Like getting a job, buying a car, getting married, or having a child, home ownership is viewed as one of the markers of becoming a “real” adult. Despite hitting those milestones at a later age than their Baby Boomer parents, and dealing with the blow of a tough economy right as they entered the job market, the majority of Millennials still believe in home ownership — even though it’s not the best … [Read more...] about Buying vs. Renting: Which One Is Right for You?
Life and Money
The Power of Simplifying Your Life
Between work, family, friends, and errands, we all have a lot going on. When you’re pressed for free time, even fun things like a dinner out with friends can feel like an item on a to-do list. The standard answer for “how are you?” used to be “good.” Now it’s “busy.” Frantically trying to get everything done has become something we brag about, as if never having a moment to breathe affords you … [Read more...] about The Power of Simplifying Your Life
4 Tips to Overcome the Fear of Spending So You Can Enjoy Your Cash
In our quest to save money for emergencies, retirement, and future goals, it’s easy to develop a fear of spending money. But that's not a healthy way to approach your finances. As long as you have an emergency fund to cover the basics and are saving consistently for retirement, you are allowed to spend money on yourself sometimes! The key is to align your spending with your … [Read more...] about 4 Tips to Overcome the Fear of Spending So You Can Enjoy Your Cash
Reflecting On Your Finances At The New Year
According to a Fidelity study from 2014, 31% of Americans planned to make financial resolutions for 2015. Of that group, more than half wanted to save more. The median goal was to save $200 per month. But before you look ahead to the goals you want to accomplish in the new year, take a moment to consider how your money situation changed in the last year. Evaluate … [Read more...] about Reflecting On Your Finances At The New Year
Can Money Buy Happiness for Gen Y?
A lot of emphasis is placed on saving money when we talk about personal finance. Saving more and spending less equal financial success, right? Fundamentally, yes, but that doesn't mean all spending is bad. Spending money becomes an issue when we do it mindlessly on things that don't bring us happiness, or when we spend money fruitlessly in an effort to solve problems that are … [Read more...] about Can Money Buy Happiness for Gen Y?
Understanding Your Credit Score and How to Improve It
Your credit score is kind of like the GPA of your finances. Banks, lenders, and other entities check your credit score to help them determine whether or not to approve you for loans and credit cards and decide how much you’ll pay in interest charges. Your credit score also plays a role in getting approved for leases and helping your landlord decide how much to charge you in fees or a security … [Read more...] about Understanding Your Credit Score and How to Improve It