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Posts tagged with: credit union
Feb 27, 2025    |      0 comments

Nope, Not Sold

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I thought it was a done deal. Handshake offer. Continued messages for about a week. Plans to go to the bank to provide docs for his loan. More plans to come by and see the house. Lawyer engaged to draw up contract.

And then, a text message, “My son doesn’t want it.” He has a 16 year old son who evidently wanted to be close to “markets”.

Thankfully, I hadn’t let the handshake offer really change anything. Kept it listed. Kept doing the work I had planned to do. And followed some great BAD advice on getting betters pics, changes to the house, etc.

So with new pics and an agreement with a lovely realtor, the house listing will change from FSBO tomorrow to listed by an agent. And I will leave for Texas and not think another thing about the sale of the house…for at least a couple of weeks. (Unless she calls me with an offer, of course.)

I am so relieved.

Sticking to the Plan

This trip to Texas has been planned for several months; although, the dates have been in flux a few times. There are two primary drivers for this particular trip:

  • Jake is going to live with Gymnast. After a year and a half in Texas, Gymnast now has his own apartment and is ready for his dog. Both Princess and I are excited to pass off the responsibility to him. And I know Jake will love being with his dad again.

    Gymnast and Jake on Jake's first day home

    Gymnast and Jake – may be the day we adopted Jake. He has always been Gymnast’s dog.

  • I will be helping my dad with my mom’s care and giving him a much needed break. After two and a half years on hospice, the physical, mental, and emotional strain is definitely taking its toll on my family. We love my mom and wouldn’t make any different choice. But 24 hour care is hard. And for an extended and unknown amount of time, well, I’m sure you see the point.

For How Long

There is no timeline now. I made two separate 3 week trips last fall. My responsibilities here in Georgia especially the cost of boarding dogs limited those trips. That is no longer the case.

  • Cali’s boarding has been covered by a barter. And if it becomes too long, Princess will get her and care for her until I return. (When this trip was first planned, Princess was going to keep Cali for the entirety of the trip. This just takes some burden off her, while I take Jake off her hands. Cali is her favorite of our dogs.)
  • The house will be on the market with a realtor. There is no reason I must return except to do a final clean out once I know the house is sold. I am leaving my bed and a recliner in the house, so if I do return, I can live here for the time needed.

So until the time of either the house selling or Princess graduation in May, there is nothing that requires a specific timeframe for my return to Georgia. I honestly do not think I will stay longer than 3-4 weeks. But it is an option now. All my ducks are in a row.

All of my work is remote. So making money while travelling either car camping or staying at my parents is not a concern.

Feb 26, 2025    |      0 comments

3 Ways to Avoid Unnecessary Debt

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Avoiding unnecessary debt is a crucial aspect of maintaining financial stability and long-term success. Many individuals and businesses find themselves burdened by debt that could have been prevented with careful planning, research, and proactive decision-making. Whether investing in a business, managing workplace inefficiencies, or preparing for unforeseen financial obligations, taking strategic steps can help mitigate the risk of accumulating avoidable debt. By implementing smart financial habits and staying informed about potential liabilities, individuals can safeguard themselves against financial strain. This article outlines three key strategies to help you navigate financial decisions wisely and prevent unnecessary debt from negatively impacting your future.

1. Conducting Thorough Research Before Investing

Taking on debt can be a daunting prospect, especially when looking into business investments. Before diving into owning a franchise, it’s crucial to get the franchise disclosure document (FDD). This document offers invaluable insights into the potential franchise, making it essential to conduct thorough research and seek advice from professionals you trust before committing any investments.

Complement your due diligence by analyzing the financial statements, performance records, and market positioning of the franchise. Consulting reliable professional advisors can provide guidance and help identify red flags you might miss on your own. This diligence is critical, as uninformed investments can lead to significant, and sometimes overwhelming, debt.

By investing time in understanding all aspects of a business, you safeguard yourself against rushing into commitments that can result in unwanted financial strain. Reading beyond the franchisor’s promises allows you to make an informed decision. Familiarizing yourself thoroughly with the business landscape ensures you aren’t blindsided by unforeseen expenses or liabilities, which can contribute to considerable debt over time.

2. Fostering Effective Workplace Communication

Debt can also originate from unexpected sources, such as workplace inefficiencies. According to studies published by Inc., errors, miscommunications, and conflicts at work could indirectly cost you up to 18% of your annual salary payouts. By addressing these inefficiencies through improved communication and clearer processes, you can prevent avoidable financial losses that can accumulate over time.

Fostering an environment of open dialogue and team collaboration helps in reducing misunderstandings and errors. Encouraging employees to voice their concerns and providing them with a platform for constructive feedback can greatly mitigate conflicts. These improvements enhance workplace harmony, indirectly contributing to financial stability and the reduction of potential hidden costs that translate into debt.

Implementing comprehensive training programs and regular communication workshops further enhances overall operational efficiency. These initiatives ensure everyone is aligned, reducing the risk of costly mistakes. With a more harmonious work environment, you reduce the potential for salary strains that can lead to unnecessary debt.

3. Preparing for Unexpected Financial Obligations

The legal system can sometimes be a source of unexpected financial obligations. Bail bonds, for example, are an area where costs can quickly escalate if not handled wisely. As reported by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, bail bond agencies typically charge a 10% fee of the total bail amount, in addition to collateral.

Keeping informed about the financial implications of legal situations can help in preparing for these potential expenses. Understanding the terms and conditions of bail bonds, like the required collateral and additional fees, allows you to budget effectively. Managing these obligations prudently helps in preventing unforeseen debt.

Developing a comprehensive financial plan that includes potential legal expenses is a proactive approach to managing debt. By preparing yourself financially for sudden legal requirements, you protect your savings and assets. Ultimately, such preparedness helps you avoid falling into deeper financial obligations that are unnecessarily burdensome.

Avoiding unnecessary debt requires diligence, proactive planning, and effective communication. By conducting thorough research before investing, fostering a transparent workplace, and preparing for unexpected financial obligations, you can safeguard your financial well-being. Making informed decisions and staying financially prepared will help you prevent avoidable debt and ensure a more secure and stable future.

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