"Improve finances" is usually the second most common New Year's resolution right behind "lose weight." For many, "improve finances" is simply code for "get out of debt." In the same way those extra pounds take a toll on your body, the weight of debt can be felt physically by way of unnecessary …
Budgeting
Beware of Biweekly Mortgage Payment Services
I really don't like mail. Unless it's my birthday, nothing makes me happier than seeing an empty mailbox. That's because each and every day I'm hammered with deals, offers and not-so-subtle sales pitches. Yesterday was no different. After walking the dog around 5:00 pm, I pick up the mail and …
Investing In Your First Home and The Unexpected Expenses
Moving from a rental apartment to a new home is a huge mental and monetary investment. Most renters are used to paying their monthly rent bill, and maybe a utility bill, without forgoing any other extra costs. The financial burden that is taken up when one buys a house can have a lot of hidden costs …
You WILL NOT Save More Later
Most people know that I majored in Economics. What most people don't know is that I also picked up a Masters in Procrastination. If something was fun, I would do it immediately. If something required work, effort, or attention - I would put it off until later. I became so good at procrastinating …
Why You Need to Save $84 Each Month
For the last few years, most of us have been enjoying a payroll tax of 4.2%. Of course, I use the term “enjoying” loosely. Beginning January 1, 2013, this payroll tax will return to its’ prior level of 6.2%. While it may not sound like much, it’s something that will affect almost everyone. This …
What Kind of Returns Can I Expect When Planning for Retirement?
Even with all of the drama the financial markets have seen recently, 2012 has been an exceptional year. You have most likely received your monthly statements along with your credit card offers in the mail, and you haven't had to question anything. Most people will look at their most recent balance …
I’m More Interested in Your Personal Savings Rate than the Interest Rate on Your Personal Savings!
That's a tongue-twister, huh? Whereas how much wood a wood-chuck can chuck is useless to debate, I can promise you that my title is extremely helpful. Where's The Best Place To Put My Money? This is a question I get 25 times each week. While exhaustive to answer, the question itself never …
