Financial Pros Give Tips on Common Deceptions

According to author Ron Burley, there are steps you can take on your credit and home loans.

Place a security freeze on your credit reports until you are ready to apply for a loan. Each freeze and thaw costs $5-20. but it is well worth it.

Hire a real estate attorney to represent you when taking out a home loan. They can protect you from mortgage brokers who often have a conflict of interests.

If you do use a mortgage broker, ask and follow up on three references. Find out first how much they stand to gain from any loan they suggest so you are clear about the charges.

For more on money, visit 50somethinginfo.com

Planning for the Future

Home Instead Senior Care and author Jo Myers have provided the ultimate planning guide for baby boomers and their parents.  

No, I'm not referring to a travel itinerary (even though I could use one just about now).

This is a simple list to prepare for the inevitable. 

No one over 50 should postpone most of these chores.   

Better yet, do your own will and/or trust or get it done by a competent attorney now.  

When You Need a Lawyer

Erin reached for the bitterly-contested subject of the custody battle and put her into the car.

She cautiously eyed the aloof occupant as she drove the freeway. In turn, Ashley leered at Erin. No words were exchanged. Erin was convinced that Ashley needed some serious attitude adjustment.

They drove in silence. The ten miles seemed endless. When Erin shifted her car into park, Ashley's reserve did a 180 when she recognized her daddy and settled into his outstretched arms.

The Erin returned to her law office.

Boomers and Seniors beware: You never know when you'll need an attorney. But if you do, here are some pointers to finding the right one for you:

1. How to find and hire the right attorney

2. AARP's suggestions for reasonable fees for services

3. Finding a local lawyer

4. The difference between arbitration, mediation, and litigation

5. Help for low and moderate income people to find free legal aid programs in their state

Last week Erin passed a local park. She saw Ashley and her client dutifully following the instructions of their obedience class teacher.