Frequently, parents will be encouraged to give their home to their children so the government won’t take it to pay any nursing home bills.  This is usually very bad advice.  Why is this not an appropriate strategy? more…

Most long-term capital gains are taxed at 15% for 2010.  This rate is scheduled to increase to 20% in 2011.  Unfortunately, we need to say “most” because there are some exceptions as follows:

• Taxpayers in the 10% and 15% ordinary bracket―0%
• Certain depreciation recapture on real estate—25%
• Collectibles—28% more…

The difficulties in the housing market have been well documented.  If you have been trying to sell your home and have been unsuccessful, here's a tip. 

Don't reduce the asking price (again)…raise the commission! more…

Recently my son turned 18.  In Connecticut this is considered the age of majority.  In other words, he can make his own decisions.  Well, that's what the law says.  However, he's still living under my roof, so he’s got to deal with me.  It's probably more accurate, though, to say that I have to deal with him. more…

Guest Post by Bill T. Daniels, Certified Mortgage Coach

The Federal Reserve's purchases of mortgage-backed securities kept interest rates near historic lows for much of last year.  But within a week of the program's expiration, rates for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages jumped from 5.04 percent to 5.31.  Now many analysts are predicting rates will likely rise as high as 6 percent by early next year.  Here are five other housing trends to watch: more…