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Mission possible: buying a home in a competitive market
According to a recent survey by Navy Federal Credit Union, 40 percent of consumers between the ages 18 and 44 are in the market for a home. As more consumers from this group shop for a home, competition grows. So, like any important military mission, planning ahead is the key to success. Start early If…
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Car buying tips for the savvy shopper
If you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, or even thinking about it, there’s great news. You’re in command. It’s never been easier to find your ideal car with today’s tools and resources at your fingertips. There are even services to buy vehicles online and have them delivered to you. That makes…
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Advice for homebuyers on mortgage rates
Mortgage rates are on the rise and home prices are steadily climbing. Can you still hope find your dream home and afford it, too? The question is top of mind for service members changing station, or transitioning out of the military. First-time homebuyers are in the same boat. “Rates have been low for quite some…
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Four smart steps to reach your financial goals
If you want to improve your financial situation, then there’s no time like the present. But focusing on an end goal can seem daunting if you’re just getting started. The easiest way to set course for financial success is to imagine a series of steps. By completing each step, you can develop great habits and…
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4 keys to your 2018 financial plan
A new year brings new opportunities, and if your goal is to improve your finances in 2018, you’re in luck. Before you sail off toward a lofty goal, take a moment to get your bearings. That means understanding how the economy affects your financial decisions. “Next year will mean big opportunities for those ready to…
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When should you work with a financial advisor?
When your car needs a tune up, you take it to a mechanic. So when you need a financial plan, why not work with a pro? Financial advisors can help you with everything from creating a budget to planning for retirement. But according to the CFP Board, only 40 percent of Americans are using financial…
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The blended retirement system: keys to your decision
The Department of Defense is introducing a new system to help service members save for retirement in January 2018. Simply put, the Blended Retirement System (BRS) is a combination of the legacy retirement system (income for life) and defined contributions to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Depending on how long you’ve served, you may have…
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Paying college tuition and tackling student loan debt
A college degree can unlock a world of job opportunities. In fact, many employers look for college-educated workers. But financing a college education and tackling student loan debt is an issue facing many Americans today, including servicemembers and their families. According to the Debt.org, student loan debt is up to $1.4 trillion, which even exceeds…
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Home buying: The mortgage process
If you’re like a lot of people, 2017 may be the year you trade in renting for home ownership. For most of us, buying a home is the largest purchase we’ll ever make. Like any important military mission, if you do your homework and work with the right people, the home-buying process can be a…
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6 Days of Saving: Supporting Military Savers
Each year, we recognize Military Saves Week to promote good money management and savings habits for those who serve. It’s our way of helping raise awareness of the importance of paying yourself first. Servicemembers and their families are always hard at work, protecting and serving the nation, so it’s understandable that saving isn’t always top…
