This is the last in a series of six blogs about Smart Family Finances and ways to improve your decision-making regarding your money. In this article, we will attempt to wrap up the conversations about family finances in a “tidy” package.

A Securities-Based Line of Credit (SBLOC) can give you much needed liquidity without liquidating your investments. Learn about the advantages and risks of using an SBLOC.

For many, the last 365 days as an investor have produced many emotions: fear, greed, panic, anxiety, euphoria, information overload — but none more powerful that the fear of missing out or FOMO. Because of FOMO, our likelihood of making decisions that are outside of our expertise, and/or not in line with our overall investment strategy, skyrockets. Read why it's so important not to become blinded by the shiny objects.

Saving for college is very hard. Add to that, concerns about growing tuition costs and the ongoing student debt crisis, and you face even more stress. You don't want your child starting his or her career with a massive debt burden, right? The key is to fully prepare for this financial decision -- just as you would for buying your first home. Learn more.

Unlike professional services provided by an accountant or attorney, many people aren't quite sure what a financial advisor can do for them and exactly how they help you achieve your financial goals. Learn what you can gain from working with an advisor.

Setting financial goals is critical to smart family finance. Sounds easy, right? Not quite. For many of us, it's difficult to know where to begin when it comes to our personal finances. What kind of goals should you set and how can you be sure you're on the right track to achieving them? Learn how "beginning with the end in mind" can help you in your financial goal-setting.

What a year we experienced in 2020! The most tumultuous year in recent memory ended on a high note for markets as the fourth quarter brought greater political and medical clarity — one that resulted in substantial market gains over the past three months, which helped to make 2020 a surprisingly strong year for market returns. What can we expect in 2021?

If you're wondering if you will be able to live comfortably in retirement, you must first determine what "comfortable" means to you and the associated level of spending. No matter what the level, comfort increases with confidence in knowing pre- and post-retirement spending needs.

Behavioral biases can cause your investing strategy to get out of sync with your risk tolerance and goals. One common financial behavioral bias is rationalizing poor past decisions. Learn how to recognize when this and other biases have crept into your thinking.