Congratulations! You’re a college graduate and the world is your oyster. Transitioning to life as an independent adult means leaving the structure and preset expectations school provides, which can be both daunting and exciting at the same time. For years you had parents/teachers/professors/coaches telling you what you needed to do to reach the next step in life. Now, it’s up to you to decide what that next step looks like and how you’ll get there.
Protecting Your Identity
Technology has changed the way we live, especially as consumers. You can order dinner without leaving the couch or request a ride (in most cities) by using apps on your phone. Convenience, however, comes at the cost of providing your personal data, including credit card and banking information, and many people do so freely. Just think about the number of websites that have your personal identifying information (date of birth, social security number, etc.) and how many have your banking and credit card information – probably too many to count!
Total Return Investing and Income-Focused Investing Compared
One of the biggest questions for people entering retirement is how to generate income from their hard-earned savings. Moving from accumulation to withdrawal mode is an uncomfortable transition for many. Setting aside the emotional and behavioral component, what are the logistics involved in creating your own paycheck? From which accounts should you draw and how does this affect your investment strategy?
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Interest Rates and How They Relate to Your Mortgage
When it comes to interest rates in relation to your credit card, student loan or home mortgage, you probably know the interest rate is the price you’re paying to borrow money. But when you hear about interest rates in the headlines, what kind of rates are they talking about? And if rates are moving up, what does this mean for your mortgage or other lines of credit?
The answer isn’t simple.
Investing in Real Estate: Is It Right for You?
Have you ever felt the rush of excitement when a friend mentions she recently purchased an investment property? You immediately start dreaming of passive income pouring in on a monthly basis (aka, someone else paying your mortgage) and soon you’re calling your friend’s real estate agent.