If you prefer not to make major financial decisions during an election year, you're not alone. However, history shows that stock markets tend to rise slightly following an election, with no long-term difference in performance. Other positive financial news has appeared lately, such as a slowdown in the overall Consumer Price Index (CPI) and an increase in the number of homes for sale. Also, an additional credit scoring method for home loans was recently approved by the FHFA, which is expected to help millions more potential homeowners achieve their dreams.
Our Blog Puts YOU in the Driver’s Seat
Helping customers like you achieve their financial goals is all we do, which is why we’re arming you with our expert insight, tips, and advice to help you get there.
APM Financial Fitness: August 2024
Is Buying a Home for a College Student a Good Investment?
Tuition, books, transportation, room and board…the cost of college can add up fast. At first glance, it may seem crazy to consider buying a home for a college student, but is it?
APM Financial Fitness: July 2024
Summer has officially begun, so it's a perfect time to take some time off and spend time with friends and family. If you have savings in place, check out our article on Compound Interest and see just how hard your money's working for you, even when you're not. Even though you may be camping indoors this month, don't feel guilty about going online and checking out future purchases. Research has found that this habit, aka dreamscrolling, can encourage better financial management habits.
APM Elevate: July 2024
REACH YOUR GOALS
Will ChatGPT Replace Your Investment Advisor?
Even though artificial intelligence (AI) already powers everything from thermostats to Netflix recommendations, it can't provide you with the services offered by a bank manager, CFP or financial advisor. However, AI is already improving your overall financial experience in ways you may not realize.
Homebuyer Hacks for Today’s Housing Market
Buying a home can be an exhilarating experience. You’ll be hunting for your dream home, handpicking the perfect school district, and building generational wealth through real estate. That all sounds amazing, but the process to get there can undeniably have a few stressors.
It’s Time to Celebrate the Summer Olympics!
It’s been three years since the last Summer Olympics, and excitement is building for the upcoming Games! Whether you’re a die-hard spectator or a casual observer, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the Summer Olympics in style. So get ready to dive into the spirit of the Olympics with these fun and creative ideas!
12 Fun and Budget-Friendly Summer Activities for the Whole Family
Summer is here, the hectic end-of-the-year school activities have passed, and the school buses are parked for the next few months. This welcome change offers a perfect opportunity for families to unwind, relax, and make the most of their time together. If you’re looking for ways to keep the kids occupied while enjoying quality family time without breaking the bank, here are some fantastic ideas that everyone will love!
History and Proper Display of the American Flag
The American flag is viewed as a symbol of freedom, liberty, and human rights, but did you know that the current design is the 27th? It’s been modified officially 26 times since 1777, most recently by President Eisenhower in 1959 (officially adopted in 1960) with its current 50-star design. The current design is the longest-tenured, having been in use for more than 63 years.
APM Elevate: June 2024
If you're wondering how to make your money work harder for you, or want help with setting up investments and savings accounts, it could be time to find a financial advisor to help you. Here are some strategies to keep in mind.
Down Payment Assistance: Differences Between Gift Funds, Grants, and Loans
Down payments can be one of the most daunting parts of the homebuying process. We all know that buying a home costs money! Thankfully, you don’t necessarily have to drain your savings account to come up with the sum. There are other ways to secure a down payment, including gift funds, grants, and down payment assistance programs.
Top 8 Benefits of Homeownership
The benefits of homeownership involve more than simply putting a roof over your head. The goal of buying a house will be less meaningful until you understand the actual value behind this investment. It isn’t just to achieve the “American dream”!
APM Financial Fitness: June 2024
While our stock markets turned in a positive performance during the first quarter of the year, inflation remained stickier than was hoped, with numbers waning but still above the target set by the Federal Reserve. This kept mortgage interest rates higher, which resulted in declining home sales in some areas. However, the forecast for the second half of 2024 is largely optimistic. The labor market has begun cooling, which should help slow inflation, especially when consumer spending is reined in.
Home Renovations with the Best Return on Investment
One of the great things about owning a home is that you can truly make it yours. Don’t like the carpet? Rip it out. Hate the tan walls? Paint them any color. Don’t like the wall between the living room and the kitchen? Tear it down…as long as it’s not a load-bearing wall!
Top 6 Ways to Build Wealth as a Real Estate Investor
When it comes to financial planning and wealth-building, most savvy people know that building wealth through real estate is an important piece of the puzzle. The beauty of this investment strategy is that you don’t have to be a multimillionaire, real estate agent, stock market guru, or even a member of one of those real estate investment groups to make investing in real estate work for you.
APM Elevate: May 2024
As spring kicks into gear, we're all about making sure you're in the know and feeling confident about your money matters. This month, we've cooked up a mix of juicy topics for you. Wondering how different generations value their time? Curious if an adjustable rate mortgage could be your thing? We've even got a quick Bitcoin update and some fun decorating tips to spruce up your space! So, grab a seat, get comfy, and let's dive into the world of home sweet homeownership and finance together.
APM Financial Fitness: May 2024
Summer's right around the corner, and so is the time of year when more of us think of buying or selling a home. However, inflation is still hanging around, which means that the interest rate cuts expected this year haven't yet happened. It is still to be seen if this will affect the residential real estate market, and to what extent. The news isn't all bad, though; unemployment remains low, and US stock markets rallied during the first months of 2024, rising by over 10%.
Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time for recognizing their significant contributions to the history, culture, and achievements in the United States. (Go here to learn more.)
At APM, we wanted to take this opportunity to learn more about our APM Family and what their history, culture, and heritage means to them.
How to Build Wealth with Real Estate
What do you think of when you picture a real estate investor? Is it a Donald Trump type in a snazzy suit sitting high up in an ivory tower?
You may not realize it, but anyone who owns a home is technically a real estate investor—which means the title is up for grabs for just about anyone. You simply have to know how to get started.