Author: Rebecca Holland

A record number of people are reaching retirement age. Each day, more than 11,200 Americans turn 65 — adding up to 4.1 million Americans hitting retirement age per year.

And yet very few of them feel they have enough saved to last the rest of their lives. The Federal Reserve reports that the reality is that most Americans aged 65 to 75 have approximately $426,000 in their 401(k).

According to a Northwestern Mutual survey, most Americans believe they’d need closer to $1.46 million for a comfortable retirement.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

Experts disagree. Suze Orman, for example, called $2 million in retirement savings “chump change”.

So $2 million is a high bar. But according to a recent analysis from GOBankingRates, it should be enough to last you in all but three states: Hawaii, Massachusetts, and California.

Here are some states where a $2-million nest egg will make you feel like a millionaire in retirement — and states you may want to avoid if you have a more modest retirement nest egg.

The rankings

GOBankingRates ranked all the states based on how long $2 million would last in retirement. They looked at average Social Security payouts and the average annual expenditure for Americans 65 and older (based on the 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey).

Then they compared that data to each state’s overall cost of living to determine how many years retirees could make $2 million last.

The state where it would last the longest?

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Virginia, where a $2-million nest egg would last a whopping 71.93 years. Average annual expenses in that state would be $27,803 a year, after accounting for Social Security income.

Unfortunately, living in West Virginia post-retirement has some downsides. The state has some of the worst health-care outcomes in the U.S.. Other retiree-friendly states on the list include Kansas, Mississippi and Oklahoma, with $2 million projected to last up to 69 years.

In contrast, $2 million would not last even half as much in California, Massachusetts and Hawaii, which ranked at the bottom of the list for long-term affordability. The $2-million nest egg would last about 31 years in California and Massachusetts and Hawaii 22.75 years.

In other words, if you retire at 65 in the Aloha state, your money would likely last until you’re 88, but no longer.

That may not seem so bad, but this analysis didn’t take into account high health-care costs, so your $2 million nest egg may shrink more quickly than the data suggests.

Deciding where to live in retirement

Choosing when, where and how to retire is an individual decision based on multiple variables. Here are some factors to consider as you contemplate areas to live in retirement.

• Local cost of living, This varies across the country, as GOBankingRates’ analysis shows.
• Housing supply and prices. This is a major consideration if you’re planning to move states or downsize to a smaller home after you retire. Hawaii, like many states, is facing a housing supply crisis, while Massachusetts and California also report low levels of housing supply, driving up the cost of living in these states.
• Public services. For example, you will likely need health facilities and use public transportation more as you age.
• Convenience and amenities. Are there supermarkets, pharmacies and gas stations within an easy distance? Community centres? Restaurants and theatres? As you age, proximity matters, and you’ll be less likely to want to cope with an inconvenience in your living arrangements.

Whether or not you have $2 million, it pays to be realistic about your fixed income and make wise decisions about where to retire. That way you can ensure that your golden years are comfortable ones.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in ‘great wealth’. How to get in now
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Atlanta businessman Calvin Darden Jr., a career fraudster with previous convictions, is facing 12 years in prison for his latest scam, convincing former NBA player Dwight Howard to part with $7 million for a fake bid to purchase WNBA team the Atlanta Dream.

Darden Jr. worked with Howard’s agent Charles Briscoe to convince the baller that the scam was real. Howard was duped into believing other big stars like actor Issa Rae, tennis star Naomi Osaka and filmmaker Tyler Perry were also investing in the team.

However, court records show that many of these supposed investors had never heard of Darden Jr., much less had any business dealings with him.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

For his involvement, Charles Briscoe is facing six months of house arrest, a three-year supervisory period and a penalty of $1.5 million.

Darden Jr. also duped former Houston Rockets player Chandler Parsons into “loaning” $1 million to NBA prospect James Wiseman. Wiseman was not involved in the deal, and Darden Jr. reportedly spent the money on luxury goods for himself.

While these large sums of money may convince you that scams of this type only happen to the rich and famous, the reality is that fraudsters can target anyone. You have to stay vigilant and informed to ensure you don’t become a victim.

Here’s how to help avoid falling for investment scams, how to vet potential business partners and deals — and how to know when to walk away.

Surround yourself with advisors you trust

Warren Buffett has offered some sage advice from his long career.

“We look for three things when we hire people. We look for intelligence. We look for initiative, or energy. And we look for integrity,” he says “And if they don’t have the latter, the first two will kill you.”

Integrity is critical, as placing your trust in the wrong person can be financially fatal. Taking the case of Charles Briscoe: the agent was not only trying to outsmart Howard, but also duped other NBA players into buying more than $5 million in overpriced life insurance policies.

When you choose a new financial advisor, a new business partner or even a service provider like a mortgage or insurance broker, be sure to do your homework on them. Check for any required certifications, and membership in professional and regulatory organizations. Ask for references, and also look for testimonials from people in your own network whom you trust.

Most of all, if the terms of an offer sound too good to be true, they probably are. Trust your gut, and be willing to pass on any opportunity that gives you a bad feeling.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Beware of impostor scams

In the case of Darden Jr., he pretended to be a legitimate businessperson, with many important contacts, in order to convince Howard to invest in his scheme. But, as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) notes, impostors can also pretend to be someone you know and trust in order to convince you to give them money. Or, imposters may claim that they are members of a bank or government agency in order to gain your trust.

These scams are becoming more sophisticated thanks to the use of AI. The telltale signs of scams can include bad spelling and punctuation, low-quality or low-fidelity images and logos, and suspicious email addresses — although those are now largely absent from the emails, social media posts and text messages of scammers.

There are also sophisticated scams involving AI-generated voice recordings and video. If you encounter someone claiming to be someone you know, or to be a business contact of a person you know, be sure to ask questions that could not be answered by a third party, or to check in with your supposed mutual contact for a reference.

Mortgage and foreclosure scams

The FDIC warns of another common type of business scam involving fake mortgage lenders, loan servicers, financial advisors or representatives of government agencies who claim they can help with your mortgage.

Whether you’re in the process of buying a new home, acquiring new real estate for investment purposes or at risk of losing your principal property due to foreclosure, these criminals prey on people who lack legal knowledge and the typical business practices of lenders and financial professionals.

If you’re contacted by a company or individual claiming that they can offer you a much lower mortgage rate than average, or can save you from foreclosure, don’t offer up any personal information or money until you can be sure they’re legitimate.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

More than 52 million retirees are registered Social Security beneficiaries in the U.S., taking home an average check of $1,997.13 per month as of March after a lifetime of hard work. While the benefit is meant to supplement income rather than replace it once a worker retires, according to Gallup polling, beneficiaries have increasingly become more reliant on Social Security since the millennium.

In an effort to keep up with inflation, Social Security benefits are subject to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) every year. But the next one might come as a disappointment. According to The Senior Citizens League (TSCL), the 2026 COLA forecast as of April 10 stands at only 2.3%, below the average of annual increases seen since 2010.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

So, what does this mean for American retirees, and what can they do to boost their savings so they can rely less on Social Security to replace their income in retirement?

A look at COLA

A 2.3% COLA increase in 2026 would be the smallest percentage increase since 2020. With inflation cooling, but still present, and experts anticipating tariffs will increase costs in the short term, many retirees may desire more from their monthly check.

So, how does the Social Security Administration (SSA) calculate the COLA? The figure is typically tied to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) within a specific period of time. The CPI-W measures inflation or deflation on 200 different price indices, allowing the SSA to track how consumer spending and buying power are affecting average Americans.

However, critics of the formula argue it doesn’t correspond to the spending of beneficiaries. Spending on health care, for example, is generally higher among retirees compared to the average worker, yet this is not reflected in the calculation.

In addition, COLA may not be keeping up with real inflation figures (keep in mind, they’re announced the year before being implemented). A study published by TSCL in 2024 showed that Social Security benefits had lost 20% of purchasing power since 2010, with inflation outpacing COLA in most years.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

How to protect your retirement savings

Are there ways retirees and those who are retiring soon can shore up their savings and become less-dependent on Social Security to pay the bills?

Investments may be key. Conventional wisdom says those already in retirement should opt for a safer mix of investments, relying more on bonds, securities and high-interest savings accounts. If you have the resources, dividend-paying investments can be helpful in retirement.

Many retirees who are worried about inflation eating away at their hard-earned savings invest in Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS). These bonds are issued by the U.S. Treasury and are adjusted along with the rate of inflation, so your buying power is safeguarded as the bond grows. Conversely, however, investors receive lower payouts if deflation occurs.

Retirees should be careful budgeters, reducing their expenses to a minimum. It’s wise to review your spending regularly to account for every penny collected and spent. If you’re tech-savvy, many banks and tech companies offer spending tracking apps that you can use on your smartphone or online, helping you see your cash at a glance.

If you have trouble reining in your expenses, or are looking for more room in your budget for investing, consider speaking to a qualified financial advisor who can help you make the most of your retirement, and ensure that — whatever COLA increases are in your future — you can live well beyond your working years.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Recession fears have dogged Americans since the Covid years, and they’re showing no signs of stopping.

In March, J.P. Morgan’s chief economist said there’s a 40% chance the U.S. will face a recession in 2025. Veronica Willis, global investment strategist at Wells Fargo Investment Institute, says that whether a recession is coming or not, the economy is already in a “slow patch.”

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

Now, with a rocky stock market, President Trump’s tariffs and weakened tourism, the U.S. may be on the verge of an economic downturn.

And while many Americans may find this concerning, there are ways to protect yourself and your investments from volatility. Below are three strategies for keeping your bank balance in the black and ensuring your investments are stable.

Adjusting your investment strategy

Now more than ever, it’s important to ensure your portfolio is properly diversified.

Too much exposure to the stock market could mean significant losses, a thing you especially want to avoid if you’re nearing retirement. Even in times of economic prosperity, retirees should look to trade in the bulk of their stock options for safer investments such as bonds, high-yield savings accounts and inflation-protected securities.

Seth Mullikin, a certified financial planner in Charlotte, North Carolina, told USA Today that retirees “do not want to be withdrawing from an aggressive portfolio during a recession.”

Meanwhile, if you have decades before you retire, you may want to ride out the storm.

“The fact that the stock market is down 7% or 10% now isn’t so concerning,” Sean Higgins, an associate professor of finance at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, shared with USA Today on April 3.

In fact, this might be an opportunity to buy up stocks that are selling low but have growth potential for the future. It’s “a great time to buy stocks because you’re getting them at a discount,” says Willis.

As for your current stocks, it’s better to hold than to sell them at a loss. “It’s too late to start thinking of pulling out of equities because you’ve already seen that downturn,” Willis said. Instead, look forward to better times when the market recovers.

In the meantime, make sure you have exposure to assets like stocks and bonds, and commodities like gold, which has been a strong player in these last few years of economic volatility.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Reducing debt and expenses

According to LendingTree, the average interest rate for a credit card in the U.S. is 24.2%. If you are carrying a balance on any of your credit cards, now is the time to put a plan in place for paying off those debts.

During a recession, paying down debt and reducing expenses is essential. If you don’t already have a budget and a spending tracker, now is an excellent time to put these measures in place.

Track your spending for a month and get a realistic portrait of how you use your money. From there, you can decide on the best ways to trim, as well as how much you can afford to put towards debt repayment each month.

While you’re in the process of budgeting, don’t forget to review your fixed expenses like monthly bills, insurance and car loans. Set aside the time to call providers, like your cell phone and internet companies, and ask for ways to reduce your monthly bill. You might also shop around for better insurance coverage for your home and auto.

Finally, it’s a good time to question whether you can opt for a cheaper car. The average loan for a new car is $735 per month, according to data from Experian. If you can opt for a second-hand car or lease a less-expensive model, you could trim thousands of dollars from your budget.

Building an emergency fund

Lastly, whether you have a large portfolio of investments or you’re living modestly, it’s important to set aside funds for a rainy day.

An emergency fund is crucial for financial health, as it prevents you from going into debt when unexpected expenses arise. The popular wisdom is that you should have six months’ of expenses saved, but even a couple thousand dollars is a good start and can prevent headaches down the line.

If you don’t have an emergency fund, one of the best ways to begin saving is to set a monthly goal and put the funds in a high-yield savings account, where the money can grow and keep up with the rate of inflation. Even a modest amount can add up over time and help you in emergency situations like a car accident or losing your job.

According to a report from Bankrate, 27% of Americans don’t have an emergency fund. Today is a great time to begin to get your financial health back on track.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

You’ve done it. At 57 years old, you’ve cleared the mortgage on your home — a major milestone most Americans only dream about. No more monthly payments looming, no lender breathing down your neck.

But now, with epic timing, your HVAC system decides to give up the ghost with summer just around the corner and your floors look like they’ve survived a small war. Suddenly, you’re faced with a critical question: What’s the smartest way to finance these urgent repairs without jeopardizing your newfound financial freedom?

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

In the end, the smartest move balances immediate needs with long-term financial security. Let’s figure it out.

Tapping your home’s hidden wealth

When you own your home outright, one of your strongest financial advantages is the equity you’ve painstakingly built up. That equity can now be your best friend or worst enemy, depending on how you leverage it.

A common go-to solution is the home equity loan, a one-time loan using your house as collateral – typically offering a lump sum at a fixed interest rate.

The beauty of a home equity loan lies in its predictability. Unlike variable-rate financing, you know exactly how much you owe each month, which can make budgeting easier. Home equity loan interest rates are generally lower than unsecured loan options (like personal loans or credit cards) because a borrower’s property secures the loan.

Lenders view these loans as less risky since they can recover their money by foreclosing on the property if the borrower defaults. But home equity loan rates are not always lower than other secured options like home equity lines of credit or cash-out refinances.

Currently, home equity loan rates can sit around 6.990% for a 30-year term, which is relatively high compared to pre-pandemic levels.

But let’s pump the brakes for a second. While a home equity loan sounds attractive, it carries risks. The biggest one? You’re putting your home on the line. Miss payments, and the bank can swoop in and take what you’ve worked decades to fully own.

Any borrowing — home equity loan, credit cards, you name it — is a gamble these days, as your repayments will compete with rising grocery prices and other everyday costs in a tariff environment. It’s crucial to assess your financial stability and realistically consider your ability to handle monthly repayments.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Credit cards and personal Loans: Convenience at a price

Maybe you’re tempted to whip out your credit card for the HVAC unit and new flooring. After all, it’s quick, easy and tempting. Credit cards, especially those with rewards, cashback or 0% introductory rates, can offer immediate relief.

If you can snag a card with an introductory period of zero interest, and you’re disciplined enough to pay off the balance before that honeymoon ends, this could be a cost-effective solution. But credit cards can quickly become a financial trap. Interest rates regularly rise above 20% and if you slip up even once, your convenient fix can become a lingering debt monster that chews up your disposable income month after month.

Another path is personal loans, which offer the advantage of unsecured financing, meaning your home isn’t directly at stake. Interest rates for personal loans are typically lower than credit cards but higher than home equity loans.

With fixed monthly payments and predictable terms, personal loans offer clarity without risking your property. But if your credit score isn’t robust, expect unfavorable terms and higher costs.

Choosing the right financial lifeline

Deciding which option is for you begins with closely examining your financial health. How much disposable income do you realistically have each month? If it’s substantial enough to comfortably handle repayments, the predictability and lower rates of a home equity loan could offer the best value. But if you’re wary of placing your home at risk or if the thought of leveraging equity makes you uneasy, personal loans become a safer middle ground, offering transparency without direct stakes in your property.

Next, take a hard look at the repair costs. Is the project extensive, running into tens of thousands, or are we talking about a more manageable sum? For smaller amounts, credit cards — especially those with promotional zero-interest periods — might work if you’re disciplined. If there’s any doubt about your ability to clear the balance quickly, steer clear.

Interest rates and repayment periods matter significantly, too. Compare current rates offered by banks, credit unions and online lenders. Credit unions, in particular, often offer more favorable terms, particularly if you’ve been a long-time member.

Lastly, consider timing. If your HVAC system failed at the worst possible moment, financing might be urgent. But even then, take a beat. You’ve spent years working toward financial security. Protecting your finances means making a calculated decision, not one driven purely by urgency.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

If you’ve managed to earn a substantial sum investing in the stock market, congratulations, you could be well on your way to building a sizable nest egg for your retirement.

One common piece of advice people receive in their early years of investing is to put their money in a fund that tracks a market index like the S&P 500. Even Warren Buffett recommends this approach for everyday investor. Investing in an S&P 500 index fund gives you exposure to the top-performing companies in the Canada across a broad range of sectors. Alternatively, the TSX offers its own version of the S&P 500, known as the S&P/TSX Composite Index, which tracks around 250 of Canada’s biggest public companies.

As these companies grow — or, at times, falter — so does your investment.

But let’s say, despite having great success, you feel ready to move on from investing in the S&P 500. Your investment has grown to $300,000, and you want to use some of it to make a few riskier bets on individual stocks. This could potentially generate wealth at a much faster pace, but you could also lose it just as quickly.

Here’s what you should know about investing in individual stocks. And it goes without saying: Nothing in the stock market is guaranteed.

The pros and cons of stock picking

In contrast to passively investing in index funds, stock picking is much more active, and involves knowing the market well. You need both the time to dedicate to reading market reports daily and a healthy appetite for risk, knowing that not all your picks can be successful.

Investing in individual stocks is a choice that is only for those who want to take on investing as a serious hobby or maybe even as a second career. To become a great investor, you have to be willing to first invest considerable time to understand the market, the history of growth and decline across a number of industries, and to stay on top of reports from reputable trading firms.

However, if you’re eager to become a unicorn stock hunter, there’s the potential for greater returns than an S&P 500 index fund can offer. Experts advise against trying to time the market, since day-to-day outcomes tend to be unpredictable, but there’s room to spot an opportunity for buying low to potentially sell high. Moreover, individual stock buyers can get access to dividend-paying stocks, which you can either use to supplement income or reinvest for your retirement fund.

How to invest in individual stocks

Stock pickers use both fundamental analysis and technical analysis to make decisions and predictions about stock performance.

For fundamental analysis, annual reports, quarterly conference calls and other third-party reporting on companies help investors to understand not only growth and profitability, but also public sentiment and the potential for new products or lines of business that could increase a company’s value. This type of analysis also involves studying competitors in the market to understand a company’s place in a sector compared to similar players.

For technical analysis, you look for trends and patterns in the stock price itself. This involves historical trading data, including a stock’s price and trading volume, and the ability to see patterns that others may miss. You might also look at the trends from competitor stocks to compare growth and decline in the industry as a whole.

When you’re just starting out, look for reports from reputable sources to help you get a handle on both these types of data. At this early stage, paying more for the right tools can be helpful as you learn.

Once you feel confident that you’ve done your research, you will want to decide on the right time to buy and how long to hold a stock in your portfolio. There’s no one-size-fits-all-answer here. Ask yourself questions about your time horizon, personal financial goals and risk tolerance. Remember that holding onto a company that’s reputable today doesn’t mean the stock price will rise forever.

It’s always good to remind yourself as an investor to keep your emotions in check. There will be times, such as right now, where the market is extremely volatile and can seemingly change at a moment’s notice. It may be challenging, but focusing on your long-term strategy can be helpful.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

As the spring homebuyer’s market kicks into gear, the average American buyer might not be feeling so optimistic about their prospects.

Most of the country is in a neutral market according to Zillow, the real-estate marketplace company. While this gives buyers more time to make decisions, the relatively cool market may also make it hard to find a home that checks all the boxes.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

Zillow forecasts 4.1 million in existing home sales for 2025, just above the 4 million sold in 2024.

There are some bright spots for buyers in certain cities. Below, we dive into the top 10 markets where you can expect to see lots of choice and hopefully find the home of your dreams with ease.

Top 10 markets with high housing inventory

Higher inventory, economic uncertainty and yo-yo-ing interest rates are suppressing price growth. Zillow anticipates a small increase in home value in 2025 — just 0.6%.

That’s good news for buyers. What else is good? Some of America’s most exciting cities top the list of markets with plentiful housing inventory, and most are in sunny climes.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

10. Atlanta

This city’s homes were ranked the second-most overpriced in the U.S. in 2024, according to a report by Axios Atlanta. Now, inventory is up 31.40% and home prices are down 10.6%, with a median selling price of $380,000. Homes are sitting longer, too — 84 days versus 55 days on average last year.

9. San Francisco

San Francisco real estate is a famously hot commodity, with an average home price of $1,150,195, the second-highest on this top 10 list. If you’re shopping for views of the Golden Gate Bridge or Coit Tower, you’ll be glad to know housing inventory has grown 32.50% since last year. Realtor.com reports that the median number of days on the market is holding at 51, so you’ll have plenty of time for viewings and making an offer.

8. Riverside, CA

Prospective homebuyers in Greater LA should check out Riverside, with housing inventory up 33.50% over year. This bustling hub boasts a typical home value of $585,739 (compared to just under a million in LA proper), and homes are sitting longer on the market, clocking in at 49 days this year according to Redfin. The typical seller sees only three offers on their home, so there’s a good chance you can close a deal.

7. Sacramento

At $578,290, Sacramento’s home prices are similar to Riverside’s, but availability is even better, with a 34.60% growth in inventory over 2024. But homes only stay on the market 36 days, so buyers may want to move fast to buy a piece of the capital city.

6. Phoenix

If you prefer your hot spots in a dry climate, Phoenix is calling. The supply of new homes is up 35.5% this year, and with an average price of $450,492, it’s one of the most affordable locales on this list. The buying is easy, too. Redfin reports that most sellers receive only two offers on their homes, which stay on the market an average of 59 days.

5. Los Angeles

Following the wildfires in Los Angeles, housing supply is up 35.5%. Homes receive an average of three offers, and stay on the market for 67 days. If you can afford the average $964,556 price, you may have an easier time buying a home in LA this spring than at any other point in recent years.

4. San Jose

The priciest spot on this list, the average home in San Jose sells for $1,648,729. This city is home to Silicon Valley, and demand for homes in the area has inflated prices for years. But in 2025, housing inventory has soared, with 36.2% more homes on the market compared to last year. You still need to move fast as most sellers receive five offers, and sell in just 11 days.

3. San Diego

The supply of homes in this California city has shot up 39% over last year. Experts believe the market is due for a correction, as high prices ($946,075 on average) continue to freeze out first-time home buyers. But buying is still competitive. Sellers receive an average of four offers, and homes stay on the market a mere 27 days.

2. Las Vegas

With a whopping 40.5% growth in supply and homes sitting on the market 61 days, Las Vegas is the second most affordable market on this list. Homes are valued at an average $430,277. Yet this relatively low number is a record high for Vegas. As of January 2025, prices jumped 9% for single-family homes and sales are trending upwards. Real estate experts note that many buyers in the area are displaced Californians looking for safer real estate options after January’s wildfires, so prices may continue to rise.

1. Denver

With a massive 40.9% increase in inventory over last year, buyers have plenty of choice in Denver — but there’s a catch. The average is valued at $581,411, a massive price tag in this region. The Colorado Association of Realtors reports that “economic conditions, affordability challenges, and tumultuous political turmoil” are making the market difficult for homebuyers. In spite of these local challenges, outside buyers will have plenty of opportunity to check out this mountainous city, with a median 59 days on the market for each listing.

How to buy this spring

Forbes reports despite the recent uptick in supply of new homes, supply may dwindle and prices rise as builders face tariffs on building materials.

Buyers still face competition in the market. Here are some tips to be prepared.

Read up on your target housing market(s), and familiarize yourself with real estate and legal jargon. It’s also an opportunity to get a realistic sense of home prices in a specific area.

Seek out guides that break down the homebuying process into stages so you know what to expect.

Ensure your credit score is in the best possible shape. That way your financing will go smoothly and you can get a great mortgage rate.

Get a mortgage pre-approval from your lender. That will help you set a budget for what kind of home you can afford.

Talk to a number of real estate agents so you can pick one you trust and will enjoy working with.

Most of all, try to enjoy the process of finding your dream home, wherever you choose to buy.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Insurance companies are cautiously optimistic about the Trump administration’s policies for their industry: insurers saw their stocks soar in early April when the federal government announced a record 5.06% benchmark increase to Medicare Advantage plans.

That is more than double the rate (2.23%) proposed by the [Biden administration] (https://www.barrons.com/articles/humana-cvs-unitedhealth-stock-medicare-advantage-7dee3cc7) in January 2025, which was seen as a budget cut by the insurance industry. The Trump administration increase will amount to $25 billion for insurers like Humana and UnitedHealthcare, which participate in the revitalized Medicare Advantage program.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

Advocates highlighted that program costs have seen margins fall sharply in the insurance sector. Enrolled older adults have used more care than anticipated since the pandemic, and many insurers have already cut benefits, exiting some markets to remain profitable. The increased funding is expected to make health insurance companies a haven on the stock market during an unpredictable and volatile time.

Lo and behold, both Humana and UnitedHealthcare’s first quarter earnings caused the companies’ stocks to drop precipitously on April 16.

Adding to the pinch, the Trump administration also enacted changes that will make it harder for insurers to inflate their profits. These changes are expected to dull the shine of the increased funding and may make companies even more reluctant to pass on savings to customers.

Criticism of the plan

The Medicare Advantage program has not been without its critics since its inception in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997.

The program uses taxpayer dollars to pay private insurers for coverage for older adults and those with disabilities. Medicare Advantage was introduced by Republican Representative John Kasich in the omnibus, and the Democrats have been critical of using public funds to pay private companies through the program.

How much the federal government spends on Medicare Advantage influences its monthly premiums and plan benefits. There is no baseline of coverage across the different private insurers who participate in the program.

Pundits have said the Biden administration was skeptical of the program, and the low rate of increase proposed for 2026 by Biden was seen as a cut to funding, given the rate of inflation.

Despite stricter rules enacted by the Trump administration on billing practices, the Department of Justice has launched a civil fraud investigation into UnitedHealthcare’s practices. Critics have looked askance at Trump for continuing to pour taxpayer money into an industry mired in legal woes.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Trump’s policies and their impact on older adults

There is little evidence, however, that Trump’s policies will be a big win for the average American. While a boost in funding might mean savings will be passed on to clients, it seems more likely that the cash injection will be used to rally the insurers’ market performance.

“Though required by law, this excessive increase in payments to Big Insurance — when evidence demonstrates they are already being overpaid — demonstrates the crucial need for Congress to fix the way payment rates for MA insurers are calculated,” pundit Rachel Madley wrote on her Substack Health Care Un-covered. “Sadly, analysts expect the extra payments Big Insurance will get in 2026 will go to increasing profit margins, not increasing benefits or availability of care.”

With Medicare Advantage enrollment already on the rise, other analysts predict that, following this announcement, even more Medicare-eligible seniors may elect to join the program in 2025 and 2026. Only time will tell if the $25 billion is used to improve profits or to increase benefits for a growing number of seniors.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Personal finance guru Dave Ramsey is famous for his no-nonsense advice, and also for his insistence on avoiding debt.

The millionaire advisor started his finance journey at the bottom. He filed for bankruptcy at just 28 years of age, and since then, he’s built an empire advising everyday Americans on how they can ditch their debt and make their first million.

Don’t miss

• I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10
• Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

Recently, he’s come down hard on 30-year mortgages, offering an in-depth look at how a longer mortgage term can see you paying thousands more in interest than if you choose a 20- or 15-year term. He warned readers of his blog strongly against taking a longer mortgage simply to make monthly payments smaller.

In his words, “Sure, the 30-year plan gives you a smaller monthly payment. But this longer, drawn-out repayment plan has more of your money going toward the interest each month — which also makes the principal balance go down much slower.”

How amortization works

A mortgage is an amortized loan, or one where you make a scheduled payment (typically each month) and this payment is applied to both the principal of the loan and the interest that accrues. The payment goes to the interest first, and anything remaining goes towards the principal. This can mean that a smaller monthly payment will see you paying mostly interest, rather than paying down your principal.

To demonstrate the difference between a 15-year mortgage and a 30-year, let’s take this example.

Say you have a $1,000,000 mortgage on your home and you’ve put 20% down, or $200,000. At a 7% mortgage rate, if you choose a 15-year term, you will pay $8,932.49 per month and your interest payments over the life of the loan will be $329,653.94.

By contrast, on a 30-year mortgage, your monthly payments will be $6,586.03 and you will pay $580,894.27 in interest. In other words, the extra 15 years will cost you an additional quarter of a million dollars — $251,240.33, to be exact. That’s a quarter of the value of your home, and a serious amount of cash that could be put towards your retirement savings, your child’s education or making improvements to your home.

Ramsey advised his readers to create their own amortization schedule to ensure they have a clear view of how a long mortgage could see them throwing money away.

Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

Ramsey’s tips for mortgages

Of course, affordability is a top issue for Americans, and 30-year mortgages are common precisely because it can be difficult to find the extra funds for a large mortgage payment each month.

In addition to recommending a shorter loan term, Ramsey offered a few more tips for getting the best mortgage for you. Here are his words of advice — plus a few more of our own.

1. Shop around

Doing your homework by comparing several different lenders could lead you to a better mortgage rate or amortization schedule for your loan. Don’t feel like you have to go with your existing bank or one that’s recommended to you. If you have time to explore your options, do so as much as you can.

2. Start early

If you’re shopping for a new home, preapproval for a mortgage can help you to move faster when closing on a home. This process can also be lengthy. It typically takes 45 to 60 days from starting the application to securing a mortgage, due to federal regulation in the industry.

3. Be prepared (and prepared to wait)

Your lender will review your credit history, income and current debts in the process of evaluating you for a mortgage. You may also be expected to foot the bill for appraisals, property inspections, survey fees, title searches and lender reviews.

Do your research ahead of time to understand what will be required, how much it will cost and the timeline for each step of the process. This can help you manage your stress while you shop for a new home.

4. Make additional payments

If you have an existing mortgage, or will have to sign for a 30-year term, do your best to budget for additional payments on your loan. If you can make an extra monthly payment, these typically go towards your loan principal, not the interest. Even a few thousand here and there can help you chip away at your balance, and pay off your mortgage faster.

5. Refinance your existing mortgage

Finally, Ramsey suggested that existing mortgage holders could look at refinancing their loans to reduce the term.

“This would change things like your interest rate, monthly payment amount and amortization period,” he wrote.

Again, this is a place to shop around and take your time. Look for a lower interest rate and a shorter amortization period, while keeping the monthly payment amounts realistic. If you’ve managed to increase your salary or reduce your debt or expenses since your initial loan agreement, a refinance is a smart move to get you even closer to total debt freedom.

What to read next

• Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• There’s a 60% chance of a recession hitting the American economy this year — protect your retirement savings with these essential money moves ASAP (most of which you can complete in just minutes)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.