Home Ownership
Becoming a homeowner has developed into a standard rite of passage for most Americans. You really hadn’t “made it” until you stopped paying rent and bought your own home.
But when you look at the way we live today — how long we stay in one place, what kind of amenities we want — it turns out that home ownership may not be the universally advantageous deal we’ve all been led to believe.
Take mobility — our ability to pack up the kids and move for, say, a new job. All things being equal, someone who rents is in a far Continue Reading »
Online Security
If you’re perusing this blog post, you’re probably part of the millions of Americans who consider social networking a part of modern business as well as home life. Yet a major problem with social networking is giving away too much personal information.
It’s only natural, though. After all, the social networking environment is a brand new world to many, and one in which it’s easy to forget to exercise the same caution you do in everyday real life.
So while it’s great to reconnect with former classmates, share job opportunities, and promote your business via various social networking Continue Reading »
College Savings
College students probably don’t spend too much time thinking about their finances. They swipe their debit or credit card, get a receipt, and move on their way. Money comes out of their account, but they rarely even see the cash.
This is both good and bad. On the one hand, students spend their time thinking about other more important things like tests, papers, and homework. On the other hand, if they don’t pay any attention to their personal finances while in college, they can end up with some pretty big problems on their hands.
Not thinking about money can get Continue Reading »
Online Security
The mobile and wireless market is one of the fastest growing in the world, and with the recent uptick of interest in tablets, it only promises to continue booming. Consumers are continuously turning to this market to take advantage of faster, more affordable and convenient ways to go about their daily activities, including online and mobile banking.
Banks have worked hard to ensure the safety of their customers, and most banks offer multiple layers of security on their websites. In fact, most instances of bank fraud are not due to the bank’s technology being compromised, but to consumers unwittingly Continue Reading »
Personal Credit
It comes as no surprise to read that credit cards aren’t appropriate for everyone. The majority of card holders use them in a disciplined manner, which is reflected in their relatively high personal credit score. But is it possible to develop a high credit score without credit cards? It’s not easy, but it can be done.
First let’s look at what won’t build credit.
Phone/utilities A very popular misconception, but cell phone, power, and gas bills do NOT build credit. The reason the cable or phone company checks your credit when you open a new account is do determine Continue Reading »
Home Ownership
Mortgage rates continue to remain near historic lows, and for buyers who qualify for a home loan, this time period offers a great opportunity. Here are some considerations to keep in mind as you start your home buying process.
Make a Checklist
Before you start searching, write down what you’re looking for. Are you looking for a house or a condominium? Is there a specific area that’s appealing? Is there a layout you prefer? Consider these questions and make a list of the things you want in a new home. Include everything from location to interior/exterior features, and Continue Reading »
