Earlier this week, the Making Home Affordable program was enhanced to include a second lien program. The government has determined that even if you receive a loan modification on your first first mortgage, having an unaffordable second mortgage could still put your at risk of going into foreclosure. Second Loan Modifications Here’s how the second […]
Archive for April, 2009
Firing Our Nanny for More Family Time
Posted byYesterday, I had to let our nanny go. It was really hard, since she’s been with us for three years. However, in a nice twist of events, our family is going to get to spend more time together. When I mentioned that Scott was considering switching to a new career, but ultimately passed on the […]
Closing on Our First Rental Property
Posted byWe’re closing later this week on a 3 unit, 100 year old rental house. It’s in a prime location, close to the university and hospitals. It’s currently rented until summer of 2010. (In the area, leases are usually signed for the following school year in the spring.) It’s our first real estate investment and our […]
We’ve had a huge week! My husband finally made a decision about his plans to work for the upcoming year, everything is almost finalized and we’ll be closing on our rental property next week, and there were some new developments with the loan modification that we’re considering pursuing. Add those to the mountain of paperwork […]
The economic stimulus plan lifted the maximums on the solar energy tax credits, making the purchase of solar panels very appealing. Since we decided not to downsize and stay in our house long term, we’re considering installing solar panels this summer. I thought it would be fitting to celebrate Earth Day with some details about […]
16 Second Quarter Financial Tips
Posted byEach quarter, I like to do a financial check in. It’s a good reminder to reevaluate some topics that have been on the backburner and a great time to address new topics that depend on the time of year. With tax season complete and summer on the way, here are tips to get your finances […]
Lending Club Referral Bonuses
Posted byLending Club is busy expanding their service right now, so Free Money offers just keep popping up. Lending Club now has a multi-level referral program for you to earn bonus money. How to Get Your Referral Money Sign into your Lending Club account (or open a Lending Club account if you don’t have one yet). […]
Did You Miss the Stock Market Rally?
Posted byIt wasn’t long ago that we were feeling the pains of a plummeting stock market. While it was hard to watch tens of thousands of dollars disappear from our accounts on what seemed like a daily basis, I kept reminding myself and everyone around me to stay put. We’re in it for the long term. […]
Ask Madison: Last Minute Tax Questions
Posted byTax day is here! Have you filed your tax return yet? If not, you can always file an extension. Don’t forget that the first 2009 estimated tax payment is also due today. Lots of first time home buyers are planning to file for the 2009 $8,000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit on their 2008 […]
Think filing an extension is only if you haven’t finished your taxes? Think again! An extension is actually a powerful tool to lower your tax bill, or place a hedge against your taxable income next year. Tax Extension Taxes are due on April 15, but an extension will get you an extra six months to […]