By Compiled from Times wires
Published August 17, 2003
Vacation homes have become more than a getaway place to relax or retire. They can be powerful investments and are a hot commodity as baby boomers rapidly near retirement age. The National Association of Realtors says buyers should focus on location and accessibility, and make sure the land surrounding the property has limited potential for development.
Investing in tax liens can pay off with returns of 5 to 15 percent, but it's not easy money. BusinessWeek cautions investors must understand state property tax laws, know local real estate markets and be able to master the often complex tax-lien auction procedures. The magazine explains the investments and gives tips on how to navigate the process.
Companies trying to hire a top executive typically focus on issues such as professional challenge, stability and growth potential. But that's not what seals the deal. In a survey of 356 executives, 62 percent say the decision on whether to take a job hinges on compensation and spousal approval. Says Alister Piggott of New York search company Morgan Howard Worldwide, "Job satisfaction and career path are very important, but money and family rule."
State-sponsored 529 plans are pitched as the answer to all your college savings needs. And though Smart Money magazine says they're the best college savings tool to come along in years, the plans have plenty of drawbacks. The magazine's August issue helps readers understand the plans and avoid the most common pitfalls.
The Department of Labor has some incentive for students to continue their education. The department says 48 of today's 50 highest-paying occupations require college degrees. And jobs requiring a college degree are projected to grow faster than the average of all occupations. These categories will account for 43 percent of projected new job growth through 2010.
