April 2014

Texas’ economy is massive and strong. But there are big differences between the economies of its major metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) and Border MSAs. These differences center on economic diversity.

Legislation aimed at tackling the National Flood Insurance Program’s $24 billion debt will end subsidies for nearly 440,000 program participants and base premiums strictly on a property’s risk levels.

Janet Yellen appears committed to the Fed’s mandate to maximize employment and keep prices stable. Don’t look for her to raise interest rates until unemployment gets closer to 5 percent.

Generally speaking, the IRS won’t let you pull money out of an IRA penalty free unless you’re 59½. But first-time homebuyers and those who haven’t owned a home in the past two years can withdraw money to use toward purchasing a home.

A study of sales data reveals how an area’s housing inventory affects prices. When months of inventory is high, buyers have an advantage and usually pay less for homes.

Businesses buying electricity in Texas need to do some serious homework to get the best deal. With different types of electric providers and pricing methods varying widely as well, there are no easy comparisons to be made.

If your property tax bill makes you scream, take heart. Texas’ Property Tax Code allows you to appeal to your local appraisal board if a property is not assessed at fair market value or if other properties in your area are assessed differently.