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Preparing for Fall Expenses
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp Autumn marks the beginning of the fall season, and setting aside money for upcoming costs – such as heating bills, fall wardrobe updates, and potential holiday expenses – is essential for staying...
Understanding Investment Options and Terms
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp August is National Investor Month – who knew? Well, now you do! This month is dedicated to celebrating the art of investing and recognizing those who actively manage their financial futures. It’s a...
Back-to-School Financial Literacy Basics for Families
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp Financial literacy is a critical skill that benefits every member of the family, regardless of age. For many parents, setting a good example and providing the tools and knowledge children need to...
Money Matters for Military Families
By Charlestien Harris ATTENTION – July is National Military Consumer Month! I discovered this little-known fact while conducting research for my weekly article. We enjoy our freedom in this country thanks to the dedicated service members who protect it with honor. In...
Let’s Celebrate National Savings Month
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp Did you know that July is designated as National Savings Month? I didn't know that fun fact either. It was established to encourage individuals to focus on saving, budgeting, and...
College Students Preparing to Live on Their Own
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp If you ask the average young adult whether they’re ready to leave the comforts of their parents’ home, they will most definitely say, “Yes!” I know this because, when I was that age, I once said I...
Prequalification vs. Pre-approval: What’s the Difference?
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp Searching for your dream home doesn’t have to remain just a dream. Knowing in advance how much money you have available to purchase a home can go a long way in turning that dream into reality. One...
Homeownership Affordability: Know Your Numbers
By Charlestien Harris One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a home is affordability. Affordability can look different for each person considering homeownership. Homeownership affordability is defined as the ability to purchase and maintain a...
Homebuyer Education: What Is It, and Why Do I Need It?
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp Now that you’ve decided you’re ready to purchase a home, it’s time to learn more about the home buying process. A Homebuyer Education Course is designed to educate potential buyers about the steps...
Are You Ready to Buy a Home?
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp June is commonly known as National Homeownership Month – a time to celebrate the American dream of owning a home and to promote the benefits of homeownership. National Homeownership Week began in...