The Biggest Financial Mistakes Doctors Make
by Douglas Carlsen, DDSI purchased a home in 1980 (before the practice!) at the peak of the housing boom for $800 per month per month (12 percent interest rate), bought a new car in 1981 for $310 a month (18 percent), then finally took out a practice loan in 1982 for $1,500 a month (19.5 percent). These loans… Continue reading
Do-It-Yourself Finance VI: Red Flags and Scams
by Douglas Carlsen, DDSThere are all kinds of scams out there. Knowing where you are investing and how to avoid swindlers are important for your financial future. Here are 10 warnings and recommendations to help keep your savings and investments safe. Red Flag #1: Variable Annuities Consumer Reports Money Adviser commented in a recent “Red Flags” article: They’re… Continue reading
Gain An Early Financial Advantage
by Douglas Carlsen, DDSYou are finally done — a doctor. And you’ve waited seemingly forever as your non-medical friends now have nice autos and purchased a home. They also have the time and money to dine out and entertain frequently. But it’s your time to shine! That first BMW and mortgage are way overdue. And these possessions need… Continue reading
Is It My Retirement Or … My Children’s?
by Douglas Carlsen, DDSDr. Bob, age 55, with an income exceeding $250,000 and a portfolio approaching $400,000, lived with his wife, Claudia, in a lovely community. He was determined to enhance the lifestyle of his daughter, Kelly, and son-in-law, Matt, both age 28. Bob paid a sizeable portion of the down payment for a home in an upscale… Continue reading
Recent Arizona Dental Grad vs. $10,000 Per Month Debt
by Douglas Carlsen, DDSI received the following letter from a young dentist recently. He represents the typical new general dentist in many ways. I am 32 years old with three children aged four, two and one-half, and 6 months. I graduated from dental school in 2013. My wife has a master’s degree, yet plans to raise the kids… Continue reading