Archive for October 2012

Despite the recent slump in the real estate market, the current tax law provides an opportunity to invest in fixer-upper homes and realize a tax-free profit. The reason has to do with a tax law, passed in 1997, that increased the amount you can exclude from taxes after selling a home. If you qualify, you can walk away with as much…

When home buyers begin to think about mortgages, invariably they get around to discussing “points”, and whether or not to pay them on the new mortgage. To make a wise decision, they need to gain an understanding of what points are and how they affect rates. Good advice for borrowersis to avoid the tendency of many…

Topic Summary: You may have missed Fire Prevention Week but we feel you can still benefit from  some facts and insight into wireless smoke detectors. When you think about it, the new level of detector protection makes sense! The Facts:  The kitchen is the #1 spot where home fires get their start, and cooking seems…

(Three  parts) It may be helpful to determine the price of fuel you’ll need over the next 6 months. Next up, in the cold parts of the country it may be wise to hire a professional energy auditor to come in and show you some hi-tech technology that tells you where you can save money…

Topic Summary: During the recent debates “Fiscal Cliff” and “Sequestration” have been tossed around and all the political news talk-shows have been discussing them. So let’s look at the math and dissect the definitions.What’s this code for? The United States fiscal cliff refers to a slowdown in the economy if certain laws are allowed to be enacted…

Whether you are a man or a woman, if you’re getting married and have substantial assets, you should set up a prenuptial agreement. With nearly 50 percent of American marriages breaking up, a pre-nup can protect everyone and save a lot of heartache. The basics are simple and the following checklist of tips will help…

Topic Summary: Solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy source available. Is it time for you to learn more about it and even join other homeowners in going green and saving money? The U.S. has some of the richest solar resources in the world. Modern technology can harness this energy for a…

Topic Summary: An insider’s take on why you pay what….. for Auto, Life, Homeowners and other insurance. By Guest Contributor: Emma Molina Insurance companies use a methodology called risk assessment to calculate rates for policyholders. Using software that computes a predetermined algorithm,(computer program) insurance underwriters gauge the risk that you may file a claim against…