Shunkwiler Financial

In 2024, individual investors again lagged the S&P 500. We all know why–fear, greed, and overconfidence can cloud judgment and lead to poor decision-making and bad returns. Creating an investing strategy may help. #Investing #Finance

Mortgage demand dropped nearly 22% at the end of 2024, with rates climbing back to 7%. This shift highlights the dynamic relationship between interest rates and housing market activity, reminding us how quickly market conditions can evolve. - Applications for home purchases fell 13% in late December while refinancing applications saw a steeper 36% decline - though they remain 10% higher than last year. - Despite seasonal adjustments, these numbers reflect broader market trends beyond typical holiday slowdowns, with both prices and interest rates influencing buyer behavior. - The new conforming loan limit of $766,550 offers expanded options, though careful consideration of rates and terms remains crucial in today's market. Looking ahead to 2025, the housing market continues to adapt to evolving economic conditions. While inventory has improved compared to last year, the interplay between rates, prices, and buyer demand will likely remain key factors shaping the market landscape. 🏠 #MortgageRates #HousingMarket #FinancialNews #RealEstate Source: https://lnkd.in/gAA6RVbc

Looking to sell your home? Learn about capital gains tax requirements. ➡️ #CapitalGains #Homeownership #RealEstate Source: irs.gov, 2024

Tax season is coming! #Taxes #Deductions #Charity

💼 Job Market Snapshot: Latest unemployment claims hit the lowest level since March at 211,000, with total benefits recipients down to 1.84 million. The Story Behind the Numbers: * Monthly job creation holding steady at 180,000 (2024 average) * Unemployment rate: 4.2% * Expected December job additions: 160,000 What's Ahead? The Federal Reserve's recent rate decisions and inflation trends continue shaping employment dynamics. Mark your calendar: December's full employment report drops on January 10th. 🗓️ Source: https://lnkd.in/gv4ZsmCN #Employment #JobMarket #EconomicTrends #LaborMarket #EconomicIndicators

Happy New Year from the Shunkwiler team! #HappyNewYear #Happy2025

Happy Holidays from Shunkwiler Financial!

Success isn't just about the numbers in your bank account - nearly 60% of Americans say true success means having the freedom to spend on what brings them joy. Living your values doesn't have to conflict with building your financial future. 💭 While many of us face economic pressures and paycheck-to-paycheck challenges, creating a personal financial framework that balances today's happiness with tomorrow's needs can make a real difference. Finding that sweet spot between saving and living in the moment is key. Instead of rigid rules, consider what brings meaning to YOUR life and build from there. Sometimes, it's the small joys—like that perfect cup of coffee—that make all the difference. #PersonalFinance #FinancialWellness #MoneyMindset #WealthBuilding Source: https://lnkd.in/g8vJ3hca

In 2024, we all experienced inflation in different ways. Some felt it at the grocery store, others while traveling, or when dining out. But I would argue that the inflation story is mostly positive at this point. The overall trend is lower, which has made the Fed comfortable enough to begin lowering short-term interest rates.

Understanding the recent inflation report: While consumer prices rose 2.7% from last year, we're seeing interesting shifts across the economy. Housing costs, which have been a major driver of inflation, posted their smallest increase since 2021. Food prices are showing mixed signals—overall costs rose 0.4%, but cereals and bakery products saw their biggest monthly drop since 1989. What does this mean for consumers? While inflation remains above the Fed's 2% target, certain everyday expenses are starting to stabilize. Your purchasing power is gradually strengthening in specific areas. 💼 #Economy #Inflation #FinancialMarkets #ConsumerPrices Source: https://lnkd.in/gNjMNw-B