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No matter what time of year, pests are unwelcome guests. In many parts of the country, though, it’s summer when they become, well, pests. Keeping things under control can vary dramatically by region, state and local areas, but here are some tried-and-true steps you can take – inside and outside of your home – to […]

Key takeaways:  If you’ve ever prepared your home for a sale, you know you don’t take any chances. You probably tidied up all the clutter, cleaned everything, and tried to make your aesthetic choices as neutral as possible, to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. There’s an argument to be made that you […]

Key takeaways The Federal Reserve ended its June meeting by declining to raise interest rates, but strongly suggesting that it intends to resume rate hikes, with the possibility of two coming later this year. In fact, most members of the central bank now think rates will have to go even higher than they had anticipated. […]

Key takeaways: Summer vacation is a time-honored tradition for most Americans. Sunny days, long evenings, barbecues, and often, a trip. But before you get packing, stop, think and do some planning. A little budgeting can go a long way in ensuring a fun trip that won’t leave you financially strapped and stressed. Start by referring […]

Let’s face it, owning a home can be a great way to build long-term equity, but it can also be expensive. Between the mortgage, utilities, taxes, repairs, maintenance, insurance and in some cases, lawn care and homeowners association fees, the costs can really add up. Here’s a look at how to save money on three […]

It’s time again for new graduates to toss their caps high aloft, celebrate – and get down to the business of working and earning an income. Many grads have secured entry-level positions and are launching their careers. Others are still in the hunt and will land that first job soon. Next up: Getting the first […]

Key takeaways:  You have a budget, you have a job, and you have good intentions, but sometimes, life happens, and you struggle to make your mortgage payments. If you’re in that boat now and wondering how you’re going to keep up with your mortgage payments, don’t panic. There are options. The first thing to do […]

Key takeaways: The Federal Reserve (Fed) raised interest rates again at its May meeting, but signaled it was done with rate hikes for a while, even as investors increasingly expect the central bank to reverse course and start cutting later this year. When the Fed first started raising rates in 2022, inflation and the economy were overheated. […]

Temperatures are rising. Days are getting longer. Flowers are blooming. As your attention – and time – moves outdoors, you may find summer home-improvement projects rising to the top of your list. From quick DIY tasks to more extensive projects requiring professional help, making needed home improvements can  increase enjoyment of your time outside, as well […]

Key takeaways: You may think wills are only for older people, or richer people. But the reality is that everyone should have not only a will, but a range of documents that allow for all your belongings — including you! — to be taken care of as you wish if you aren’t able to make […]

Key takeaways: If you’re a homeowner, you probably know all too well that the housing market has softened – a lot. Home prices have even slipped, according to a few measurements. And they might fall even further. That’s probably not what you want to hear, but there are some steps you can take now to protect […]

Chanel is proud of her work as a nursing assistant at a major university hospital system. So, the last thing she needed was a broken ankle that kept her from her job she loves. It also meant no income, and no option but to turn to debt. In Chanel’s case, it wasn’t credit card debt, […]