Personal Finance

Home Ownership

Housing Outlook for 2015
Continued low interest rates and a growing economy helped the national housing market improve in 2014. Locally, home sales increased and spent less time on the market. New and extended loan programs from the federal government should keep the momentum going in 2015.
Financing a New Construction Home
New construction is starting to pop up nearly everywhere after years of inactivity. Is a brand new home right for you? Read this before you buy.
Know Before You Owe
In January 2014 the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) instituted what is referred to as the “Ability-to-Repay” rule designed to protect mortgage lenders and potential homebuyers from purchasing more home than they are able to afford.

Estate and Retirement Planning Changes in 2015
A new year often brings changes to retirement and estate planning tax laws. 2015 is no different. Find out what’s changed so you can take advantage of deductions and credits, as well as effectively manage your retirement planning and possible estate/inheritance tax burden.
Lower Oil Prices Benefit Consumers, Increase Risks
The big story in the fourth quarter was that commodity prices continued to fall rapidly from their peak in the second quarter. Find out more about the effects of falling oil prices on the economy and get an outlook for 2015.
Global GDP Weakness Strengthens Dollar
Growth in Europe and Asia stalled in the third quarter. Global GDP rates are coming down slightly, with the U.S. being one of the strongest economies in the world. Read more in Mac Johnston's Investment Overview.

Start Planning 2015 Finances
If you want to take advantage of opportunities to save on your 2014 tax bill and get a jump start for the new year, the time to act is now. Here are five ways to wrap up the year and start your 2015 finances on the right foot.
Plan Year-End Giving Wisely
‘Tis the season for annual giving requests from non-profit organizations. In addition to helping a good cause, charitable donations can also make a difference in your tax bill. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind if you’re planning to make a gift to a charity over the holidays.
5 Budgeting Tips for the Holidays
Aside from gifts, when you think about all the holiday purchases you make-–decorations, greeting cards, travel, food and cookies, etc.-—it really adds up. Here are some ways to plan your holiday spending so you don’t start 2015 in debt.

Working Longer May Help You Prosper
No one typically dreams of toiling away at the office after they’ve hit full retirement age, but working for a few more years could make a big difference in your post-retirement lifestyle.
6 Money Management Strategies for Retirees
Here are some strategies for retirees to make the most of what they have saved and make sure it lasts.
10 Things You Need to Know about Social Security
Here are 10 facts everyone should know about Social Security before making any retirement plans.

View All Articles

Tue, Mar. 24 - 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Pinnacle - Bellevue

Tue, Mar. 24 - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Pinnacle - Green Hills

How much mortgage can you afford? Do you have enough insurance? Get answers with these free calculators.

Learn how we've helped our clients purchase dream homes, build their businesses and become successful.

Arm yourself with knowledge on financial topics from the advisors at Pinnacle.