15 Apr 2025
By Mark Feder

Smart Strategies for Building an Emergency Fund

Personal Finance
Life is full of unexpected expenses, from medical bills to car repairs and even job loss. Having an emergency fund in place can help protect you from financial stress and prevent you from relying on high-interest loans or credit cards. If you don’t already have one, now is the perfect time to start building your safety net.Why an Emergency Fund MattersAn emergency fund is a dedicated savings account meant to cover unexpected expenses such as: Major home or appliance repairs Car repairs or replacements Unexpected medical bills Job loss or reduced income Without savings, many people turn to credit cards…
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14 Jun 2019
By Mark Feder

Five Things to Do With a Windfall Other Than Spend it Right Away

Personal Finance
Perhaps you have won the lottery, received an inheritance, or cashed in one of your investments, and now you have a large sum of money you don't know what to do with. Although it is tempting to cruise around town in a brand new sports car it is important to think carefully about how to spend your newfound cash. To give you some ideas on the smartest way to use your new wealth, here are five things to do with a windfall other than spend it right away: 1. Erase Your Debt Your new found money will allow you to…
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14 Oct 2015
By Mark Feder

How Much Should You Budget for Closing Costs? Let’s Take a Look

Home Mortgage Tips, Home Seller Tips, Personal Finance
If you're in the market for a new home, you're probably trying to budget for all of the expenses that come with a home purchase. After all, the asking price isn't necessarily the entire amount that you'll pay - there are other expenses that will factor in to the final price. One such expense is your closing costs. Closing costs are the miscellaneous fees you'll pay when you sign the deal to buy your home. But how much do you need to save up for closing costs? Here's what you need to know. The General Guideline for What to Expect…
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05 Aug 2015
By Mark Feder

The Down Payment: Four Great Reasons To Make The Largest Down Payment You Can Afford

Home Mortgage Tips, Personal Finance
If you’re looking for a new home, you’ve probably heard lots of advice about down payments. About how it’s okay to just have a five percent down payment – you’ll still get approved. About how you should make the down payment as small as possible to avoid cash flow problems. In truth, you’re actually better off making the largest down payment you can possibly afford. Even if you have to slice up other areas of your budget, save for a few more years before you buy, or take a second job on the weekends, it’ll be worth it in the…
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