Blog

For your retirement to comfortably last the decades you can expect to live, you need to start saving now. How much will you need to retire? Well, in 2014, Matthew Illian, a member of the Investment Committee at Marotta Wealth Management, Inc., wrote that “Someone retiring now in 2014 with $1 million at age 65 can safely withdraw $43,600Read more

Consider whether you appreciate a sense of community or prefer privacy before you commit to a condo. Before you take the leap, consider the pros and cons of living in a condominium. Maybe you’ve reached the point where you’re ready to put down some roots — and a down payment too. You’re ready to takeRead more

Want to start your day like Richard Branson?                         Rise and shine. Don’t hit that snooze button! How you wake up can often dictate how the rest of your day will go. That’s why it’s important to approach every day with a strong andRead more

If you’ve been focused on tackling your credit card debt at the expense of building up your savings, it might be time for a fresh start. Want to boost your credit score? Paying down your credit cards in full might not be the best approach. If credit card debt has been looming over your headRead more

A little natural greenery can enhance your mood and calm anxiety. Find your center without resorting to cliché. Like shabby chic and industrial modern, Zen decor is one of those design trends that can easily feel cliché. The faux-ancient statues, indoor fountains, orchids, and minimalist decor have the unfortunate effect of making interiors look likeRead more

If Mom is moving in, set some money ground rules upfront to help keep future financial hardships at bay An entrepreneur shares his story of managing his budget after a parent moved in with him — along with his advice for other young adults who make room for Mom or Dad (or both!) in theirRead more

1. Drain Your Rain Barrels Last year, I forgot to drain both my rain barrels before the first frost hit. In fact, I’m ashamed to say that I left the water in there all winter long. I’m amazed that the rain barrels didn’t split open from all of the freezing and thawing. I won’t makeRead more

“Penny Lane” has a nice ring to it: A home for sale on a “lane” instead of a “street” could bring in more pocket change when it comes time to sell. Besides the obvious factors, there are some quirky elements that can affect your home’s value. Find out what they are. Surprise! You might knowRead more

Americans seem to like their neighbors and get along with them, but from loud parties to ugly holiday decorations, they do have their pet peeves. Can’t we all get along? Actually we do — mostly. Despite a national discussion that suggests we’ve become a nation divided, the reality is when it comes to our neighborhoodsRead more

Your insurance company won’t be on your side if something goes awry with your renovation and you don’t have a permit You might roll your eyes at having to get a permit before doing a DIY project around the house, but permits serve a purpose. Permit requirements are just ways for the city to nickel-and-dimeRead more