How Can You Invest In Your Future? We Find Out!

If you want to secure your financial future, you need to make sure that you start now. All too many of us think that we will never grow old. Unfortunately, that is not the case. In reality, your retirement will come around much faster than you imagine. If you want to enjoy a great lifestyle when you stop working, you need to have some things in place. So, how can you make smart investments for your future? Read this simple guide and learn everything you ever need to know.

Learn about stocks

If you want to increase your savings in an easy way, you need to learn a little about the stock market. Sure, you might think that this area is confusing, but it doesn't have to be. If you find out which Penny Stocks to watch in the long run, you could make a lot of money. The most important thing you need to remember is that you should research every payment you make. That way, you know whether certain stock buys are worth your time (and money). The more time you spend learning this art, the more profits you will make.

Get a private pension

Do you have a state pension? Is that enough? If you want to make the most of your money, you need to be clear about your future. There are lots of private pension schemes out there. The sooner you start saving your money, the better it will be for you. Of course, some schemes are better than others. You should talk to a financial adviser about which pension is right for you. If you are in full-time employment, you might find that your boss will contribute towards it. That means that you will save more than you otherwise would.

Check out savings options

Of course, you will likely have a current account already. If that is the case, you need to figure out what the best savings account is for you. You can have a quick chat with your bank manager about your options. There are lots of accounts with different rates of interest. You should be aware that some accounts have strict rules about paying in and taking out cash. You need to understand the terms and conditions before you agree to them. Explain what you need and see what the best solution is.

Buy property (now)

Are you a homeowner? There are many excellent reasons you should buy a house. When you have a property to your name, it means that you will always have financial security. The less time you spend paying off a mortgage, the better it will be for you. That is to say that you should try to increase your mortgage payments so that you can own the home as soon as possible. In the future, whenever you need cash, you can get your hands on it by releasing some of the equity in your home.

If you want a stable, happy future, you need to plan for it now. If you start saving and investing in your future, you will be just fine.

A Quick Introduction To Simple, Smart Investing

When most people think of investing, they think of the stock exchange. They imagine stressed-out brokers shouting across the exchange floor, making last-minute deals. They imagine huge risk, and enormous losses. Well, that certainly does happen. But it’s just a small part of your potential investment options. Investing doesn’t have to be risky or stressful. In fact, we strongly advise against any such investments! Instead, focus on a sensible, low-risk, long-return investment portfolio. Today, we’ll show you what that means. Here are your options.

Stocks and shares

Investing in stocks and shares needn’t involve the madness you see on the stock exchange floor. Playing the stock market in this way is the fastest way to an early heart attack! The most successful stock market investors play a long, slow game. They invest in strong, stable companies that make good profits year on year. By putting your money in a variety of strong, diverse companies, you’ll slowly earn some fantastic dividends. It’s a great way to build a retirement pot, or build the kids’ college fund.

Forex

The forex markets are entirely based around currency exchange. Think about when you go on holiday. You have to change your native currency for the local option, and there is always an exchange rate. That exchange rate fluctuates on a daily basis, depending on how the country’s economy is functioning. Smart investors can take advantage of these fluctuations by exchanging their money at just the right time. Using ‘leverage’, you can amplify the figures to make big, big gains.

Gold

Gold is the smart financier’s anchor investment. Gold is just about the most stable investment you’ll ever make. It won’t make you a millionaire, but you won’t lose anything either. Gold prices stay strong even during financial disasters and world events. Not even 9/11 could shake the price of gold. That’s why investors flock to it as their safety net. We always advise setting up a gold IRA (individual retirement account). It’s a more secure way of holding your money.

Property

Of course, you could step out of the Wall Street bubble entirely. The real estate market is an entirely different form of investment. It has its own fluctuations, and it is relatively unaffected by market factors on Wall Street. That’s what makes it a great addition to your portfolio. Remember, you want to spread your risk in a variety of markets and industries. Property is another fantastic long-term investment. The property market always rises over time. If you’re prepared to ride out the bumps, you’ll see a huge return after ten or twenty years.

Yourself

Here’s an investment you don’t see too often. Invest in yourself! If you’ve got a bright idea for a business opportunity, give yourself the money to see it through. If you’re looking for true financial freedom, starting a business is the only way to make it happen. Invest in yourself, and see how far you can take your business concepts.

That’s all for today, folks. Thanks for reading, and be sure to stop by for more financial and investment tips.

A Step By Step Guide To Getting The Mortgage You Need

Getting your first mortgage is always going to be difficult. However, anyone who earns a monthly wage should have options on the table. Renting your accommodation forever is a bad idea. You are throwing money away that could be used to pay for your future. When you make mortgage repayments, you are buying a property. So, it’s a great investment. When you’re renting, you are handing over your earnings to the landlord. Worst of all? You’ll never see them again. This guide will show you how to get a mortgage.

Raise the deposit

In most instances, it is wise to raise a 10% or 20% deposit to lower your mortgage borrowing. You don’t always have to do that under some schemes. However, a deposit of that size is the industry standard. It might mean you have to spend a few years saving, and it could result in some hard work. However, you want the smallest mortgage possible, and so you need to keep lots of cash in the bank. Maybe you have some expensive artwork you could sell to get the cash? Perhaps someone left you a valuable necklace in their will? Now could be the best time to look for a buyer.

Get a guarantor

A guarantor is someone who says they will cover the repayments if you fail to do so. It’s never wise to use a guarantor in a mortgage situation. However, those of you with a poor credit score might have no alternative. It will almost certainly increase your chances of getting a mortgage. You are asking the guarantor to take a huge responsibility, and so you need to be careful. If anything goes wrong with your repayments, they will have to cover everything. So, it is possible that you might ruin their lives. With that in mind, only trustworthy people should move forward with the idea.

Look at your borrowing options

As we just said, those of you with a poor credit score might struggle to get a traditional mortgage without a guarantor. Even so, there are other options on the table. Recently, a lot of companies that specialise in your situation have appeared on the market. Anyone who might need a bad credit mortgage shouldn’t have to look far. Just bear in mind that you will usually pay a little more interest to the lender. That is understandable considering they are taking an increased risk. However, services like that could help you to get your dream home.

Sign on the dotted line

Presuming you’ve raised the deposit and found the best borrowing solution, you just need to sign. Most banks will work hard to ensure you get the money you need. At the end of the day, they want to create profit. They do that through lending, and you are a prime candidate. Even if there are other issues, your lender should try to find ways of working them out. Make sure you’ve read the small print and understand the contract before you sign on the dotted line.

You now know how to get the mortgage you need. It might be a complicated process, and you will probably have to jump through hoops. However, you will get there in the end with the advice on this page. Some of you might be lucky enough to pay for your home outright. In that instance, you wouldn’t need a mortgage to raise the cash. If you’re in that situation, there is no need to worry. Also, you’re very lucky.

4 Ways to Make the Most of Your Home Loan

Now that your decision to apply for a home loan is final, it’s best to find the many different ways you can turn this debt to good use. Laying out the budget for the amount you borrowed is only the first step. You must also consider the following factors that can help you make the most of your home loan:

1. Determine the Amount You Need to Borrow

Planning how much you need to borrow for your home is the first thing you need to consider. Lay out your budget plan. What’s your purpose for the home loan? Do you want to buy a condominium, house and lot, or build your dream home? Through this, you’re able to calculate the total costs of getting a house. Take into consideration your gross monthly income, or if you’re married, add your other half’s total monthly income. This way you’ll be able to see how much you’re going to set aside for the monthly amortization.

2. Look Outside the Top 4 Banks

Sure, the leading banks are the most popular and most trusted when it comes to loans, but know that there are other banks out there who are just as reliable, and can even offer much lower interest rates and fees than the top 4 leading banks. Shop around for the best loan deals, call the banks if need be, so you know who has the most competitive rates and terms. The interest rates posted on the bank’s websites are not necessarily accurate so take the time to talk to your chosen banks’ loan processors in order get a clearer view of their loan package.

3. Know the Bank Rates and Charges

When you’re done with the list of banks you want to apply for, take a look at their fees, interest rates, and payment terms. Use the bank’s home loan calculator. Most banks provide loan calculators on their websites so you can see the loan amount you can borrow by entering your gross monthly salary and intended loan amount. After you enter the necessary details, you’ll be able to see how much you’re going to pay on a monthly basis according to the loan term you chose. Most banks offer loan terms of up to twenty (20) years. It’s best to pay your loans right away to avoid paying bigger interests. Besides, if you can afford to pay bigger monthly amortizations through your income, it’s only apt that you pay the bank in the shortest possible time. This is not only convenient on your part, but you’ll also earn good credit record with the bank that granted you the loan.

4. Consider Future Savings

Lastly, in order to make the most of your home loan, consider the advantages that your home loan will bring. Find a house that’s closer to your office or business location so you save time, gas, or money whenever you go to work. If you’re only starting out with your other half, consider building a smaller home first, one that’s enough for the loan amount you want to borrow. You can always start the home expansion when you have enough money in the future. If you want to buy a condominium to have it rented out, consider areas that are close to the Central Business Districts or universities. It may cost more, but you’re less likely to run out of tenants because of the ideal location.

Being extra prepared is always the best way to turn that loan to your advantage. As the adage goes, the devil is in the details. Miss one important factor on your plans and you can end up regretting to pay huge interest rates over a long period of time. Do your own research and think it through with your friends, family, or with the banks of your choice. You’re eventually going to reap the rewards of being extra careful, especially when it comes to important decisions such as your commitment to pay for a long term home loan.

How To Free Up Cash Quickly At The End Of The Month

We’ve all been there. The next paycheck is weeks away, but all your money has vanished! Your current account has dried up, but the bills keep piling up. Utilities charges, rent payments, and credit card minimums are all due. But sometimes, the money just gets on top of us, and it’s tricky to make the accounts add up. If you find yourself in this situation, you need a quick way to unlock cash.

The important thing to remember is not to panic. There are plenty of ways to free up your cash flow without borrowing more money. Getting into further debt is rarely the answer, and it will only make things worse. We’ve been there once or twice ourselves, and we know the way out. Here are just some of the tricks that have worked for us in the past.

Negotiate with your lenders

Most people have no idea that you can negotiate better deals and schemes with your lenders. We’ve picked up the phone, and changed our payment plans more times than we care to remember. Sometimes, it’s the only way to manage your debt and payments. If you’ve got a big credit card bill coming up, call the company, and ask to split the payment over two months. In most cases, they’re happy to make the arrangements. Remember, they want that money back, so it’s in their interests too!

Negotiate your salary

If you’ve found yourself in this position more than once, there could be a bigger problem. We all have expensive months where the outgoings outweigh the income! But, if it’s happening on a monthly basis, you need to make a change. One of the your options is increasing that income. Simply asking for a raise will often unlock the extra bit of cash you need. It might just be enough to give you some breathing room. Did you know that most people who ask for a raise do actually get one?

Sell things online

The internet is bursting with excellent money-making resources. We’ll look at those in more detail later on. But first, start by selling old items on eBay or Etsy. One man’s junk is another man’s treasure! Start purging your attic and basement for things you no longer use. We have quickly unlocked hundreds by selling things on eBay. It’s quick, accessible, and you’ll declutter the house!

Sell jewellery

We’ve all got bits of jewellery and gold lying around the house. That’s a great asset that you can quickly liquidate. Using pawnbrokers like MGM National Harbor, you can instantly sell your gold and jewellery. It’s a great way to unlock cash quickly.

Make money online

In addition to selling things online, there are plenty of other ways to make money on the internet. Try browsing some freelance sites like Odesk and Elance. You might just find a way to offer your skills to new clients for a small fee. You can also take questionnaires and input data for cash. Keep an eye out for obvious scams, and it is possible to make money online.

Remember to stay calm, and think rationally about where to find a little extra money. Have you got any other great ideas for our readers?

Here's Why Your Business Needs A Lawyer

Even the smallest businesses need the sound advice of a good lawyer. It’s the type of administrative task that entrepreneurs often forget about at their peril. It almost seems pointless in the early days. But, before you know it, you’re company grows large, and the lawsuits come in thick and fast. It pays to protect your business finances from day one. Even if you’re a humble entrepreneur working from your bedroom, it’s worth consulting a professional. Here are just some of the reasons why your business needs a lawyer.

To set up a business structure

Starting a company means registering with the tax man. If you’re pulling in earnings from the business, they need to be handled appropriately. Now, there are a few different ways of setting up a business. The first is a sole-trader. This is typically how a freelancer would structure his accounts. Secondly, there is the ‘partnership’ option if there are multiple founders. Finally, there is the ‘limited company’ option. Each have their own legal requirements and obligations. That’s why you need a lawyer to help choose the correct method.

To protect your intellectual property

As a small business, you may not think that patents, trademarks, and copyrights are important yet. But, trust us, they are! A lot of bigger companies are starting to use their patents and copyrights to shut down smaller startups. This sort of action could break your business for good. Not only that, but your ideas are the most important thing you have as a young company. Make sure they are fiercely protected!

Employee law

As a small business, there are number of responsibilities that you must comply with. That means responsibility for every employee on your payroll. Small business employment law is a vital consideration when you’re setting up your company. You’ll need to draw up contracts, non-disclosure agreements, and terms and conditions. This paperwork must be watertight, and only a lawyer can ensure their quality.

Liability and health and safety

Business owners have a duty of care towards their staff. If any injuries or health conditions arise from working, you are liable for damages. It can result in costly lawsuits and extensive trials or settlements. The same goes for any customers or clients on your premises. Their health and safety is your concern. Any lawsuits here could cost your company thousands, and remove your focus from the job at hand. A good lawyer will introduce you to health and safety law, and make sure you comply at every level.

Indemnity

A good business insurance package should come complete with indemnity cover. However, always check that it is included. If you’ve never heard of indemnity before, here are the simple facts. A lot of businesses provide advice and products that can be damaging to their clients and customers. Let’s say you’re a financial advisor. If you advise your client to invest in a stock that ultimately plummets, they could lose a small fortune. They could come after you for damages, as a result of your poor advice. If you’ve got indemnity, you’re protected against this claim. As you can imagine, it’s very complicated, and requires the input of a good lawyer!

No matter what level your business is at, start to think about the legal consequences.