The University Area Social Services Center experienced a 60 percent increase in clients in its most recent fiscal year. ...more

October 28, 2009

Many of the same sleazy operators who helped fuel the real estate bubble through dubious subprime lending practices are now taking advantage of homeowners through "foreclosure-rescue" scams. ...more

October 10, 2009

During President Obama's campaign, I recall seeing an interview clip of a woman who attended one of his rallies. When asked why she was voting for Obama, she responded, "Obama is going to pay my mortgage and put gas in my tank." ...more

August 6, 2009

Losing your job is emotionally and financially draining. Figuring out how to keep your head above water until you find a new one is overwhelming. ...more

April 18, 2009

I thought I'd answer a few more of your questions: Jaclyn in Cleveland asks: My husband and I are 33 with two small children. With an income of $230,000, we max out our TSP and 401(k) plans. Each month we save $250 to a 529, $200 to IRA and brokerage accounts, and $50 to an ING savings account. Given that we are 30 years to retirement and 15 years from college tuition bills, is it smart to maintain our current savings patterns or is it better to adjust according to the economy? ...more

March 15, 2009

Will You Call Bank To Lower House Payments? The Obama administration kicked off a new program Wednesday that's designed to help up to 9 million borrowers stay in their homes through refinanced mortgages or loans that are modified to lower monthly payments. ...more

March 9, 2009

I am very upset with the state of Florida for the mishandling of the homeowners insurance industry. I have been a State Farm policyholder for 26 years, my rates are very reasonable, and now I will be forced to look elsewhere. ...more

March 9, 2009

I heard some information about first-time homebuyers receiving a $7,500 tax break. Can you tell me about this? I am a first-time buyer. ...more

February 22, 2009

Is it true that a condominium association that has filed a lien against a unit owner for unpaid maintenance fees can expect to recoup only six months' arrearages if a bank forecloses on the unit? ...more

February 22, 2009

Once again an Obama rally has brought out the worst in our fellow citizens. When candidate Obama was here a nice lady identified as Peggy said she never thought she would see the day she didn't have to worry about her mortgage or gasoline. Last week in Fort Myers, three fellow citizens asked not for opportunity, but for handouts. ...more

February 16, 2009