Where is Your Money Taking You?


Learn how to make your money work for you. Discover tips and insights for smarter financial decisions that lead to a secure and happy retirement. Start planning for the retirement of your dreams!

Posts — Category: Financial Wellness 101

Buying vs renting a home
Financial Wellness 101Investment Strategies

Buying vs Renting a Home

Does it make more sense to rent than to buy? That has been a long-running debate in this country. However, the question is flawed: There is no correct answer. There

First time home buyers
Estate PlanningFinancial Wellness 101Retirement Planning

Down Payment Strategies for First-Time Home Buyers

The idea of buying a first home is exciting. However, coming up with a sizable down payment can feel like an impossible task. That is especially true when many lenders

Employed again
Financial Wellness 101Investment Strategies

Employed Again? Do These Things First

As the pandemic continues, unemployment rates have begun to decrease. According to the Bureau of Labor, as of November 2021, the unemployment rate was at 4.2 percent. So, if you

IFW's 21 Day Financial Refresh & Revitalization Challenge
Financial Wellness 101Lifestyle & Wellness

DAY 21: IFW’s 21 Day Financial Refresh & Revitalization Challenge

DAY 21 April is ‘Financial Literacy Month’ and The IFW wants YOUR Financial Life to be in its best shape ever! In honor of Financial Literacy Month, the IFW has

Fixed rate vs adjustable rate mortgages
Financial Wellness 101Investment Strategies

Fixed Rate vs Adjustable Rate Mortgages

You are ready to apply for a mortgage. Your question? Should you take out a fixed-rate loan or an adjustable rate? As with most mortgage questions, there is no one correct

15-Year vs 30-Year Mortgages
Financial Wellness 101Investment Strategies

15-Year vs 30-Year Mortgages

What makes more sense financially for you, a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage or a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage? Both loan types come with their positives and negatives. So how do you determine which

Should you Refinance into shorter-term mortgage?
Financial Wellness 101

Should You Refinance Into a Shorter Term Mortgage?

When mortgage rates are low — and in December 2021, the rate for a 30-year mortgage loan was at 3.26 percent, while the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage loan was at 2.60

Home Affordability
Financial Wellness 101Savings Strategies

Home Affordability

You are ready to make the jump from renting to buying a home. That is good news. Buying a home today is more affordable than it has been in decades.