Saving For a Major Purchase

Answer: Most people face this question at some time in their lives. Buying a home is part of the American dream. It’s also one of the biggest financial investments you’ll ever make.   One of the main advantages of buying a home is that you build equity in your property. For example, if you paid […]

Answer: There is no definitive answer–you must determine which option works best for you. Use these simple guidelines to help you decide. How long will you keep the car? Leases typically run two to four years. If you like the idea of driving a new car every few years, consider leasing. If you prefer to

College costs For the 2017/2018 college year, the average annual cost of attendance (known as the COA) at a four-year public college for in-state students is $25,290, the average cost at a four-year public college for out-of-state students is $40,940, and the average cost at a four-year private college is $50,900. The COA figure includes

What is a mortgage? Since most people finance their home purchases, buying a home usually involves getting a mortgage. A mortgage is an interest in property created by a written document that secures the repayment of a loan. When you take out a mortgage loan to buy a home, the home becomes the collateral for

How much money will you need for a down payment? It used to be that most lenders would require a down payment equal to at least 20 percent of a home’s purchase price. Today, however, there’s good news for homebuyers who have little money saved for a down payment. Many lenders have relaxed their requirements

Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don’t take any money out until you’re ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn’t it? But that’s what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you’re