Credit Utilization and Homeownership
By Charlestien Harris June is celebrated as National Homeownership Month! It can be an exciting time for a first-time home buyer or a more pleasant experience for a family looking to upgrade to a larger home. Several factors can affect your ability to purchase a home,...
Southern Bancorp Featured by CardRates.com
Southern Bancorp’s unique mission and the vital role we play in helping underserved people and places was recently featured by CardRates.com in an article titled “Southern Bancorp Balances Profits with Purpose to Elevate Underserved Families and...
Getting Ready for College and Beyond
By: Charlestien Harris May is the season for graduations! I just returned from my grandson’s celebration this past week in Alabama, as a matter of fact. But May can also be a time of reflection and preparation. Finances are a big part of why many students don’t choose...
Preparing for Homeownership in May
By Charlestien Harris June is known as Homeownership Month, and if you plan to become a homeowner, now is the time to start preparing to make your homeownership dream come true. It has long been said that owning a home is part of the American Dream, and if that is one...
Budget-Friendly Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas
By Charlestien Harris May is the month that recognizes the hard work and dedication that a teacher has poured into your child all year long. Why not show your appreciation by sharing a budget-friendly gift with that special educator in your child’s life? Teacher...
Graduation Gifts That Make $ense!
By Charlestien Harris Graduation season has arrived, which means it’s time to think about that special gift you would like to give to that extra special graduate in your life! While this time of year can be full of excitement and splendor, it can also be stressful...
Budget-Friendly Home Maintenance Projects in May
By Charlestien Harris May is a great time to find deep discounts on materials for home maintenance or home improvement projects you plan to tackle this summer. I know that June is when we will celebrate National Homeownership Month, but having a plan can help reduce...
Did You Know… Social Security Can Be Taxed
By Charlestien Harris I know it is past the tax filing deadline of April 15, but very few taxpayers realize that Social Security benefits can be taxable under certain conditions. One question many people ask me is, “At what age is Social Security no longer taxable?”...