How effective use of a ‘defective’ trust reduces taxes on property transfers

If you own real estate—perhaps a vacation home or income property that has increased substantially in value over the years—and you want to keep it in the family, there are a number of planning strategies you can use to help minimize the estate and gift tax consequences of the transfer.

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Short-term liquidity options: What are your choices?

When you need cash, what’s the best course of action? If you’re tempted to reach for a credit card to get the cash you need, you may want to reconsider. There may be better ways to meet your personal liquidity needs.

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Five things to consider before you buy your Florida getaway

Whatever the reason you’re seeking to buy a second or permanent home in Florida, how do you choose the one that’s best for your situation? “Consider the practical and emotional value of the property—as well as its cost and location—before you take the plunge,” says Charles Nilsen, at Boston Private.

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Tempted to offer cash to seal your dream home deal?

In today’s highly competitive real estate market, many buyers are finding that the only way to get the home of their dreams — and not come away as a disappointed runner-up — is to make a cash offer. Learn what’s behind the trend and how to decide if a cash offer is the right strategy for you.

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No Child is too Young or too Old to Learn About Money

How prepared are your kids to tackle lifestage financial decisions, such as buying a first home? Most parents are concerned about setting a good financial example for their kids, but fewer than half actually talk about money at home.

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Make Your Dream Home a Reality With An Equity 'Bridge'

You love where you live. But you've always had an idea of what your perfect dream home would be. So, what if you were on a leisurely Sunday drive next weekend and unexpectedly found that your dream home just went on the market? Would you be ready to snatch it up?

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