Should You Pay Off Your House When Stocks Are Not Performing?
The "Money Talks" hosts discuss why it would be foolish to sell during a down market to pay off a mortgage.
Reverse Mortgages
Bil Lako, CFP®, Dr. Gene and Ted Parrish, CFA discuss senior homeowners’ option of a Reverse Mortgage.
Real Estate as an Investment
Some financial advisers may view real estate as an important element of an investment portfolio. For many individuals, it is one of the main elements. Many investors tend to choose real estate over other investments because they are more familiar with real estate. Real estate is not limited to owning a home though.
Energy Efficient Tax Credits for 2009 and 2010
Taxpayers who took energy saving steps in 2009 or this year may be eligible for greater tax savings. The Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit, a tax credit for making energy efficient improvements to homes, has been increased as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Steps to Follow to Change State of Residency
When moving to a new state, you should take a few key steps to change your state of residency other than completing a change of address form at the post office. You should notify any social or religious organizations, creditors, the department of motor vehicles and the Clerk of the Circuit Court to name a few. For more places where you should make changes to your state of residency, read this Financial Strategy.
Property and Ownership Interests
When developing an estate plan, one must know what type of property is owned and the type of ownership interests held. Real and Personal are the two basic types of property, and they can be owned in different forms. For more on property and ownership interests and how it affects you, read this Financial Strategy.
Who Does a Real Estate Agent Represent?
In Georgia, real estate agents can represent the buyer, the seller or both parties in the same transaction.
Tax Breaks for Home Mortgage Interest
Home mortgage interest can provide a very large tax deduction. You also may be able to transform nondeductible expenses into fully deductible interest by using your home as collateral for the loan.
Hold On To Your Home’s Receipts
Any improvement you make to your home that is not a repair increases your basis in the property. Keeping up with the basis in your home is extremely important when calculating your gain when you sell.
Private Mortgage Insurance
Private Mortgage Insurance protects the lender in case of default of the homeowner to pay the mortgage. It is generally required for mortgages with less than a 20% down payment.