Home Equity Loans and HELOCs Over time, the value of your home has grown and your mortgage balance has been reduced (or even eliminated). The equity (the property’s value minus any liens against it) you now have in your home is a reservoir of funding potential. You may decide to tap into it for various…
Saving for Retirement and a Child’s Education at the Same Time You want to retire comfortably when the time comes. You also want to help your child go to college. So how do you juggle both? The truth is, saving for your retirement and your child’s education at the same time can be a challenge.…
Your home is your castle, so the saying goes. And you’re going to want to protect it. Homeowners insurance can give you just the protection you need. It provides coverage if your home is damaged or destroyed. It also covers your family’s possessions and provides you with compensation for liability claims, medical expenses, and other…
Since most people finance their home purchases, buying a home usually involves applying for a home loan. Being a homeowner gives you the opportunity to put down roots, become part of a community, and build your wealth for the future. But the path to becoming a homeowner is no small feat. Here is some…
Winterize Your Home Checklist When the temperatures start to drop, minimize the potential risks to your home. Did you know fall is the best time to winterize your home? Ice, snow and wind can have a devastating impact on your home. When temperatures drop dramatically and the snow flies in North Dakota, you’ll be glad…
October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month At home, at work, at school, and while on vacation, our growing dependence on technology demands greater security online. Because there are many different online scams out there including money wiring scams, online dating scams, and health care scams, we want to make sure you can recognize the…
For tax purposes, your principal residence is the place where you legally reside. It’s typically the place where you spend most of your time, but several other factors are also relevant in determining your principal residence. Many of the tax benefits associated with home ownership apply mainly to your principal residence — different rules apply…
Conventional wisdom says that what goes up, must come down. But even if you view market volatility as a normal occurrence, it can be tough to handle when it’s your money at stake. When the markets experience turbulence, there can be a temptation to ask your financial advisor to “do something” as a proactive approach…
Whether you want to refinance your current home mortgage or you are preparing for purchasing a home, there are some things you should never do during the home loan application process. Here are the most common things to avoid to ensure your financing goes smoothly. Don’t apply for credit. (New credit card, car loan, or…
If you have a child heading off to college, you will want to make sure they are protected while away. Considering renters insurance is one option that can help protect possessions in their dorm room or apartment or rented house. Without insurance of your own, you could be left with nothing in the event of…