Money & Finance

Sitting on your couch, channeling through HGTV, you’ve probably seen those miraculous makeovers where dilapidated houses turn into regal residences. And you might think, “I could do that, right?”

Well, we dove headfirst into that dream, snagging a nearly perfect two-decade-old house in Prescott, thinking just a few nips and tucks would do. But you’re in for a roller coaster when you’re your contractor during the post-pandemic mayhem, with the supply chain in shambles and workers scarce. They told us appliances might take a year—or two—to arrive. They showed up in three weeks, and we couldn’t install them before the warranty was proofed. Go figure.

Embarking on a home remodel isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a head-on collision between your vision and your wallet, demanding creativity and a grip on your finances. First, define what you’re up against. Is it a splash of paint here, a knockdown wall there, or are you gutting the place? Set an actual budget, then add 20 percent when life laughs at your plans.

s you embark on the beautiful journey of marriage, intertwining your lives also means weaving together your financial futures. Understanding and managing finances as a couple is a necessity—and an opportunity to build a stronger, more secure future together.

“Año nuevo, vida nueva” (a new year, a new life) reflects our desire for renewal as the year changes. However, genuine transformation comes from within, not just from a calendar shift. Think of life like a garden. Rather than scattering seeds haphazardly, meaningful change involves careful planning, nurturing, and intention.

Financial wellness goes beyond bank balances and investment portfolios—it’s your roadmap to a fulfilling life journey and the retirement you’ve always dreamed of. Achieving the ideal equilibrium of earnings, expenditures, and savings ensures a comfortable present and paves the way for a promising future.

Working for one of the largest financial institutions in the country, James excelled in helping others reach their financial goals. However, he knew independence was the key to truly going above and beyond for the people he served. He wanted to work for his clients’ best interests, not the company’s. With a firm commitment to the principles of his fiduciary duty, James founded Victory Wealth Services in Prescott

James leads an experienced team with the singular focus of helping clients achieve victory. He understands that building and implementing a successful financial plan requires a collaborative effort. To that end, he assembled a team of professionals who share his unwavering commitment to their clients.

Many people dream about being able to see the world and experience its many wonders. Sipping wine in Paris. Watching the waves in the Bahamas. Connecting with the history of Rome. But travel isn’t just a luxury for the young. Many retirees also enjoy the freedom of travel without the dread of returning to the office after a relaxing getaway. With careful planning, your retirement years can be an adventure.

Cryptocurrency (also called digital currency) is an alternative form of payment that uses an encryption algorithm. A digital wallet on your computer or hand-held device holds encryption keys that confirm your identity, allowing you to gain access to your digital currency. Losing those could mean also losing your cryptocurrency forever.

Director of Community and Public Relations with Findlay Auto Group, Liberty Casarez, offers some important information about the car industry, as well as her car-buying tips for 2023.  Casarez, who has been employed with Findlay for eight years says, “In recent years, we’ve had to encounter changes like many businesses, and 2023 will still come with its own set of challenges. The good news, however, is that we will see an increase in new car production along with the introduction of more EV models for sale.  At Findlay, we have always focused on our community and our guests, and the coming years will bring exceptionally exciting times for watching our industry evolve.” 

Getting married? When planning a legal union, it pays for couples to consider the financial aspects of marriage just as deeply as they do romance.

If you have spent more time shopping for a dress or tux than talking about shared finances, make time now for this discussion. Otherwise, the twists and turns in the financial road ahead may come as a surprise.

A cyber-attack can appear in a variety of different ways. It is hard to stay ahead of the “bad guys,” who seem to be able to work around any security measure put in place. It is a good idea to pause for a few seconds, gather your thoughts, and be cautious about anyone that requests personal information from you, no matter what communication method they choose.

Below are several methods being used to try and gain access to your private information.

Nothing causes the heart rate to spike like finding out you’ve overdrawn your bank account.  Or having your car quit working when you know you have nothing left in your savings account with which to repair or replace it.

Events like these can cause anxiety and stress, which can negatively impact physical and mental health.