UBCNews - Business

A good wealth manager helps clients make long-term decisions about their financial future—not just investments. For many people, success means balancing growth, income, tax strategy, and future legacy goals in one clear plan.

TruNorth Advisors, a team of advisors serving clients in upstate South Carolina, has seen that most clients want more clarity and less confusion. That’s why effective wealth management starts with listening. Every client has different needs, and each plan should be custom-built, not copied and pasted.

A 2024 survey from YCharts found that 71% of clients working with a financial advisor felt confident in their financial plan during a recession—specifically when their advisor maintained frequent and transparent communication. The data underscores how clear, consistent dialogue not only builds trust but also plays a critical role in helping clients stay grounded and focused during times of economic uncertainty.

Financial planning doesn’t need to be full of jargon. The best advisors prioritize clarity, open conversation, and full transparency—because numbers alone aren’t enough. “Our job is to make sure every client walks away feeling more confident,” says Matt Dixon, Founder and CEO of TruNorth Advisors. “That starts with clear communication, and a plan that actually reflects what matters most to them.”

An advisor also provides flexibility and support that evolves with you. Wealth management should fit your life, not the other way around. That means adapting strategies to your goals, not forcing your goals into a rigid plan.

The most effective financial advisors grow with their clients. As life changes—whether through income shifts, health events, or market fluctuations—so should your financial strategy. Planning isn’t a one-time event; it’s a relationship that deepens over time through trust and responsiveness.

Advisors do more than manage portfolios. They help simplify complex decisions like tax-efficient withdrawals, Social Security timing, charitable giving, and insurance planning. By coordinating all these moving parts, they help you stay focused on the bigger picture—your long-term financial wellbeing.

Choosing a local financial advisor means working with someone who understands regional tax laws, cost-of-living factors, and local opportunities. TruNorth Advisors believes that proximity enhances communication and helps build strong, lasting relationships.

Visit the link in the description to find out more!

Orlando's one hundred fiftieth anniversary celebration is about to bring record crowds to the city, and if you're planning to join the festivities, you have a choice. You can either fight the tourist masses or experience it like someone who actually lives here.

Mounting HOA fees or unpaid property taxes can quickly turn a land investment into a financial drain. What once felt like a secure asset may suddenly bring unexpected costs and stress, and many owners believe that selling isn’t an option until debts are resolved.

That’s not always the case, according to land experts at Land Avion, who say many owners mistakenly believe they can’t sell land with financial obligations attached. In reality, there are options available for owners who want to sell land with HOA liens or back taxes, and knowing how the process works can open the door to a faster resolution.

The National Tax Lien Association (NTLA) estimates that nearly $15 billion in property taxes go unpaid in the U.S. each year. These delinquent taxes can trigger penalties, interest, and even foreclosure if not addressed in time.

In states like Texas and Florida, where property values are rising, some landowners allow taxes to accumulate simply because they no longer need or use the land. Selling that land—even if encumbered—can be an effective way to stop further financial consequences.

Land Avion says they frequently speak with owners who are unsure whether they can legally sell land that has HOA violations or overdue tax bills. “It’s important to understand that liens or back taxes don’t automatically disqualify a property from being sold,” a spokesperson explains. “What matters is how the sale is structured and who is willing to purchase it.”

In many cases, professional land buyers will factor outstanding costs into their offer. This allows the seller to exit without needing to pay the debt upfront. Working with buyers who understand this process can help avoid delays.

If you’re selling vacant land with delinquent taxes, the key is to find a buyer familiar with the legal and administrative steps required. Some firms are willing to acquire property as-is, provided the total obligations are disclosed up front.

Land Avion, for instance, explains that resolving HOA liens and back taxes is often part of the due diligence process. By understanding these complexities early, sellers can avoid unnecessary stress and move forward with confidence.

Check out the link in the description to learn more!

Selling vacant land through traditional channels can be a slow, frustrating experience. Properties often sit on the market for months or even years without serious offers, especially in rural or undeveloped areas. Real estate agents may prioritize homes over land, leading to limited marketing efforts and fewer buyer leads. Add to that the uncertainty of pricing, long closing timelines, and added commissions, and it’s no surprise many landowners are seeking alternatives.

Land Avion, a land acquisition expert with decades of experience, explains that more owners are looking for ways to sell land without involving real estate agents. By working with a specialist acquisition company, sellers can avoid listings and delays, and take greater control of the process.

“There are fewer obstacles when owners understand all the available options,” a Land Avion representative says. “For many, skipping agents and working directly with buyers is a better fit for their needs and timeline.”

While home sales have rebounded in many areas, land sales often remain sluggish. A 2023 report from the REALTORS® Land Institute and National Association of REALTORS® showed land sales grew by just 1% in 2022, compared to 8% for residential properties.

The report also found that land typically stays on the market longer than homes, especially in rural locations. For owners with unused property, the time and effort involved can outweigh the benefits of a traditional sale.

Agent-free transactions are often faster because they eliminate multiple steps, including marketing, inspections, and commission negotiations. Sellers who work directly with experienced buyers may receive a fair cash offer and close within weeks.

This streamlined approach appeals to owners who have waited months with no progress. It also suits those who don’t want to invest more time or money into a property they no longer plan to use.

When land has been listed for a long time without offers, it may be time to consider a new strategy. Owners should weigh the costs of holding onto land—such as taxes, upkeep, and lost opportunities—against the benefits of a faster, simpler sale.

Selling land without agents or delays isn’t just possible—it’s often the smartest way forward when time and certainty matter most.

Check out the link in the description to learn more!

Let's be honest—your yard could be doing a lot more. Imagine stepping outside to your own custom-built patio. Outdoor kitchen, water feature, cozy fire pit—the works. That's the kind of transformation Hoogland's Landscape brings to homes and businesses across Shreveport and beyond.

This family-owned company has been at it for over 60 years, with four generations of experience under their belt. From Shreveport to Bossier City, Benton, Minden, Haughton, and Stonewall—if you've seen a yard that made you stop and stare, odds are Hoogland's had something to do with it.

Now, landscaping isn't just about looking good. It's an investment. And professionally designed spaces? They come with way higher satisfaction ratings—30 to 40 percent better, actually. Why? Because expert planning matters. Especially here in Louisiana, where humidity, heat, and heavy rain can turn a pretty garden into a hot mess real fast.

That's where Hoogland's shines. They don't just pick pretty plants—they pick the right ones. Ones that thrive in Louisiana's climate so your yard stays gorgeous year after year, not just for a season.

Their services cover everything. I mean everything. From full landscape design and installation; patios and hardscapes; outdoor kitchens and dining areas; to custom water features; fire pits and fireplaces; and walkways, retaining walls, and lighting systems.

And yeah—they handle year-round maintenance too. So whether you want a full backyard makeover or just want to keep your space looking sharp all year long, Hoogland's has your back.

And here's a stat that might surprise you: over 45 percent of landscaping industry revenue now comes from maintenance and recurring services. Why? Because smart property owners know it's not just about building something nice—it's about keeping it nice.

One of Hoogland's customers even said: "Hoogland's does beautiful work with an excellent attitude. They found rare plants for me, built beautiful hardscapes, and manicured my home to make it the most stunning piece of property it could be."

So if you're ready to level up your outdoor space, here's what you do: check out their services by clicking on the link in the description.

So—tell me if this sounds familiar. It's mid-July in Switzerland. You're trying to work from home, but the air feels thick, your office feels like an oven, and by the time evening rolls around? Your living room's practically a sauna.

You're not imagining it. Heatwaves in Switzerland have doubled the number of summer days above 25 degrees Celsius—and air conditioning sales have shot up more than 400 percent during peak heat. But here's the thing: you don't have to just live with it anymore.

If you're ready to cool things down, Roth-Kippe AG has got your back. These folks aren't new to the game—they've been in the Swiss climate control business for over a century. That's right: over 100 years of keeping homes, offices, and industrial spaces cool, dry, and comfortable.

Whether you need a new air conditioning system, a heat pump, or emergency repairs because your current setup just gave up—they've got the team, the tech, and the speed to make it happen.

They're an official LG Electronics partner and also manufacture their own air dryers and dehumidifiers. That means you're not just getting off-the-shelf solutions. You're getting premium-grade Swiss efficiency suited to your space.

And it's not just about comfort anymore. The demand for precision cooling—especially in places like data centers—is exploding. We're talking projected market growth from 96 million U.S. dollars in 2023 to 233 million by 2032. That's a huge leap. Why? Because cooling isn't optional when servers are running hot and businesses need to stay online.

Roth-Kippe AG knows this. That's why they offer end-to-end service: consultations, installations, regular maintenance, and 24-hour emergency support. All in-house. No third-party mess. No sweating it out while you wait for someone to show up.

They also offer heating for construction sites, restoration after water damage, and drying solutions for events or building projects. Basically? If it's too hot, too cold, or too humid—they've got a fix.

So, don't let the next heatwave catch you off guard. Check out their full range of services by clicking on the link in the description.

Online shopping, remote work, virtual appointments… In the age of digitalisation, the Internet has made many things so much more convenient, essentially eliminating the hassles of long commutes, waiting room times, and much more. But when it comes to therapy, are online appointments really better than in-person appointments? Experts examine this issue, along with what patients think.

The advent of remote technology has led to a rise in online therapeutic services, which became especially common during the pandemic. But let’s get it out there first: online therapy is by no means bad. It’s beneficial for individuals who live in remote areas or those who have busy schedules. In fact, studies have found it to be just as effective as in-person therapy for many people.

However, while virtual therapy improves accessibility, the patient experience is markedly different compared to in-person services, with many often noticing more lax professional boundaries and less focused attention from their therapist.

Additionally, due to the limited scope of vision that screens provide, therapists may fail to notice physical symptoms, such as body language, bitten nails, or scars from self-harm, leaving them unable to address unspoken insecurities or destructive habits.

On the other hand, face-to-face therapy and counselling allow opportunities for non-verbal communication between the therapist and client. Many patients also report feeling a more intimate connection with their therapist during in-person appointments, leading to a more positive emotional experience overall.

So, which one is better? It’s hard to say. In the end, it’s all up to your preferences. If you prefer convenience, you may want to go with someone who offers online services. But if you crave that in-person connection, there are plenty of options for you too. In fact, many practices offer both, giving you a lot of options.

Either way, it’s best to look for a practice that offers a person-to-person approach, addressing common mental health challenges through active, empathetic listening, validation, and personalised support—a practice like Unbounded Therapy, which adapts its treatments to your unique needs and circumstances with a range of therapeutic techniques and interventions.

For anxiety and depression counselling, for example, this will often take the form of sessions that help you address the root causes of your mental illnesses. Your therapist will also guide you in developing healthy coping strategies that will alter any negative thought patterns you have. In doing so, they’ll empower you to build resilience and continue healing, even when you’re not actively receiving treatment.

Of course, you’re not just limited to anxiety or depression counselling. Many of these practices will also offer therapy for grief, trauma, and even things like menopause. Either way, if one-on-one therapy is what you need, now you know what to look for.

Visit the link in the description to find out more!

Have you ever wondered what's really happening when teenage boys fall down the online rabbit hole of masculine content? You know, those videos and forums that claim to teach them how to be "real men"?

For landowners who need to sell quickly, time is often more important than squeezing out every last dollar. In many cases, traditional methods are too slow, with listings taking months or years, and negotiations dragging on even longer.

Land Avion, a specialist in land acquisition, explains that fast land sales are often possible when sellers consider direct purchase models. These approaches are typically designed for those seeking to close in 10 days or less, with offers based on market data and no lengthy back-and-forth.

One of the main advantages of selling directly to specialist land buyers is simplicity. There are no commissions, no marketing expenses, and no waiting on buyers to secure financing or conduct surveys.

“In many cases, sellers come to us after trying traditional channels without success,” a Land Avion spokesperson explains. “They’re looking for speed and certainty, and that’s where a simplified process can really help.”

According to the National Association of Realtors, vacant land is one of the hardest types of property to sell, often taking months or longer on the open market. That timeline doesn’t work for everyone, especially in urgent financial situations.

In response, more landowners are prioritizing fast and hassle-free sales over waiting for the highest offer. Land that sits unused can still generate tax bills or require upkeep, making a quick sale more appealing, especially if offers are at or close to market rates.

Those pursuing a quick land sale should still do some due diligence. Sellers should verify that offers reflect current market conditions and ensure the purchasing party can demonstrate a reliable track record of completed transactions.

Fast land sale agreements should be clearly worded, outlining when and how the closing will occur. In most direct-sale cases, full payment is made in cash within 7 to 10 business days, eliminating financing risks and delays.

A fast land sale can be especially attractive for those facing legal deadlines, estate transitions, or personal emergencies. Land Avion states that sellers in these situations are often more focused on a reliable and stress-free process than maximizing value.

With a streamlined approach and clearly defined terms, it's definitely possible to close on a vacant land sale within 10 days. For many property owners, especially those on tight timelines, speed and simplicity are the key priorities.

Check out the link in the description to learn more!

Let's be honest—living in Florida means dealing with humidity that never quits, sudden downpours, and pests that treat your yard like it's a 24-hour buffet. If you're constantly repainting, repairing, or replacing your fence, you're not the only one.

But here's the good news: you don't have to keep throwing money at fences that can't handle Florida.

If you're ready for something that actually lasts, it's time to talk about what Fort Pierce Fence Company is doing. They're helping homeowners across the region upgrade to eco-friendly fencing that looks great, lasts longer, and seriously reduces maintenance stress.

Fort Pierce uses pressure-treated wood that's specially selected to handle moisture, termites, and rot. You get great sound-blocking, strong privacy, and tons of style options—from picket fences to full privacy walls with decorative panels. So, if you love that classic natural look but want it to last, this is the way to go.

Just keep in mind: wood does require some upkeep, especially in our climate. But with the right care, it can serve you well for years.

Now, vinyl fencing? This one's perfect if you want to install it and forget it. Vinyl fencing doesn't crack, fade, or absorb moisture. It stays solid through heat, humidity, and storms. It's also recyclable—which means it's easier on the environment. Plus, it comes in a ton of styles and colors. So, no, you're not stuck with just one basic look (unless that's your vibe).

Vinyl fences typically last over 20 years with minimal effort. Just one thing to keep in mind: during hurricane season, they may need a little reinforcement if winds get extreme.

Here's the part a lot of folks overlook: Florida has fencing rules. Between HOA requirements, city codes, and environmental conditions, you want someone who actually gets the local landscape.

That's where Fort Pierce Fence Company shines. They're local and know how to build fences that meet all the right regulations and hold up under pressure. Plus, the team offers ongoing maintenance and repair, too. And they don't just stop at wood and vinyl, their offerings also include aluminum and chain link.

If you're curious about which fence would suit your home, Fort Pierce Fence Company offers free, no-pressure quotes and will walk you through all your options. Just click on the link in the description.