After the IRS decision to allow gay and lesbian married couples to file joint federal tax returns, we noted that a number of states would have to provide guidance because they require two contradictory things: (1) if you file a joint federal return, you must file a joint state return, and (2) same-sex married couples cannot…
The first time I did taxes for Greg and Linda, I was blindsided. They were married the summer before they became my clients. Both of them had only ever received refunds on their tax returns. And this year, they owed money to Uncle Sam. A lot, too. I, like my new clients, hadn’t really internalized…
In my last column, we had some fun talking about how smart technology is beginning to transform our homes, creeping into our basic energy systems and every other nook and cranny of our homes. This is a trend that will surely continue, as developers, engineers, builders and home goods suppliers endeavor to one-up one another….
Happy New Year one and all. Many of you will be reading this article on your smartphones which, as we know, have become ubiquitous. And, in spite of the many things they currently do for us, we are only in the infancy of the “smart” world. This week we’re taking a look at the new…
Part two of our look at the dynamics, techniques and attitude required to make the best deals in real estate covers sellers. Let’s start with timing. The seller’s friends are scarcity and demand. When there are few houses on the market, and demand is high, the seller is in the driver’s seat. Whenever there are…
Real estate is a game, partially determined by chance, and timing, but skill does play a part. Each party to the sale – both seller and buyer– want to get the best deal and either move out or in, happy and content in the transaction. This two-part look at the dynamics, techniques and attitude required…
In the 1955-1960 television program The Millionaire, the millionaire John Beresford Tipton would call his secretary, Michael Anthony, into his drawing room. In a booming voice, he would utter the following, handing his assistant an envelope, “Mike, our next millionaire …” Mike would then set off to find the lucky recipient and we would watch…
If you’ve dreamed of a sparkling new kitchen and finally open the wallet and make it happen, enjoy it! But if you’re hoping it will add major dollars to the sale of your home, well, time to think again. Buyers want all the goodies, for sure, but remember the adage “the best we can get…
The American Family Association (AFA) has doubled down on their initial outrage after the announcement that the Harvey Milk commemorative stamp would be released May 22. In an April 22 press release, Tim Wildmon, the president of the nationally recognized hate group wrote at the time that: “Milk used his charm and power to prey on young…
