Helping Your Teenagers Develop Strong Financial Habits

Our children are the future. That's why teaching them how to manage their finances is essential. The current generation of teenagers is frowned upon by the media for their record-breaking consumption and eye-watering spending habits. 

But, is it that they spend too much, or have simply yet to understand the teachings of financial literacy?

Guiding our teens to understand the importance of managing money is key to setting them up for future financial security. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. 

They will likely indulge in excessive spending occasionally, but there will come a stage where they reflect on their habits and realise their money is better spent elsewhere. In this blog, we will share how to teach your teens better financial habits.

Lead by example

First and foremost, if you wish to see your children effectively manage their current finances responsibly, you need to lead by example. Perhaps you too are someone who occasionally splurges on shopping sprees and unnecessary purchases. 

Reflect on your spending before diverging your attention to your children. They are a product of their upbringing, if they have been exposed to endless spending, they may be under the impression that they can do the same. 

Cut back on your shopping, and only buy with disposable income for necessary things, such as saving for family holidays, or investing in college funds for your kids.

Teach them the value of items

The ‘overconsumption habits of teens today need to be put to rest. We can't place the entirety of the blame on the youngsters, with constant marking and advertising for products they simply don't need to be displayed on their phones. 

Cheaply made products with that. We need to teach our children the true value of things, items which are well made and can't be bought and uncared for. For example, if your teen is looking to start their driving lessons, help them in any way possible to save for a car. 

Perhaps you can buy them a car, but it will be a much more valuable lesson in showing them how to save for one themselves. They will learn to understand the value of things and save or invest in quality rather than quality. 

Their fast fashion hauls will be put to a halt, and they will invest in better-quality hijabs instead.

Set monetary saving goals with them

Following on from encouraging them to save for a car, be the extra support they need and set a list of savings goals with them. If they have holidays they wish to take with their friends, or hopes of attending a college far from home, help them to create calculated savings goals. 

Assess how much this purchase would be, and estimate how much they can save within the allotted time frame. It doesn't matter whether they have a job or you simply pay them for house chores, teach them to take charge of their finances, but be sure to guide them on the right path.

Introduce them to investing

Investing is a solid foundation for a stable financial future. Teaching your children how to invest in stocks, shares and commodities at a young age can be the key to unlocking financial abundance. 

There are hundreds of videos and materials that are designed to teach teens and beginners the fundamentals of investing. Share with them different creators on TikTok who discuss the matter, with this app turning into some of the most used search engines of the last year for Gen-Zs.

Is Paying For Surgery in Installments Bad For Credit?

Let's face it, surgery can be expensive. An investment such as surgery requires in-depth decision-making and a reflection on your priorities. If you are based in locations where healthcare is not state-funded, you often don't have a choice to spend thousands on private medical care. 

Or, if you are based in the UK and are seeking plastic surgery in London, this is not covered by the NHS, and you may need to pay a large sum.

With all these things considered, people often resort to finance to pay for their treatments. If you have never used finance options to pay for medical care, it's natural to feel cautious about how this might impact your credit score. 

In this blog, we will share the pros and cons of using finance to cover your surgical fees. Remember to put yourself first, and don't let the opinions of others influence your decision-making.

The Pros Of Using Credit

Allows you to spread the cost

Firstly, one of the main pros of using credit is that it allows you to spread the finance cost. Paying for surgery in one sum may lead to you paying £10,000 in one go. 

For some, this cost may be achievable, but for others, this can be their life savings. For example, if you are looking to retire and need this money to allow you to relocate, this can halt your plans and require several years to regenerate this amount. 

Spreading the cost across and agreed terms will allow you to manage your outgoings effectively, leaving you with enough money to get by.

Variable terms

Another benefit of using finance to fund surgery is that there are variable terms available. By this, we mean lenders can differ their payment terms to suit your current affordability. For example, if you require just 12 months to spread the cost, this will likely be an option for you. 

Some lenders may even have extended payment terms up to 6 years, allowing you to continue your day-to-day without the thought of a lump sum needing to be paid.

Automated payments

Another pro of using finance to fund surgery is the process is often seamless, with automated payments. A key element of using finance is your ability to pay back the required amount monthly. 

Direct debits can be put in place to allow automated payments, leaving you peace of mind that you are paying your finances on time and gradually paying back the loan.

There are medical-specific lenders

The process of finding a credible lender can be difficult and time-consuming. Your medical practitioner whom you plan to have your surgery with will potentially have a credible lender they work with that specialises in healthcare finance.

Paying on time can improve your credit

If you don’t currently have credit (e.g. your mortgage is paid off/ you don't have anything financed), using finance and paying on time can improve your credit score. 

This is beneficial, especially if your credit score has dropped and you’re looking to relocate in retirement. Showing a successful history of repayments will give you a better chance of being considered for finance in other areas.

The Cons Of Using Credit

High interest for missed payments

Finance is not simply ‘free money’. If you wish to see credit for surgery, you need to treat it as if you’re paying a close friend their money back. Payments need to be made on time, in the full amount, and sometimes even in excess if you can. 

If you miss one of your monthly repayments, you can expect high-interest charges. These charges will keep on accumulating if you fail to make payments, so be sure that you can pay the finance back each month before considering credit.

An additional monthly expense

What are your current monthly expenses? Do you have a mortgage to pay? Car finance to fund? And what percentage of your wage do your bills currently account for? Be sure that you can afford to pay back finance as a monthly expense. 

Calculate the return % that the lender is asking for, and consider if this will be a burden to your monthly costs.

Bottom Line

Overall, using finance to fund surgery is neither good nor bad. The key is assessing whether you can make the monthly payments in full across the allocated termed contact. 

Using finance to fund surgery should not be a decision based on initiation. Spending time calculating how much you can afford monthly, in addition to measuring whether finance is a necessity is a key indicator as to whether surgery is worth the investment. 

On one hand, you can’t put a price on being in good health, on the other hand, the cost of healthcare continues to rise. Cosmetic surgeries such as facelifts in London may come at a cost, but if achievable within your current earnings to spread the cost, it may be worth the consideration.

4 Financial Habits That Can Harm Your Credit Score

Your credit score is the key to financial freedom. But certain financial habits can harm your credit score, making it harder to secure loans, refinance for lower interest rates, or buy a car. 

For people over 50, staying on top of your credit score is crucial to maintaining financial security in your golden years. 

Here are a few common habits to avoid and some practical tips to help you stay on track.

Not Tracking Your Spending

Without keeping tabs on your spending, it’s easy to overdraw your checking account or rack up unnecessary debt. And did you know that there’s a connection between your checking account and your credit score? 

Overdraft fees are not typically linked to your credit score, but they can harm it in some cases. Setting a monthly budget and using online tools to monitor your expenses can help you manage your finances and avoid accidental overdrafts.

Ignoring or Missing Payments

Late payments are one of the biggest factors that damage credit scores. Missing deadlines, even by a couple of days, can result in late fees and a drop in your score if the payment is overdue by more than 30 days. 

Automated payment systems are a simple solution to ensure you never miss a due date again. Whether it’s for your credit card, mortgage, or utility bill, consistently making payments is one of the easiest ways to protect your financial standing.

Applying for Too Much Credit

It can be tempting to apply for multiple credit cards to take advantage of promotions, but this habit can be harmful. Each application results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can lower your score over time. 

Try to space out credit applications and only apply for credit when it’s necessary. Being selective in this way ensures you’re seen as a responsible borrower in the eyes of lenders.

Not Checking Your Credit Report Regularly

Your credit report holds all the details that contribute to your score. Errors and fraudulent activity can sneak in if you’re not vigilant. Checking your credit report at least once a year through free services allows you to spot inaccuracies and dispute them. 

Being proactive ensures that your credit score reflects your true financial habits without errors dragging it down.

The Impact of Small Changes on Your Credit Score

Even the most responsible savers can fall into these financial habits that can harm your credit score over time. But the good news is that with a little effort and consistency, you can replace these habits with better ones. 

Monitor your spending and review your credit report to achieve the financial stability you deserve. Start today, and your credit score will thank you tomorrow!

How To Protect Your Money From Economic Collapse

Economic downturns, while unpredictable, present huge challenges that can impact your wealth and long-term financial well-being. History shows that stock markets can plunge, banks may falter, and currencies risk devaluation during such periods.

Protecting your financial resources from economic collapse isn’t just about holding on to what you have today; it’s about promoting stability and growth tomorrow. 

A complete approach involves diversifying across various asset classes, understanding global economic indicators, and making wise investments in tangible assets like precious metals or real estate. Learn more ahead.

Diversify Your Investment Portfolio

A diverse investment portfolio is your first line of defense against economic downturns. You can reduce the risk of severe losses by spreading investments across various asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities. 

Diversification cushions the impact of a market crash in one sector by balancing it with stability in another. This approach mitigates risk and provides more consistent returns over time.

Maintain a Healthy Savings Buffer

Having a healthy savings buffer is essential during periods of economic uncertainty. Aim to save at least three to six months of living expenses to cover unexpected financial challenges. 

A robust savings account acts as an emergency fund that helps you meet your daily needs without dipping into your investment assets. Prioritize building this reserve to maintain financial control, even in the face of economic difficulty.

Consider Individual Retirement Accounts

Retirement accounts, such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs), are pivotal when aiming to insulate your finances from economic instability. IRAs can hedge against a market crash, as they can endure long-term financial fluctuations and give you different investment opportunities. 

Taking advantage of tax benefits and low fees enables you to contribute consistently to your retirement fund for growth over time.

Invest in Precious Metals

Precious metals like gold and silver are safe options during economic turmoil. Unlike currencies, which inflation can damage, precious metals tend to hold their value when markets fluctuate. 

Allocating a portion of your portfolio to these tangible assets can provide a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation, preserving purchasing power amidst an economic collapse.

Explore Treasury Securities

Treasury securities, including bonds and T-bills, are government instruments popular for their stability. Investing in these options provides a steady income stream and offers security in periods of market volatility. 

While returns may be lower than equities, their security is a trade-off worth considering during uncertain economic periods. These securities are low-risk investments that grant peace of mind while still providing income.

Implementing these strategies to protect your money from economic collapse can help you safeguard your financial resources against multiple uncertainties. The key is to take proactive measures, diversify your investments, and remain informed about market conditions.

Your Guide to the Best States for Retirement on a Budget

While it’s important to watch your finances, retiring on a budget doesn’t mean giving up on living comfortably. Many states in the US offer a great combination of affordability, amenities, warm weather, and a welcoming retirement community. 

If you’re uncertain about where you’d like to spend your golden years due to monetary restrictions, here are a few popular choices across the country. 

Consider this your guide to the best states for retirement on a budget.

New Mexico               

                             
New Mexico is a great retirement destination for many people. This state offers plenty of great things for residents:

• A low cost of living
• Stunning natural beauty
• Cultural and historical sites
• A mild climate
• Active retirement communities
• Hiking
• Camping
• Fishing
• Swimming
• Great local cuisine
• Art galleries
• Festivals and other celebrations

Florida

Florida has been the retirement state in the US for decades. It offers warm weather, no state income tax, affordable housing, and a culture geared toward retirees. You’ll stretch your savings for far longer when residing in this state. 

Choose from hundreds of retirement friendly communities, recreational activities galore, and quality healthcare for any need. There are plenty of theme parks, resorts, and golf courses to keep life fun and interesting.

Tennessee

Looking for a low cost of living combined with plenty of charm? Tennessee offers southern hospitality alongside affordability. With warm weather, no state income tax, and low prices, Tennessee is a great place for budget-conscious people to retire. 

Tennessee features great urbanity as well as rural beauty, with exciting cities like Nashville and Memphis presenting music, cuisine, and culture. Natural wonders, such as the Great Smoky Mountains, are full of lovely scenery and activities, like hiking and camping.

Arizona

Arizona isn’t just a desert—though the desert remains a stark and beautiful landscape to enjoy and explore. Warm weather, low taxes, and affordable property make this state a big draw for retirees seeking to make the most of their savings. 

Active senior adults will appreciate the state’s many trails and historical landmarks, which will keep you moving and never bored. The state also presents multiple resorts to live in or visit, where you can enjoy swimming, golfing, fishing, or lounging.

Retirement on a Budget Tips

Having trouble making your decision? Here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Ensure the state has accessible and affordable healthcare services. Proximity to hospitals and specialists is a big consideration when looking for housing.
• Consider states with no income tax or states that don’t tax Social Security benefits.
• Retirement is more enjoyable in places with activities and resources that suit your lifestyle, such as parks, recreational centers, or cultural attractions.
• Spend time in your prospective retirement destination to get a feel for the daily living experience!

 With this guide to the best states for retirement on a budget, you can enjoy a fulfilling retirement while making the most of your savings.

Buying a Home In 2025: What You Should Know

With Labour being voted into power this year, the question of how our lives will change from every aspect comes to mind. 

Labour has always been a strong advocate for the community but with changes already being scheduled for 2025, it’s hard to believe they are helping families and first-time buyers get a foot in.

It’s essential for people who aren’t just first-time buyers to understand what will be changing to get ahead of the game. While some of these will be predictions, some of them will be factual and are in effect, changing.

Mortgage Rates

The projected base rate for 2025 is anticipated to be around 3.75%. As of October 31, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was around 6.72%. 

Based on present economic data and projections, it’s said that there are some reductions in mortgage rates, though it’s very likely it won't provide home buyers with any significant savings on their monthly bills.

While the data is widely available, no one can say for certain where mortgage rates will go in 2025; they could remain as is, go down, or continue to increase, which is not ideal for anyone. 

We hope to see the government have some influence on helping drive down mortgage rates.

Stamp Duty

With the recent announcement on stamp duty, it appears that this seems to be the talk of the town when talking about buying homes from the 1st of April 2025. 

Labour has decided to reduce the property price, which is liable for stamp duty fees.

What we mean by this is that according to the government, first-time buyers purchasing anything worth about £425,000 were liable for stamp duty; this has been reduced to £300,000. 

While this might not be a huge concern for first-time buyers depending on where you live in the UK, it’s become a lot more of a concern for second and third-time buyers.

If you are planning on relocating or upsizing, buying your second home is crucial. Unless the value of the home is less than £125,000, you are liable to pay a stamp duty fee. For example, if you buy a second home for £295,000, you will pay a total of £4,750.

Home Prices

So with all the stamp duty fees in mind, it’s interesting to know if house prices are moving up; if they do, this means there are few options for first-time buyers to buy without having to pay an extra £5,000 to buy a home. 

Experts have said that home prices are likely to increase into 2025; however, according to data, it’s essential to predict exactly how much. 

Taking the data from a range of organisations such as Morgan Stanley, the National Association of Realtors and so forth the prices are expected to increase between 2% and 4%.

This is making it harder for people to save through stamp duty relief, buy in areas where their family and jobs are located, but also for first-time buyers to help them get a stable residence and investment.

Is Now a Good Time To Buy?

Ideally, you would purchase when mortgage rates and home prices are both at their lowest. Since it's unlikely that you'll pace the market precisely, you should think about a pricing point that works for you for both. 

Forecasts and available data can be used to guide your decision. Despite a modest increase in February, mortgage rates have been declining since the summer. The average two-year fixed rate mortgage rate has decreased and is currently just above 6%.

Remember that purchasing a home will probably be one of your largest financial obligations, if not the largest. Therefore, the moment can be appropriate for you if you've saved up enough money and you find a home in a neighbourhood where you'll be pleased for many years.

Waiting to see what happens in the market in the hopes of saving an unknown amount of money can be outweighed by the advantages of living in a home that you have chosen and can modify to suit your needs. 

Once you have your home all the things like purchasing cushion covers and decor can come with time.

Doing some scenario planning and taking a comprehensive look at your personal and financial circumstances are crucial. Are you planning to get married, have kids, or get a dog, or do you have any other plans that could impact your future income and where you wish to live?