This year marked the 10th year of my government career. It was also the first time I was told my position was non-essential. So when the government shutdown due to lack of funding on Jan. 20, I was told not to report to work until Congress signed a budget. When the government is under furlough […]
6 Ways to Build Wealth with Your Tax Refund
When my husband and I filed our 2016 taxes, we realized we owed almost $20,000 in federal taxes instead of getting a tax refund. I was shocked. I thought I was paying the right amount all year only to learn I was underpaying while my husband was paying just enough. This expensive lesson taught us […]
How I Used a 0% APR Credit Card to Build Wealth
In 2016 my husband and I decided to buy a new home, and this time we wanted to build. In the Washington, DC metropolitan area real estate is quite expensive. We soon learned it would be cheaper to move one hour from the capitol and buy new, versus purchasing an older home closer to the […]
Mastering Your Credit Score to Build Wealth
I would not have my job if I had bad credit. Before I was a diplomat, I went through an extensive background check; and they verified everything on my credit report including my student loans and retail store credit cards. Any negative information could have affected my ability to serve my country and provide an […]
3 Ways to Pay Yourself First
A key step in your wealth journey is learning to pay yourself first. The wealthy use this simple concept the ensure they are building wealth with their income to acquire assets and grow their net worth. Learn 3 ways to ensure you are paying yourself first and generating wealth.
Surviving the Haitian Earthquake and Why Wills Are Not Enough
My family had a will and thought we were protected. But, after surviving the 2010 Haitian Earthquake, we realized our children were not properly protected if we were to die. We dug into estate planning and made the needed changes to our estate. Learn what you can do to get your affairs in order.
Role Reversal: Helping Mom Buy a Forever Home
Our parents spend a large part of their life taking care of us. Providing food, shelter, and guidance in the hopes we become functioning adults. But, as time goes on, things change and suddenly they are looking to you for help. Read this story of helping a parent prepare for retirement with a new home.