First-time homebuyers often face common misunderstandings around home ownership, including the cost of getting into a home, rising rent, and the fear of waiting too long. It's essential to take a clear-eyed look at the true costs of moving from renting into home ownership and to approach the transition with wisdom and patience. A home should fit one's current season of life and support responsibilities and priorities, not stretch finances or limit the ability to live and give faithfully. [... more]

Dale Vermillion shares insights on the current real estate market, including peak seasons for buying and selling homes, and how to navigate the mortgage process. He also discusses the importance of being budget-minded and prayerful when making financial decisions. Meanwhile, the hosts address questions from listeners, including one who is considering retirement and another who is wondering about the impact of the federal government's shift to electronic payments on check usage. [... more]

Determining the right time to refinance your mortgage involves considering factors such as interest rates, breakeven points, and loan terms. Meanwhile, financial planning for retirement savings includes options like Roth IRAs, SEP IRAs, and health savings accounts, which can provide tax advantages and help build wealth over time. [... more]

A Christian finance expert discusses the importance of understanding mortgage closing costs, permanent endowments, and stewardship in giving. He also answers listener questions on financial planning, retirement accounts, and whole life insurance. [... more]

Christians are encouraged to view God as their ultimate treasure, rather than money or material possessions. This mindset shift can impact how they manage their finances, making them more faithful stewards of their resources. The hosts discuss various financial topics, including investing, divorce, and credit card debt, offering biblical wisdom and practical advice to listeners. [... more]

Saving responsibly is a key aspect of financial planning, and the Bible offers clear direction on how to manage God's resources. Intentional saving should always have the goal of being a good steward, rather than accumulating wealth for its own sake. By discerning God's purpose for their financial resources, individuals can determine how much to save and for what goals, and then work towards those goals through consistent saving and investing. [... more]

Real estate analysts predicted a property tax reckoning would happen this year, and it certainly did. Homeowners can challenge their property tax assessment, but it's a complex process that requires careful research and planning. Experts recommend comparing your property to similar homes in your neighborhood, gathering evidence, and filing an appeal with the assessment office. Meanwhile, individuals can take steps to manage their finances, such as investing in bonds or CDs, and creating a budget to live within their means. [... more]

God's appraisal of us is one of love and acceptance, not shame and guilt. We are living stones in God's church, part of a spiritual house being built for a holy priesthood. As chosen people, we are a holy nation, set apart for God's special purpose and glory. [... more]

God's love and appraisal of us is not diminished by our failures or sins, but rather He has plans for welfare and not for calamity, to give us a future and a hope. We are living stones in a spiritual house, built up as a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. [... more]

Caregivers often struggle with relentless trauma, feeling like they're killing tigers every day. They need to respect their trauma and take an inventory of their physical, emotional, and financial health. This involves acknowledging the magnitude of someone's heartache and taking a proper inventory, just like an insurance adjuster does. By respecting their trauma, caregivers can begin the healing process and find hope in their journey. [... more]

When evaluating relationships, consider how you want people to speak about you after you're gone. Think about your key family members, friends, mentors, associates, and mentees. Appraise your relationships, asking if they're in great condition or raggedy. Consider how well you're doing as a parent, and whether you're honoring your parents, even after they're gone. Ask yourself if certain relationships should be changed or adjusted in some way, and be willing to make internal changes to maintain unity and keep relationships intact. [... more]

The Outlaw Lawyer podcast discusses the Derek Chauvin trial and the implications of the Coniglia v Strom case on Fourth Amendment rights. The hosts also analyze the current real estate market in North Carolina, including the use of appraisal addendums and escalation clauses in contracts. [... more]

Dr. Craig Gay discusses the impact of modern technology on human relationships and society, arguing that it can lead to a diminished sense of humanity and a loss of embodiment. He advocates for a more personal and present approach to technology, and critiques the idea of virtual reality churches as a replacement for in-person gatherings. [... more]