Finance Globe

When buying a home, a variety of financial questions and concerns will move to the forefront. While there are many numbers to keep in mind, 20 percent will come up time after time. This is the magic number when it comes to a minimum down payment.Basic math shows you that this is equivalent to $20,000 down for every $100,000 worth of home. So, if you’re buying a property for $200,000, a $40,000 down payment is what...

If you wear contact lenses, you’re familiar with the expense of buying replacements every three, six, or twelve months. Even if you’ve made it part of your budget, it doesn’t make it any less painful when you have to part with the money. Fortunately, there are many ways to save on the purchase of contact lenses, with buying online one of your best options. If you’re interested in giving this a try, here are a few...

The information in your credit report has a major impact on whether your new applications for credit cards and loans are approved. Having positive information is key to showing that you're a responsible borrower. Your credit report can only contain accurate, complete, and timely information and you're allowed to challenge any information that doesn't fit the criteria for reporting. If you spot errors on your credit report, you can have your credit report updated by making...

On the surface, a credit union appears similar to a traditional local bank. However, as you dig deeper, you’ll find that there are many features and benefits provided by a credit union that a bank simply couldn’t match. Above all else, credit unions are designed to help its members succeed financially. This should give you peace of mind, as you never have to concern yourself with your financial institution taking advantage of you. In regards to...

While there is nothing more exciting than shopping for a home, your good time can turn sour if you’re unable to secure a mortgage for your purchase. If your mortgage application is denied, there are a few key steps you must take: •    Find out why: This is your top priority, as you can’t make things right until you find out what went wrong. The lender is supposed to provide the reason or reasons for your...

Does your car need new tires? How about a brake job? Is the check engine light on? From regular maintenance to emergency service, there are times when you require the assistance of a mechanic. Unfortunately, this is an expense you don’t typically want to take on. Rather than call your local dealer’s service department, you may be able to save money by visiting an independent mechanic. Here are three reasons why: •    You can negotiate: Good...

It’s a common myth that your credit score can keep you from getting a job or promotion. While your current or a prospective employer may check your credit, they’re not checking your credit score. In fact, a credit score may not even be useful to an employer because it doesn’t provide the information they need to make a decision about you. An employer wants to see your credit information, so they receive a modified version of your...

Summer is the time to make memories with your family and kids. However you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Below are a few great and fun ideas that are not too expensive. Library: Public libraries are free and educational. During the summer they have sing-alongs, arts, and crafts. Check with your local library for their list of activitiesBeaches: Most beaches are free, and have endless activities. Bring games, a book, and plenty...

Financial Wellness, a new term for me, is all the rage. In fact, many companies offer financial wellness as an employee benefit. But many may ask, what is financial wellness and how does it help you? Below is a general summary, and please feel free to post in the comments section for any follow up questions. Financial wellness is not just about your net income, but its about having to experience positive financial outcomings, having a...

Learning how to invest is a critical life lesson everyone needs to learn. You do not need to be an expert, but you should learn at least the basics. While it may seem very complex and you feel as though you don’t understand money well, but the first investment you make will probably be the hardest.  The most common investments are stock and bonds, and depending on your risk tolerance will vary. Stocks represent partial ownership...