Learning how to plan and manage home finances can be one of the hardest challenges for any family. Sometimes, you need the help of a professional financial advisor. Sara Samuels, financial representative with Northwestern Mutual, and top PERL producer Barry Schwartz explain what a good financial planner can offer, and how they can help you get the most out of all of your finances, including your mortgage.

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Most people know about the New York Stock Exchange and it’s general history — but what is the NASDAQ — and how does it work? Top producer Barry Schwartz explains the in’s and out’s of the NASDAQ and some interesting developments it’s seen over the past decade.

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Why do rates go up? Earlier in 2010, mortgage rates were down to 4.25% for a 30-year fixed mortgage. Barry Schwartz, top producer at PERL Mortgage, explains rate fluctuation and why they’re a function of the 10-year Treasury Bill and bond purchases by investors.

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Market Update: The financial markets are in full swing — and Barry Schwartz, Top 50 producer and mortgage advisor with PERL Mortgage, explains the the relationship between rates and bonds, unemployment reports, our favorite Fed Chair, Ben Bernanke, and why some mortgage rates differ between products and programs.

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Credit Advice: It’s advice time on the PERL Mortgage podcast. Barry Schwartz, mortgage advisor with PERL Mortgage, discusses credit checks in today’s economy — and offers a bevy of helpful tips for when your credit score is unexpectedly lowered or if you’re wondering about your current credit score.

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