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7 Questions to Consider When Choosing the Right Mortgage
Identifying the best mortgage fit for yourself or your family is about more than just finding the lowest rate — though a low rate is certainly a big perk. When making one of life’s biggest purchases, you’ll also want to consider such things as the best type of loan for your specific needs, the financial strength of your mortgage lender, the lender’s requirements for applicants regarding credit score, down payment, etc., and — perhaps most important — how knowledgeable, professional and helpful the lender will be when you need guidance through the often-complicated home-buying process.
10 Ways to Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft
Your identity is one of the most valuable things you own. It’s important to keep it from being stolen by someone who could potentially harm your good name and financial well-being.
4 Things to Research Before Buying a Home
It’s fun to go house-hunting and dream about moving into your future home. But buying a home is one of the biggest investments most of us will make during our lifetime — it’s a long-term commitment that costs more than just the down payment. Before you dive in, take the time to research the process. There’s a lot to know and many mistakes to avoid. Here are some recommendations to help you prepare:
5 Options to Consider for Investing Your Tax Refund
You might be getting a tax refund this year — and, of course, you’ve likely thought about that nice, big check in your account and how to spend it. The average direct deposit tax refund for 2018 is expected to be $3,199.* Instead of spending it on something you’ll regret later, consider thinking long-term and investing in your future. There are many ways to use your tax refund, but here are five options worth considering that could work well for you.
3 Questions To Consider When Choosing A Credit Card
In a sea of credit cards, searching for the right one can be a daunting task that requires a lot of self-reflection. Further complicating the quest, it’s easy to get steered in the wrong direction by flashy rewards and low introductory rates.
Construction Loans vs. Residential Lot Loans: Which is Right For You?
When it comes to buying or building your dream home, the number of decisions to make can feel overwhelming. But by understanding your individual needs and the plans you have for the property — whether you are buying an existing home,building a house right away on an empty lot, or holding onto the land to build on later — we can find the best loan and rates for your situation.
How to Monitor Your Credit Score
It’s a new year, and with that comes resolutions to concentrate on your finances. Here at Standard Affluent Private Bank, we understand the importance that your credit score plays in your financial security. So we answered several questions you might ask yourself when you are learning about your credit score and how to keep your credit score (and resolution) on the right track.
How Will the New Tax Reform Package Impact You and Your Small Business?
The nation is launching into the new year with new tax legislation signed, sealed and delivered. This tax reform poses the largest U.S. tax code overhaul in over 30 years, and individuals and businesses alike are wondering where it leaves them. There has been a fair amount of media coverage regarding how the new code impacts large, international corporations, but there are also a few significant changes that will affect individuals’ and small business owners’ take-home pay. Ahead, read a brief summary of key points and questions regarding the new tax code, and what it means for you.
Don’t Break the Bank this Holiday Season
Although it may be the most wonderful time of the year, the holiday season can also be the most stressful. Trying to find the perfect gift for all of your loved ones, having to attend every family gathering, or hosting an event yourself can all cause stress. However, the worst contributor to the stress is spending money.
Energy-Saving Tips During the Holidays
Whether you’re like Clark Griswold in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, or like a more refined display, pretty much everyone agrees that Christmas and the holiday season wouldn’t be the same without all of the beautiful lights and displays. Some of the displays go over the top, and sooner or later, that electric bill is going to be due.
