Are you game? I admit it. Often when we go to my kids’ sports games I bring along a guy who yells at my kids from the sidelines. He is their father, so I don’t have much choice. Occasionally, I’ve been known to say a few loud-ish words myself. Why do we put…
Got your tax refund? Let’s go crazy! Shoot. You know me better than that. The average US tax refund was $2,800 in 2016. What to do with that mad money? Here are some ideas, in order, from your friendly financial planner: Pay off credit card debt if you have it. Create or…
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…
Cleaning Out + Emotions = Feeling Overwhelmed One of the blogs that I have gotten the most response from was where I implored people to start cleaning out stuff so their kids don’t have to. Okay, let’s say that proactive wish didn’t come true and now YOU must clean out someone else’s lifetime full…
Ski season is over for the Sullivan family and it was a warm one. It was still fun, but we were skiing on slush as early as February. Not to get political, but this global warming debate is all fun and games until it interferes with my winter recreation. So, now it’s time to turn…
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…
What’s the magic number? Forgive me if I’m like the drunk at a party and I’ve already said this to you before. But it’s come up in a bunch of client meetings lately, so I’m going to tell you again. And again. And again. Americans really like to compete when it comes to…
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