Is owning a home still a good investment? What are the 5 most important topics to cover when meeting with someone for financial guidance? Wes and Christa cut through the noise to explore these issues and answer listener questions, including:
• Explore the pros and cons of that homeownership question, housing as a long-term investment, and why it still matters. Learn why housing may serve as forced savings, inflation protection, and a path to mortgage-free retirement.
• Analyze the impact of housing market volatility and interest rates. Understand current trends in housing prices and mortgage rates, and what they could mean for your financial decisions.
• Decode the use of leverage in real estate to help build wealth. Discover how a modest down payment on a home might lead to a significant long-term return compared to methods constricted by contribution limits.
• Evaluate the 4% Rule of thumb. Is it still relevant? How can folks adjust withdrawal rates based on their retirement horizon? Get clarity on how long your money may last if your retirement timeline is 20 or 25 years instead of 30.
• Unpack static vs. inflation-adjusted retirement withdrawals. Hear Wes explain the real-world math behind lower-risk withdrawal strategies in retirement.
• Contrast investing in ETFs vs. individual stocks in a brokerage account. Weigh the pros and cons regarding diversification, tax-loss harvesting, and ease of rebalancing.
• Where can you keep your down payment more protected until you're ready to buy? Learn some productive options for short-term savings, including money market funds vs. CDs, and the risks of flying too close to the sun.
• What are the 5 questions you must ask any financial planner when meeting with them? Discover Wes’s Five P’s Framework: Planning, Portfolio, Protection, Passing It On, and Paying Yourself (and your taxes).
• Why are core pursuits essential for a happy retirement? Understand how personal passions contribute to a fulfilling life after work—and how to fund them.
• Is it worth moving funds from a 457(b) plan to an IRA? Explore the trade-offs between investment flexibility and creditor protection in retirement plans.
• Should you sell your home before moving overseas in retirement? Delve into guidance for retirees considering international living.
• Examine the most effective S&P 500 funds for your goals. Understand cost differences, tax structures, and platform integration for index fund investing.
• Why do convenience, safety, and cost matter when picking a financial platform? Break down final thoughts on choosing where to house your investments and manage charitable giving.
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