Debt is a form of the grave. Metaphors often refer to debt as being in a hole. Fellow Copts, let’s apply our anthem to this condition and proclaim that no grave will hold us down. As we draw closer to this season of consumption, please make sure your house is […]

A Self-Directed IRA is technically not any different than other IRAs (or 401ks). Self-directed IRAs have been around for years, but they’ve been gaining popularity recently among do-it-yourself investors looking to expand beyond stocks, bonds and mutual funds.  A self-directed IRA is not for the passive investor. You must be […]

Set your children off on the right financial path by teaching them these three important ideas. Start young — it’s important to broach the subject of money with kids at a young age. There’s no way to expect a child at any age to understand money unless you talk about […]

Let’s consider how to apply the miracle of the Resurrection beyond our Spirit. What’s the difference between a nice neighborhood and one that’s not? The same buildings are north and south of the city; however, the inherent value of real estate is considerably lower south of Madison. The one thing […]

Do things happen to you or do you make things happen?  Trials surely come, however, some of our trials are self-created. Amen. So learn to be a planner. Make financial plans for major life events: 1) make retirement plans while you’re young, working and while it’s day 2) make plans […]

There is an integrity and character demonstrated in how you deal with your debts. Some people freely incur debts with no thought on how they’ll be paid. Your money habits (aka credit worthiness) are an indicator of how you deal with debt. Strive to do what’s right in everything you […]

Continuing the theme of getting your house in order by focusing on one task at a time, your family’s financial planning and overall planning can be established by February. Last week we highlighted trusts and wills. This week let’s consider living wills or advanced directives. A living will is a […]

What is a financial portfolio? In simple terms, the word portfolio is used to describe a collection of things. It can be art, stocks, bonds, real estate properties, or precious metals. Our job is to build an investment portfolio that meets our needs, fits our situations and consists of assets […]

As Copts, we don’t subscribe to or have a doctrine surrounding a devil. However, if there be such a creature or idea, consider debt as your devil and don’t allow the devil to linger around you. Develop your financial plan and start your journey toward being devil-free. One approach worth […]

Delaying even a small task or issue can most times result in a big expensive problem or project. Kicking the can or putting off until later can sometimes result in very expensive lessons. Procrastination costs — big time. We’ve all done it: Put off something until tomorrow that could have […]