Sure, sure, we all want to save more money in 2026. But, as the iconic Cyndi Lauper sings, girls (and guys) just wanna have fun! What’s good for your pocket and the environment? Keeping used gear in the hands (and on the feet) of people instead of in landfills. Read on, Intrepid Adventurer, for resources:…
Curious about what your friends and neighbors are thinking about when it comes to money? Look no further than the top internet searches to take the public temperature about money worries. Inflation and cost of living questions Budgeting, saving, and “how to manage money” Credit cards, debt payoff, and loans Student loans. 4million Google searches…
How inconvenient that so many tax deadlines occur at year-end. What you really want to be doing is shopping, egg-nogging, New-Year’s-Eve-smooching, and wearing ugly holiday sweaters while watching football. So, what are some things you can do now, to avoid the crunch of December 31st money tasks? Execute your charitable gifting plans. There is no…
Wait, is Kristi telling me I shouldn’t donate money to help others? Never! I love charitable gifting and helping clients feel comfortable donating to non-profits. However, often writing a check is the least beneficial to the donor for tax savings. Consider these methods first: Donating Long-Term Appreciated Assets Gifts of long-term appreciated stocks, bonds, or…
When I have a captive audience of young adults, I like to ask them what concerns them about their personal financial situation. The number one answer (consider this unscientific anec-data) is how to afford a first time home purchase. First, the problem (hint, it’s NOT avocado toast) High home prices and elevated interest rates Incomes…
I am a fan of (at least considering using) reverse mortgages. Although there is some controversy from the old days where the product lacked current consumer protection, the new world of reverse mortgage is worth looking at. Nationwide data indicates that home equity can account for 50% or more of total net worth for many households…
Tariffs, world unrest, inflation, politics, actual ticks – things are going to happen, but people still want to finish their basements. A common question that comes up in financial plans is, “How can I pay for my house improvements without derailing my retirement/college goals?” Here are a few ideas: Savings: Using your own cash is…
You know who stresses less about stock market volatility? People who have a financial plan. According to the Goldman Sachs 2024 Retirement Survey and Insights: 40% of people with a financial plan feel comfortable managing their savings and investments, compared to just 16% of those without a plan. 80% of individuals with a financial plan…
Times are stressful with rising prices, crazy stock markets, and general world instability. While you can’t control people starting a trade war, you can control how the fallout affects your bottom line. Here are some ideas on how to lower your household inflation rate – even as prices rise. Plan your Purchases and Research…
Part of the insanity of the early 2025 investment scene is the wild ride of bonds. Yes, even the stalwart US Treasury options have seen big moves due to the tariff situation. There is a ton of money in money market funds these days because they were yielding up to 5% at one point. What’s…
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