Tue 2 Aug 2011

Financial Planners Michigan

Posted by Derek under Financial Planners Michigan
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Crazy question. Why a website called Financial Planners Michigan?

Yes, I know that is an odd name, but there is a reason behind the unusual combination of words.

You see, people in the United States, as well as most parts of the world, are dealing with a sluggish economy. Those of us in Michigan have been hit especially hard. Many of us not only want to stabilize our current financial situation, but also prepare for our future financial goals and maybe do some retirement planning.

Since most of don’t know our cash flows from our risk management, we seek help. If this is you, you probably went to one of the search engines and typed in Financial Planners Michigan.

I wanted you to find this site because unlike most other websites that that you will see, I am not a financial advisor. I am a simple income earner, probably much like you, had no comprehensive financial planning in place no clue where to start.

Finding a financial planner is rather easy, but finding the right one can be a challenge. So I created this site to help educate you on what to look for in an advisor and what to watch out for.

Perhaps more importantly, this website will help you hire a Michigan financial planner that is honest, ethical, and professional.

In addition to this, I will also provide you with some helpful tips on how to get started on your own financial plan if you are the daring type.

But why should you listen to me? Like so many other young people, I just took money for granted. Live for today. But as I got older, I realized I couldn’t keep doing what I was doing or I was going to pay for it.

Before I started doing some research. I figured all I needed was some money in the bank, maybe some life insurance, and a good 401k rollover, whatever that was. Maybe I could invest in some real estate.

During my research, I discovered words like fiduciary standard, estate planning, and financial planning coalition. What in the world were they talking about? I just needed a little money management and help with my personal finance.

I realized that I needed help. I was in over my head. I didn’t even know what a registered financial advisor was, let alone what they did. Certified public accountants, registered investment advisors, personal finance credit, and stock mutual funds were terms that I was seeing frequently. Oh, and of course they had to NAPFA registered. What the heck is NAPFA?

I started my search much like you did by looking for a certified financial planner. I discovered that trying to do this all by yourself is like trying to treat yourself when you get sick or being your own attorney in a court of law. And you know what they say about that. I’m sure you have heard the expression about a person who represents themselves in court has a fool for a client. This is the same way.

I assume that you found this site because you want to get serious about your finances. In another post, I am going to fill you in on what a financial planner does. Hopefully it helps you understand wealth management a little better. But if you start feeling overwhelmed, I also will also include a post with my recommendations.

That’s the reason why I created Financial Planners Michigan and I hope it answers your questions and starts you on a path to financial freedom.

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Fri 2 Sep 2011

Debt Relief Is Possible Even If You Are Knee Deep In Debt

Posted by angela under Uncategorized
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There is really nothing to worry about, if you borrow a little amount to meet your immediate cash crunch or to bridge the small gap between your income and expenses. However, complication arises when gradually borrowing becomes your habit and later on a necessity. The rest is history;you fall into vicious debt trap and keep struggling with outstanding balance. It’s all too easy to go into debt but getting out of it is the hard part. Before something drastic like bankruptcy is considered, you must look at some other alternatives.Bankruptcy is certainly not the only answer to debt relief. People who need relief from debt have several different options at their disposal, before resigning themselves to having their credit damaged for years as a result of bankruptcy. Debt consolidation programs, personal budgeting, debt settlement, or a combination of all three could certainly help you to bring your finances back on track.

Debt Consolidation

With debt consolidation, a consumer has to make one flat monthly payment to cover all debts. A debt consolidation plan can certainly help you to get out of the evil cycle of multiple debts and can ensure only one lower monthly payment to one creditor at a lower interest rate. A debt consolidation plan helps you to make the payments on time; to avoid late fees, and may in many cases eliminate a great deal of interest charges. Usually when borrowers have signed up with debt consolidation companies, creditors generally tend to stop harassing borrowers through phone calls and mail correspondence.

Personal Budgeting

It’s never too late to prepare for a personal budgeting plan. The thumb rule of personal budgeting is one should allot a specific amount each week for dining out, shopping, gas, groceries, and whatever else they regularly spend too much on. Credit cards should be used minimally and you better use cash or debit card instead. In case you use credit cards, make sure the amount charged is paid off entirely when the statement arrives in the mail. You can also use a financial program in order to keep a track of where all your money is exactly going.

Debt Settlement

Many creditors often agree to settle with borrowers on a lesser amount just to close the account or to retrieve at least a portion of the outstanding debt, which they wouldhave otherwise lose if the debtor files bankruptcy. Consumers who have a sudden influx of money from their tax refunds or some other source might want to consider settling their debts. By setting your existing debts, you can eliminate 30 to 40% of the total debt amount, provided you have that much money on hand to pay immediately.

If you are disgusted by your outstanding debt and prepared t make some sacrifices, the aforementioned plans can certainly help youto find a way out of the debt maze.

There is really nothing to worry about, if you borrow a little amount to meet your immediate cash crunch or to bridge the small gap between your income and expenses. However, complication arises when gradually borrowing becomes your habit and later on a necessity. The rest is history; you fall into vicious debt trap and keep struggling with outstanding balance. It’s all too easy to go into debt but getting out of it is the hard part. Before something drastic like bankruptcy is considered, you must look at some other alternatives. Bankruptcy is certainly not the only answer to debt relief. People who need relief from debt have several different options at their disposal, before resigning themselves to having their credit damaged for years as a result of bankruptcy. Debt consolidation programs, personal budgeting, debt settlement, or a combination of all three could certainly help you to bring your finances back on track.

Debt Consolidation

With debt consolidation, a consumer has to make one flat monthly payment to cover all debts. A debt consolidation plan can certainly help you to get out of the evil cycle of multiple debts and can ensure only one lower monthly payment to one creditor at a lower interest rate. A debt consolidation plan helps you to make the payments on time; to avoid late fees, and may in many cases eliminate a great deal of interest charges. Usually when borrowers have signed up with debt consolidation companies, creditors generally tend to stop harassing borrowers through phone calls and mail correspondence.

Personal Budgeting

It’s never too late to prepare for a personal budgeting plan. The thumb rule of personal budgeting is one should allot a specific amount each week for dining out, shopping, gas, groceries, and whatever else they regularly spend too much on. Credit cards should be used minimally and you better use cash or debit card instead. In case you use credit cards, make sure the amount charged is paid off entirely when the statement arrives in the mail. You can also use a financial program in order to keep a track of where all your money is exactly going.

Debt Settlement

Many creditors often agree to settle with borrowers on a lesser amount just to close the account or to retrieve at least a portion of the outstanding debt, which they would have otherwise lose if the debtor files bankruptcy. Consumers who have a sudden influx of money from their tax refunds or some other source might want to consider settling their debts. By setting your existing debts, you can eliminate 30 to 40% of the total debt amount, provided you have that much money on hand to pay immediately.

If you are disgusted by your outstanding debt and prepared t make some sacrifices, the aforementioned plans can certainly help you to find a way out of the debt maze.

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Developing A Solid Financial Plan

Posted by Derek under Financial Planning - The Basics
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Creating a financial plan can seem tedious and a bit overwhelming at first. But the longer you put if off, the more difficult it becomes. I don’t know many people that can focus that far into the future. Everyone wants instant results.

During my research, I came this article that can help give you a good starting point. The whole process can be mind-numbing and monotonous, but you should read it over to give you a better grasp on your finances.

And if/when the time comes to hire a financial planner, you will be better equipped and have a better idea of what to look for.

Financial Planning – Get the Big View of Your Finances
By Robin Applegarth

Many people are adept at handling their daily finances. Paid the bills? Check. Shopped for the best deal on that new TV? Check.

But what happens with the bigger picture? If you’ve ever had a nagging feeling your money could be working harder and smarter, consider doing some financial planning.

The process is like taking a hike up a nearby mountain to get the big view. It will take some time and a little effort. But, with the landscape laid out in front of you, it can be easier to find the best road to any destination. Plus, you may see intriguing new areas to explore.

How does it work? Financial planning starts with taking a holistic look at short and longer-term goals. Next, it’s followed by making a financial plan to reach those goals. Make your dollars match your values, and meet your overall needs. You may be surprised to find larger strategies you’ve overlooked.

There are times when it’s best to seek professional advice, but there is much you can do yourself. First, we’ll explore steps you can take. Then we’ll find out when it’s smart to hire a pro.

“Do-it-yourself” financial planning

Here are some planning actions you can take.

Think about short and long-term goals. What are your dreams? Do you want to buy a home, get a college degree, or travel the world? Maybe you long to retire early. Start a notebook or online diary to record your goals.

Take inventory of where you are now. How much savings do you have? How much are you earning and spending? What are your personal assets and debts? Record your expenses for at least 3 months to really get an idea of where your money is going. You can use resources like Mint.com, Kiplinger’s  budget form, or programs like Quicken.

Go over your basic needs, including risk management. Make sure you have the right kinds of insurance for health, home and possessions. If you have dependents, or own things, make sure you have a will or trust so you get to say what happens after you’re gone.

Pick a goal and create an action plan. Let’s say you want to buy a home, but don’t have the savings. It’s suggested that monthly payments and other housing expenses don’t exceed 30% of your average income. Work with this figure to see what you can afford, and what you’ll need to save for a down payment. Go to Bankrate.com for calculators that will tell you how long it’ll take.

Review and revisit your goals and progress every month.

When to hire a professional planner–If you were organizing a large wedding or event, hiring a caterer would be smart. And most of us would head to a medical professional for health problems we did not understand. Likewise, consider hiring a competent financial planner if you find yourself in any of the following situations.

If the sums are large, consider additional help. Did you get a life insurance payment, or inherit Aunt Susan’s estate? If you’re fortunate enough to have received a windfall or inheritance, you’re a good candidate for help.

If your finances are complex or disturbing you, get assistance. Are you headed for bankruptcy or juggling too much debt? Not sure whether you’ll meet retirement goals?

If you’ve had a recent divorce or loss of spouse,consider help. This is a time when people feel fragile, and may not be at their best to make informed decisions. Ask a trusted professional what your options are, and then take some time to reflect before acting.

If you’re unable to move forward or make decisions about your money,seek help. This might be just the step you need to get your finances in order.

So, how does one find a trusted professional? It’s best to choose someone who bases their advice on a per-hour or per-job fee, rather than commissions alone. This will help insure there’s no conflict of interest.

A top-trained planner often has earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER designation. You can search for these and other fee-based professionals at the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors  http://www.napfa.org/

Financial planning-by you or someone else–can lead to added awareness about how your money serves your life.

Robin Applegarth holds a certificate in Personal Financial Planning from the University of California, Riverside. She is the founder of a website, http://TheSilverPurse.com/ to help women build financial security. Read more about finding your unique goals http://TheSilverPurse.com/Set-Goals

Article Source: Financial Planning – Get the Big View of Your Finances

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Getting Ready To Retire? You Have Lots Of Questions?

Posted by Derek under Getting Ready To Retire? You Have Lots Of Questions.
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Getting ready to retire? You probably have a lot of questions.

  • Will I have enough money to live on? What about 5 or 10 years down the road?
  • Will I outlive my money? We are living longer than ever before.
  • What happens if my money runs out? Will I have to sell my home?
  • What happens to my spouse if I should die first? Will they be able to survive?
  • What about my pension or Social Security? Will they even be there when I retire?

We all look forward to the day we can kiss the rat race goodbye, but sadly, most people don’t give it much thought until they think it’s too late.

If you are beginning to think about retirement, it’s better to start late than not at all. And if you are still young, this is the best time to start.

I know that money matters can be a bit confusing and even frightening, but the right financial advisor can make it simpler for you. They will answer your questions honestly and always put your best interests first.

But what questions should you ask a financial advisor? When you need an answer, then there are no stupid questions.

So what are your questions? Whatever they are, you need the answers now! Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Alex Litrichin of Complete Financial Concepts has been helping people since 1983 and is ready to help you, too.

So call Alex today to get all the answers you need.

Call 248-650-7990 and mention this site to get a free one-on-one consultation.

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Hiring The Right Financial Planner

Posted by Derek under Hiring The Right Michigan Financial Planner
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When it comes to hiring the right financial planner in Michigan or anywhere, for that matter, there are a few things that I have discovered that you need to watch out for.

This isn’t the same as deciding which bank to put your savings into or how much life insurance you need. Your very financial future depends on finding the right person or company for the job.

The right financial advisor can help you save for that new home you have always dreamed about. They can also be the difference between being financially secure in your retirement or having to apply for food stamps or government assistance.

That may sound a little far-fetched to you, but it has happened to more good people than you can imagine. You need someone you can trust to look after your interests, not just his/her bottom line. You also need someone who knows what they are doing. Finding both of those qualities in one person is important.

Here are a few questions you should ask financial planner you are considering.

How much will you need to live on when you retire? Many people will spend hours, days, or even weeks planning and fussing over things like their next vacation, what car to buy, or simply what to wear to a party. But many, if not most, give little thought to their retirement before age 40. By then, you are cutting it close.

What is the best way to achieve your goals? Retirement is more than just surviving or getting by. You have dreams and aspirations. Perhaps you want to travel the world or spend the winter months in a warmer location. Being from Michigan, we can all relate to that.

What about your goals before you retire? How can you afford that dream home you always pictured? Perhaps you want to go into business for yourself, if you aren’t already?

These are all questions that a qualified financial planner can answer.

To sum up, if you have goals and financial dreams, and don’t we all, then you need the services of a qualified and experienced financial advisor.

I have known Alex Litrichin of Complete Financial Concepts for over 6 years and I have never had reason to look elsewhere. You will not find a financial advisor more honest, professional, or qualified.

Whether you live in Michigan or anywhere in the United States, I strongly recommend that you give Alex a call.

His location is 134 W. University, Ste. 319, Rochester, Michigan, 48307, but he has clients all over the country, so location is not a problem.

So give him a call at 248-650-7990 anytime M-F, from 9am to 5pm.

Note: Mention this site and get a free consultation and financial management analysis.

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Financial Advisor Ypsilanti Michigan

Posted by Derek under Hiring The Right Michigan Financial Planner
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When it comes to hiring the right financial advisor in Ypsilanti Michigan or anyplace, for that matter, there are a few issues that I have found that you must watch out for.

This isn’t the same as deciding which financial institution to place your personal savings into or what amount of insurance coverage you’ll need. Your very economic future is dependent on determing the best company or person to do the job.

The right Ypsilanti financial advisor can help you save for that new house you have always thought about. They might likewise be the difference between being economically secure in your retirement or possibly being required to request food stamps or federal support.

That may seem somewhat far-fetched to you, but it has happened to more good people than you can imagine. You’ll need someone you can depend on to look after your interests, not just his/her bottom line. You also need someone who knows what they’re doing. Finding each of those elements in one person is vital.

Here are a few things to ask any financial advisor in Ypsilanti Mi you are considering.

What amount of money will you be needing to live on when you retire? Lots of people will spend hours, days, or even weeks planning and fussing over such things as their next family vacation, what car or truck to buy, or maybe what to wear to some get together. However, many, if not nearly all, give minimal thought to their retirement prior to age forty. By then, you might be cutting it close.

What is the best way to reach your goals and objectives? Retirement is more than simply surviving or getting by. You will have desires and ambitions. Maybe you wish to travel the world or devote the winter season in a warmer place. Being from Michigan, we can all relate to that.

How about your objectives prior to when you retire? How do you manage to pay for that ideal home you always imagined? Maybe you want to go into business for yourself, in case you are not already?

They are all questions which a qualified financial advisor can answer.

To sum up, when you have goals and financial dreams, and don’t most of us, you need the help of a competent and experienced Ypsilanti Michigan financial advisor.

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Financial Advisor Wyoming Michigan

Posted by Derek under Hiring The Right Michigan Financial Planner
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When it comes to hiring the best financial advisor in Wyoming Michigan or anyplace, for that matter, there are several issues that I have discovered that you must look out for.

This process is not like choosing which bank to place your savings into or the amount of life insurance coverage you’ll need. Your very financial future relies on choosing the best company or person for the job.

The right Wyoming financial advisor could help you save for the new house you’ve always dreamed about. They could likewise be the difference between becoming economically secure in your retirement or needing to apply for food stamps or federal assistance.

That might seem a little far-fetched to you, nevertheless it has occured to considerably more good people than you can imagine. You’ll need a person you can depend on to care for your interests, not simply his/her bottom line. You will also want someone who knows what they’re doing. Finding each of those qualities in one person is vital.

Below are a few questions you should ask any financial advisor in Wyoming Mi you are considering.

What will you need to live on after you retire? Many people will devote hours, days, and even weeks planning and fussing over such things as their next vacation, what car or truck to buy, or maybe what to wear to a party. But many, if not nearly all, give minimal thought to their retirement prior to age 40. By then, you are cutting it close.

What’s the best method to achieve your goals? Retirement is more than just surviving or barely making it. You’ll have dreams and ambitions. Maybe you want to travel the world or devote the winter months in a warmer place. Being from Michigan, we can all relate to this.

How about your goals before you retire? How will you manage to pay for that perfect home you often pictured? Perhaps you want to go into business yourself, in case you are not currently?

These are your concerns which a qualified financial advisor can answer.

Summing up, if you have goals and financial dreams, and don’t we all, then you need the services of a qualified and experienced Wyoming Michigan financial advisor.

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Financial Advisor Wyandotte Michigan

Posted by Derek under Hiring The Right Michigan Financial Planner
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When it comes to choosing the best financial advisor in Wyandotte Michigan or anywhere, for that matter, there are many things which I have found that you should watch out for.

This is not the same as deciding which financial institution to put your personal savings into or the amount of life insurance you will need. Your very financial future depends on picking the best company or person for the job.

The right Wyandotte financial advisor could help you save for that new home you’ve frequently imagined. They can likewise be the difference between becoming economically protected in your retirement or being required to apply for food stamps or federal assistance.

That might seem somewhat far-fetched to you, however it has occured to considerably more good people than imaginable. You will need people you can rely on to care for your interests, not just his/her bottom line. You will also want a person who knows what they’re doing. Getting both of those characteristics in one person is necessary.

Here are a few things to ask any financial advisor in Wyandotte Mi you are considering.

What will you be needing to live on when you retire? Lots of people will commit hours, days, or even weeks preparing and fussing over things such as their next vacation, what car or truck to get, or maybe what to wear to some party. However, many, if not nearly all, give little consideration to their retirement before age 40. By then, you are cutting it close.

Just what is the best way to reach your goals and objectives? Retirement is much more than simply surviving or barely making it. You’ll have dreams and goals. Perhaps you desire to travel the world or devote the winter months in a warmer area. Being from Michigan, we can all relate to this.

How about your objectives before you retire? How do you manage to pay for that ideal home you always pictured? You might want to go into business yourself, if you aren’t currently?

They are all questions which a qualified financial advisor can answer.

Summing up, when you have goals and financial dreams, and don’t we all, you’ll need the expertise of a competent and experienced Wyandotte Michigan financial advisor.

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Financial Advisor Westland Michigan

Posted by Derek under Hiring The Right Michigan Financial Planner
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With regards to hiring the perfect financial advisor in Westland Michigan or anywhere, for that matter, there are some things that I have found that you should watch out for.

This is not the same thing as figuring out which traditional bank to put your personal savings into or what amount of life insurance coverage you’ll need. Your very financial future is dependent on determing the best company or person for the job.

The best Westland financial advisor could help you save for that new home you have frequently thought about. They will also be the difference between becoming economically secure in your retirement or possibly needing to apply for food stamps or federal assistance.

That might sound a bit far-fetched to you, nevertheless it has happened to considerably more good people than imaginable. You will want people you can trust to look after your interests, not just his/her bottom line. Additionally you need someone who knows what they’re doing. Finding both of these elements in one individual is necessary.

Here are a few questions you should ask any financial advisor in Westland Mi you’re thinking about.

How much cash will you be needing to live on once you retire? A lot of people will spend hours, days, or even weeks preparing and fussing over such things as their next vacation, what car to purchase, or simply what to wear to a get together. But many, if not nearly all, give minimal thought to their retirement earlier than age forty. By then, you’re cutting it close.

What is the best way to realize your goals and objectives? Retirement living is much more than just surviving or getting by. You have dreams and aspirations. Maybe you desire to travel the world or spend the winter season in a milder location. Being from Michigan, we can all relate to this.

Have you considered your goals before you stop working? How do you afford that perfect home you often imagined? Maybe you want to go into business yourself, if you aren’t currently?

These are all questions which a qualified financial advisor can answer.

To sum up, if you have goals and financial dreams, and don’t most of us, you need the help of a qualified and skilled Westland Michigan financial advisor.

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Tue 2 Aug 2011

Financial Advisor West Bloomfield Michigan

Posted by Derek under Hiring The Right Michigan Financial Planner
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When it comes to choosing the right financial advisor in West Bloomfield Michigan or anyplace, for that matter, there are many things which I have discovered that you should look out for.

This is not the same thing as determining what financial institution to put your savings into or what amount of life insurance you will need. Your very economic future relies on choosing the best person or company for the job.

The perfect West Bloomfield financial advisor could help you save for the new house you’ve always wished for. They might also be the difference between being economically protected in your retirement or possibly being forced to sign up for food stamps or federal assistance.

That may seem somewhat far-fetched to you, nevertheless it has happened to a lot more good people today than you can imagine. You’ll need somebody you can rely on to look after your interests, not merely his/her bottom line. You also want someone who knows what they’re doing. Finding each of those characteristics in one person is critical.

Below are a few questions you should ask any financial advisor in West Bloomfield Mi you are considering.

How much cash will you be needing to live on once you retire? Lots of people will devote hours, days, or even weeks planning and fussing over things like their next vacation, what car or truck to get, or maybe what to wear to some get together. However, many, if not nearly all, give minimal consideration to their retirement before age 40. By then, you are cutting it close.

Just what is the best way to reach your goals and objectives? Retirement living is a bit more than simply surviving or barely making it. You have desires and goals. You may wish to travel the world or spend the winter season in a milder area. Being from Michigan, we can all understand that.

How about your objectives prior to when you stop working? How do you manage to pay for that ideal home you always pictured? You may want to go into business for yourself, if you aren’t already?

They are your concerns that a qualified financial advisor can answer.

Summing up, for people with goals and financial dreams, and don’t we all, then you need the services of a qualified and experienced West Bloomfield Michigan financial advisor.

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