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For families preparing for college, understanding how assets are evaluated for financial aid purposes is an important part of the planning process. One area that often raises questions is how real estate ownership—particularly rental or investment property—is treated when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid ( FAFSA ). This article provides a general overview of how real estate is considered under current FAFSA rules and is intended for educational purposes

As we close the book on 2025, the stock market gave investors a solid, if not euphoric, finish. The final three months of the year were characterized by steady gains rather than an explosive rally, pushing the total returns for 2025 to respectable double-digit levels. The S&P 500 (a good measure of the overall U.S. stock market) rose 2.7%  in the fourth quarter, bringing its total gain for the year to 17.9% . Back in October, there was a measurable amount of nervousness—conce

Caregiving is no longer a rare or short-term responsibility. Millions of Americans are balancing full-time careers while caring for children, aging parents, or other dependent family members. For many, this happens simultaneously—placing them squarely in the sandwich generation. Yet caregiving is still rarely treated as a financial planning priority. Most families assume caregiving will be temporary, manageable, or something they’ll “figure out as they go.” Unfortunately, tha