Finance

• Real Estate: Financial Considerations

  Raw land as opposed to improved property is much more difficult to finance through traditional lenders. The main reasons are that it generates very little income, development costs can be expensive, there are no buildings or improvements that can be used as collateral, and it is often considered speculative.

• 10 Things You Should Do Prior To Applying For A Mortgage

  Luckily for consumers, it’s easier now than ever before to buy a home. But even though lenders are more willing to take risks on you, you still have to be prepared for the big event.

• 10 Ways to Save $50 Per Month: The Art of Pinching a Penny Until It Screams

  Tip 1: Find more thoughtful gifts and buy when the item is on sale, shop for birthdays and holidays throughout the year not at the time of the events.

• Starting A Small Business

  Like many employees, Rita is wondering if she should take the plunge into small business ownership. Many do. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are over 17.6 million businesses with the owner being the only employee. The same report indicates that 20% of the new businesses started in the previous year were for janitorial services.

• Everyday Ways To Save

  Small things do add up. Sometimes we get caught up thinking of ways to save big bucks and forget about the small ways.

• Fuel Savers

  The cost of transportation can be expensive, and higher fuel prices does not help matters. The following vehicles have good ratings, and they will help to stretch your fuel dollars.

• 6 Simple Ways To Save Money On Gas

  Since the price of gas has risen to phenomenal highs, our local news has reported several cases of “pump and drive theft”. Perhaps these thefts could have been averted if the individuals understood gas savings in the first place. Saving money on gas will also help the environment.

• Planning Starts With The Basics

  When developing a plan for your finances, the toughest question often is: “Where do I begin?” Before investing in stocks and bonds or buying life insurance, before implementing any change or making any decisions, you first need to analyze and understand your entire financial picture.