House Shopping 101

For many house hunters the search for their first home is an intimidating process. We have compiled some info and some pointers to help make the process as smooth as possible. AGENT versus REALTOR: You have probably heard various terms to describe real estate sales people: realtor, agent and broker. The term “realtor” is actually a trademarked term of the National Association of Realtors. Only real estate agents who belong to a NAR-affiliated...

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Helpful HELOC Facts

Helpful HELOC Facts Your home provides solid shelter and comfort. But it can also help pay for life’s expenses. If you are a homeowner and you have paid down a chunk of your mortgage, having a home equity line of credit, or HELOC, could be a good way to tap into extra funds when you need them. Here are some basics on how HELOCs work and how to know if one is right for you. 1. The amount of financing is based on your home’s value....

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Should I Get a Credit Card or a Loan for My Business?

All small-business owners need a little financial help to run and grow their enterprises at some point, whether it is to hire more employees, buy new equipment or market a recently launched product. But how to meet these ongoing capital requirements — with a business credit card, term loan or line of credit — can be confusing. Credit cards: easier approval, perks and flexibility at a cost A business credit card provides a revolving line...

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May 11, 2015       Plan Now for Your Summer Vacation   Waiting until the last minute to plan your vacation often results in higher costs and increased stress. Instead of winging it, use these tips to plan ahead and save on your getaway.   Choose your destination Every travel destination typically has a high season (i.e., the “expensive season”), and a low season, when it is less expensive and not as crowded....

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Storming the Capitol

April 7, 2015 Storming the Capitol You can make a difference and help to protect credit union members from unnecessary regulation National credit union organizations are extremely busy these days, waging battle on your behalf. Maybe the biggest fight is the battle against overzealous regulatory burdens that squeeze credit unions' ability to offer the best possible products and services to over 100 million consumers and small businesses....

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Plan and Finance Your Home Improvement Projects

Paying for home improvements, whether major renovations or unexpected repairs, is one of the biggest challenges homeowners face. In some cases you may plan a renovation for years, but it is not always possible to predict when you will need a new furnace or roof. That is why it is important to have a flexible plan for any eventuality when you take on the responsibility of owning a home. Here are some strategies that have helped many homeowners...

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Hidden Tax Breaks

In recent years, the average tax refund has been about $3,000. If you effectively determine and utilize the available tax credits, you may land a sizeable check this spring. Here are several commonly overlooked deductions worth a look. Home office deduction  Home offices have many perks: no commutes, casual dress code, etc. Add a tax break to the list of benefits. If you spend the majority of your time conducting business from home, you might...

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Credit Unions: Membership Has its Privileges

Credit Unions are no longer the best kept secret of the financial world. According to the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), as of mid-2014: Credit union memberships total 100.1 million and assets exceed $1,125 billion. Credit union savings stand at $961 billion, while loans total $689 billion. There are 6,671 credit unions. Some 4,027 are federally chartered, and 2,644 are chartered under laws of various states and Puerto...

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Smart Savings for All Life Stages

There is no doubt that in today’s low interest environment it is challenging to put your money to work for you. In addition to finding the right financial institution that is going to offer the best possible return on your deposits, it is also important to determine the best savings vehicle for your current life stage. Your savings needs typically vary a great deal as your life and circumstances change. No matter where you are in life --...

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