What A Year!

The economy has been challenging, to say the least. Many of us have lost significant savings in the stock market, and the equity in our homes has been reduced. Most of us, have had to adjust our retirement strategy and change how we spend. As for me, probably, I will have to work until I'm 90! That's a sobering thought! At age 90, my "golden years" can begin.
Now, we can adapt to this particular time in history, by looking at how we spend our resources. Perhaps, there are many reoccurring expenses, which can be adjusted: car washes (I'm getting good at this one!); housekeeping help (I have more time to clean, now!); home cooking vs. restaurant dining; hair cuts, coloring and nails; window washing; gardeners (rates vary significantly); home and car insurance discounts (many hundreds can be saved with competitive quotes); movie nights ($2.00 vs. $8.00); discount shopping; buying more chicken; etc. The list goes on and on. Multiply your discretionary expenses per month times twelve months, and you will be amazed.

Really, with some adjustments in lifestyle, it is possible to save, or not spend, thousands of dollars per year. That's like getting a raise in Income, and that is great news.
Other great news….We live with warm sunshine and flowers, while others have freezing weather, gray skies and cold bones! Yes, we definitely have what others want! Yippee, that means our properties still are desired by most of those Northerners. Yes, we are fortunate to live here, and to live in a REAL neighborhood with lots of caring neighbors. It is true, some of us for various reasons, need to or want to sell. It may take more time to sell, and prices must reflect the current market value, but our homes will sell! I have many reasons to be thankful: I have my faith, my family, my health, my devoted office team, our great weather, our neighborhood and YOU. (Just to name a few of my blessings) So, if I have to work until I'm 90, that's okay.

God bless you.
Monte