The Big Move and the Big Gain
After selling their Maine home and returning to Vermont, one couple found themselves in an enviable financial position. The sale of their home, which they purchased 13 years prior, resulted in a significant profit, leaving them with $900,000 in the bank. This windfall arrived at a fortuitous time, as they were already on the cusp of retirement.
Windfalls: A Rare Opportunity
Such financial windfalls, whether from selling a property, receiving an inheritance, or a bonus, can be few and far between. For this couple, it represented a chance to ease off the financial throttle for the first time in their adult lives and consider the path to full financial freedom.
Mapping Out Financial Goals
When a large sum of money comes your way, it’s critical to outline your objectives and devise a strategy to achieve them. This couple’s approach involved a financial “waterfall,” where they determined the order of their investments and expenditures based on their immediate and future needs.
Investing Wisely: The First Steps
While contemplating long-term investments, they began by placing their funds in interest-earning accounts. A portion went into a high-yield savings account with CIT Bank, chosen for its FDIC insurance and lack of fees, while another chunk was allocated to CDs and short-term Treasury bills, securing a 5% return.
Debt Repayment vs. Investment
With a sizeable credit card bill from moving expenses, the couple prioritized paying off high-interest consumer debt. They adhered to a principle of tackling debts with interest rates higher than those offered by savings vehicles, while opting to invest funds that could outperform their low-interest mortgage rate.
Invest or Save: The Eternal Debate
The decision to invest surplus funds or pay down debt is a hot topic among financial enthusiasts. The couple weighed up interest rates, investment returns, and their own risk tolerance. With retirement on the horizon, they chose a balanced approach, keeping their mortgage payments steady while investing in higher-yield options.
Emergency Fund: Check
Already equipped with an emergency fund, the couple proceeded to diversify their portfolio. They balanced their asset allocation between stocks and bonds and considered real estate investment for its tax advantages, placing a down payment on a medical office building.
Charitable Contributions and Personal Treats
Allocating $50,000 for charity, the couple also didn’t shy away from enjoying their windfall. They funded their children’s college savings, indulged in a new vehicle, and invested in a maple syrup enterprise, all while planning for home improvements aimed at achieving net-zero energy use.
Spending with Purpose
The couple’s spending strategy centered on enhancing their quality of life, with approximately $300,000 earmarked for various expenditures, excluding tuition. They made these choices with confidence, having secured their retirement and completed other financial priorities.
Life After the Windfall
Despite their newfound wealth, the couple has maintained their work ethic and lifestyle, including keeping the sidewalk sofa in their soon-to-be-updated home. They’re relishing their current situation and eager to see what the future holds.
Weigh In: Your Windfall Strategy?
If you’ve had a financial windfall, how did you manage it? What’s your plan for a sudden cash influx? Share your thoughts and strategies below!
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