Many of us have heard the popular saying at some point in our life “Get rich or die trying”. Nowadays if you asked many homeowners or perspective homeowners I think they’d relate to that saying.  Navigating the financial landscape outlaid for most can be a daunting task.  We believe that a big part of your journey to wealth is based on “keeping more of what you make”. 

Over the coming months we will be publishing two to three common sense ideas that will reward and set you on a different path financially regardless of your stage of life;  ideas that won’t cost you money but may challenge the way you think financially or affect your life style - short term pain for long term gain.

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Pay down your debt - invest later

Odd to hear a financial advisor suggest that?  Well that’s because we work with your current financial situation, strategizing on how to reduce your debt and increase your wealth. It’s surprising to see people saving between $50 to $1000 per month when they have credit card balances month to month; car loans or other non-tax deductible personal debt with higher then prime lending rates.  It may be in your best interest to cash those investments in to use that money to generate a guaranteed return by reducing you’re monthly or daily carrying costs of the debt.  Reducing your debt level will always be a wise investment and when you have paid it down you can allocate more to investing in real estate, a portfolio and retirement.

Pay down that Mortgage – what’s a mortgage?

Well the word originates from Latin origins and literally means “pay till you die or death pledge.”  Dreams of home ownership are becoming harder for many as rules tighten, down payments get larger and home prices have exploded over the last 25 years.  It’s important to ask questions, evaluate, explore and understand various types of mortgages especially flexible ones that allow for additional payments to help you out live your mortgage.  Not all mortgages are created equal.  It’s important that you take the time to understand the fine print.  Real estate can serve as a great investment and foundation to your finances but like anything else it requires you to manage your expenses and keep revenue (income) coming into the household.  Ensuring you have a cost effective, affordable and practical insurance plan to cover your liabilities is critical but also making sure you are not under or over insured and that you understand your coverage is critical.  We want to help you out live your mortgage, not live it out.

As Financial planners and Consultants we get an insider’s look at the things people often overlook. Getting a second opinion on your personal financial situation whether you have already amassed your wealth, are getting ready for retirement, are interested in building the start of your comprehensive financial plan, or are smack dab in the middle of life financially, working with an Independent Advisor can provide you with a fresh approach, alternative perspective and advice on your personal situation.

Submitted by: Daniel Bussiere

Financial Consultant

BeneWealth Strategies Inc.

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The BeneWealth Team

Health, Wealth and Benefits

“BeneWealth is a boutique Wealth management & Employee benefits consulting firm that provides sound advice designed to help you keep more of what you earn.  We take the time to listen, ask the right questions and understand who you are and what you hope to accomplish.  We focus on reducing tax liabilities, creating sustainable growth and providing you with clear direction.  Learn how to live your dreams.”

What should I expect when I attend couples therapy? Will I be exposed as the problem person in my relationship? Will I be understood? What if the fighting gets worse? What if we find out we're not compatible? 

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Henry provides relationship counseling in Kelowna and has been working with Marriages & Families for over 20 years. This includes 10 years as a foster parent, helping couples prepare for and enrich their family experience as a Pastor of Marriage & Family Ministries, and over 20 years of private practice as a marriage & family therapist. His wealth of experience and professionalism provide you and your family with the care and direction you need in order to achieve you relationship goals.

Henry has been married for 30 years. He and his wife live in Kelowna, BC.

Summer is around the corner, and if you’re planning on air-travel, here are a few tips to keep you feeling happy and refreshed when you arrive at your destination.

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1. Be prepared -  Poor food choices are everywhere, so it’s your obligation to be prepared. Don't expect convenient and healthy food to be thrown at you.  We all know airports aren’t known for healthy eating options.  Packing some decaffeinated tea bags and some almonds in your carry-on luggage can be a life-saver.

2. Be informed -  Call the airline or check their website ahead of time to find out if they have any healthy food options on-board.  You can always try asking for vegetarian or vegan options in an effort to skip the processed foods.  

3. Don’t make excuses -  No matter what time your flight is, try not to skip a meal, your body needs that energy.  

4. Stay hydrated! -  Water is your traveling buddy. Avoid coffee and booze while in the air.  Save those treats for when you get your feet on the ground.

5.  Get exercise -  Waiting for a connection?  It can be as simple as finding some stairs and getting those legs moving.

6. Don’t settle -  Modern air travel always seems rushed.  Skip the first fast-food place you see.  Coffee shops usually have nuts, oatmeal and fruit cups.  Even newspaper stands can have something better than a burger.

7. Avoid salty food -  Who wants to feel bloated in those cramped seats anyway?

8. Boredom -  Keep mindless eating at bay.  Try a nice cup of decaffeinated tea.

Follow these tips, and you’ll find your next flight will be a bit better, so long as your bags arrive at your destination with you!

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KyLee Fournier is a Certified Sport Nutritionist living in beautiful Kelowna, BC.  You can learn more about her at www.KyleeFournier.com. She also interviews popular vegans and vegetarians on her website www.vegbelly.com. She can be reached at kyleefournier@gmail.com.