Articles

The Top Ten Most Affordable Home Improvement Projects

By | Articles, Home Buying, Lifestyle | No Comments
So, you’re feeling inspired by Chip and Joanna, huh? Nice! Home improvement can be fun…or a total nightmare…depending on how you approach it. We’ve all been enchanted by the adorable duo and their magical way of making home improvement look easy—and even entertaining! The side we don’t see as much is the stress, budgeting, and failures. The great news is it CAN be a wonderful, rewarding process. As long as you have a plan, a realistic budget, and the right team backing you up. Your team includes trusted contractors, your bank if a loan is required, and a trusted realtor...
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Financing a Zero Energy Home Remodel

Financing an Energy Efficient Home Remodel

By | Articles, Going Green, Technology | No Comments
In a few months, our newest branch in Trinity will open as Achieva Credit Union's first net-zero branch. It could be the first of many and undoubtedly comes after many hours of careful planning. The news makes a lot of our members wonder about their own ways to go green. Would a zero energy home remodel make sense? Is it affordable?  In this article, we explore the details in-depth. We'll discuss ways to finance a zero energy home remodel and the long-term benefits related to the earth-friendly investment. Why build a net-zero branch? First, let's uncover the science behind it....
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Buyer Beware: The Loopholes of Online Purchase Protection

Buyer Beware: The Loopholes of Online Purchase Protection

By | Articles, Finance, Technology | No Comments
Consumerism through the internet is on an uptick. Now, before we get started, keep in mind that the majority of eCommerce transactions are safe. However, there are times when misled buyers must register in an online purchase protection policy. We've analyzed popular web-based platforms for loopholes. Below is everything you need to know before clicking submit.  Facebook purchasing policies and safeguards According to Facebook, their online purchase protection policy states that the buyer should make sure that the purchase is eligible before proceeding. Purchases deemed ineligible won't be able to fall under the safeguards of Facebook's shield. So, what does...
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How to Help Your High School Graduate Manage Money

How to Help Your High School Graduate Manage Money

By | Articles, College Life, Finance | No Comments
The act of budgeting seems for the well-established; however, on the contrary, proper wealth development starts before adulthood. Regardless of where your household is the financial timeline, there are ways to help your high school graduate manage money. If your student recently received their diploma, be sure to review our fiscal planning tips below. Financial advice for high school students Preparing for a stable financial future includes creating a solid savings plan. To help your high school graduate manage money, instill the importance of setting aside between 5-10% of their earnings. The practice will give them a benchmark for later accomplishments. ...
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Simple Ways to Build Home Equity for Under $1000

Simple Ways to Build Home Equity for Under $1000

By | Articles, Finance | No Comments
The key to developing wealth is through wise investments. Savvy homeowners show financial stability by making timely payments on their mortgage; however, it doesn't end there. In addition to increasing their property value, they also know how to build home equity. All of these factors are important when leveraging a HELOC, or accumulating assets.  When you build home equity, you secure a resource for the future, all of which you can borrow cash against later. If you're a homeowner, ready to make the next move, make sure to view our tips below. You'll see three ways that $1000 can boost...
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Common Mistakes of Shopping Less Frequently

Common Mistakes of Shopping Less Frequently

By | Articles, Finance | No Comments
The statistics regarding the average 2020 grocery trip show many new developments. As Americans are shopping less frequently in general, they are also creating an onslaught of common mistakes, most stemming from managing their household inventory. People choosing to go to the store less often focus their thoughts on bulk shopping. It is a critical change, yet it remains to be masted.  In a recent poll, the reasons for shopping less frequently involve avoiding contact with the Coronavirus. Although a wise decision, it can be tricky for most to balance between buying the wrong things or buying too much.  Changes in...
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The Pros and Cons of RV Travel

The Pros and Cons of RV Travel

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The summer season often includes expectations of exploring the outdoors. Jumping into a fresh spring in the middle of a hot day can feel like a dream come true. Owning a recreational vehicle makes staying at a campsite easier in some ways, yet there are still many things to consider. What are the pros and cons of RV travel? Below is a comprehensive guide to owning a #homeonwheels.  What kind of RV should I buy? Step one of RV travel includes knowing which RV you should choose. Most first-timers start by renting a camping trailer to get a feel for...
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Is the Traditional Workplace Office Obsolete?

Is the Traditional Workplace Office Obsolete?

By | Articles, Business | No Comments
As economists discuss current trends, they commonly point out the shift regarding the workplace. Previously considered conventional, paying for space for workers to gather seems more like a financial burden in today's times. Did the pandemic make the office obsolete? Or was it unnecessary all along? How the office was invented The office's origin is simple. In the past, individuals did not have the proper resources to conduct their jobs. Employers owned the equipment, and the employees went to work to use it. The creation of the office provided a way to give workers tools, as well as ensure production....
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Taking advantage of student loan forbearance

Taking Advantage of Student Loan Forbearance

By | Articles, College Life, Finance | No Comments
On March 27, 2020, the president signed the CARES Act into law. As a result, loan holders provided student loan forbearance for millions of accounts. Ordinarily, a forbearance suspends monthly payments yet still accumulates interest. Under the CARES Act, interest on student loans will not accrue. The setup grants financial relief for students across the entire United States. While the CARES Act helps tremendously, there are other tactics you can use to manage your student loan. Knowing all of your options, and creating a plan, will help you get ahead. How to pay off a student loan quickly First and...
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How to Apply for COVID-19 Financial Assistance

How to Apply for COVID-19 Assistance

By | Articles, COVID19, Finance | No Comments
There are multiple programs for COVID-19 financial assistance. Below is a list of resources available nationwide. Food and nourishment Last month, the United States Department of Agriculture set new COVID-19 financial assistance flexibilities in all 50 states and territories. It was to ensure that families who need food can get it during the national response to the Coronavirus. Additionally, the USDA partnered with the Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty, McLane Global, PepsiCo, and others to deliver more than 1,000,000 meals a week. Families can receive prepackaged meals, as well as fresh produce, depending on their location. For more information on nourishment...
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