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SPRING KLEIN MAGAZINE
WINTER 2019 VOL. 8, NO. 6
Michael J. Landry, DDS, ABAD
s e g a p See 7 16-1
WE KNOW SLEEP
Michael J. Landry, DDS, ABAD
“Being qualified in sleep medicine, it is my goal to provide the highest quality of care in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleeo apnea.”
WE KNOW SLEEP
Stop suffering today!
Sleep apnea is a serious medical disorder which causes sufferers to completely stop breathing during sleep, sometimes hundreds of times in a single night. I can determine if you are at risk and work with you and sleep physicians to design a customized treatment plan to ensure your long-term health.
Michael J. Landry
DDS, ABAD
Published Author – A Category of One: Beyond the Boundaries of Dentistry Qualified Dentist, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) Fellow Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) Fellow International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI) Fellow Misch International Implant Institute (FMIII) Fellow Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry (FIALD) Fellow International Congress of Dentists (FICD) Fellow American Society of Dental Aesthetics (FASDA) Fellow Academy of Dental Facial Aesthetics (FADFA) Diplomate American Board of Aesthetic Dentistry (ABAD)
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SPRING KLEIN MAGAZINE
WINTER 2019 VOL. 8, NO. 6
Neighborhood Publications LLC 9337 Spring Cypress Road, Suite #205 Spring, Texas 77379
www.springkleinmagazine.com Editor Leanne Donelson Head Writer Candy Cruz
Assistant Editor Erin Lewis Contributing Writers Josh Arcemont
Social Media Editor Madi Wheeler Graphics Photography Mike Reeves Audree Garcia, Kellie Cataldo Publisher Neighborhood Publications
The holiday season is upon us and I love the time spent with my family. We all are busy throughout the year and the holidays are a time that we can slow down and just enjoy the company of our families. I am looking forward to having all my children home for the holidays this year.
TABLE
of CONTENTS
6 Traditional IRAs vs. Roth IRAs 8 How to save enough for a down payment on a house 10 Beginner’s guide to real estate investments 12 How to pay off your mortgage before maturity 14 The benefits of umbrella insurance 15 Power of attorney protects loved ones 18 How can I get all of my kids to Follow Directions? 20 Great part-time jobs for retirees 22 How to save money on everyday expenses 23 Strategies to repay student loans as quickly as possible 24 Financial tips to survive job loss 27 How college students can cut living expenses See page 8
I wish you all the happiest of holidays and a happy new year. Thank you, Leanne Donelson Neighborhood Publications DISCLAIMER: All articles, information, website addresses and cartoons in this publication express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Neighborhood Publications LLC or its employees. Neighborhood Publications LLC is not responsible for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles, information website address and cartoons submitted by others. The Publisher Neighborhood Publications also assumes no responsibility for the advertising content with this publication and ad warranties, representations and endorsements made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding it’s content should be taken up with the advertiser. Neighborhood Publications LLC disclaims and denies any and all liability, therefore The publisher Neighborhood Publications LLC assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and /or misprints in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes. Under no circumstances shall the publisher be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish on a timely manner. This is not an official publication of your particular subdivision, (although we print more interesting information and take better photos) and your particular subdivision does not endorse, affiliate or associate itself or its affiliates with this publication. Neighborhood Publications and it’s Associate Publications/Business Interest, whether business or person, do not accept any assumed benefit of the QR Bar Code Readers/Bar Codes, etc. published in any of the Neighborhood Publications or it’s affiliate publications whether in print or electronic. The publisher is not liable for ANY DAMAGES for failure of the Post Office to deliver the magazine in a timely manner, so long as the publisher has delivered the magazine to said delivery point by the contracted date. All articles and photos in this publication are copyrighted. PUBLISHED BY: Neighborhood Publications, 9337 Spring Cypress Road, Suite 205, Spring, Texas 77379.
4 Neighborhood Publications
See page 22
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Traditional IRAs vs. Roth IRAs
A
dequate retirement planning can set men and women up to enjoy their golden years however they see fit. Getting to retirement with enough money takes discipline and commitment and may require some sacrifices along the way. “Retirement planning” is an umbrella term that covers various types of financial products and investments. One of the products prospective investors are likely to hear about when mulling their retirement investment options is an Individual Retirement Account, or IRA. An IRA is a personal retirement savings plan that can provide tax benefits to those who qualify. When speaking with a financial planner or exploring options on their own, prospective investors will hear about traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs and wonder what distinguishes one from the other. The following breakdown can help investors understand those differences with the hopes of finding the best option for them.
CONTRIBUTIONS Contributions to traditional IRAs are pre-tax, and they may be tax deductible depending on the account holder’s income and other factors. Contributions to Roth IRAs are
6 Neighborhood Publications
made with post-tax income and are not eligible for tax deductions.
TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS While men and women about to open an IRA likely won’t have to worry about distributions for quite some time, it’s important that prospective account holders know that, according to Prudential, traditional IRA account holders will pay federal taxes on their account’s investment earnings and on pre-tax contributions when money is withdrawn. Roth IRA account holders will not pay federal taxes on withdrawals, including their investment earnings, if they meet certain eligibility require-ments. Prospective investors should know that there are tax penalties for account holders who withdraw money from their traditional or Roth IRAs before they reach age 591 ⁄2 . Exceptions to that rule should be discussed with a tax or accounting professional.
can still open an IRA, but only if their spouse is employed and the couple jointly files their tax return. There also may be income limits depending on which type of IRA an investor chooses. There are no income limits attached to traditional IRAs, but account holders’ ability to deduct contributions from their income may be limited if their spouse is eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan. There are income limits associated with Roth IRAs. Account holders’ adjusted growth income must be below certain limits depending on their tax filing status (i.e., filing single or filing jointly with a spouse).
DISTRIBUTIONS AND AGE
INCOME REQUIREMENTS
The Internal Revenue Service notes that traditional IRA account holders must begin taking distributions by April 1 following the year in which they turned 701 ⁄2 years of age and by December 31 in future years. No minimum distributions are required for Roth IRA account holders.
In order to open an IRA, whether it’s a traditional or Roth IRA, prospective account holders must have earned income, such as wages, salaries or income from self-employment. Men and women who do not work
Understanding the various types of IRAs can be difficult. Prospective investors who need help navigating their retirement planning should not hesitate to contact financial planning professionals. h
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Neighborhood Publications 7
How to save enough for a down payment on a house
A
home is the most costly thing many people will ever buy. The process of buying a home can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. One way to make the process of buying a home go more smoothly is to save enough money to put down a substantial down payment. Saving for a down payment on a home is similar to saving for other items, only on a far grander scale. Many financial planners and real estate professionals recommend prospective home buyers put down no less than 20 percent of the total cost of the home they’re buying. Down payments short of 20 percent will require private mortgage insurance, or PMI. The cost of PMI depends on a host of variables, but is generally between 0.3 and 1.5 percent of the original loan amount. While plenty of homeowners pay PMI, buyers who can afford to put down 20 percent can save themselves a considerable amount of money by doing so. Down payments on a home tend to be substantial, but the following are a few strategies prospective home buyers can employ to grow their savings with an eye toward making a down payment on their next home.
Decide when you want to buy. The first step to buying a home begins when buyers save their first dollar for a down payment. Deciding when to buy can help buyers develop a saving strategy. If buyers decide they want to buy in five years away, they will have more time to build their savings. If buyers want to buy within a year, they will need to save more each month, and those whose existing savings fall far short of the 20 percent threshold may have to accept paying PMI.
8 Neighborhood Publications
Prequalify for a mortgage. Before buyers even look for their new homes, they should first sit down with a mortgage lender to determine how much a mortgage they will qualify for. Prequalifying for a mortgage can make the home buying process a lot easier, and it also can give first-time buyers an idea of how much they can spend. Once lenders prequalify prospective buyers, the buyers can then do the simple math to determine how much they will need to put down. For example, preapproval for a $300,000 loan means buyers will have to put down $60,000 to meet the 20 percent
down payment threshold. In that example, buyers can put down less than $60,000, but they will then have to pay PMI. It’s important for buyers to understand that a down payment is not the only costs they will have to come up with when buying a home. Closing costs and other fees will also need to be paid by the buyers.
Examine monthly expenses. Once buyers learn how much mortgage they will qualify for, they will then see how close they are to buying a home. But prospective continued
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buyers of all means can save more each month by examining their monthly expenses and looking for ways to save. Buyers can begin by looking over their recent spending habits and then seeing where they can spend less. Cutting back on luxuries and other unnecessary spending can help buyers get closer to buying their next home.
Avoid risky investments. Some times it’s great to take risks when investing, but risk should be avoided when saving for a down payment on a home. Traditional vehicles like certificates of deposit, or CDs, and savings accounts can ensure the money buyers are saving for their homes is protected and not subject to market fluctuations. Saving enough to make a down payment on a home can be accomplished if buyers stay disciplined with regard to saving and make sound financial decisions. h
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Neighborhood Publications 9
Beginner’s guide to real estate investments
P
urchasing a house or property is about more than setting up a home. Although quite a number of people buy real estate to establish their future, long-term abodes, many others recognize the potentially lucrative investment that lies within a real estate purchase. Despite the ups and downs of the economy, real estate has become a common investment vehicle — one that has plenty of potential for making big gains for those who are willing to put in the effort. According to the experts at Entrepreneur, even in a bad economy, real estate investments will usually fare better than stocks. Real estate also continues to appreciate despite the occasional economical slow-down. Like any other endeavor, there is a right and a wrong way to go about investing in real estate. Novices may not know where to
begin their first forays into the real estate market as investors, even if they already own their own homes.
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Buying a property as an investment is an entirely different animal than buying a home to establish a residence. However, with the right guidance, anyone can dabble in real estate.
Establish financial goals.
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Before you even begin looking at properties or put forth the effort of meeting with an agent, you must determine what you expect from the investment. The days of buying real estate and flipping it for a fast profit may no longer be here. However, real estate can provide a steady stream of long-term income. Understand what you hope to achieve by investing. If it’s to become an overnight millionaire, you may be looking at the wrong investment vehicle in real estate. CONTINUED
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Establish a plan.
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New investors who do not have a plan in place will likely spend too much or have more setbacks than others who have planned accordingly. When investing in real estate, it’s more about the bottom line than the property itself. According to Springboard Academy, a real estate academy for investors, look for motivated sellers and stick to a set purchase price. Try to make offers on a variety of properties that work in your financial favor. And know what you want to do with the property (i.e., renovate and sell, remove and rebuild, or rehab and rent) before you buy. Fit the house to the plan, and not vice-versa.
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If this is your first time out there, stick with properties that will turn over quickly. Research areas in and around urban centers or close to transportation and shopping. A good starter property is a small house or a condominium that can be refurbished and then rented. Rental properties offer steady sources of income when renters are properly vetted, offers Investopedia, an investment resource.
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Real estate can be a worthy investment opportunity. With research, a plan and the right price, just about anyone can be a real estate investor.h
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Become an expert by learning as much as you can about what is out there. Attend open houses; look for vacant/unattractive properties; scour the classifieds in your local paper; or put the word out there that you’re interested in buying a property. Only look at properties that have motivated sellers, because then you’ll get closest to the price you want to pay. And don’t forget to research the area and the home turnover rate for the specific area where you are looking. Don’t make assumptions that a property will appreciate without doing your homework.
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Neighborhood Publications 11
How to pay off your mortgage before maturity
H
omes are the most expensive purchases many people will ever make. While home ownership can be rewarding, first-time homeowners may experience some sticker shock when shopping for homes and calculating their potential mortgage costs. But as expensive as home ownership can be, there are ways for homeowners to pay off their mortgages long before those loans reach maturity.
Pay extra each month. Factors like home value, property tax and your mortgage loan interest rate determine how much your monthly mortgage payment will be. But there’s still room to save. According to the Chase extra payments calculator, homeowners who borrow $200,000 (after making an initial 20 percent down payment of $50,000 on a home valued at $250,000) at 4 percent interest and pay $4,000 annually in property
12 Neighborhood Publications
taxes and homeowner’s insurance can save more than $26,000 in interest over the life of the loan by paying as little as $100 extra per month. In addition, including an additional $100 each month will trim 59 months, or just about five years, off the life of your loan.
Stop paying PMI. If your initial down payment was less than 20 percent of the value of your home at the time you purchased it, then you were likely required to pay private mortgage insurance, or PMI. PMI may be costing you a couple hundred dollars per month, but once your mortgage balance falls below 80 percent of your home’s appraised value, you can ask your lender to stop charging PMI. While it might be nice to pocket those PMI costs for a rainy day, continue paying that money each month so you can shorten the life of your loan.
Have your home reassessed. While homeowners would like to think the value of their homes is always on the rise, some homes decrease in value over time. If your home is reassessed at a lesser value, your property taxes will decrease. Put the money you’re saving on property taxes toward your monthly mortgage payment each month.
Refinance your mortgage. Refinancing to a lower interest rate can lower your monthly mortgage payment, but be sure that the costs to refinance do not exceed the savings you will earn. Apply any money you save from refinancing to your monthly payment. h
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The benefits of umbrella insurance
I
Umbrella insurance offers an excess of liability coverage in the event of lawsuits.
umbrella policies range anywhere from $1 to $10 million. Coverage typically starts in the range of $150 to $200 for a $1 million policy. What’s more, some insurance companies will not issue an umbrella policy unless the insured already has an automotive or home policy with them — and one that maintains the standard amount of liability in those other policies. When reviewing umbrella policies, it’s also wise to think ahead to future income and how one’s assets may grow. Adjust policies to account for inferred earnings or other expected assets. Learn more about umbrella policies that can offer above-and-beyond protection by speaking with a trusted insurance agent.h
nsurance policies come in various forms. There is a type of insurance to cover everything from motor vehicles to personal health to apartment dwellings. While the majority of people understand the importance of insuring their homes and cars, many may not explore the benefits of a different type of insurance: umbrella coverage. Unlike other types of insurance that only offer one specific coverage, umbrella insurance is a single policy that covers various aspects of a person’s life. An umbrella policy can fill in the gaps where liability limits come into play with other insurance policies, keeping a person protected regardless of deductibles and other assets. According to the financial resource Money Crashers, umbrella insurance is a type of liability insurance. Its main purpose is to protect policy holders in the event of lawsuits. The umbrella policy will provide additional coverage against bodily injury liability claims and property damage liability claims. These policies also provide broader forms of coverage and can help cover some legal fees, if necessary. Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agents says umbrella insurance is important because it can prevent financial ruin in the case of an accident. The amount of umbrella coverage a person may need depends on how much that person is worth. Prospective policy holders can calculate their total assets and then take out policies in that amount or more to protect their net worth. Depending on the insurance company,
14 Neighborhood Publications
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Power of attorney protects loved ones Power of attorney is a key document to include in an estate plan.
L
ife is full of the unexpected. But just because the future is unpredictable does not mean adults cannot prepare for what lies ahead. Estate planning is important, and establishing power of attorney can be essential for men and women looking to protect their financial resources and other assets.
What is power of attorney?
A power of attorney, or POA, is a document that enables an individual to appoint a person or organization to manage his or her affairs should this individual become unable to do so. According to the National Caregivers Library, POA is granted to an “attorney-in-fact” or “agent” to give a person the legal authority to make decisions for an incapacitated “principal.” The laws for creating a power of attorney vary depending on where a person lives, but there are some general similarities regardless of geography.
Why is power of attorney needed?
Many people believe their families will be able to step in if an event occurs that leaves them incapacitated and unable to make decisions for themselves. Unfortunately, this is not always true. If a person is not named as an agent or granted legal access to financial, medical and other pertinent information, family members’ hands may be tied. In addition, the government may appoint someone to make certain decisions for an individual if no POA is named.
Just about everyone can benefit from establishing an attorneyin-fact. Doing so does not mean men and women cannot live independently, but it will remove the legal barriers involved should a person no longer be physically or mentally capable of managing certain tasks.
Power of attorney varies.
Power of attorney is a broad term that covers various aspects of decision-making. According to the legal resource ‘Lectric Law Library, the main types of POA include general power of attorney, health care power of attorney, durable power of attorney, and special power of attorney. Many of the responsibilities overlap, but there are some subtle legal differences. Durable power of attorney, for example, relates to all the appointments involved in general, special and health care powers of attorney being made “durable.” This means the document will remain in effect or take effect if a person becomes mentally incompetent. Certain
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powers of attorney may fall within a certain time period.
What is covered?
An agent appointed through POA may be able to handle the following, or more, depending on the verbiage of the document: • banking transactions • buying/selling property • settling claims • filing tax returns • managing government-supplied benefits • maintaining business interests • making estate-planning decisions • deciding on medical treatments • selling personal property • fulfilling advanced health care directives Although a power of attorney document can be filled out and an agent appointed on one’s own, working with an estate planning attorney to better understand the intricacies of this vital document is advised.h
Neighborhood Publications 15
CONSULTANTS IN DENTAL AESTHETICS
C O N S U LTA N T S I N D E N TA L A E S T H E T I C S
“WITH A SPACIOUS NEW OFFICE WE CAN OFFER ADDITIONAL ADVANCED SERVICES AND SERVE MORE PATIENTS,” SAYS DR. MICHAEL J. LANDRY. “IT’S ALSO AN INVESTMENT IN THE COMMUNITY AND SIGNIFIES OUR COMMITMENT OF CONTINUED SUPPORT. AND AS WE GROW, WE’LL BE ABLE TO OFFER EMPLOYMENT TO MORE PEOPLE AND TO EXPAND OUR PHILANTHROPIC ACTIVITIES.”
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE, THEIR PATIENTS, AND THE COMMUNITY
Consultants in Dental Aesthetics (CDA) has enjoyed the great privilege of serving the community and growing with it. Now, Michael J. Landry, DDS, ABAD, and his wife, CDA’s Executive Director Mary Ann Landry, are realizing another dream. Construction of their new 8,200 square foot standalone office building is scheduled to begin this autumn. Located on Louetta Road in the Vintage Park area just three minutes from their current office, the modern, stylish facility will offer easy visibility and access from the street, plenty of parking, and the promise of the high-quality patient-centered care provided inside. Construction is expected to finish in the summer of 2020.
DELIVERING THE “WOW!” FACTOR WITH FUSION-DENTISTRY™
From the stunning exterior to a “light and ethereal” interior that exudes peace, serenity, and upscale luxury, the new facility is designed with patients in mind. Practice visionary Mary Ann Landry refers to CDA’s approach as Fusion-Dentistry, a term they have trademarked. She explains that Fusion-Dentistry combines leading-edge technology and unparalleled service excellence with extraordinary patient care, luxury amenities, and dedicated office spaces not only for consultation and treatment, but for relaxation.
THE NEW CENTER WILL FEATURE:
• A clean, artistic look and feel • 11 state-of-the-art treatment suites plus two surgery/sedation suites • Spacious, spa-like reception lounge • Private sleep apnea consultation room • Sky bar and a technology bar in the reception lounge • Serenity room where patients can relax in quiet and calmness • Concierge-style check-ins versus a front desk before treatment
CONSULTANTS IN DENTAL AESTHETICS Michael J. Landry, DDS, ABAD & Associates General Dentistry
9720 Cypresswood Drive, Suite 200 I Houston, Texas 77070 houstonsmilespa.com | (281) 825-3051 COME DISCOVER WHAT THE EXCITEMENT IS ALL ABOUT NOW AND IN THE FUTURE Dr. Michael Landry & Associates are currently accepting new patients. Call (281) 825-3051 to schedule an appointment and stay tuned on the progress of the new center. Like and follow CDA on Facebook @ConsultantsinDentalAesthetics
HOUSTON SLEEP APNEA
“BEING QUALIFIED IN SLEEP MEDICINE, IT IS MY GOAL TO PROVIDE THE HIGHEST QUALITY OF CARE IN THE TREATMENT OF SNORING AND OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA.” Dr. Michael J. Landry THE NEW FACILITY WILL INCLUDE A PRIVATE SLEEP APNEA CONSULTATION OFFICE SERVICES INCLUDE:
• In-office obstructive sleep apnea risk factor assessment • Customized oral appliances designed expressly for your • At-home sleep tests, no need to go to an overnight sleep needs clinic • Treatment progress shared with patient’s referring physician • Medical insurance is filed for you
IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN – A CATEGORY OF ONE
• Concierge service like you find at a gracious 5-star hotel • Daily morning team huddle builds team spirit • Personalized new patient office tours • Team member training – a rigorous, ongoing program of • Patient appreciation events throughout the year personal and professional development to help members • Luxury patient amenities - beverages, essential oils, silk become “the best version of themselves” blankets, moisturizing lip conditioners, paraffin hand • Quarterly off-site team building, strategizing day treatments, and more • Patient Perks – luxury giveaways honoring loyal patients with • Professional atmosphere, dress code – scrubs for the clinical items such as smart technology, Fitbit devices, local date team, suits for the business team, doctors wear ties and nights, and personalized expressions of appreciation white lab coats with the HSA logo
HOUSTON SLEEP APNEA Michael J. Landry, DDS, ABAD General Dentistry
9720 Cypresswood Drive, Suite 200 I Houston, Texas 77070 hsapnea.com | (281) 612-3153 CUSTOMIZED TREATMENTS, ALTERNATIVE TO CPAP AT HOUSTON SLEEP APNEA Dr. Michael Landry is highly qualified to treat obstructive sleep apnea with custom-designed oral appliances and has the training and expertise necessary to evaluate the appropriateness of oral appliance therapy as prescribed by a physician. Custom oral appliances can be an effective first line treatment for obstructive sleep apnea in mild to moderate patients, and for those with severe sleep apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP, making patient compliance much higher. Like and follow Houston Sleep Apnea on Facebook @HoustonSleepApnea
How can I get all of my kids to Follow Directions? Tips from Master Josh Arcemont
At HERO Martial Arts & Leadership Academy we are often asked how we are able to lead classes of 20 or more students and have them all follow directions the first time they are asked. One way we are able to get so many kids to follow directions is through a technique we call “Proximity Praise.” It uses the concept of Influence vs. Authority and is a great tool for managing children’s behavior especially at a young age. It works like this, catch another student modeling the behavior you want and then publicly praise that desired behavior. This will point out and highlight the desired behavior. Other kids will imitate this behavior in hopes of getting the same recognition, which you are more than happy to give!
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Once you begin to use Proximity Praise with your own kids, life will be easier on you as a parent. Your children will begin to model the behavior you want in hopes you will give them the recognition and praise as well. They key is to catch them doing something right and praise them immediately. We hope you find this information helpful. Sincerely, Master Josh Arcemont P.S. Feel free to stop by anytime as our guest. Our instructors will be more than happy to talk to you more about how to implement this Proximity Praise at home.
(832) 717-4376 6411 FM 2920 Spring, Texas 77379
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Great part-time jobs for retirees much time, and travel can stretch retirees’ budgets. One way that retirees can make great use of their free time and make a little extra money is to find part-time employment. Part-time jobs can help retirees maintain their connections with their communities, whether it’s their professional community or the community in which they live, while also providing a sense of purpose. Retirees interesting in finding part-time work may want to consider the following jobs.
U
Retirees with a love of crafting can turn their hobby into income.
pon retiring, many newly minted retirees find themselves looking for ways to fill their free time. Hobbies may not take up too
CONSULTING WORK: Many retirees have long résumés, and that experience is still valuable even after retirement. Consulting firms often hire experienced businesspeople on a project or contract basis, which can be great opportunities for retirees to fill their time and make sizable amounts of money without having to commit to long-term employment. TEACHING: Retirees can also put their professional experience to work in the classroom. Inquire about
teaching opportunities at a nearby university or even the local high school. Such opportunities may only be available on a volunteer basis, but some might pay part-time salaries or small stipends. Either way, many retirees find that working with young people helps them stay young, and passing on lessons learned to younger generations can provide a strong sense of purpose. SEASONAL WORK: Seasonal work is another great way for retirees to fill their time and make a little extra money along the way. Come the holiday season, retirees should have no trouble finding seasonal retail work at their local malls or shopping centers. In warmer months, retirees may find seasonal employment at area beaches, golf courses or parks. SPORTS TEAMS: Retirees who live in cities with professional sports teams may be able to find work with their favorite franchise. Professional sports franchises often rely on retirees to staff in-game positions like ushers and concessions employees, and some may even hire retirees to greet fans. While the pay might not be great, such positions are ideal for retirees who happen to be big sports fans. CRAFTS: Retirees with a love of crafting can turn their hobby into income. For example, Etsy.com makes it easy for creative entrepreneurs to post their creations and sell them to buyers all over the globe. Sellers often dictate how quickly they can make and ship products, so retirees need not feel worried about being rushed. Many retirees still work even after calling it a career, and opportunities abound for men and women looking to fill their time and make a little extra money along the way. h
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How to save money on everyday expenses
Brown-bagging lunch instead of buying lunch out each day can save adults hundreds of dollars per year.
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aving money on everyday expenses is a goal for many adults. Certain expenses, such as loan payments, may be more difficult to pare down than others. But there are ways adults can save on everyday expenses without drastically overhauling their daily routines.
Transportation Transportation is a significant expense for many adults. The Federal Highway Administration notes that the average American family devotes 19 percent of its monthly budget to transportation costs, while Statistics Canada points out that Canadian families spent
22 Neighborhood Publications
slightly less than $12,000 on average on transportation in 2014. A 2011 report from the American Public Transportation Association found individuals who ride public transportation can save more than $10,000 annually. That figure is closely tied to fuel costs, but even when fuel costs are low, adults can still save substantial amounts of money by utilizing pubic transportation instead of driving themselves to work every day. Even adults who live in auto dependent exurbs, where families devote 25 percent of their monthly budgets to transportation costs, can save by carpooling to work, which allows commuters to split fuel and toll costs while also reducing wear and tear on their vehicles. That reduced wear and tear will add years to a vehicle’s life, saving auto owners money as a result.
are healthy or not. Individuals also can save more money by bringing their own coffee to work each day rather than relying on coffee shops to satisfy their morning java fix.
Entertainment Entertainment is another area where many adults can likely save money. NBC News reported in 2015 that the average cable bill was $99 per
Food Food is another daily expense where many adults can likely save some money. A 2013 survey from Visa found that the average person goes out for lunch twice per week, spending $10 each time. That adds up to more than $1,000 annually. By bringing their own lunches to work, working professionals can save hundreds of dollars per year. In addition to the financial benefits of brownbagging lunches, adults can reap nutritional rewards by packing healthy meals for themselves. Men and women who eat out for lunch each day will have to eat whatever the eateries near their offices have to offer, whether those offerings
month, and that was before 2016 rate increases were announced by a host of providers, including DirecTV, Dish Network and Time Warner Cable. Streaming services such as Netflix ($9.99 per month), Amazon Prime ($99 per year) and Hulu Plus ($7.99 per month) combine to cost a fraction of that figure, and such services continue to increase their offerings. Adults interested in trimming their daily expenses can access all three services for less than $320 per year, or a little more than three months’ worth of cable bills. Reducing everyday expenses is a goal for many adults, and doing so is simpler than men and women may know.h
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Strategies to repay student loans as quickly as possible help borrowers pay off their student loans far faster than simply paying the minimum each month. Many homeowners employ this strategy with their mortgages, and grads can do the same when repaying their student loans. ESTABLISH SHORT-TERM FINANCIAL GOALS.
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illions of people fund their college educations with student loans. Such loans can make it possible for students to attend the very best universities in the world, but they also can be burdensome when students graduate and face the unenviable task of repayment. Student loan debt figures are staggering. According to Debt.org, student loan debt in the United States is roughly $1.2 trillion, while the Canadian Federation of Students reports that education-related debt in Canada is more than $19 billion, a figure that reflects the cost of college tuition rising more than 137 percent in the last quarter century. The college resource website Cappex.com estimates that the average student debt for members of the class of 2016 is $37,173, a jaw dropping 6 percent increase from the average debt held by members of the class of 2015 upon graduation. Paying down that debt can seem like a daunting task, but recent grads need not fret that they will still be paying off student loans when their own children are ready to enroll in college or university. The following are a few strategies college grads may want to consider as they look for ways to pay off their student
loans as quickly as possible. CREATE A MONTHLY BUDGET BEFORE THE REPAYMENT PERIOD BEGINS. Monthly budgets are an essential element of sound financial planning, but grads should not wait until their repayment period begins to develop their budgets. Even if the repayment grace period has just begun, grads should build at least the minimum required payment into their monthly budgets. Simply put the money into a savings account until the repayment period begins. Adjusting to repaying loans as early as possible can soften the blow once the repayment period actually begins. PAY MORE THAN THE MINIMUM. Grads will have a relatively brief grace period to start repaying their loans after graduating. For those who are not going on to graduate or professional school, that grace period may be six months. As the due date for that first payment draws near, grads will receive a letter from their lenders indicating their overall debt and their minimum monthly payment. Paying more than that minimum monthly payment can
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Short-term financial goals can motivate borrowers to maintain their financial discipline, especially in those initial years after college when many new graduates struggle with money management. Be specific about goals, making sure to pick a target date to repay student loans in full. Grads who want to become homeowners can work to achieve that goal before age 30. Once that goal has been set, grads can research average home costs in their desired areas. Such information can motivate grads to pay off their student loans as quickly as possible so they can be on track to achieve their larger goal of buying a home in accordance to their preestablished goal. LIVE WITH A ROOMMATE OR ROOMMATES. Recent graduates who landed their first professional job may feel living alone is the ultimate illustration of their financial independence. But living with a roommate or roommates can free up more money for borrowers to put toward repaying their student loans. Roommates share utility and cable/internet bills, and room shares are often much less expensive than studio or one-bedroom apartments. Many young professionals, especially those moving to a new city for their first job, find living with roommates after college is also a great way to develop or expand a social network. Repaying student loans takes discipline, but that discipline is rewarded when loans are repaid long before reaching their maturity date.h
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Financial tips to survive job loss Preparing for job loss before it occurs can help adults survive the gap between jobs. months of a layoff. Health insurance is a considerable cost, and you will need to budget for the expense so that you will have access to the health services you need.
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he job market is fickle, and no one is immune to layoffs. Although the unemployment rate in the United States dipped to 4.9 percent in June 2016 and Canada’s rate hovered around 7 percent in May 2016, the job market remains somewhat unpredictable. Preparing financially for unemployment can be prudent, even for working professionals who do not anticipate being laid off. Financial advisors recommend adults save the equivalent of six months’ salary to cover their expenses in the event of job loss. Individuals who want to protect themselves and their assets in the case of job loss can also heed the following tips.
RESEARCH OPTIONS IN GOVERNMENT BENEFITS. Few people like the prospect of visiting the unemployment office after being laid off, but delaying the process could negatively affect your finances. It can take some time for unemployment claims to be processed, so apply as soon as possible after losing your job. FIND WAYS TO SUPPLEMENT YOUR INCOME. Bringing in any money can be helpful. If it is feasible, look for ways to make some cash while you search for a new job in your field. This may include working from home, freelancing or selling items online. Consider part-time work while you look for a job. You may prefer to find temporary or parttime work in your field, but your
hobbies and other interests may present income possibilities as well. PRACTICE LIVING WITH LESS. Cut out unnecessary expenses and attempt to live with less. You may find that this comes easily and continue to do so even though you remain employed. Such a trial run can bolster your savings in the event of layoff while also acclimating you to living with less should a layoff ever occur. DON’T BURN BRIDGES. While it’s understandable to harbor some resentment toward an employer for letting you go, that same employer may be able to help you in the long run. Supervisors can help you find a new job or write glowing recommendations. Staying positive and resisting the temptation to badmouth a former employer can only help you in the long run. Losing a job is seldom easy and is often unexpected. But there are steps adults can take to prepare for losing their jobs.h
EXAMINE CURRENT FINANCES. It’s important to have an accurate assessment of your current financial situation. Calculate monthly expenses to get a handle on what you are spending. Compare those expenditures against your savings to see if the latter can keep you afloat should you lose your job. Look for areas where you may be overspending, even cutting out some luxuries if you suspect a job loss is looming or just want to build your savings. BEGIN BUDGETING FOR LOSS OF HEALTH INSURANCE. Health insurance coverage typically ends when a person is laid off. Loss of coverage might not be immediate, but it may occur within
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Neighborhood Publications 25
CLIFTON B. BALDWIN, DDS Call Today: 281.893.4746 dentistinspringtx.com 5258 Louetta Road, Suite 100 l Spring, Texas 77379 PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT With over 30 years of experience practicing general and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Clifton Baldwin stopped counting long ago – the number of cosmetic smile makeover’s, porcelain veneers and crowns. What matters to Dr. Baldwin is providing high quality dentistry using the latest technology combined with friendly, patient-centered care. In turn, this creates happy, satisfied patients with smiles so beautiful, they speak for themselves. DREAM SMILE TEAM
COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL CARE
“I’m blessed with a tip-top team who is passionate about providing an exceptional dental experience for our patients,” Dr. Baldwin said. “We’re not about volume; we focus on providing quality dentistry and personalized care in a familyoriented environment. We strive to create a strong bond and trusting relationship with our patients. When patients allow us to make a difference in their lives by helping them achieve a beautiful WHETHER YOU smile and optimal oral health, that’s what counts for us.” NEED COSMETICS,
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An “avid learner” dedicated to continuing education, Dr. Baldwin stays up-to-date on the latest innovations. He is an Invisalign specialist, laser-certified and soft tissue perio dentist. As a result of his education and experience, Dr. Baldwin has rarely needed to refer his patients out. When not working, Dr. Baldwin is active in the community and enjoys golfing, physical fitness and custom car shows.
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continued
How college students can cut living expenses
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he cost of college tuition is a concern for many college-bound students and their families. The cost of a college education continues to rise, but it’s not just tuition and room and board that students and their families must account for. College students may underestimate cost-of-living expenses when planning their school-year budgets. But such expenses can be substantial, catching even the most well-prepared students off guard. Fortunately, there are several ways for college students to save money on living expenses and still make the most of their time on campus. VENTURE OFF CAMPUS. Towns that rely heavily on colleges or universities to support their economies typically offer great deals to students willing to venture off campus. Local businesses, including bars, restaurants and entertainment venues like mini golf facilities or bowling alleys, may offer student discounts to entice kids to leave campus. Students can take advantage of these offerings
to save on food and entertainment, which tend to be among the more pricey cost-of-living expenses college students contend with. Buy secondhand furnishings. College students living in their own apartments or dorm rooms may not have the financial resources to purchase new furniture. Rather than purchasing brand new items they are likely to discard after moving out or graduating, college students can purchase secondhand items from local thrift stores or used furniture retailers that offer sturdy furnishings at low prices. BECOME A RESIDENT ADVISOR. Resident advisors, often referred to as “R.A.’s,” typically receive free or reduced room and board in exchange for living in the dorms and monitoring the floors they live on. Competition to be an R.A. can be competitive, but students who become R.A.’s can save thousands of dollars on room and board costs over the course of their time at school. MAKE YOUR OWN MEALS. Meal plans
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may be ideal for college students during their freshmen years, when students may still be adjusting to campus life. But older college students can skip the meal plan in favor of preparing their own meals. Doing so can save students substantial amounts of money, and some students may even prefer the variety available at the local grocery store over the more limited offerings available at dining halls or other campus eateries. MOVE OFF CAMPUS. Some schools do not permit freshmen and sophomores to live off-campus, but older students may find that private housing is more affordable than on-campus apartments or dormitories. Students eligible to live in off-campus housing can contact local real estate agents to get a feel for the off-campus housing market before making a final decision. Cost-of-living expenses at colleges and universities can be considerable, but savvy students can find various ways to save money.h
Neighborhood Publications 27
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9305 Spring Cypress Rd #104, Spring, TX 77379
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THREE LOCATIONS SERVING THE SPRING AREA: 5211 FM 1960 West at Champion Forest 281-440-5353 7312 Louetta Road at Stuebner Airline 281-376-2442
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