My Home Skyrocketed in Value. Now What?

For the Home

Home values are skyrocketing, and you may want to cash in on the action. Read the tips listed here to learn about possible financial moves you can make, all thanks to your home’s increased equity. Sell The financial move that quickly comes to mind when homes experience an explosion in equity is to sell the house and pocket the profits. …

Am I a Shopaholic?

Personal Finances

A true shopaholic will feel an irresistible urge to shop and spend money, which will often have a negative impact on their financial stability and personal well-being. In today’s increasingly digital world, shopping is an activity that is accessible at any time and anywhere. Unfortunately, though, this can make shopping addictions more widespread. But how can you tell if you’re just …

Why a Credit Union is Safer Than a Bank in a Financial Crisis

Security and Scams

It’s no secret that the economy has seen better days. Inflation has cooled off slightly, but it is still at record highs as salaries continue lagging behind. Interest rates on large loans are also steep enough to drive many would-be borrowers away, while home and auto prices soar. During times of financial uncertainty like this, it’s normal to be worried …

How To Deal With Financially Challenging Friendships

Personal Finances

Poet Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them.” What’s left unsaid is that many times, it’s the friendships you can’t afford! In fact, some friends can be a serious drain on your savings. If you recognize these kinds of people in your life, it …

Is There an End to Credit Card Debt?

Personal Finances

With consumer debt at an all-time high, this is a question that many Americans are grappling with right now. The credit card trap can easily make you feel like there’s no way out, but this is far from the truth. Yes, you can break free! With the right tools and the willingness to work hard at your goal until it’s …

What Kind of Home Improvement Projects Will Add Value to My Home?

For the Home

Renovating your home with an eye toward its future value can help you recoup the costs of the project – and then some. Here are six home improvement projects that can increase the value of your home. 1. Kitchen remodel The area of the house that will give you the largest return on investment is definitely the kitchen. It’s often …

Does Marriage Make Me Responsible for My Partner’s Debt?

Personal Finances

Debt liability is a loaded topic with no easy outs. Your own liability for debts that your partner is bringing into the marriage will depend on several factors, but for the most part, saying “I do” does not make you accountable for your partner’s debt. Here are all your questions about debt and marriage, answered. Am I responsible for my …

5 Ways To Budget For Your Wedding

Personal Finances

You don’t need to skimp on the wedding of your dreams or go deeply into debt to pay for it. By planning ahead, choosing wisely and prioritizing what’s truly important, you can say, “I Do,”  without stressing over wedding costs. Here’s how: 1. Time it right Think off season and mid week, and you’ll save a bundle! First, consider a …

The Post-Holiday Budget Recovery Guide

Personal Finances

The holidays are in the rearview, but if you’ve gone over budget with your spending, it’s time to deal with the aftermath, which is coming head-on. Here’s how you can get your budget back on track for the new year. Review your holiday spending How much debt did this season’s spending set you back? Spend some time crunching the numbers …

Your Complete Year-End Financial Checklist

Personal Finances

As 2023 draws to a close and we prepare to usher in 2024, take a moment to go through this year-end financial checklist for ensuring your finances are in order before the start of the New Year. Review your budget Is your monthly budget still working well for you? Are you stretching some spending categories or finishing each month in …