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Our four-legged loved ones are always there to share in the merriment, and the holiday season is no exception. Unfortunately, their enthusiasm can sometimes lead to mischief and mayhem.
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Combine Open Enrollment with a Savings Checkup
It's tempting to go through open enrollment quickly, especially if you plan on keeping the same coverage for 2026. But it's also a great opportunity to take a closer look at any benefits you overlooked in previous years. Some could save you money. So, before you complete your benefits enrollment, carve out some extra time to review the year's finances and look for new savings.
The holiday season is quickly approaching, which means it’s time for big meals, family get-togethers, and festive decorations. During all the happy chaos, however, we also need to remember that it’s a season for giving.
November is a month for reflection and gratitude—and a great time to protect what matters most. In this issue, we're sharing tips to help keep your personal information secure, insights on rising health insurance costs for 2026, and a look at how technology is reshaping the job market. We'll also honor the history and meaning behind Veterans Day.
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Save on Holiday Shopping
Many of us are planning to spend less on gifts this year, as inflation and tariffs have affected prices. If you're determined to stick to a budget but don't want to disappoint anyone on your gift list, consider these strategies.
The current decrease in interest rates is making headlines this month, although it's partially driven by less positive factors such as fewer employment opportunities. Even before the Federal Reserve announced a quarter-point rate cut, demand for mortgage refinancing rose. In addition to rate-term refinancing, over 10% of refinancing applicants decided to switch to an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM).
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about something that affects every homebuyer: protecting your personal information during one of the biggest financial transactions of your life.
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From The Great Resignation to the Job Hug
A few years ago, we witnessed the Great Resignation, when record numbers of people quit their jobs. Next, the Great Reshuffle saw millions of workers find new career opportunities. Now, we have...Job-Hugging?
Those hoping that inflation would continue to wane were disappointed when June's Consumer Price Index (CPI) came in at 0.3%, putting the 12-month inflation rate at 2.7%. This resulted in pressure being put on Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell to cut interest rates, even though economists warned this could accelerate inflation and cause stock markets to falter. Ultimately, Powell did not cut rates, which left mortgage rates flat. However, homeowners may be in for some attractive tax savings because of provisions within H.R. 1, aka the Big Beautiful Bill.
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Travel Smart and Live a Little...Or a Lot
While Americans haven't lost interest in the traditional summer vacation, fewer are planning to fly to exotic locales this year. Instead, road trips are becoming more popular, especially as fuel prices are easing and more of us are charging our vehicles.
It's time for many Americans to decide on their vacation destinations, although fewer are headed to expensive, exotic destinations than in 2024. Consumers are concerned about continued economic volatility and possible overseas conflicts. However, would-be homebuyers are enjoying an increasing number of properties to choose from, as more sellers are entering the market and even lowering their asking prices.
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The Year of the Great Decide
Earlier this year, a national investment firm conducted a survey they dubbed "The Great Decide". Over 2,000 respondents shared their financial concerns and plans for 2025 and beyond.
Many consumers are already feeling the stress of possible tariff-related price hikes, even though inflation has actually cooled and interest rates are seeing less volatility. However, many Americans are being proactive with their budgets in a variety of ways. For example, more consumers plan to dodge tariff pricing by purchasing locally-made goods and switching from retail stores to eBay and similar markets.
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The Return of the Buyer's Market?
After years of sparse property listings, would-be buyers are finally seeing more FOR SALE signs. This is translating into more opportunities, especially in some warm-weather states.
April brought a mix of financial headlines—from new global tariffs to shifting trends in home financing. But don't worry, we've sorted through the noise to bring you practical tips and timely insights. In this issue, we're covering mortgage options for self-employed buyers, how to choose the right dental insurance, pet-friendly travel trends, and what tariffs could mean for your wallet. Whether you're planning your next move or just keeping an eye on your finances, there's something here for you.
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Mortgage Planning for Self-Employed Borrowers
Qualifying for a mortgage when you're self-employed doesn't have to be a pain. It all comes down to organization. Whether you're self-employed, commission-based, or a full-time or hourly employee, lenders are all looking for the same thing when you apply for a mortgage: a high likelihood you will be able to pay.
Springtime often comes with unpredictable weather, which also describes our current financial and economic outlook. Proposed import tariffs for China, Canada and other countries may result in increased prices across the board. These and other concerns resulted in the Federal Reserve's recent decision to keep current interest rates unchanged.
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A New Strategy for Managing Financial Stress
There are plenty of reasons for money-related stress these days, with sticky inflation and higher interest rates causing many Americans to acquire debt. Unfortunately, it also contributes to a potentially life-threatening condition: stress. Recently, the American Heart Association reported that 82% of us are stressed about money.
