Don’t look now because before you know it the season of giving — and spending — will be upon us. Don’t wait until the credit card bills arrive in January to think about how you’re going to pay for your holiday spending. Start now and consider these planning tips.

Some people also consider transferring ownership for estate-planning reasons. If you are planning to bequeath the family homestead to your child, transferring title while you are alive may enable you to reduce the taxable value of your estate.

Getting value may not be your first priority when planning a vacation, but it’s probably an important consideration. With some planning, you can have a great time and still avoid breaking your budget.

In an endeavor as critical as managing your investments, it is prudent to handle some situations with the help of a competent professional advisor.

Being part of the college planning process can be very educational for children, as it presents them with valuable financial lessons for the future.

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.