Take a look. Chances are high that when I mention the idea…
Yes, I know that New Year’s was a few months ago, but I just thought I’d check in and see how you’re doing with all of those financial goals you made at the beginning of the year. Here’s an article that might get you back on track: Jean Chatzky, one of my favorite personal…
I was thrilled to be included in this article from Money.com about seniors who are ready to retire from a full-time job…but who might want to keep working a job that will allow them to stay active. I talk about how your age can affect your income tax while Karen Van Cleve, a fabulous Lakewood,…
Kristi was asked by KHOU News in Houston…what does a FED hike mean to the average American? Here’s what you should know. Consumers should be aware of the rate hike for a simple reason: Lenders and banks base their interest rates on the federal funds rate, so when the benchmark increases or decreases, it can…
When Credit.com asked Kristi her advice on how to determine how much rent someone can afford, she offered this advice: Consider your expenses. If you’re like many Americans, you have debt. This is especially prevalent among young college grads. That has to be a factor in deciding what you can afford in housing costs. “The…
Kristi helps the Financial Planning Association figure out when it’s the right time to hire a professional financial planner. 15 Signs You Need a Financial Planner You wouldn’t depart for an important trip without a clear idea of how to get to your destination — or at least without a GPS or map to…