Debt Management Forbes Interest rates Mortgages Real Estate Updated for 2020

With Mortgage Rates So Low, Is Now a Good Time to Refinance?

With 30-year fixed mortgage rates currently averaging around 3.50%, it might make sense for homeowners to consider refinancing. Depending on several factors, such as your current interest rate and age of your existing mortgage, refinancing could mean a lower monthly payment and big savings over the life of the loan.…

Kristin McKennaMarch 26, 2020

Real Estate Updated for 2020

2 Big Myths About Being a Landlord

Real estate is perhaps the most emotionally charged investment there is. Particularly when buying a home, investors are far more inclined to let emotions drive the decision, opposed to the fundamentals of the deal. Putting owner-occupants aside, many individual real estate investors are so bullish about their strategy of using…

Kristin McKennaMarch 17, 2020

Forbes Investing Real Estate

Is It Just a Myth That Real Estate is a Better Investment Than Stocks?

Owning real estate can certainly pay off, but to say it's unequivocally a better investment than putting money in the financial markets is short-sighted. Over the years I've spoken with numerous investors who ended up renting their home when they moved instead of selling, buying an income property just because…

Kristin McKennaMarch 5, 2020

Cash Management Current events Debt Management Home buying Interest rates Investing Mortgages Real Estate Updated for 2020

Is Refinancing Your Mortgage Worth It? Here’s How Much You Could Save

How much can refinancing your mortgage save you? Mortgage rates are currently very low - the average 30-year mortgage is now 3.50%. It might make sense for homeowners to consider refinancing. How much could you save from refinancing your mortgage? Here's how to tell if refinancing your mortgage is worth…

Kristin McKennaMarch 2, 2020

Early Retirement Forbes Home buying Real Estate Retirement Planning Updated for 2020

Should You Buy Your Retirement Home Before You Retire?

When should you buy your retirement home? Buying a retirement home too early could be short-sighted, despite long-term intentions. Whether you're in your 30s or 60s, it's important to objectively weigh the pros and cons before purchasing a retirement home to avoid making a potentially costly financial decision. (more…)

Kristin McKennaFebruary 27, 2020

Early Retirement Forbes Home buying Real Estate Retirement Planning

What to Look for When Buying a Home for Retirement

There are plenty of ways to buy a home, but for many pre-retirees, it may be a good idea to wait until you're much closer to retirement to begin seriously searching for a retirement home. By waiting, you'll have the best and most current information possible about what your current…

Kristin McKennaFebruary 11, 2020

Forbes Home buying Real Estate

Is it Better to Buy a Home with Cash or a Mortgage?

Should you get a mortgage if you can buy the home with cash? The idea of living mortgage-free can be particularly enticing for individuals nearing retirement. At this time, it’s also common for empty-nesters to consider selling the large family home in favor of a smaller property or condo that’s…

Kristin McKennaMay 7, 2019

Cash Management Home buying Real Estate Updated for 2020

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early or Invest Extra Cash?

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early or Invest Extra Cash? It's true: the idea of living without a mortgage payment sounds enticing. On the surface, it may also seem like a no-brainer financially...paying off debts is typically considered a positive thing. Unfortunately, many homeowners get so wrapped up in…

Kristin McKennaApril 30, 2019

Home buying Real Estate Updated for 2020

Should I Sell or Rent My House?

Moving and wondering whether you should sell or rent your house? It's common for homeowners to wonder if they should rent or sell their home or condo after buying a new house. Owning a rental property can be a great way to diversify your streams of income, particularly if you…

Kristin McKennaJanuary 24, 2018

Home buying Real Estate

Buying, Selling, or Inheriting a Home

Real estate is often a big part of an individual's net worth, whether by accident or design. In the last 10 years, we've seen a tremendous comeback in the real estate market across the country. Buyers today generally enjoy low (but increasing) interest rates and relaxed lending requirements. These benefits…

Kristin McKennaAugust 22, 2017