Archive for February 2010

SERIES: Fundamental Rules Of Money Management VI

In this series, I have been sharing some thoughts on some fundamental rules of money management that are time-tested and known to be true.   If applied, these rules can help you take your finances to the next level.

Rule #6 Your business idea has a much better chance of succeeding when there is a strategic plan and a financial plan.

As a financial counselor, I routinely meet with small business owners who started their own businesses.   Some of them have been wildly successful.   Others have not had the success that they had expected and desired.   There are always a few exceptions, but it has become very apparent to me that individuals who take the time and effort to prepare a strategic business plan AND a “Seed Fund” for their idea have a better chance at succeeding.

A strategic plan includes developing critical milestones that must be achieved and establishing detailed action steps necessary to achieve them.   It should also include financial targets that must be achieved for the business to be considered a successful effort.

Having some money available to start the business with is essential as well.   I have seen too many good business ideas fail before they could mature simply because the business was too highly leveraged with debt.

And of course, one should always remember Warren Buffets number one rule of money management – “Don’t lose money.”

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Are you eligible for the Federal Housing First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit?

Many 1st-time home buyers have benefited from receiving the Federal Housing Tax Credit.   If you are in the market for your first-time home purchase, you should definitely become informed because this credit can be a deciding factor in purchasing your first home!

To find out if you are eligible, you can visit the National Association of Home Builder’s website HERE.   The IRS also has more information about it HERE.

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