Posts by Dan Moisand
What are the new rules about how real estate agents get paid?
What are the new rules about how real estate agents get paid? While both buyers and sellers typically use real estate agents, traditionally, only sellers have paid their agents directly. New commission-related rules went into effect in August which changed how agents can earn commission. To get a handle on these rules and what effect…
Read MoreWill higher taxes hurt stocks?
Will higher taxes hurt stocks? The proposal to raise taxes in some capacity arises in every election. Candidates for the White House are typically the most vocal about what changes they would make to the tax code if elected. It is important to remember that regardless of who wins the presidency, the president does not…
Read MoreSix misconceptions about the deficit and national debt
Six misconceptions about the deficit and national debt As we head toward the election, one topic that is sure to feature prominently is America’s annual budget deficit and national debt. Relative to the size of the economy, federal debt is at its highest level since WWII. The United States spends about as much on interest…
Read MoreWhat is gain harvesting?
What is gain harvesting? “Gain harvesting” refers to the practice of selling a holding for a gain in a taxable account, triggering a taxable event, and immediately buying the holding back. The strategy is not applicable to retirement accounts, tax-deferred accounts, and all types of IRAs. Say you own a holding worth $25,000 that you…
Read MoreNon-financial questions to consider before retirement
Non-financial questions to consider before retirement The decision to retire is clearly predicated on one’s financial situation. We’ve been helping people retire for a few decades now and have noticed that those who thrive the most during retirement are those who periodically contemplate non-financial issues in addition to crunching numbers. Borrowing from research and journalism,…
Read MoreThe election and your investments
The election and your investments The season many in our county dread is upon us. Even though most often no damage will occur, it’s hard to stop ourselves from wondering if this will be one of those times when our lives will be altered by outside forces. We’re not talking about hurricane season – although…
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