Practical Prosperity

November 2010

If you feel that 2010 has breezed by quickly, you are not alone. Many Americans have had an exciting year of ups and downs in their financial lives. We soared into the year with a rising stock market and signs that housing and unemployment were on the verge of being on much better footing.

Spring and summer however began to instill doubt in many investors. As incentives expired, home sales once again became tepid and unemployment seemed stuck as census jobs began to diminish. Thankfully this fall has brought on a newfound sense of optimism and markets are moving again, housing prices are stabilizing (in many regions), and slowly but surely jobs are being created.

It is only appropriate in this season of thanks that we be thankful for the things that the stock market can’t take away from us. We can also be mindful of ways we can have a great season without compromising the savings we have set aside for our future goals and dreams.

Let’s take a trip to your local auto showroom. If your car needs to be replaced, year end is a great time. If you don’t need “2011” on the sticker, there are deals galore to be had. Many dealers are “advertizing” the invoice price (their price to purchase from the manufacturer) as the sale price. This is where negotiations start, as dealers take losses to clear the lot. If you can swallow some pride, your wallet will swallow more car.

With home sales still crawling out of the deepest of doldrums, now is still a time to buy. Government incentives may be over; however sellers are eager to do just that, sell. Consider this. Its January, its 20 degrees, streets are slushy, and the sky is gray. Homes look awful, buyers aren’t out, and some people have taken their home off the market until the weather improves. Find your new home now, before this happens. It might make for hectic holidays, but sellers do not want a house on the market through the depths of the winter. A house on the market in December is often doomed until at least April. Deals are to be had!

It is also a great time to be shopping for home items, clothing, and gift items. Sales are in abundance as demand to clear inventory increases. If your accounts can handle it, consider some of your need expenses, not just holiday gifts. If you have some less than fresh suits in the closet, a threadbare sofa, or a television that won’t tune, this is a great time to find your replacement. Prices are marked down; coupon deals are available by the thousands online; shipping is being touted as free. Take advantage of this! You might be able to replace your worn out microwave by purchasing one on sale, with an additional 25% off, shipped to your door for free. How is that for savings and convenience?

It is about being smart, not cheap. The time and money saved means more resources for what is really important. You will spend more time with family, save for that dream vacation, and have an overall sense of prosperity. If you have taken advantage of the concepts mentioned, or found others, let us know. We would love to share your stories of abundance no matter how they manifest. Your efforts might also empower confident action in your friends and family to do the same.

Here’s to you and your family for a very warm, enjoyable, and prosperous season of thanks!

Andy Pulsfort