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Should you prioritize paying off debt or saving for retirement?

If youre younger and have high-interest debt, tackle that first and pay beyond the minimum monthly rate.

Youll be able to stop wasting money on interest and then focus on long-term goals.

If you have low-interest debt but little retirement money, contribute to a 401(k) or IRA first, especially if youre older.

If you have debt with moderate interest rates, some retirement funds and decades left to save, strike a balance.

Consider your circumstances, and figure out what makes sense for you.

When it comes to financial priorities, the answer isnt one-size-fits-all.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Mortgage lenders typically want borrowers to put down 20 percent of the purchase price toward a home. For borrowers who do not have a lot of money for a down payment, it can be difficult to qualify for a mortgage. Some lenders approve mortgages with less money down, but those borrowers are considered a higher risk than those who put down 20 percent. Lenders often require borrowers with lower down payments to obtain private mortgage insurance (PMI). This is insurance provided by a private company that is designed to protect the lender if the borrower is unable to make the monthly mortgage payments.

When Is Private Mortgage Insurance Required?
If you obtain a mortgage through a conventional loan and put down less than 20 percent, the lender will likely require you to purchase PMI. It may also be required if you refinance your mortgage and you have less than 20 percent equity.

In some circumstances, you may be able to obtain a conventional loan with a low down payment that doesn’t require PMI. In that case, you will probably have to pay a higher interest rate. That option may or may not be more expensive than purchasing PMI. Talk to your lender about your specific circumstances and how much each scenario would cost. Also talk to a tax advisor about how paying for private mortgage insurance would affect your taxes and whether you might be better off accepting a higher interest rate to avoid paying for PMI.

If you do not have enough money for a 20 percent down payment, you may be able to qualify for an alternative type of loan, such as one through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Talk to your lender to find out how your down payment, credit score and other factors would affect your payments and whether that would be cheaper than obtaining a loan with PMI.

How Is PMI Paid?
Depending on the lender, you may have one or more options to pay for PMI. Some lenders charge monthly premiums that are added onto the cost of the mortgage. Others require a one-time premium paid at the time of closing, and some require both an upfront fee and monthly payments. Some lenders allow borrowers to choose the option that works best for them, while others offer only one method of payment.

Carefully Weigh Your Options
If you do not have enough money for a 20 percent down payment, you may still be able to obtain a mortgage, but you could have to pay extra for private mortgage insurance. Consider various options and talk to your lender about how much a variety of scenarios would cost you, both monthly and over the course of several years, to decide which type of loan and down payment amount are best for you.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

A damaged roof could deter buyers, causing your house to stay on the market for longer than youd like.

What Is the Roofs Current Condition?

If the roof appears damaged, have it inspected by a professional.

Knowing the cost of repairs can help you decide what to do.

Should You Replace the Roof or Sell the House As-Is?

If your house needs major work, buyers will be reluctant to make an offer.

If your roof has damage, it should be replaced before you sell the house.

If you cant afford to replace the roof, you might be able to sell your house, but be ready to accept an offer that’s lower than you would like.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Contemporary homes can be a challenge to furnish. While their clean lines and sleek materials are often visually striking, its all too easy to lose the inviting feel of a cozy living space. If youre looking for contemporary furniture to fill out your new home without sacrificing comfort, these luxurious collections cannot be missed!

Roche Bobois Nativ Collection

The work of Paris-based designer Raphael Navot, Roche Bobois Nativ Collection is defined by gentle lines and whimsical geometric shapes. Plush sofas, armchairs, and daybeds are underlined by soft down material and come in earth tones that lend warmth to any room. As far as furniture goes, you wont find a better combination of contemporary form and artisanal craftsmanship.

Fendi Casa

Cozy yet sophisticated, Fendi Casa has become an iconic collection found in the most exclusive settings around the world, including the Monaco Yacht Club. Encompassing every area of the home, from living and dining rooms to kitchen and bedrooms, the furnishings exude clean lines with plush materials, like velvet and nubuck leather.

B&B Italia Outdoor Collection

For a touch of visual flair on your terrace, the Outdoor Collection from B&B Italia effortlessly blends style, comfort, and weather resistant materials. From loungers to canopy sofas that provide shade, its the perfect way to decorate a chic seating area around your pool or fire pit.

Vitra Home

Vitra Home exhibits contemporary cool without feeling cold. They like to get creative with surprising and funky shapes that are sure to stand out, while providing exceptional comfort. The lounge chairs in particular exemplify bold design that can elevate the aesthetic of any room in the house.

Bottega Veneta Home

Bottega Venetas Home Collection is like a masterclass in making modern design feel understated and inviting. Originally launched by the Italian design houses longtime creative director, Tomas Maier, the collection has grown into a full range of offerings, including beds, lighting, and cashmere blankets, all of which are stunning. The innovative textures and colors bridge the gap between design and high-fashion for a collection that is certain to enrich contemporary and traditional homes alike.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.