We all know that April 15th is tax day. Don’t forget you need to make your IRA contribution by then as well. Don’t miss the last chance to save for your retirement. Don’t give up this ability to have financial control over your future. Visit www.theentrustgroup.com and get in touch with a local representative today. Remember, no one will take better care of your money then you!!

With 30-year rates below 5% real estate may be stabilizing (at least that is what many experts are wishing for). I was recently quoted a 30-year loan rate at 4.8% on an owner-occupied property. Yes, this is a great rate but realize it comes with strings attached. Outstanding credit score (over 790), proven income, a lot of equity in the property, etc.

For many homeowners who are trying to refinance, if they do not have the criteria or their debt ratio is too high, it will not matter what interest rates are. They still will not get approved for the refinance. Bankers are still being very careful lending to only the very low risk customer.

This economy makes us think twice before we spend money on things that in the past we may have taken for granted. Here are 5 tips to help you enjoy the finer things in life – on the cheap.

1. Boil empty candle glasses in hot water, pour away the remaining melted wax, wash them thoroughly and use as flower bud vases.

2. Make the most of your unemployed status. Take free online courses, look into your local government or the state to see if they offer free coaches and pick up What Color is My Parachute, a book devoted to assessing your career opportunities.

3. When buying steak at the grocery store, opt for skirt steak over a filet. It tastes great and is half the price!

4. Don’t buy bottled water. Instead add ice cubes and slices of cucumber or fruit to your filtered tap water. Not only is this less expensive than bottled, but you are also doing something good for the environment.

5. Search the web and rent those designer handbags, check out upscale consignment shops for “nearly never worn clothing” and visit vintage shops for the funky jewelry, which is all the rage this season.

There is no excuse for us to not enjoy the finer things of life! Cheers!