40 by 40: Are you on track?

My attention span is particularly short in this modern day life to too much to do and too little time so I like things to get to the point.  Too much information in one sitting and I retain none of it so if you are like me, you appreciate the CliffsNotes version of things.

So here they are: 40 financial things you must know by 40. 

(And for those who like all the details or want more information on just one or two, scroll to the bottom for the full story.)
May I suggest printing this list and hanging it on the fridge like a to-do list?

1. The three basics of a solid financial foundation.
2. How to create a budget.
3. How much you should be saving.
4. Your net worth.
5. How much you make and how much you spend each month.
6. How to get out of debt.
7. Your credit score.
8. How to pull a free credit report.
9. It can take a long time to save up a down payment.
10. What is a financial emergency and what's not.
11. What your ideal retirement will cost.
12. How much you have saved for retirement.
13. How to manage budget-busting friends.
14. Your own money personality.
15. That, the older you get, the more complex your money life becomes.
16. How your significant other handles money.
17. Where your parents stand financially.
18. The basics of investing.
19. A good tax accountant.
20. Your total compensation package.
21. What a 529 plan is.
22. How to maximize your time.
23. Who your health care proxy is.
24. That it's possible to juggle a couple of money goals at once.
25. That you will never have "enough" money.
26. That you never know the truth about other people's finances.
27. What not to do when you buy a new home.
28. How to find a financial planner you trust.
29. How to dress fabulously on your budget.
30. What "rebalancing" means.
31. Why life insurance is so important.
32. The big cost of your little splurges.
33. A favorite under-$10 dinner.
34. How to negotiate a better salary.
35. What a will is -- and why you need one.
36. How taxes factor into your retirement plan.
37. That cashing out your 401(k) may hurt you.
38. The ins and outs of interest.
39. How your money can affect change.
40. A financial plan.

Abreviated from http://www.learnvest.com/2013/10/40-financial-things-you-should-know-by-40/

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What is the  SINGLE BEST WAY to get the LOWEST INTEREST RATES on your MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT?

Although it may seem obvious,  many people do not know that their credit score will dictate their monthly mortgage payment. The lower the score, the higher the payment.

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Many lenders have suggestions and programs. CONTACT ME for a list of lenders that may be able to help you get on track!

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Should I get that tested?

What should I have tested in the house I own or the house I am buying?

Every few years, it seems there is a new big concern about something that is causing a health issue. Asbestos, Lead, Carbon Monoxide, Radon... the list goes on.  So what items should you really worry about?

In short, if you are asking about whether something specific should be tested, the answer is probably yes.
Especially when buying a house.  Here are some common things people get tested and some resources to help you learn more about this areas.  Of course, this list is not comprehensive, only touches on common items.  For the sake of your health, it's good to educate yourself and proceed with caution though I would recommend obsessing about any of these items.

• Lead Paint - MN has statutes about the disclosure of lead paint, remodeling a home with lead paint, etc. Learn more: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/lead/rule.html
• Radon - Effective in 2014, radon disclosures are required in real estate transactions. Learn more: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/indoorair/radon/index.html
• Water - Safe water is important to your health. Learn more: http://water.epa.gov/drink/
• Meth Labs - This can be a particularly high concern in some areas.  Learn More: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/meth/lab/property.html
• Mold - This is more concerning to some people than others. Learn More: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/indoorair/mold/
• Septic/Private Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems - These systems are regulated by Minnesota statutes. Learn more: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/index.php/water/water-types-and-programs/subsurface-sewage-treatment-system-ssts/index.html

These are common concerns when buying home in Minnesota.  Other states have additional issues with things like termites that are not as common here.  My point in bringing these up it not to freak you out but simply make you aware.

You should also have the overall condition of a home inspected before buying or selling a home. Read more about home inspections here and find out about having the structure, electrical, plumbing and more inspected.