We all want financial security, but, wow, it sure does seem like a long way off to most of us, doesn’t it?

It’s hard to stay focused on such a distant goal, so I like to create mental milestones to reach, which are easier to get to and give some sense of satisfaction along the road to financial security.  It’s just breaking the larger goal up into more manageable chunks.

Here are the stages to ensure your financial security: Read More…

What Is Leverage?

When you learn about leverage in school, it usually entails using a lever of some sort to move something heavier that you could not normally move without it. In personal finance terms, the concept is essentially the same: you use debt (other people’s money) as a lever to help do something you couldn’t do without it.

Simply put, it will amplify a gain or loss from an investment you make in something.

A Tried and True Example

The most common form of this in personal finance is Read More…

Congratulations! You’re off to college, where you’ll spend your savings and end up in the biggest debt you’ve ever seen. But you can graduate from university with cash in your pocket and a healthy financial future if you follow some simple, easy rules. Read More…

Here’s an idea you likely won’t ever hear elsewhere…consider not buying a home until you have enough cash to pay for it outright.

You heard that right.  Yes, it would take you many years to do so, but if your personal situation and risk tolerance suits it, this could add a boost to your net worth in the long run.

Some may feel that this is unattainable. Fear not: there is a way that you can get the full amount! Read More…

The Canadian dollar has seen a sharp spike up in recent months, as we’re seeing it get closer to par again. That means opportunities to save money!

Some of these opportunities will happen automatically, as in lower prices on goods you buy that are imported into the country, lower prices on some foods, etc.  Others you will have to think about and decide if it’s worth it for you to explore.

Here’s some ideas to consider: Read More…

We’ve discussed many tips on using TFSAs to improve your cash flow and here are two more important tips to maximize your cash flow, courtesy of CanadianTaxMan, a tax specialist himself. Read More…

The new tax free savings account (TFSA) is a great tool for various reasons.  However, what if none of those reasons applies or appeals to you?  If this is the case, you may want to consider this more, uncommon strategy. Read More…