Home improvements can rejuvenate a stale dwelling. But remodeling and renovations could set you back thousands of dollars for each room.
A “midrange minor kitchen remodel” — including hardware, countertops, flooring and a refrigerator — is about $21,000, on average, according to Remodeling magazine’s 2018 Cost vs. Value report. But with the right approach, you can give your abode some TLC without busting your budget.
By Janet Mendez
Janet Mendez is Assistant Manager of Trust & Investment Services at SchoolsFirst FCU. She has more than a decade of experience in the financial services industry. She joined the SchoolsFirst team in 2009. Her previous positions were Senior Retirement Advisor and Financial Advisor. Janet believes it’s important to guide Members through every step of their financial planning goals.
There are many reasons people don’t get professional financial advice – they may worry about the cost, or feel like they don’t have enough money to warrant formal planning.
Whatever your reasons may be, 2019 may be a great time to schedule a one-on-one with a SchoolsFirst FCU financial advisor. This guidance is a benefit of your Membership to help you make good financial decisions and plan for a secure future. Here are some things you should know to help you get started. Continue reading
By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®
It’s a common dilemma for many couples: should you have joint or separate financial accounts? Instead of focusing on this issue as an “either or” choice, why not consider doing both?
By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®
No matter how tight a bond you may have with your loved ones, it can still be challenging to talk to them about sensitive financial topics. After all, money is often regarded as a taboo subject. Even worse: disagreements about financial matters can potentially strain your closest relationships.
By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®
Before you fill out your federal income taxes — or have an accountant complete that chore for you — you’ll need to collect W-2 forms from your current or former employers. Companies are supposed to send out your W-2, also known as a Wage and Tax Statement, by Jan. 31 of each year. Unfortunately, not all businesses meet this deadline.
By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®
I’ll never forget the night my husband Earl popped the question.
We were on a business trip and staying at a beautiful hotel in San Francisco. After a whirlwind day, we stood on the hotel balcony overlooking the city, talking about all we’d accomplished together. All of a sudden, Earl got down on one knee, told me how much he loved me, and asked me to be his wife. I immediately said yes. In my excitement, I didn’t realize that Earl proposed without giving me a ring.
By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®
When you’re dreaming of buying your first home, it may seem like it’ll take years to save up enough money for a down payment. But there is a way to get help with your housing down payment.
The secret: down-payment assistance programs. Continue reading
Although the Federal Reserve increased rates last year, 2019 appears to be a waiting game because the economy is healthy and there is less concern over inflation.
Sometimes following the stock market is akin to watching the thrill rides at an amusement park. While many people can stomach the ride, others can’t bear to watch. Knowing what type of investor you are and understanding how to manage your investment mix will help you stay the course
By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®
Here’s a super easy way to slash your restaurant bill when you’re going out to eat with friends: take advantage of printed or digital coupons and discounts.
Here are three options to nab discounted meals and spend less while eating out: