You finally feel like you’ve gotten ahead: You earn a steady income, have paid down a majority of your student loan debt, and enjoy being a first time homeowner. Now comes one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make: having a baby. Raising a child is one of life’s biggest adventures. As with most things, […]
First time homebuyers: Why a down payment of 20% is a good idea.
There are several programs out there that allow first time homebuyers to buy their home with as little as three to five percent down. It isn’t just cities like Boston or San Francisco where buying a home can seem out of reach. Home prices all across the country are climbing much faster than salary increases, […]
Can You Have Fun While Paying off Debt?
Having debt can be paralyzing. I know from experience. One day you are living your life and having fun, and the next you wake up with a pile of credit card or student loan statements. The interest rates and balances are nauseating. You might feel like you can never go to brunch again, let alone […]
Why Wait? Make a bucket list today.
This week I was reminded of a time when I was paralyzed by student loan debt and high rent. At that point in my life I felt like I couldn’t spend money on anything. How was I going to manage this debt and still do the things I love to do? Let’s be honest, I […]
Can you (should you?) contribute to your IRA for 2016?
When asking myself this question, I think about my life today. I just returned from an amazing trip to Jackson, Wyoming and Teton Valley, Idaho. As I was high in the mountains skinning 2,000 vertical feet in half a day, I took in the scenic, snowy landscape and thought about how lucky I am to […]
Don’t show up to the race without your shoes.
Figure out your down payment before looking for a new home. With the Fall season approaching and open houses on the rise, you may be considering your options for buying a home. While there are many considerations with making such a large purchase, today’s let’s figure on planning for the down payment. Before you scan […]
Get Back on Financial Track
Five financial fixes you can do today. Financial planning is about creating a roadmap customized for you. While there may be specific reasons why you should borrow versus pay cash or lease instead of buy, these five fixes apply to everyone. Organize your financial documents. Create a binder or file your documents for easy access. […]
Three Simple Summer Travel Tips
Whether you are visiting family, friends, or taking a solo trip, be sure to plan ahead. I’m not saying you should have every minute of every day planned out, so here are my top three tips for your summer vacation: Make an overall budget. How much are you willing (or can you afford) to spend […]
The Low-down on the 401(k) and the IRA
There are many different ways to save for retirement and a whole host of things to consider when tax planning. To reach your personal financial goals, it’s important to consider the resources available to you and review all of your options. The plan for you may not be the same for someone else. The 401(k) […]
Debunking the Myths about Financial Planning
Myth #1: I need to get my finances in order before working with an advisor. Myth #2: I need to be wealthy. If you want to get your finances in order and are not rich, then you are my perfect client! In fact, you are the perfect client for many of my colleagues at the […]