​In December the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for just the second time in the last seven years.  While the details of how much and when the Fed changes interest rates are subject to the speculation of economists, one thing is certain: a rise in interest rates has a definite effect on consumers.  And, with the Fed signaling its intent to raise rates several more times throughout 2017, consumers should consider the potential impact that a rising interest rate environment can have on their wallets.  These tips are intended to help you do just that.

​Refinancing your home is a big decision that requires much thought and research, but if done wisely it can lead to substantial savings. When you refinance, you pay off your existing mortgage and create a new one. Questions to consider to determine if this is the right option for you include: Have interest rates fallen since you secured your mortgage? Has your credit score improved? Do you want to switch to a different type or length of mortgage? If you answered yes to any of these, it may be worthwhile to refinance. Below are additional questions to consider and tips to help along the way.

​If you are among the first of the Baby Boomers to have a birthday this year, or if you are concerned about the well being of a loved one who has reached the age of 62, you undoubtedly are hearing of the reverse mortgage as an important option in financial planning for the retirement years.  Reverse mortgages are fast becoming a major topic of conversation for financial planners, home health care professionals, and CPA's across the country.  In the last ten years, reverse mortgages have grown into a multi-billion dollar industry, with senior homeowners taking out nearly 80,000 such loans during the last fiscal year.  Moreover, boomers continue to balloon the size of the over 62 demographic set and will continue to do so until 2030 when ALL boomers will be 65 or older.