Behind in saving for retirement? Approaches to catching up

On average, baby boomers say they have saved or invested $275,000 for retirement, but believe they'll need a median of $750,000 to live comfortably, according to a Boomers & Retirement Survey released by TD Ameritrade, Inc. ("TD Ameritrade"), a broker-dealer subsidiary of TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation (NYSE: AMTD). That means some boomers may face a shortfall of nearly a half a million dollars as they head into retirement.



Smart retirement planning, thoughtful choices and a handy -option called a "catch-up contribution," can help boomers regain ground lost during the recession. A catch-up contribution allows people older than 50 to increase their contributions to their IRA or employer-sponsored retirement plans beyond the usual limits for such tax-deferred retirement plans.



"Anyone approaching retirement should consider different opportunities, like catch-up contributions, that might make sense for their retirement investing plans," says Lule Demmissie, managing director, retirement, TD Ameritrade. "These catch-up contributions could help workers 50 years and older save thousands more - perhaps even hundreds of thousands of dollars more - toward their retirement. When planning for retirement, every dollar counts, especially when it's going into a tax-deferred vehicle."



Demmissie offers some guidance for baby boomers approaching retirement:



* There is no standard target amount for retirement. When setting a target for your retirement investing or savings, you need a realistic idea of how much you'll need to maintain the standard of living you desire in retirement. Online calculators and tools, like those found on TD Ameritrade's online retirement center can help you set goals by exploring various real-world scenarios that might impact your assets over time and at retirement. For example, do you have health challenges that may create medical expenses? Perhaps you and your spouse would like to travel when retired. Different objectives and circumstances will influence how much you'll need to save in order to live comfortably.



* Don't rely on Social Security benefits, but don't overlook them, either. They should be a part of your overall retirement plan, but not the heart of it. Unfortunately, 65 percent of retired boomers said they rely on Social Security benefits, and nearly one-third said they wouldn't be able to live comfortably without these payments, according to TD Ameritrade's survey. "The best way to avoid having to rely completely on Social Security is to set a retirement savings goal and work toward it prior to retiring," Demmissie says.



* Take advantage of catch-up contributions. As long as you will be 50 (or older) by the end of the calendar year, you may be eligible to contribute an extra $1,000 per year toward your IRA until you turn 70 (which is the last year to contribute to a traditional IRA). If you save an additional $1,000 per year for 20 years and get a 5 percent rate of return, you could have an additional $34,719 toward retirement. Fully fund your IRA with $6,500 a year between ages 50 and 70, and that could amount to an additional $225,675 for retirement.



"Remember, it is never too late to start planning for retirement," Demmissie says. "If you experienced financial setbacks that stalled your retirement efforts, it may just mean you have to adjust your retirement expectations, work a little longer or think of other means of support that you may have not considered before. But it's never too late to get started."

Boost your home's curb appeal for a quicker sale

Selling a home requires a bit of marketing, some sweat and elbow grease, and a touch of luck. But even in a competitive selling market, it is possible to turn the sign in your front yard from For Sale to Sold so you can move on to your next residence.



First, look at your home as if you were a potential buyer. Drive up to the driveway or the front curb and park, carefully looking at the home as if for the first time. Make note of the beautiful aspects of your home, and also areas that could deter potential buyers. The outside of your home is the first image they will see, both in person, and while pre-shopping online.



One maintenance project to tackle that will really spruce up the exterior of your home is refurbishing the outside woodwork that has been weathered by the sun, rain and snow. If you have a front porch, wooden window edgings or even a back deck, chances are these areas could benefit from new stain for a refreshed and clean look.



Home decks return about 70 percent of their original cost back to homeowners when a house is sold, according to Remodeling Magazine's annual Cost vs. Value Report, but that's only when the decks are kept in top shape. To remove moisture and sun damage and protect your exterior woodwork from further damage from moss, mold and rot, Flood wood care offers an entire wood care system from prepping materials such as deck cleaners to stain. Before prepping your deck, consider if you need Wood Finish Remover to remove latex, oil, semi-transparent and solid stains, or if your deck is unstained, you may need Wood Brightener/Cleaner to bring the old and faded gray coloring back to a fresh new wood appearance. Finally, apply a Flood wood stain to your deck and woodwork to give it a beautiful look that will have home buyers and your neighbors impressed.



In addition to your exterior woodwork, also take a look at your siding and gutters. Vinyl and aluminum sidings can collect dirt and look dingy after a season or two. Use a power washer on the siding and gutters to wash away the grime and spider webs and bring some vibrancy back to the outside of your home. Also consider adding season-appropriate flowers, plants or landscaping or replacing gutter downspouts with decorative chains to give your home an artistic look.



Finally, take a close look at your exterior lights. Glass-enclosed lights can become filthy from all the elements, so take a quick moment to wipe them clean with glass cleaner. If your light fixtures are tarnished, or looking run down, purchase a can of spray paint in any complimentary color to the exterior of your home and freshen them up. It will make your lights appear new in no time at all.



These quick-fix projects will boost the look of your home both for prospective buyers arriving at your front door, and also in the photographs visible online. With this better exterior appearance, chances are you'll be able to sell your home much quicker.

Dress your home to impress buyers this summer

Your tastes and personal style have created a beautiful setting for your home until now. But as you prepare for house hunters visiting the space, it might be time to let go of emotional attachment and transform your home into a stunning showpiece that any potential buyer would love.



A touch of color



If your walls need painting, applying a neutral color is usually recommended. But don't be afraid to have some fun with a color that will leave a lasting impression on people searching for the perfect, stand-out home. A bold color like Azalea married with the soft subtle hue of Chiffon and Swiss Coffee, all from Pratt & Lambert Paints, can create an energetic atmosphere while still giving your home a comfortable and relaxing vibe. Apply the bolder colors to an accent wall or on minor architectural elements throughout the home, to breathe fresh life into otherwise dull walls.



Painting is a small project that can create the most impact when selling your home. But if your home is large and the thought of taking on a painting project seems overwhelming, never fear. Skilled painting contractors in your area can offer the talent and know-how to get any painting project done quickly, without sacrificing on quality. Ask a family member or friend for a reference, or visit an online resource like AngiesList.com for a verified list of professionals who can turn your vision into a reality.



Take your space from aged to staged



Another way to inspire potential buyers is by showing off a beautifully decorated and elegantly styled home. To get an expertly polished palace, hire an accredited staging professional, who will assess the space and plan a design that will have homebuyers stopping in their tracks. In fact, homes that are professionally staged spend 83 percent less time on the market, according to a survey conducted by The International Association of Home Staging Professionals and StagedHomes.com.



The first thing the stager will do is de-clutter your home. Prospective buyers don't want to be reminded of the home's current owners, so removing personal photographs, over-the-top decorative items or over-sized furniture is an essential part of the process. They might also reconfigure furniture to improve the home's flow and function.



Lighting is an important factor when showing a home, as well. Stagers will find a way to warm up the space and highlight focal points of the room using strategic light sources, creating an unforgettable space. And since more than 90 percent of potential buyers are searching online prior to visiting a home in person, professionally staged spaces are better able to communicate through photographs than generic shots.



If you've already moved out of your house and into your new home, the stager will bring in key furniture and accessories to help house hunters envision themselves living there. Just like a too-cluttered home might turn off some buyers, a blank ho-hum look can give off a lackluster vibe, so staging an empty house can help any buyer see its true potential.



By investing some time and money into the right kind of home improvement and staging projects, you can be confident knowing you're a step ahead of the competition and a step closer to giving a new homebuyer the home of his or her dreams.

​Plan now for your big move this summer

(BPT) - The big move - it should be in all-caps and announced with a deep, authoritative voice. THE BIG MOVE. And it's coming to your family soon. It might be from one house to another across town, or it might involve crossing many state lines. No matter the distance, amount of belongings or number of people, your big move is going to be a big deal.



There are ways to plan for your move so the big event doesn't overwhelm you. Here are five moving tips:



1. Less is better - The less you have to move, the easier your move will be on your body and your wallet. It will also be easier to fit everything into your new house. While packing, create three piles. The first is your "must-go" pile. The second is your "must-sell" pile, which includes anything you haven't used in the last year, anything you have multiples of and anything you just don't want any more. The third is the "must-throw" pile, and it contains anything that can't be sold at a garage sale or donated. Start creating these piles now, and it will make moving day much easier.



2. Stock up on supplies - Big boxes might seem like a great idea because they can hold so much stuff, but what happens when you try to lift one and carry it down a flight of steps? Stock up on boxes of multiple sizes, but keep in mind that smaller is much easier to carry. Also stock up on foam and bubble wrap to protect your fragile items, a good supply of packing tape and bold markers for labeling boxes. You'll also want to have moving blankets and hand trucks to make it easier to transport your items.



3. Rent a truck - One trip makes the big move simple, even if you're just moving across town. Penske Truck Rental guarantees a truck for every reservation. Most movers find the 12- or 16-foot truck perfect for moving a few large items or the contents of a small condo or apartment.



4. Pack smart - Load the heaviest items on the truck first. When you've got a sturdy base of the heaviest items, you can start stacking on top. This is when it's handy to list a box's contents on its side. If you have friends and family helping, they'll know not to set books on top of your china.



5. Safety and security - Trucks are taller, wider, heavier and require more stopping distance than the vehicle you are used to driving. Take extra precaution, especially when the truck is loaded. Watch out for low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs, and use extra caution when cornering. To protect your belongings, park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door. To make sure you've got everything you need on moving day, create a travel bag for keeping important paperwork, credit cards, identification, a change of clothes, drinks and snacks close at hand.



As you cross days off on the calendar and the big day approaches, these tips will help you sail through the event with few conflicts. Before you know it, you'll be settled in your new home.

Stretching your summer entertaining dollars

Warm weather is "special occasion" season. Whatever your event - a wedding, graduation party, family reunion or July 4th fete - summer celebrations have one important thing in common. Everyone wants to get the most bang for their buck.



Fortunately, from renting tables and chairs and other needed items, to do-it-yourself decorations, it's possible to stretch your entertaining dollars this summer season. Here are some tips for ways you can get the most for your money, and host an event that guests will talk about well into fall:



* Create excitement with a theme. What will entice people to attend? Will your event be fondly remembered? Get co-workers raving about what a great job you did planning the company picnic. A fun theme can take the place of costlier entertainment options.



* Look for a low or no-cost location, such as a public park or your own backyard. Renting a venue can be expensive. Hosting your event in a no-cost location will allow you to put your entertaining dollars to work in other ways, such as food or decorations.



* You don't need to pay for a DJ if you have just one tech-savvy friend who knows what to do with an iPod dock and some speakers. You can further save on entertainment by inviting guests to bring their favorite lawn or board games to the party.



* Don't waste money buying when renting is more cost-effective. If you'll need extra tables, chairs, dishes and cutlery, renting those items from your local rental store can be much more cost-effective than buying. What's more, renting can give you access to items that you might not even consider buying, such as a tent, dance floor, inflatable bounce house or machines for making popcorn, cotton candy or snow cones. You can even rent a photo booth for a really unique and memorable experience. Renting can help you stretch your dollar, create a one-of-a-kind party and never have to worry about where you'll store everything after the party is over. To find a local company for renting equipment and goods that will make your next event memorable and successful, visit RentalHQ.com to find the rental store nearest you.



* Get creative with food options. Everyone loves a barbecue, but costs can add up when you're buying food for a large number of guests. Start by creating a menu of a few key items that will be sure crowd pleasers. Then, head to your local club store to stock up on main ingredients.



* Save money by sending save-the-date announcements and invitations digitally. It's easy to find free online services that will allow you to send e-vites, receive responses and even track who will be attending - all online.



Throwing a memorable summer soiree doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money. From renting needed items and getting creative, it's possible to stretch your summer entertaining dollars.

Five questions to ask before hiring a real estate agent

(BPT) - Want to sell your property quickly? Looking for your dream house? Are you hoping to get the best deal possible during the complex process of buying or selling a home? With so much money - and often, emotion - at stake, going it alone is generally not the best way to reach your goals. The secret for getting exactly what you want: Work with a savvy real estate agent.



A qualified real estate agent will streamline the process, help you save money and serve as a liaison with your best interests in mind. But how do you find the right real estate agent? Hundreds or even thousands of real estate professionals may work in your area, but finding the best one for your unique situation doesn't have to be time-consuming.



Remember, you're hiring this individual for his or her expertise and services. Your agent will get a designated percentage of the sale of the house. Depending on negotiations, this cost may be covered by the seller, buyer or split by both. You want someone who will work hard for you, but also someone you are comfortable with because you may be spending a lot of time together.



To find the best real estate agent for you, ask these five critical questions:



1. How many buyers or sellers have you helped in the last year in the area?



An active agent is more likely to be up-to-date on the market, and local and state laws. Furthermore, active agents with experience in your neighborhood, or the neighborhood where you'd like to move, are better positioned to help you because they can provide unique insight that other less-knowledgeable agents cannot.



2. Do you have advanced training?



Any licensed real estate agent can help you buy or sell a home. But an agent who has advanced specialty training is better qualified to assist you. For example, an agent who is an Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR), has enhanced training focusing specifically on buyers. An agent who is a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) has special training to deal with short sales and foreclosures. RE/MAX agents on average have more certifications and extra training to better serve buyers and sellers.



3. What services do you offer?



While the majority of people shop for homes online first, having someone on your side through the search and sale process can save time and money. A buyer's agent should help you schedule showings, assist with negotiating the price of the new home, guide you through the paperwork, be there at the closing table, and provide insight through any contingencies during the process.



For sellers, an agent should help set the price of the home, based on a competitive market analysis (CMA). Ask the agent how he or she will market your home (websites, videos, direct mail). Also inquire about assistance with staging and hosting open houses. Then, when the offers come in, the agent can help you with the decision on which one to accept.



4. Who else will be working with me?



The person you hire should do most of the work, but you may work with a support team, too. Additional team members may include mortgage brokers, home inspectors or contractors. If you'd like more information about what it's like to work with an agent, don't be shy about asking for references. You'll get real insight into what it's like to work with that particular professional.



5. How often will I hear from you?



No matter if you're selling or buying, ask how often you'll hear from the agent and make sure that this aligns with your expectations. For buyers: Do you just want to hear when there's a new home that may interest you? Do you want regular check-in calls too? For sellers: Do you want to hear from your agent only after a buyer has toured your home, or do you want to be kept in the loop on a weekly basis?



Buying or selling a home is a complex process most people do only a few times in their lives. Hiring the right real estate agent from a reputable company can give you an edge so you get the best deal possible while meeting all your goals.



You can learn more about the home buying and selling process and find an experienced agent by contacting us in the information on this email. We welcome all!

Don't let summertime equal more crime: Quick tips on keeping your family safe

You may be wishing for sandy beaches or a mountain getaway about now. As Americans make plans to escape for a few days this summer, criminals view these vacations as a season of opportunity.

Crime doesn't take a vacation. In fact, it surges during the summer. The Federal Bureau of Investigation reports an overwhelming 10 percent increase in crime overall, with an 18 percent increase of home break-ins during the summer. So what can you do to protect your home? Here are a few quick and inexpensive tips to keep your family safe.

1. Install a first line of defense for your home

Most homes are targeted by a simple selection process. A burglar chooses a home with easy access, excellent cover and good escape routes. But they will usually bypass a home if it requires too much effort or poses too much risk, such as a home security system with audible siren or horn. Security systems can be pricey and invasive. However, Schlage's Alarmed Lock is an affordable first line of defense for your home. An alarm sounds the moment there is activity at the door. Specifically engineered to detect vibration and motion at first contact, this alarmed lock gives homeowners peace of mind right at the front or back door. For more information on Alarmed Lock, visit alarm.schlage.com.

2. Don't let your home be an easy target

Burglars are most likely to break in when it is clear a homeowner is away. Interior and exterior lighting is necessary to show signs of activity. Installing a system that allows you to control lighting while you're traveling is a great way to deter a break-in. Nexia Home Intelligence helps homeowners control not only their lights but also locks, video cameras, Trane ComfortLink II thermostat control, shades and more, all from a Web-enabled laptop, smartphone or tablet.

3. Get to know your neighbors

Neighbors can be your eyes and ears when you're not around. Agree to keep an eye on each others' homes. While on vacation, have them pick up mail, newspapers, packages and trash. Communicating with your neighbors is a simple way to prevent a burglar targeting your home due to inactivity. So don't be shy - they will appreciate the extra safety, too.

4. Get involved in anti-crime efforts

Beyond just getting to know your next-door neighbor, you can actually band together to protect the entire neighborhood in a more active way. As America's most trusted name in security, Schlage has teamed up with the Neighborhood Watch program to support their like-minded desire to protect America's neighborhoods. Schlage has donated 400 Alarmed Locks in a 40-city safety blitz to mark the Neighborhood Watch's 40th anniversary.

"Celebrating this way is just one of the ways to further remind citizens about the power of watch groups," says Chris Tutko, director of National Neighborhood Watch - USAonWatch and a former chief of police. "Thanks to Schlage for partnering with us to get the word out about home safety."

For more information on NSA programs and Neighborhood Watch visit www.usaonwatch.org and www.sheriffs.org.

5. Don't leave behind keys

It's tempting to leave keys behind for relatives or friends while you're out of town but that fake rock you bought doesn't fool anyone, especially the burglar. Leaving a hidden key is essentially extending an invitation to burglars. Don't be so hospitable. Install a keypad lock instead of the usual deadbolt, like Schlage's Electronic Keypad. This keyless device allows homeowners to use codes to get in and out. You can change the code multiple times to customize it for anyone who needs to stop by while you are out including contractors, delivery people, cleaning services and pet sitters. The Electronic Keypad is an inexpensive, simple to install solution to keeping your home safe.

Following these easy and affordable steps will give you peace of mind for you and your family during the warm summer months and allow you to truly leave your worries at the door while you are gone.