You’re enjoying your retirement years, taking the occasional road trip to spend time with friends and family. But your car has seen better days — nearing the end of its life at 200,000 miles.
Since you haven’t purchased a car in a long time, you may be surprised at how much vehicles have changed — and how much they cost.
Before heading to the nearest dealership, It’s essential to determine what you’re looking for in a new vehicle first.
Evaluating your finances
Take a careful look at your financial situation. You’re no longer in your income-earning years, so every penny counts. Planning for expenses outside your usual spending can help prevent you from severely depleting your retirement savings.
Start by figuring out your budget for a vehicle purchase. You can do this by reviewing your monthly retirement income and allocating a percentage towards a vehicle.
If your car budget isn’t as high as you’d like it to be, purchasing a used vehicle could save you money.
Don’t forget to estimate the trade-in value of your current car — it could help bring down the overall cost.
It’s possible to finance a vehicle after retirement, but you’ll need to factor in interest charges and any additional lender fees. These extra costs can eat into your retirement budget, so the monthly payment must be one you can easily afford.
Shopping around with different lenders is a smart way to find the best rate and loan terms based on your financial profile. Checking your credit score ahead of time can also give you an idea of which lenders are more likely to approve you.
Paying for a car in full upfront can save you money on interest. If you choose this route, consider whether you’re comfortable withdrawing a lump sum from your retirement accounts. Alternatively, you could set up a sinking fund — setting aside a chunk of your retirement income in a separate savings account until you have enough to make the purchase.
Remember to factor in ongoing costs beyond the purchase price or loan payments, such as car insurance, maintenance, and fuel.
Owning a different vehicle may result in higher car insurance premiums, so be prepared for potential increases. Fuel costs might also rise if your new car isn’t as fuel-efficient as your old one.
Reliability is one of the most important factors when choosing a car. Look for a vehicle that offers the safety features you want, one that’s low maintenance and fuel-efficient. Spending less on fuel and repairs will help lower your ongoing expenditures.
Resources like Consumer Reports offer reliability ratings can give you insight into how well certain makes and models hold up over time. You can also ask trusted friends and family members for their recommendations.
In addition to financial considerations, think about your lifestyle. If you need a reliable car for running errands and visiting family, you may not need all the latest bells and whistles.
However, if you plan to be more active — going camping or taking long-distance trips — you may want to consider features that improve your safety on the road. These can include backup cameras, blind spot detectors and cross-traffic alerts.
Whatever you plan to use your car for, make sure you feel comfortable driving it and know how to use its features. A high-end infotainment system might sound nice for long trips, but if it’s challenging to use, it could end up being more frustrating than helpful.
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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.”
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, told USA Today.
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.
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.
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Future bookings for flights between Canada and the U.S. have plummeted by over 70% in every month through to the end of September compared with the same time in 2024, according to OAG, a global travel data provider.
In February, the number of Canadians crossing the land border into the U.S. dropped almost 500,000 compared to the same period last year, according to data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — reaching levels not seen since the height of the Covid-19 border closures.
“This is like Covid all over again,” said Len Saunders, an immigration lawyer in Blaine, Wash., which borders the Canadian province of British Columbia, in an interview with CBC News. “With the rhetoric coming from Trump — people just don’t want to come down here.”
The number of Canadian residents returning from the U.S. by flights also fell by 13.1% in February, with Air Canada, WestJet and United Airlines announcing cuts to service due to declining demand.
“A 10% reduction in Canadian travel could mean 2.0 million fewer visits, $2.1 billion in lost spending and 14,000 job losses,” according to the U.S. Travel Association, which noted that Canada is the top source of international visitors to the country, with 20.4 million visits in 2024.
But it’s not just Canada. The Trump administration is also escalating a trade war with the rest of the world, and domestic tourism has also slowed down this year, with Bank of America aggregated card data showing softer lodging, tourism and airline spending. "It could be that the recent drop in consumer confidence is translating into people hesitating to book trips, or considering paring them back. But bad weather and a late Easter this year are also likely playing a part," said the bank.
While this will undoubtedly impact Americans working in the tourism and hospitality industry, it could also have impacts on everyday Americans.
Why Canadians are avoiding U.S. travel
It’s not just tariffs that have shaken Canada-U.S. relations. Taunts about Canada becoming the 51st state, threats of annexation and reports of Canadians and other nationals being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) — like the account of one Vancouver woman detained by ICE for two weeks — is keeping Canadians away.
Then there’s the Canada-U.S. exchange rate. The loonie — which plummeted to its lowest level in more than 20 years when Trump first announced impending tariffs — has since made modest gains. But that could be a good thing for American travelers.
But Barbara Barrett, executive director of the Frontier Duty Free Association, told CBC News that cross-border traffic declines aren’t due to the exchange rate. Rather, it’s about anti-tariff sentiment.
“We’ve seen the dollar fluctuate up and down before and we haven’t seen this sort of dramatic decline,” she said. “If it was all about the dollar — we’d have a flood of Americans coming over and we’re not seeing that.”
While many Canadians and other foreign nationals are boycotting the U.S., some don’t feel it’s safe to go right now. Several countries — including the U.K., Denmark, Finland, Germany and Canada — have updated their travel advisories for the U.S. regarding immigration requirements and gender identification.
“Since the start of the second Trump administration, there appears to be an uptick in foreign visitors to the U.S. being denied entry, resulting in people being sent back to their original destinations or being held in detention,” according to Wired.
As of April 11, Canadians will also have to register with the U.S. government if they plan to stay in the country for more than 30 days.
While tariffs may not have an immediate impact on domestic travel — like the price of airfare or hotel rooms — ongoing trade wars with multiple countries could eventually take a toll.
The Federal Reserve lowered its outlook for economic growth in 2025 to 1.7%, with inflation projected to creep up from 2.5% to 2.7%. With signs of slowing economic growth and consumer expectations for income, business, and labor market conditions at a 12-year low, Americans may decide to hold off on those vacation plans.
“The longer tariffs last, the more likely we’ll see air travel impacted in the form of higher costs for Boeing and airlines, fewer overall flights, and higher fares,” Scott Keyes, founder of Going, told USA Today.
But if the U.S. does sink into a recession, some travel costs could drop. “That’s because demand for travel typically falls during economic hard times, and with less demand, airlines would be forced to drop prices in order to fill planes,” Keyes said.
Tips for travel planning in uncertain times
Americans traveling domestically may want to consider vacationing in areas impacted by a downturn in Canadian tourism, such as Florida. Prices could drop because of reduced demand; at the same time, you’d be helping to support the tourism industry in those areas.
Visits to national parks, however, could get more complicated. The mass firing of 1,000 national park workers could result in service delays and maintenance issues — so you’ll want to plan any outdoor adventures far in advance.
As gas prices rise as a result of tariffs, road trips could also get more expensive (at home and abroad). So, for example, if you’re traveling in Europe, you may want to compare the costs of traveling by train rather than renting a car.
If prices escalate, airlines and hotels may adjust their prices accordingly. So it may be better to book sooner rather than later to lock in rates for flights and hotels.
Another option is to cash in those frequent flyer miles or credit card travel rewards to save on flights, hotels and rental cars. If you’re in the market for a new travel rewards credit card, keep an eye out for promotional offers that could help fund your next vacation.
It could also be a good time to sit down with a financial adviser to come up with a game plan for uncertain times, which could mean diversifying your portfolio, topping up your emergency fund and perhaps even creating a “travel fund” (say, in a high-interest savings account) so you don’t rack up unnecessary credit card debt on your next vacation.
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Accredited investors can now buy into this $22 trillion asset class once reserved for elites – and become the landlord of Walmart, Whole Foods or Kroger without lifting a finger. Here’s how
Property listing site Realtor.com’s latest data points squarely at this narrow timeframe as the ideal moment to list your home in 2025. But what’s so special about that particular week, and more importantly, why should you care?
Selling your home at the right time involves combining convenience, maximizing profit and minimizing hassle. According to Realtor.com’s annual analysis, homes listed during the sweet spot of April 13–19 will see market conditions that favor sellers and may sell quicker and at premium prices. Let’s explore why.
Why this week could mean more cash in your pocket
Mid-April is traditionally the heart of the spring home-buying season. Buyers are shaking off the winter doldrums, tax refunds are hitting bank accounts, and the weather is finally cooperating. According to the report, the benefits of listing during this week may include above-average prices, above-average buyer demand, quicker market pace, lower competition from other sellers and below-average price reductions.
Historically during Realtor’s best week to sell, views per listing spike by nearly 18% versus the average week, dramatically increasing your home’s visibility and the likelihood of competitive bidding. Homes during this week have historically reached prices 1.1% higher than the average week throughout the year, and are typically 6.7% higher than the start of the year. Homes actively for sale during this week sold 17%, or roughly 9 days, faster than the average week.
“After two years of high rates … it is likely that buyers will trickle into the market this spring, enticed by improved inventory and slowing price growth across much of the country,” Realtor.com senior economic research analyst Hannah Jones wrote in the site’s report. “If mortgage rates also fall this spring, it is possible that demand will surge sooner and with more vigor.”
Market dynamics
Nobody enjoys weeks of open houses and price reductions. Homes listed during this targeted week spend fewer days on the market compared to those listed at other times, Realtor.com says, reducing the inconvenience and stress of keeping your home perpetually showroom-ready.
But here’s the catch: 2025’s housing market isn’t what it used to be.
After years of sellers having nearly all the power, the market dynamics are shifting noticeably.
CNN reports that sellers are gradually losing the upper hand they enjoyed throughout the post-pandemic boom. Buyers now have more negotiating leverage, and competition among sellers is heating up.
Additionally, economic indicators suggest that home price growth is slowing. Zillow says home values are projected to increase by just 0.6% this year, a marked slowdown compared to increases of previous years. For homeowners aiming to capitalize on maximum equity, this could signal that the peak window for securing top-dollar sales is narrowing.
Buyer confidence and interest rates
Another major factor shaping the 2025 market is interest rates. While mortgage rates have stabilized somewhat after dramatic hikes in previous years, they remain elevated enough to impact buyer affordability. Currently the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.6%, far above the pandemic lows of 2-3%.
With those higher rates, buyers will scrutinize home values and look for the best deals. Listing your home at the ideal time, when buyer confidence is peaking, can dramatically increase your odds of sealing a quick and profitable sale.
To fully harness the benefits of this prime selling window, preparation is key. Real estate experts strongly advise completing all home repairs, staging your property attractively, and ensuring your pricing strategy aligns with current market trends.
Remember, the most successful sales occur when homes are priced competitively from the outset, leveraging initial buyer enthusiasm to drive bidding wars rather than relying on price cuts.
As market dynamics shift further away from a pure seller’s advantage, timing your home sale strategically will become increasingly critical. The once-automatic assumption that homes always appreciate rapidly may no longer hold true. Sellers who previously waited casually for better offers may now find that patience doesn’t always equal profit.
Realtor.com’s message for homeowners considering a sale in 2025 is clear: Strike while the iron is hot. The week of April 13–19 may be a golden opportunity in a rapidly shifting market. With peak buyer demand, limited competition, and signs of cooling price appreciation, missing this ideal window could mean leaving serious cash on the table.
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Accredited investors can now buy into this $22 trillion asset class once reserved for elites – and become the landlord of Walmart, Whole Foods or Kroger without lifting a finger. Here’s how
Across 32 years of giving people financial advice on the airwaves, Dave Ramsey has probably seen it all. But on an episode of The Ramsey Show earlier this year, he called out financial mistakes callers frequently make as being “Dumb! Really dumb!”
He added: “These things baffle me, that’s why I’m hitting them,” he said. “Because they’re just illogical.”
However, some argue that economic and social trends may have made some of these mistakes unavoidable. Here’s a closer look at three of Ramsey’s top “dumb” money mistakes and why they’re so common.
1. Co-buying property
Ramsey despises the prospect of buying property with anyone besides a spouse. He advises against this even in long-term relationships.
This advice is rooted in the fact that separating assets between an unmarried couple can be complicated. They do not always share the same property rights as married couples.
However, the housing crisis has pushed more people to consider co-ownership of property. A report by CoBuy, a platform that helps multiple buyers share a property, says 26.7% of home purchases in 2023 were co-purchases, while 30% of those co-purchases were completed by unmarried couples.
If you’re not in a position to purchase a home — whether on your own or with a spouse — you can still take advantage of real estate’s income-generating potential.
2. Wasteful spending on education
Investing in your education, Ramsey believes, should yield higher earnings. Otherwise it’s a wasted pursuit.
"Don’t spend $250,000 getting a master’s degree in sociology so you can be a caseworker for the state making $38,000," he said.
He believes students should realistically consider their career prospects and future earnings before going into debt for college.
You can also minimize the impact of paying for education by saving up for it ahead of time — whether for yourself or for your children — by using a high interest savings vehicle such as a guaranteed investment certificate (GIC) or a high-interest savings account.
A GIC pays a fixed interest rate on money held for a set period of time. GIC rates are usually higher than other savings accounts, but if you withdraw your GIC funds early, you’ll be charged a penalty fee.
But since this is a long-term savings play for your or your kid’s education, they are a strong option you’ll be less tempted to dip into.
If you’re looking for safe, high-return options, GICs are a great choice, investments without the stress.
3. Upgrading cars
Ramsey says a totaled car is not a reason to upgrade.
“You were driving a $6,000 car,” he said. “Your car gets totaled, you get a check for $6,000 and, suddenly, $6,000 cars aren’t good enough for you. That’s dumb!”
However, the high cost of vehicles could make this financial error difficult to avoid. The average cost of a new car in Canada as of July 2024 was $66,087, while the average used-car listing was $36,342 according to <a href="#AutoTrader"AutoTrader.
Sources
1. CoBuy: Co-buying & Co-owning a Home 2023 Report
My dog lives like a king. And he’s grown accustomed to this lavish lifestyle. From the time I purchased him from a breeder ($1,000), to expected and unexpected vet bills, grooming costs and an extensive (and impressive) wardrobe, let’s just say that I’m glad that I started budgeting for him well before he came into my home. He’s a pure-bred dog — a Japanese Chin — and one that’s not that common. But even with the rarity of his breed, he doesn’t even come close to making the list of the most expensive dog breeds in Canada.
Expensive dog breed costs and characteristics
In Canada, over the course of a dog’s lifetime, your pooch could cost you $22,000 to a whopping $83,000, depending on your dog’s breed and services required.
The cost of owning a large dog breed tends to be significantly higher than smaller breeds. This is due to several factors, including higher insurance premiums related to potential health issues common in larger dogs, increased food costs due to greater dietary needs and more expensive equipment requirements. Large breeds need heavy-duty supplies such as durable toys, sturdy leashes and robust harnesses to accommodate their size and strength.
Pet parents may face higher costs for certain types of dogs due to breed-specific characteristics and market factors. Some of the most expensive dog breeds to own include:
Large breeds that typically require more extensive medical care and diagnostics
Dogs from irresponsible breeding practices that may develop costly health issues
High-energy working breeds requiring significant investment in training and enrichment
Breeds prone to genetic conditions that often need surgical intervention
Large dogs with intensive grooming requirements
Popular breeds commanding premium prices due to popularity
While it’s impossible to predict the total lifetime cost of any dog, you can make informed decisions about initial expenses, particularly during the puppy phase. For those with the financial resources and who really, really want a dog (and won’t let a little thing like money get in the way of pet parenthood), I’ve listed some of the most expensive dog breeds available in Canada.
For this list, I considered the average purchase cost, anticipated vet bills from breed health issues and projected pet insurance costs. These are considered to be the more popular breeds in Canada, so I left uber-expensive-to-purchase and rare breeds, such as the Tibetan Mastiff and Afghan Hound, off the list.
Read More: A surprise trip to the vet can cost $1,000 or more. Don’t get caught off guard. See how pet insurance can ease the stress — and cost — of caring for fur babies. Protect yourself now
Top 15 most expensive dog breeds
French Bulldog (Average purchase cost: $4,000 to $6,000)
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The French Bulldog, known for its playful personality, emerged in 19th century England when lacemakers (yes, this was a real, old timey job, where people made lace) sought to create a smaller companion version of the English Bulldog. These charming dogs found their way to France during the Industrial Revolution, where they earned their namesake and eventually captured the hearts of the rest of the world.
While French Bulldogs command premium prices in today’s market — particularly for specialized colourings and the rare ‘fluffy’ variant which can cost up to $12,000 — potential owners should be aware of significant health considerations. As a brachycephalic breed (refers to dog breeds with a pushed-in face and shortened skull bones) characterized by their flat faces, these dogs frequently experience respiratory issues that may require corrective surgery, typically costing between $2,000 and $3,000. Additionally, they are susceptible to various ear, skin and eye conditions. Given their average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, owners should be prepared for substantial veterinary expenses throughout their pet’s life.
Samoyed (Average purchase cost: $4,000 to $8,000)
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The Samoyed, originating from the Samoyedic people of Siberia, is a versatile working breed historically used for herding reindeer and pulling sleds. These hardy dogs were essential companions to the nomadic tribes of the region, helping them survive in harsh Arctic conditions.
Known for their distinctive "Sammy smile" and bright, friendly personality, Samoyeds combine strength and athleticism with a gentle, sociable nature. While they typically live 12 to 14 years, potential owners should note that this breed requires significant investment in both time and resources. Their thick, white double coat needs regular professional grooming, and their high energy levels demand consistent exercise and mental stimulation.
English Bulldog (Average purchase cost: $2,000 to $6,000)
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The English Bulldog, with its distinctive wrinkled face and charming personality, has history dating back to medieval England. Originally developed for the now-banned sport of bull baiting (pitting a bull against dogs with the aim of attacking and subduing the bull by biting and holding onto its nose or neck), these beloved dogs have transformed into gentle, affectionate family companions that command premium prices in today’s pet market.
While English Bulldogs are known for their friendly and humourous personalities, potential owners should be aware of their specific health challenges. Like their French Bulldog cousins, they often experience brachycephalic issues due to their shortened muzzles. Other common health concerns include cherry eye (a common eye condition in dogs that causes a red, swollen bulge to appear in the corner of the eye) and various skin conditions. Due to these potential health issues, it’s crucial for prospective owners to research thoroughly and work with reputable breeders. With proper care and good genetics, English Bulldogs typically live between 8 to 10 years.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Average purchase cost: $2,000 to $3,500)
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The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a cherished companion breed with royal heritage, represents one of the more costly small dog breeds available today. These elegant dogs, which gained particular fame during Queen Victoria’s reign, continue to be sought-after family pets thanks to their gentle nature and adaptable personality.
While these beautiful dogs make wonderful companions, potential owners should be aware of several health considerations. Common issues include luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. Additionally, veterinarians recommend screening for Chiari malformation and Syringomyelia, serious conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord. Despite these health challenges, well-cared-for Cavaliers typically enjoy lifespans of 12 to 15 years.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Average purchase cost: $2,000 to $4,000)
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The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has come a long way from its fighting origins. Through selective breeding, this powerful and athletic breed has evolved into a gentle family companion that particularly excels at interacting with children. While the breed still maintains its historical courage and determination, these traits are now channeled into being a loyal and affectionate pet.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is typically a robust and healthy breed. However, like many purebred dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. The most common health issues seen in Staffies include hip and elbow dysplasia, hereditary juvenile cataracts and skin problems.
Irish Wolfhound (Average purchase cost: $1,500 to $3,000)
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These majestic dogs have a fascinating origin story that dates back to 15th century Ireland, where they served as protectors of livestock, keeping wolves at bay. In modern times, Irish Wolfhounds have evolved into beloved family pets, known for their gentle demeanour, unwavering loyalty and calm disposition. With proper training and care, they make exceptional companions.
However, potential owners should be aware that these magnificent dogs come with significant responsibilities. Their impressive size translates to higher maintenance costs throughout their relatively short lifespan of six to eight years, not to mention the substantial initial purchase price. Irish Wolfhounds are predisposed to several health issues, including cardiac problems, liver conditions and progressive vision problems. Due to their remarkable size, these gentle giants require spacious living arrangements, ideally with access to a large yard where they can stretch their legs and enjoy regular exercise.
Bernese Mountain Dog (Average purchase cost: $1,000 to $2,500)
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The Bernese Mountain Dog, affectionately known as the Berner, is a gentle giant that captures hearts with its loving nature and impressive versatility. These majestic dogs are among the most sought-after breeds, commanding premium prices due to their exceptional qualities and characteristics.
The Berner has several health concerns that potential owners should be aware of. These include hip dysplasia, various forms of cancer (particularly bone cancer and lymphoma) and joint problems. To minimize the risk of these health issues, it’s crucial to work with a reputable breeder who conducts proper health screenings and maintains a responsible breeding program. A quality breeder will provide health clearances for both parent dogs and be transparent about the breed’s health challenges.
Chow Chow (Average purchase cost: $1,200 to $2,000)
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The impressive Chow Chow, known for its distinctive lion-like appearance, offers an appealing combination of affordability and noble bearing. While initial purchase costs are relatively modest compared to other prestigious breeds, potential owners should carefully consider the long-term commitment.
These dignified dogs have moderate exercise requirements, making them suitable for less active households. However, their thick double coat demands significant grooming attention. Future owners should also prioritize early training and socialization to ensure their Chow Chow develops into a well-adjusted companion. With proper care, these loyal guardians typically enjoy a lifespan of 8 to 12 years.
Newfoundland (Average purchase cost: $1,000 to $2,500)
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The Newfoundland dog is renowned for its gentle and laid-back personality, making it one of the most easygoing breeds you’ll ever meet. These loving giants are famous for their exceptional patience with children and their friendly demeanor towards other dogs. Their exercise needs are modest — a relaxing daily walk is all they need to stay happy and healthy.
Newfoundland dogs can be prone to a number of health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, cystinuria (an inherited metabolic disorder in dogs that affects the transport of certain amino acids, including cystine, in the kidneys), hypothyroidism, osteosarcoma and heart disease.
Saint Bernard (Average purchase cost: $1,000 to $1,500)
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This gentle giant from the Swiss Alps starts as an energetic, mischievous puppy before maturing into a devoted and protective family companion. Their natural affinity with children has earned them the nickname “nanny dogs,” making them excellent additions to family homes when properly trained and socialized.
These massive dogs come with equally big responsibilities. Their hearty appetites mean significant food costs, while their thick double coats require consistent grooming to prevent loose fur from taking over your living space. As with other large purebred dogs, Saint Bernards can be prone to joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. Potential owners should also note their relatively short lifespan of eight to 10 years, typical for dogs of this size.
German Shepherd (Average purchase cost: $2,000 to $3,500)
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The German Shepherd stands as a pinnacle of canine excellence, combining strength, agility and intelligence in a powerful yet elegant package. Renowned for their versatility and noble bearing, these dogs exemplify the perfect blend of working ability and devoted companionship, making them highly sought-after among dog enthusiasts.
While German Shepherds are remarkable animals, potential owners should be aware of several health conditions that can affect the breed. These include hip dysplasia (a skeletal condition affecting the hip joint), Degenerative Myelopathy (a progressive disease of the spinal cord), bloat (a life-threatening stomach condition) and various allergies that may require ongoing management.
Great Dane (Average purchase cost: $1,000 to $3,500)
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Known for their impressive stature and gentle demeanour, Great Danes have evolved from their historical roles as hunters and guardians into beloved family companions. These intelligent gentle giants form strong bonds with their families and excel in training when given proper guidance and consistency.
Health-conscious owners should prioritize screening for common breed issues including hip and elbow dysplasia and various eye conditions. Though their lifespan is relatively short at seven to 10 years, Great Danes fill those years with unwavering loyalty and affection.
Rottweiler (Average purchase cost: $1,500 to $2,500)
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The Rottweiler’s heritage can be traced back to ancient Rome, making it one of the oldest dog breeds still in existence. These powerful yet gentle giants have earned a reputation as loyal family guardians, with a typical lifespan of nine to 10 years. To ensure they become well-adjusted companions, it’s crucial to begin training and socialization efforts early, which helps shape their natural protective instincts in a positive way.
As with many purebred dogs, Rottweilers can face certain health challenges, particularly cardiac issues and joint problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. Given their robust build and high energy levels, these distinguished dogs require significant daily exercise, consistent training and dedicated attention from their owners. While they may be considered a premium breed in terms of cost, their devotion and capabilities make them a worthwhile companion for the right family.
Portuguese Water Dog (Average purchase cost: $2,000 to $4,000)
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The Portuguese Water Dog’s irresistible curly coat has made them a popular choice among pet parents looking for a low-shedding breed. While their tight curls won’t leave your home covered in fur, their coats require dedicated grooming maintenance.
Like many purebred dog breeds, Portuguese Water Dogs are at a higher risk for certain genetic conditions. Be sure to get your dog tested for early-onset progressive retinal atrophy (a group of inherited eye disorders that leads to progressive and irreversible loss of vision), Juvenile Dilated Cardiomyopathy (a fatal heart disease that affects young dogs), Gangliosidosis (a lysosomal storage disease that affects dogs when they lack an enzyme that breaks down a molecule in their brain and neural cells), hip dysplasia (a common orthopedic condition that affects the hip joint) and Addison’s Disease (an endocrine disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient amounts of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone).
Golden Retriever (Average purchase cost: $1,500 to $2,000)
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These intelligent dogs excel in multiple roles, from providing invaluable assistance as therapy and service animals to showcasing their skills in competitive events and maintaining their hunting heritage in the field. Their adaptability is matched only by their outstanding personality traits — combining a gentle nature with unwavering loyalty and an earnest desire to please their human companions.
While beloved family companions, Golden Retrievers are prone to several health conditions that can affect their quality of life. These dogs commonly experience musculoskeletal issues, including hip dysplasia and arthritis, which can impact their mobility and comfort. Additionally, they are susceptible to skin allergies and various eye conditions that require regular monitoring and treatment.
One of the most concerning health challenges facing Golden Retrievers is their increased risk of developing cancer compared to other dog breeds. Despite these health challenges, Golden Retrievers typically live between 12 to 13 years, during which they provide their families with unwavering loyalty and affection.
The past few years have been wrought with rampant inflation, and many Americans are having a hard time paying their bills.
In a February CBS News and YouGov poll, 77% of Americans said their income isn’t keeping up with inflation. And a March survey from Equitable found that 80% of Americans across all income levels are worried about rising living costs.
Life can be especially challenging for young adults who are just starting their careers and craving independence. Suddenly, the burden is on you to pay for every little expense. And what if you realize you can’t afford everything you need?
Imagine you’re 22 years old and you’re ready to move out of your parents’ house, but you’ve done the math and discovered you can’t afford a place of your own. One of the reasons is your car payments eat up too much of your income — but you need wheels to get to work every day.
So, what can you do to lower your auto costs? And can you do anything to lower your living costs as well?
Tackling high car payments
A number of things may be contributing to high transportation costs at that age. Let’s focus on your auto loan and car insurance.
Insurance premiums tend to be higher for less-experienced drivers, as they’re deemed more likely to get into accidents. Companies can also assess risk based on a car’s make, model and safety features. A high-end car that’s expensive to repair or a car with a high theft rate result in higher premiums.
If you want to try cutting down on your insurance bill, you can start by collecting quotes from multiple companies and select the best deal. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, either, especially if you have a good driving record thus far. Ask if there are any further options for lowering your monthly payments.
As for your car loan, even as borrowing rates remain elevated, you may be able to refinance for a better deal if your credit score has improved since you bought the vehicle. What kind of car do you have? If it’s new or expensive, you may want to consider swapping it with a cheaper option.
If you’re in a situation where you can take your time to find a new place to live, sometimes it can pay to be patient and wait for the right rental opportunity to come along.
But if you’re still unable to find something in your price range, you might need to adjust your expectations. That could mean living in a different neighborhood than you wanted or a much smaller space with fewer amenities close by.
Still can’t find what you want? It might be time to put those dreams of living by yourself on hold. Co-habitating with roommates may not be ideal for everyone, but it’s a great way to cut down on living expenses. Not only does the rent get split, but you may be able to save on general household items.
Take control of your finances
If you feel like you’re drowning and can’t keep up with your bills, there are further steps you can take to improve your situation.
First, get yourself on a budget so you can track every dollar spent. Next, review your spending and identify ways to cut back. Chances are, there are some discretionary expenses you can reduce, whether it’s dining out or paying for subscription or streaming services. And along those lines, do a spending audit to make sure you aren’t paying for services you don’t use.
If you want to boost your monthly income, you may also want to look at getting a side hustle. This can allow you to afford and save more for yourself.
And if you can afford it, it’s a good idea to start an emergency fund. This may take time if you’re in a position where you can barely cover rent and car payments. But the point of an emergency fund is to provide a cushion in case of an unplanned expense so you don’t fall deep into debt.
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Accredited investors can now buy into this $22 trillion asset class once reserved for elites – and become the landlord of Walmart, Whole Foods or Kroger without lifting a finger. Here’s how
We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.
America’s Social Security program is both popular and woefully underfunded.
Experts have been warning that the social safety net millions of Americans rely on is on the verge of fraying. Now, personal finance author and motivational speaker Tony Robbins is calling on people of all ages to start weaving their own safety net.
"Time to get your head out of the sand and do some easy number crunching to find out where you are and where you need to be," his website advises. "Remember this: Anticipation is the ultimate power. Losers react; leaders anticipate."
Robbins might be preaching to the choir. According to the AARP, 74% of Americans believe Social Security will not provide enough to live on during their retirement. Two-thirds of them also consider the monthly benefits too low to live on.
If you share these concerns, here’s what you can do to secure your financial future.
Craft your own financial security plan
Since Social Security payments are likely to be insufficient, creating your own independent nest egg seems like an obvious solution. Robbins recommends setting a target to save at least 20 times your annual living expenses to fund a comfortable retirement.
On average, U.S. adults currently believe the “magic number” to retire comfortably is $1.46 million, according to Northwestern Mutual. This is 15% higher than the estimate in 2023, even though the average retirement savings dropped to $88,400 in 2024, nearly $1,000 less than the previous year.
In other words, most Americans understand how much they need to save but are unable to take the necessary steps.
If you’re struggling with where to start, Advisor.com can help you find a financial advisor in just a few clicks. Advisor.com combs through a database of thousands of vetted experts and matches you with those best suited to make the most of your money. Even better, each advisor is a fiduciary, which means they must put your interests first by law.
A pre-screened financial advisor can also help you assess how many years you have left to invest before retirement. What’s more, a good advisor will help you chart a course during unpredictable market conditions, tariff-related or otherwise.
According to research by Vanguard, people who work with financial advisors see a 3% increase in net returns. This difference can be substantial over time. For instance, if you start with a $50,000 portfolio, you could potentially retire with an extra $1.3 million after 30 years of professional guidance.
Despite its limitations, Americans overwhelmingly support the Social Security program and want the government to salvage it. A January 2025 poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed that two-thirds of Americans believe the government is spending “too little” on Social Security.
An AARP survey found that 85% of Americans back efforts to preserve the program, even if it requires higher taxes for everyone. According to the National Institute on Retirement Security, 87% of U.S. adults believe ensuring the program’s funding should be a top priority for elected officials, no matter the country’s fiscal challenges.
Regardless of how well-funded the program is, it’s clear that relying solely on Social Security for retirement is a risky proposition. On average, Social Security benefits replace only about 40% of pre-retirement income, which is often not enough to cover basic living expenses, let alone healthcare costs, leisure activities or unexpected emergencies.
Investing in gold can reduce your dependence on Social Security, providing a diversified source of income for retirement. Gold is often considered a hedge against inflation, as its value tends to rise when the cost of living increases, protecting your purchasing power over time.
It’s also seen as a safe-haven asset that investors flock to under uncertain market conditions. For instance, the price of gold surged to record highs in April 2025 amid concerns around the fallout of President Trump’s global tariffs.
Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account. This can give you the tax advantages of an IRA with the potential protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an option for those seeking to ensure their retirement funds are well-shielded against economic uncertainties.
As of 2024, 21% of Americans say they would like to move abroad, up from just 10% in 2011, according to a Gallup poll. Meanwhile, the Social Security Administration reports that over 760,000 retirees are already collecting benefits while living overseas.
For those struggling with the ongoing retirement crisis, relocating to a country with a lower cost of living and a high quality of life — like Japan, Panama, Portugal, or Greece — could be a smart solution.
To make this more achievable, consider setting up a dedicated automatic savings fund for your retirement goals. This can help you build a larger nest egg for either relocating or ensuring a more comfortable retirement, even if you decide to stay in the U.S.
One of the most effective ways you can make this happen is by automatically investing your spare change with Acorns.
The app automatically rounds up your everyday purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the difference into a diversified portfolio. This means that while you’re still earning an income every transaction — from your morning coffee to grocery shopping — contributes to building your retirement fund.
Plus, with an Acorns Gold, you get a 3% IRA match on new contributions and the ability to customize your portfolio by selecting your own stocks.
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But it’s important to balance your various income streams and cash out your gains strategically.
The benefits of long-term capital gains
Long-term capital gains are earnings on investments held for at least a year and a day. Any earnings on investments held for a shorter time are classified as short-term capital gains.
There’s a major difference between them when it comes to taxes. Long-term capital gains are taxed at lower rates than short-term capital gains, which are taxed as ordinary income.
You can leverage the tax-advantageous aspect of long-term capital gains when it comes to drawing on your nest egg for income.
The amount of tax you pay on long-term capital gains depends on your tax-filing status and your overall income. Here’s a rundown of long-term capital gains tax rates as of 2025.
If you’re single, your long-term capital gains tax rate will be:
0% if your income is $48,230 or less
15% if your income is between $48,351 and $533,400
and 20% if your income is more than $533,400.
If you’re married and filing jointly, your long-term capital gains tax rate will be:
0% if your combined income is $96,700 or less
15% if your income is between $96,701 and $600,050
and 20% if your income is more than $600,500.
These are significantly better rates than the taxes levied on short-term capital gains.
For example, if you’re single with an annual income of $45,000, you’ll pay a 12% tax on short-term capital gains versus no taxes at all on long-term capital gains.
If you’re married and file jointly with an annual retirement income of $240,000, you’ll pay a 24% tax rate on short-term capital gains but almost 10% less (15%) tax on long-term capital gains.
This tax advantage may be one reason to start withdrawing long-term capital gains as retirement income before you claim Social Security. The longer you wait to claim Social Security, the larger those monthly benefits will be — for life.
Leveraging long-term capital gains
It’s important to consider all your retirement income sources — including 401(k)s and Social Security benefits — as you plot out your tax strategy.
Let’s say most years your retirement income is low enough for you to pay 0% taxes on long-term capital gains, but you get a windfall that bumps you into the 15% range in that year.
If you have a Roth IRA, you could tap it for income in the year you get the windfall because Roth IRA withdrawals are tax-free.
Then if your income shrinks the following year, you could return to cashing out long-term gains in a taxable account.
It’s a good idea to talk to a financial advisor or tax professional about the best ways to minimize your tax burden in retirement.
This could include doing a Roth conversion ahead of retirement so you have some tax-free income at your disposal later on.
You may end up having to pay taxes on retirement savings if you have money in a traditional IRA or 401(k). At a certain point, you’ll be forced to take required minimum distributions (RMDs), which are a taxable event.
That said, there are strategies to minimize the tax-related impact of RMDs. One option is to make qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) directly out of your traditional IRA or 401(k), although there is a limit to how much money you can donate.
If your retirement income isn’t low enough to qualify for a 0% tax rate on long-term capital gains, you can try selling other investments strategically at a loss to offset those gains.
For example, say you’re looking at a $10,000 long-term gain that’s subject to a 15% tax rate. If you’re able to take a $10,000 loss in a taxable account, that negates your tax obligation.
Overall, long-term capital gains can be one of your greatest tax advantages in retirement.
What to read next
Accredited investors can now buy into this $22 trillion asset class once reserved for elites – and become the landlord of Walmart, Whole Foods or Kroger without lifting a finger. Here’s how
We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.
For anyone questioning the continued relevance of the American dream, the story of Sammy Poori serves as a powerful testament.
Poori arrived in the U.S. as an Iranian refugee in the late 1990s, supported by a church that helped him secure a janitor job at a Nashville hospital. With little money, he managed to save up $1,000 to buy a 1989 Toyota Camry, which became his home.
“I parked at Wal-Mart, which was the only place at the time that was open 24 hours. I parked where employees parked so I could sleep safely. I went to a gym to take a shower and clean up and go to work,” he told USA Today via The Tennessean.
Starting his own business
Poori met his wife Ana, also an Iranian refugee, in May 2000. When she became pregnant, he decided to become his own boss, buying a "junk tow truck" and partnering with his brother-in-law to start a business.
After working many 14- to 15-hour days moving cars, this entrepreneurial drive led him to launch BBB Auto Sales in 2005.
Poori has also amassed an impressive multimillion-dollar roster of exotic sports cars. For example, the 2022 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport in his collection starts at well over $3 million, according to Car and Driver.
Real estate investing options
Earnings from the car dealership enabled Poori to venture into real estate investments. He says he now allocates 60% of his time toward real estate and 40% to managing the dealership.
You may not have the capital to be a real estate tycoon or a luxury car dealer, but you can tap into this market by investing in shares of vacation homes or rental properties through Arrived.
Backed by world-class investors including Jeff Bezos, Arrived allows you to invest in shares of vacation and rental properties, earning a passive income stream without the extra work that comes with being a landlord of your own rental property.
To get started, simply browse through their selection of vetted properties, each picked for their potential appreciation and income generation. Once you choose a property, you can start investing with as little as $100, potentially earning quarterly dividends.
For accredited investors who are looking to make a larger investment in this sector, First National Realty Partners (FNRP) offers access to institutional-quality commercial real estate deals that can allow you to passively collect distribution income.
Commercial real estate has long been touted as a wise investment for adding stability to your portfolio, outperforming the S&P 500 over a 25-year period.
As a private equity firm, FNRP acts as the deal leader and offers white-glove service to investors, providing expertise and doing the legwork. The team has developed relationships with the nation’s largest essential-needs brands, including Kroger, Walmart, and Whole Foods, and provides insights into the best properties both on and off-market.
While the FNRP takes care of sourcing new deals, you can engage with experts, explore available deals and easily make an allocation, all on FNRP’s secure platform.
Reflecting on his passion for exotic cars, Poori remarked to USA Today, “I don’t do drugs, I don’t gamble, I don’t do anything.”
“My only hobby is cars.”
His investment in this hobby surpasses that of the typical car enthusiast. And while cars are generally seen as depreciating assets, Poori claims the exotic models in his collection have proven to be financially advantageous.
“A lot of my cars have a better return on investment than my real estate or my business,” he said. “I don’t think I have a car in my entire collection I have ever lost money on.”
If you have enough passion, you can find a way to invest profitably in what you love, too.
Take fine art, for instance – it has long been the secret weapon used by the richest 1% to safeguard and compound their wealth. In fact, with over $67 billion in annual transaction volume and a total estimated global value of $1.7 trillion, art represents a massive asset class, according to Deloitte.
But you no longer need to spend millions at auctions to invest in art.
With Masterworks, more investors can gain access to this prized asset.
Instead of buying a single painting for millions of dollars at auction, you can now invest in fractional shares of blue-chip paintings by renowned artists, including Pablo Picasso, Basquiat and Banksy.
Masterworks investors have realized representative annualized net returns like +17.6%, +17.8%, and +21.5% (among assets held for longer than one year).
See important Regulation A disclosures at Masterworks.com/cd
What to read next
Accredited investors can now buy into this $22 trillion asset class once reserved for elites – and become the landlord of Walmart, Whole Foods or Kroger without lifting a finger. Here’s how
