Rent vs Mortgage: Long-Term Financial Impact

Posted on November 28, 2025November 28, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

Rent vs Mortgage: Long-Term Financial Impact

When considering housing options, many people focus on the immediate monthly payment comparison. However, the long-term financial implications of renting versus buying extend far beyond the monthly check you write. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.

The Nature of Your Monthly Payment

Rent payments represent pure expense money that leaves your account permanently in exchange for temporary housing. While this provides flexibility and fewer maintenance responsibilities, it doesn’t contribute to your long-term financial growth.

Mortgage payments, on the other hand, consist of two components: interest and principal. The interest portion is the cost of borrowing, while the principal payment builds your ownership stake in the property. This fundamental difference means that with each mortgage payment, you’re gradually increasing your net worth through equity building.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

While renting often seems cheaper in the short term, consider the long-term financial landscape. Rent typically increases annually with inflation and market rates, creating uncertainty about future housing costs. Many renters find themselves facing 3-5% increases each year, which can significantly impact their budget over time.

A fixed-rate mortgage payment remains constant for the life of the loan, providing predictable housing costs that become relatively cheaper as inflation rises, and your income likely increases. This stability can be invaluable for long-term financial planning and peace of mind.

The Wealth Building Component

Homeownership serves as a forced savings vehicle through equity accumulation. As you pay down your mortgage and (typically) your property appreciates value, you build wealth that can be accessed later for retirement, education expenses, or other financial goals.

Renters miss out on this wealth-building opportunity. While they might invest in the difference between rent and potential mortgage payments, studies consistently show that homeowners tend to accumulate significantly more wealth over their lifetimes than renters with similar incomes.

Additional Financial Factors

Beyond the basic payment comparison, consider other financial aspects. Homeowners benefit from potential tax deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes, while renters cannot deduct their housing costs. However, homeowners also bear responsibility for maintenance, repairs, and property taxes, which should be factored into the total cost of ownership.

Renting offers greater flexibility to relocate career opportunities and avoids the costs associated with buying and selling property. This mobility can be valuable early in your career or if your lifestyle requires frequent moves.

Making the Right Choice for You

The decision between renting and buying depends on your personal circumstances, including your timeline, financial readiness, and lifestyle goals. If you plan to stay in an area for several years, have a stable income, and are ready for the responsibilities of homeownership, buying might be the better financial choice.

If you value flexibility, are in a transitional life stage, or aren’t ready for maintenance responsibilities, renting could be the wiser option. The team at Advantage Home Plus can help you evaluate your specific situation and goals to determine the best path forward.

Understanding these long-term implications is crucial for making informed decisions about your housing and financial future. With the right guidance and careful consideration of your personal circumstances, Advantage Home Plus can help you choose the path that best supports your financial well-being.

Schedule your financial fit call today to explore your path to homeownership and receive personalized guidance tailored to your financial situation and goals.

Talking to Partner About Home Buying

Posted on November 20, 2025November 20, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

Talking to Partner About Home Buying

Buying a home with a partner involves more than just finances - it's about aligning dreams, timelines, and financial habits. This guide provides practical strategies for having constructive conversations about money, creating a shared budget, and navigating different perspectives about homeownership. Learn how to transform potentially stressful discussions into productive planning sessions that strengthen your relationship while working toward your common homeownership goals. — *Having open money conversations with your partner is the foundation for a successful home buying journey together.*

Buying a home with a partner is one of the most exciting milestones a couple can share. Yet the financial conversations surrounding this decision can feel overwhelming. Transforming these discussions from stressful to productive starts with the right approach and understanding that you’re working toward the same goal: building a future together.

Start With the “Why,” Not the “How Much”

Before diving into numbers and budgets, begin with dreams and aspirations. Schedule a relaxed, pressure-free time to discuss what homeownership means to each of you. Are you looking for stability, space for a growing family, or building equity for the future?

Understanding each other’s core motivations creates a strong foundation for the practical conversations that follow. This shared vision will help you navigate compromises and stay united when facing challenges in your home buying journey.

Create a Judgment-Free Financial Zone

Money conversations can trigger anxiety or defensiveness. Establish ground rules that promote open communication. Agree that this is a “no-judgment” discussion where both partners can share their complete financial picture honestly.

Start by discussing your individual financial situations, including income, savings, debts, and credit scores. Remember that you’re on the same team working toward a common objective. The goal isn’t to assign blame for past financial decisions, but to understand your starting point as a couple.

Develop Your Home Buying Strategy Together

Once you understand your combined financial landscape, you can create a realistic plan. Discuss your target timeline, preferred neighborhoods, and must-have features versus nice-to-have amenities. Be prepared to compromise – you might need to adjust your expectations to find a home that fits your budget and meets both your needs.

Consider creating separate “wish lists” and then combining them to identify your shared priorities. This collaborative approach ensures both voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Navigate Differences With Empathy

It’s common for partners to have different financial backgrounds, habits, and risk tolerance levels. One might be more conservative while the other is comfortable taking calculated risks. The key is acknowledging these differences and finding middle ground.

If you encounter sticking points, consider seeking objective guidance. Sometimes, having a neutral third party can help facilitate constructive conversations and provide a professional perspective on your home buying options.

Your Path Forward as a Team

Remember that home buying is a journey you’re taking together. Regular check-ins about your progress, concerns, and changing priorities will keep you aligned and supportive of each other throughout the process.

Having these important money conversations early and often will not only prepare you for homeownership but will strengthen your relationship and financial partnership for years to come.

Schedule your Financial Fit Consultation with Advantage Home Plus today to explore your path to homeownership and receive personalized guidance for navigating this exciting journey with your partner.

Beyond 401k: Employee Financial Wellness

Posted on November 13, 2025November 13, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

Beyond 401k: Employee Financial Wellness

Discover why homeownership belongs in your financial wellness strategy. Learn how it complements retirement savings and builds true long-term wealth for employees. — Homeownership builds equity and stability that complements traditional retirement savings in a complete financial wellness strategy.

When you think about financial wellness benefits, 401(k) plans likely come to mind first. They’re crucial for retirement planning, but they represent only part of the picture. True financial wellness addresses both future security and present stability and that’s where homeownership completes the equation.

The Dual Power of Homeownership

Unlike retirement accounts that remain locked until later in life, homeownership provides immediate and long-term benefits. It serves as both a stability anchor and a wealth-building tool, addressing financial stress today while building equity for tomorrow.

This dual impact is why homeownership deserves a central place in your financial wellness strategy. It helps employees manage current housing costs, often their largest expense while simultaneously building net worth through forced savings and property appreciation.

Breaking the Rent Cycle

For employees stuck in the rental market, housing costs represent a recurring expense with no return. Each rent payment provides shelter but builds no equity. This creates financial stagnation despite steady income growth.

Homeownership transforms this dynamic. Mortgage payments gradually build ownership, while fixed-rate mortgages provide predictable housing costs in an uncertain rental market. This stability reduces financial stress and creates a foundation for long-term planning.

The Wealth-Building Multiplier

Consider the numbers: By retirement age, the average homeowner’s net worth is significantly higher than that of a renter. This wealth gap isn’t just about property value, it’s about the financial habits and stability that homeownership cultivates.

Homeowners tend to develop stronger financial management skills, better credit profiles, and more disciplined saving habits. These benefits ripple through every aspect of their financial lives, complementing the long-term growth of retirement accounts.

Addressing the Knowledge Gap

The path to homeownership can feel overwhelming. Many qualified employees assume they can’t afford a home or don’t understand the available programs. They may overestimate down payment requirements or underestimate their buying power.

This is where guidance makes the difference. With proper support, employees discover options they never knew existed from low-down-payment programs to down payment assistance grants. This knowledge transforms homeownership from a distant dream into an achievable goal.

Completing Your Wellness Package

A comprehensive financial wellness strategy should address multiple time horizons: managing today’s finances, planning for mid-life goals, and saving for retirement. Homeownership uniquely spans all three, providing immediate housing cost management, mid-term equity building, and long-term net worth growth.

When employees feel confident about their housing situation and wealth-building path, they bring more focus and energy to their work. They experience reduced financial stress and increased job satisfaction, knowing their employer supports their complete financial picture.

The Next Step in Financial Wellness

Expanding your benefits to include homeownership support demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of what employees truly need for financial security. It shows commitment to their entire financial journey, not just retirement decades away.

Schedule your free consultation today to explore how integrating homeownership guidance can complete your financial wellness strategy and provide lasting value to your team.

Understanding Debt-to-Income Ratio for Mortgages

Posted on November 5, 2025November 5, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

Understanding Debt-to-Income Ratio for Mortgages

Your debt-to-income ratio could make or break your mortgage application. — *Understanding your debt-to-income ratio is crucial for mortgage readiness and financial wellness planning.*

When you’re preparing to buy a home, your credit score tends to get all the attention. But there’s another number that lenders scrutinize just as closely your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Understanding this crucial metric can mean the difference between mortgage approval and disappointment, making it essential for your homeownership readiness.

What Exactly is Debt-to-Income Ratio?

Your DTI is a simple percentage that compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. Lenders use it to answer one fundamental question: After you pay all your existing debts, how much income remains to handle a mortgage payment?

There are two types of lenders consider:

Front-end DTI: Focuses only on housing costs (your future mortgage, property taxes, and insurance)

Back-end DTI: Includes all your monthly debt obligations housing, credit cards, auto loans, student loans, and personal loans

Most lenders focus primarily on your back-end DTI when evaluating mortgage applications.

Why Lenders Care So Much About Your DTI

Lenders see a high DTI as a significant risk indicator. Even with a good credit score, a DTI that’s too high suggests your budget is already stretched thin. This makes you more vulnerable to financial hardship if unexpected expenses arise or if your income changes.

Generally, lenders prefer to see:

A DTI below 36% for optimal approval chances

A DTI between 37%-43% as often the maximum for conventional loans

A DTI above 43% potentially leading to application denial or less favorable terms

The challenge with DTI is that you might feel you’re managing your payments comfortably, but the mathematical ratio tells a different story to risk-conscious lenders.

How to Calculate Your DTI

Calculating your DTI is straightforward:

Add up all your monthly debt payments (minimum credit card payments, auto loans, student loans, etc.)

Divide this total by your gross monthly income (your income before taxes)

Multiply by 100 to get your percentage

For example, if you have $1,500 in monthly debt payments and earn $5,000 monthly, your DTI would be 30% ($1,500 ÷ $5,000 = 0.30 × 100).

Practical Strategies to Improve Your DTI

If your DTI is higher than you’d like, these approaches can help:

Focus on debt reduction: Paying down credit card balances typically has the fastest impact on your monthly obligations. Consider using any extra funds tax refunds, bonuses, or savings to reduce revolving debt.

Avoid new debt: In the months leading up to your mortgage application, postpone major purchases that would require financing, such as a new car or furniture.

Increase your income: A raise, side income, or even working overtime can improve your ratio by increasing the denominator in the DTI equation.

The Path to a Stronger Financial Profile

Remember that improving your DTI isn’t just about qualifying for a mortgage it’s about ensuring your housing costs will be manageable long-term. A lower DTI means you’ll have more financial flexibility for home maintenance, savings, and enjoying your life after you move in.

Getting personalized guidance can help you understand which strategies will be most effective for your specific situation. A clear action plan can transform this complex ratio from a roadblock into a manageable stepping stone toward homeownership.

Your Next Step Toward Homeownership

Understanding your DTI is a powerful step in taking control of your financial future. With the right information and support, you can position yourself as a strong candidate when you’re ready to apply for a mortgage.

Schedule your free consultation today to explore your path to homeownership and receive personalized guidance on improving your financial readiness.

How Your Credit Score Impacts Your Mortgage Options

Posted on May 6, 2025May 6, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

How Your Credit Score Impacts Your Mortgage Options

Curious how your credit is affecting your mortgage options? Book a free credit review with one of your Employee Homeownership Advisors and start building your path to better rates.

Your credit score is one of the most important numbers when it comes to buying a home. It directly impacts the interest rate you’re offered, the type of loan programs you qualify for, and your monthly payment. Even a small change in your credit score can make a big difference in your financial future.
For example, a buyer with a credit score of 620 may be approved but could end up paying significantly more over the life of the loan compared to someone with a score of 740 or higher. A stronger score can translate into lower rates, better terms, and thousands in savings.

Fortunately, your Employee Homeownership Program includes access to free credit coaching. Whether your credit needs a little work or a complete rebuild, they can help you identify what needs to be done and create a plan to accomplish your goal:

Understand how your credit score is calculated
Dispute errors on your credit report
Build strategies for improvement over time
Identify the best timing to apply for a mortgage

They can look at your credit, help you understand it and improve it. Reach out to schedule a time to talk and start preparing your credit for the home you want.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.  

What is a Refinance Analysis — and Why It Matters

Posted on May 6, 2025May 6, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

What is a Refinance Analysis — and Why It Matters

With interest rates, home values, and personal finances constantly changing, it’s smart to regularly evaluate whether your current mortgage still aligns with your goals. That’s where a refinance analysis comes in — it’s a financial wellness tool that can help homeowners understand their options and avoid leaving money on the table.

A refinance analysis is a review of your current mortgage loan, compared against current market conditions and your personal financial objectives. The goal is to determine whether refinancing your home loan could offer meaningful benefits — like lowering your monthly payment, shortening your loan term, reducing interest over the life of the loan, or tapping into your home’s equity for major expenses like renovations, education, or debt consolidation.

But just as important as identifying opportunities is understanding when not to refinance. For example, if the costs outweigh the potential savings, or if you plan to move soon, staying in your current loan might be the better option. A refinance analysis helps you see the full picture — including potential savings, trade-offs, and breakeven timelines — so you can make informed decisions based on facts, not guesswork.

For homeowners, especially those navigating changing life stages or financial goals, this kind of review can be a valuable part of long-term planning.

Through your Employee Homeownership Program, you have access to a refinance analysis at no charge to you. It’s a smart way to evaluate your mortgage options and get clarity on whether refinancing could improve your financial situation.

Ready to explore your options?

Reach out to your Employee Homeownership Program to schedule your free refinance analysis and take the guesswork out of one of your biggest financial decisions.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.  

Refinancing Is on the Rise—Here’s What You Need to Know

Posted on April 2, 2025April 2, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

Refinancing Is on the Rise—Here’s What You Need to Know

Refinancing activity is projected to rise by nearly 48% this year, and it’s no surprise—many employees are realizing that their mortgage can be a powerful tool for improving their overall financial wellness strategy.

But is refinancing right for you?

Whether you’re thinking about lowering your monthly payment, paying off debt, removing mortgage insurance, or accessing your home’s equity for renovations, a refinance could help. And through your Employee Homeownership Program, you can get expert guidance and exclusive savings on closing costs to make the process easier and more affordable.

Why People Are Refinancing Right Now:

Here are the most common reasons employees are exploring a refinance:

Debt Consolidation: Replace high-interest credit card or loan payments with one manageable mortgage payment.

Home Improvements: Use a cash-out refinance to upgrade your home without dipping into savings.

Life Changes: Divorce, inheritance, or changes to your household can require updating your loan and title.

Shorten Your Loan Term: Pay your home off faster and save thousands in interest.

Remove Mortgage Insurance: Once you’ve built 20% equity, you may qualify to eliminate PMI and lower your payment.

Stabilize Your Rate: If you have an ARM, switching to a fixed-rate loan gives you predictable monthly payments.

What Lenders Look at During a Refinance:

Just like when you first applied for your mortgage, lenders will review several factors before approving a refinance:

Credit Score: Most lenders want to see a score of 620 or higher, though a higher score can help you qualify for better rates and terms.

Home Equity: Ideally, you’ll have at least 20% equity in your home—this can impact whether you’ll need to pay mortgage insurance.

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Lenders will compare your monthly debt payments to your gross income. A DTI below 43% is often required.

Employment & Income Stability: Just like a home purchase, lenders want to see steady, reliable income.

Home Appraisal: The current value of your home will determine how much equity you have and whether you’re eligible for certain refinance programs.

Bottom Line

Refinancing is a personal decision, and everyone’s situation is different. That’s why your Employee Homeownership Program offers a free refinance analysis—we’ll walk you through your options and help you understand if refinancing makes sense for you. You’ll also gain access to trusted mortgage professionals, exclusive savings, and expert advice to make the process easier.

Schedule your free refinance consultation today and take the first step toward a stronger financial future.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.  

The Smartest Ways to Use Home Equity: Is a Cash-Out Refi Right for You?

Posted on February 28, 2025June 25, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

The Smartest Ways to Use Home Equity: Is a Cash-Out Refi Right for You?

If you’ve been in your home for a while, you’ve likely built up equity—the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. A cash-out refinance allows you to tap into that equity and use the funds for a variety of financial goals. But is it the right move for you?

How a Cash-Out Refi Can Benefit You

Pay Off High-Interest Debt – Credit cards and personal loans often come with double-digit interest rates. Using home equity to consolidate debt can lower your monthly payments and save you money over time.

Fund Home Improvements – Want to remodel your kitchen or add an extra bedroom? Investing in your home can increase its value, making renovations a smart way to use equity.

Boost Your Financial Future – Some homeowners use their equity to invest in a rental property, fund education costs, or start a business. If done wisely, this can be a strategic move for long-term wealth building.

Employee Success Story: How Refinancing Made a Big Impact

“I wasn’t sure if refinancing was the right choice, but my Employee Homeownership Program walked me through my options. I used a cash-out refinance to consolidate debt and lower my monthly payments by $450! Now, I have more breathing room in my budget and peace of mind.” – Jessica M., Employee Homeownership Program Member

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Helps

✔ Free Refinance Analysis – Get expert guidance on whether refinancing makes sense for you.
✔ Exclusive Savings – Reduce lender fees and closing costs with program-approved lenders.
✔ Personalized Support – Work with trusted mortgage professionals who ensure you’re making the best financial decision.

Find out if a cash-out refinance is right for you—Schedule your free refinance analysis today

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

The Fastest Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

Posted on February 28, 2025June 25, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

The Fastest Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

Your credit score plays a major role in your ability to qualify for a mortgage and secure the best interest rates. If you’re thinking about buying a home, improving your credit now could save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. The good news? There are quick and effective ways to boost your score before you apply.

Quick Strategies to Improve Your Credit Score

Reduce Credit Utilization – Your credit utilization ratio (how much credit you use compared to your limit) makes up 30% of your score. Keep balances below 30% of your credit limit, and ideally below 10% for the best impact.

Pay Down Balances Strategically – Instead of spreading payments across multiple accounts, focus on paying off high-interest debt first while making at least the minimum payment on all other accounts.

Become an Authorized User – If you have a trusted family member with a well-managed credit card, becoming an authorized user on their account can add their positive payment history to your credit profile.

Make On-Time Payments – Payment history is the largest factor in your credit score. Set up autopay or reminders to ensure all bills are paid on time.

Credit Myths That Could Hurt You

Closing Old Accounts Helps Your Score – Actually, closing accounts reduces your total available credit, which can increase your credit utilization and lower your score.

Checking Your Credit Hurts Your Score – Checking your own credit score (soft inquiry) does NOT impact your score.

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Can Help

Not sure where to start? Your Employee Homeownership Program offers a free Financial Fitness Consultation to help you:

✔ Understand where your credit stands and what mortgage options are available to you.
✔ Identify specific ways to improve your credit before applying.
✔ Get pre-approved with your employee homeownership program approved lender who can guide you through the best loan programs for your situation.

Take the first step today! Schedule your free consultation to see how your employee benefits can help you achieve homeownership

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Refinancing Is on the Rise: Why 4 Out of 5 Homeowners Are Considering It in 2025

Posted on February 19, 2025June 25, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

Refinancing Is on the Rise: Why 4 Out of 5 Homeowners Are Considering It in 2025

With refinancing activity projected to increase by 48% this year, more homeowners are exploring how refinancing can help them achieve their financial goals. According to industry reports, 4 out of 5 homeowners will consider a refinance in 2025 – but it’s not just about lowering interest rates. Many are taking advantage of strategic refinancing options to improve their financial flexibility, reduce monthly expenses, or make their homes work better for them.

Here are the top reasons homeowners are refinancing this year and how it could benefit you:

✅ Debt Consolidation: Free Up Cash & Reduce Monthly Expenses
Many homeowners are using refinancing to consolidate high-interest debt, including credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. This strategy allows them to:

Lower their monthly debt payments, creating room in their budget.

Redirect those savings toward retirement, investment accounts, or a financial safety net.

Improve credit scores by reducing overall debt utilization.

✅ Home Improvements: Build Equity & Improve Your Living Space
A cash-out refinance can provide funds for renovations or upgrades, allowing homeowners to:

Increase their home’s value while building equity.

Enhance their lifestyle with modern upgrades and energy-efficient improvements.

Avoid the cost of moving by customizing their current home instead of buying another.

✅ Life Changes: Adjust Homeownership for New Circumstances
Significant life changes—marriage, divorce, estate planning, or transitioning ownership—often require adjusting who is on the loan and title. Refinancing allows homeowners to:

Remove a co-borrower (such as an ex-spouse) and establish sole ownership.

Add a spouse, family member, or partner to the mortgage.

Restructure the loan terms to align with new financial circumstances.

✅ Lowering the Interest Rate: A Long-Term Financial Advantage
While rates aren’t at historic lows, some homeowners still benefit from refinancing to:

Secure a better rate than their current loan if market conditions improve.

Reduce long-term interest payments, freeing up money for other financial goals.

Stabilize monthly payments by switching from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate loan.

Bottom Line:

Deciding whether to refinance is a personal decision; no two situations are the same. Whether you’re looking to lower your monthly payments, consolidate debt, fund home improvements, or adjust to life changes, refinancing can be a powerful financial tool—but it’s essential to make sure it’s the right move for you.

Through your Employee Homeownership Program, you can access a free refinance analysis, where we’ll help you evaluate your options, run the numbers, and determine if refinancing aligns with your financial goals. Plus, by using your benefits, you can save money on lender closing costs, making the process even more affordable.

Get expert guidance and exclusive savings—schedule your free consultation today!

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.