July 28, 2021

You don't have to search far to find the finest western ever

Glenn Frankel
For Cineversary podcast episode #37, host Erik Martin teams up with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and film scholar Glenn Frankel, author of The Searchers: The Making of an American Legend, to honor the 65th anniversary of one of the greatest western of all time: The Searchers, directed by John Ford. Erik and Glenn probe deep into the dark psychological crevices of this celebrated but controversial American classic and investigate the myths and majesty of Ford's glorious western canvas as they explore why the film is worth celebrating all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the film in 2021, and more.

To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple PodcastsStitcherSpotifyGoogle PodcastsBreakerCastboxPocket CastsPodBeanRadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at anchor.fm/cineversary and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

July 20, 2021

Opt for an agent or go the FSBO route?

If you’re preparing to sell your home, you have an important question to answer: Do I need a real estate agent to sell my house? A skilled professional and the services he or she provides could help your home sell more quickly and for more money than if you try to do it on your own. Problem is, an agent may charge a hefty commission fee based on the sales price of your home.

If you choose the help of a real estate agent, you wouldn’t be alone: Nearly nine in 10 home sellers opt for the assistance of an agent, per the National Association of Realtors. But you could save money by going the for-sale-by-owner route if you’re well prepared and have the time.

Consider your needs and what’s involved carefully, and weigh the risks and rewards of relying on yourself versus an agent. For more advice, read my article on this topic recently published by Bankrate, available here.

July 12, 2021

Heir ye, heir ye: Load up on life insurance for your loved ones

If you want to safeguard your family's financial future in the event you pass away unexpectedly, it’s smart to buy life insurance. You can purchase a policy online or through an agent or broker, and the process isn’t as complicated as you may think.

Learn how to buy life insurance, what’s involved, and how to compare life insurance quotes by reading my newest article for Insure.com, available here. By performing your due diligence, you can likely save money on premiums and ensure a safety net for your beneficiaries that can give you priceless peace of mind.

July 5, 2021

Purchase a home off the beaten path


Having a hard time finding an affordable home? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers a great financing option for first-time and repeat homebuyers: a USDA Section 502 guaranteed home loan. This generous mortgage loan is aimed at low- to moderate-income borrowers willing to purchase a property in eligible rural and suburban areas and who meet USDA loan qualifications. 

Consider the perks: USDA loans require no down payment, typically charge lower interest rates than other types of mortgage loans, and have no purchase price limits.

But it’s important to understand what’s involved with qualifying for a USDA loan. Take the time to learn more about eligibility requirements by reading my latest piece for Home.com, available here.