2016

Three Common Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make

In many instances, mistakes are inevitable. However, when it comes to such a significant investment like a home purchase – mistakes should be avoided as much as possible. Here are just some of the most time-consuming, costly, and common mistakes that many first-time buyers make. Keeping The Pool Too Small At any given time, there could be thousands of homes for sale within your local market. Make certain you aren't keeping your pool of potential homes too small.

Reduce Your Business Taxes Like A Boss With A Pass-Through Entity

2016 has seen a lot of talk about the idea of lowering income tax obligations by the use of so-called "pass-through" entities. What are these entities, and how can you use them to smooth your own income taxes? Here's a brief primer on this tax method. What are Pass-Through Entities? To begin with, it's important to know what is being talked about. A pass-through, or flow-through, entity is a type of business structure that allows the business' profits to be declared on the owners' personal income taxes and paid their individual rates.

Can't Afford All Your Graduate School Expenses? Is A Personal Loan A Good Idea?

If you've recently returned to graduate school after some time in the workforce, you may find it challenging to balance your new school schedule (and expenses) with your current or reduced work schedule. Although student loans can often be a source of bridge income during these times, some can also come saddled with a higher-than-market interest rate and potentially onerous terms. When is a personal loan the better choice? Read on to learn more about some situations in which a personal loan may be a more appropriate option for you than a student loan, as well as the factors you'll want to consider when deciding how to finance the next step in your education process.

Minimizing Payroll Taxes Through Use Of An Accountable Reimbursement Plan

Companies sometimes reimburse their workers for various expenses paid for by the employee. It is not always practical for businesses to directly pay all vendors as goods are bought or services are rendered. Employers can reduce payroll taxes for both their business and for their workers by paying employee reimbursements through an accountable reimbursement plan. An accountable reimbursement plan is essentially a company policy that requires any employee who is provided funds in advance to account for the amount spent.

A Great Way to Pay Off a 30-Year Mortgage Early

If you are about to purchase a home and are planning on taking a 30-year loan to buy the house, you should know that you could pay off your loan early if you make extra payments on your loan. Not only is this a great way to pay off a loan early, but it is also a great way to save money on the total cost of the loan. Here are a few things you should know about this.