As you plan for the year ahead, is an investment checkup leading your list of resolutions? Taking time for a detailed financial review — including retirement planning, college savings, and your tax situation — may help you progress toward your long-term goals.

As prices of new cars continue to climb, more and more people are considering leasing as a viable financing option. Although leasing is generally more expensive than financing, there are certain advantages to leasing a vehicle. A lease will typically result in a lower initial cash outlay and lower monthly payments.

Home improvement has become big business in the United States. American households spend billions on home improvements annually. It’s no small wonder that renovations in recent years have become more upscale, and home remodeling businesses have expanded to meet the demand for more sophisticated projects.

Waiting in a winding airport security checkpoint line is just one of many potential headaches today’s travelers experience. Worrying about what to pack, what kind of identification is required, and how much cash to bring are yet others.

No matter what your level of investment experience or sophistication, you may benefit from developing a relationship with a financial advisor.

Paying down debt can be a daunting task. But with a little self-discipline and some faith in yourself, your financial picture can change for the better in about six months.

Even though more than half of all new mortgages issued in recent years have been for homeowners refinancing their existing home loans, the decision to refinance isn’t necessarily the wisest strategy for everyone.

Many baby boomers are finding that their aging parents are in need of health care assistance.

For most new car buyers, the question of whether or not to finance their purchase is academic — with the average new car price approaching $30,000, some sort of loan is usually necessary.

The first step to getting a good deal on a new or used car is to be informed before you negotiate with a dealer. New and used car cost guides are available in bookstores, libraries, and online. These will help you research prospective models, their factory invoice prices, and the costs of various options.