smart money Archives

The Best Investment You Can Make

October 24, 2012
David S. Chang

Many people are always on the lookout for the best investment to make money. It may be company stock, a mutual fund, a piece of real estate or maybe a business venture. However, there is one investment that many people overlook, and it is the best investment you can make: yourself! You are your […]

October 17, 2012
David S. Chang

Many of us may have been in a situation where a family member or friend has asked to borrow money. In 2011, 7 percent of homebuyers borrowed from a relative or friend to help purchase a house, and 14 percent of business owners also borrowed from family and friends to help cover costs. Lending money […]

October 14, 2012
David S. Chang

A house is a major investment that will greatly affect your financial future. Before you start shopping, be sure you know how much house you can afford.

September 19, 2012
David S. Chang

401(k) retirement plans were first introduced by Congress in 1978. The name comes from the section (401) and paragraph(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The retirement plans were created to encourage Americans to save more for retirement. Here are some tips and information to take full advantage of the benefits of a 401(k): 401(k) plans […]

September 12, 2012
David S. Chang

One of the most overlooked types of insurance is renter’s insurance. If you are currently renting the place you live in, losing everything to fire, flood, burglary or even a lawsuit can be devastating. Renter’s insurance covers your possessions against these potential problems. Here are some reasons why you should get renter’s insurance and key […]

August 8, 2012
David S. Chang

Over the past few decades the debt of U.S. consumers has increased to more than $2.5 trillion, according to the March 2012 Federal Reserve Statistical Release. This is just consumer debt. If you include mortgages, home equity lines of credit and other real estate debt, that number increases to $13.5 trillion! Debt in general should […]

June 27, 2012
David S. Chang

Chances are if you are looking at planning for retirement, you have come across annuities as a potential investment product for retirement income. The proper annuity may enhance your investment portfolio, but it is important to make sure it is suitable for you. What is an annuity? An annuity is a contract between you and […]

June 20, 2012
David S. Chang

No matter how much you are worth, it is important to have an estate plan in place to protect yourself, your loved ones and your assets. An effective estate plan is one of the best things you can do for your family to ensure you pass on as much as possible, on your own terms, […]