Good article

If you would like an easy to read recap of what the heck has happened to our economy over the last year and a half that has shot us into this recession, you need to read this article from Junior Achievement.

CFP

Last week, I got the good news that I passed my CFP ( CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER) exam. The journey to acheive this took me two years, I began my studies in the beginning of 2007. This certification requires that you pass 6 modules before you can sit for the comprehensive test that ultimately gives you the CFP title. The modules include Principals of Financial Planning, Insurance, Income Tax, Retirement Planning, Investment Planning and Estate. Each module consists of about 10 books of information. Soo with working 50-60 hours a week and everyday life, it can take some time to get through it all.
In the fall of 2008, I discovered the Ken Zahn program which was very helpful at getting me prepared for the final. You can visit his website at www.kenzahn.com. I highly recommend his program if you are looking to get this certification in a decent amount of time.
So, once the CFP board confirms that I am a college grad and have 3 years of work history, I can start using the designation, and I can't be more excited! I'm hoping it will help my practice aquire more high value clients- as most smart investors look for an advisor that is a CFP.
I was also happy to discover that only 26% of CFP's are female, and 3% are in the age range of 20-29! You can read more about the CFP designation at www.cfp.net.

Uncle Sam, may I refinance or not?

Many Americans bought a house that they now owe more on than it is worth, and are being crushed by payments and can't sell. Obama has come up with some solutions, one of them being The Home Affordable Refinance plan: here is the scoop~

While mortgage rates are now at historic lows, many homeowners with mortgages owned by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac are unable to refinance their higher-rate mortgages because they have lost equity in their properties due to falling home prices. Under current rules, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac cannot guarantee a mortgage that exceeds 80 percent of the home's value. The Home Affordable Refinance plan removes this restriction, allowing certain homeowners to refinance their mortgages.
A homeowner qualifies for this refinancing if:
The property is owner-occupied and the existing mortgage is current
The existing mortgage is owned by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac
The new mortgage balance will not exceed 105 percent of the home’s current value
The mortgage balance must not exceed $729,750 for single-family homes

The plan runs until June 1, 2010.
If you think you qualify, call your lender!