Author Archives: VP of Marketing and Business Development Jessica

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this August 2024

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As summer continues to heat up, let’s look at some free and inexpensive activities to cool it down this August. Grab the entire family and explore these fun happenings around you! 

August 2: Pier Village (Long Branch) Flashback Friday DJ is free to attend and will take place at the Carousel Bar at Wave Resort from 3pm-10pm every Friday in August! Rewind with the best music of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s and those ages 21+ can also partake in summer Friday-only drink specials. Find out more information.

August 2 & 3: Manasquan Fireman’s Fair at Mallard Park (Cedar Avenue & South Potter Avenue) from 6pm-10pm. Don’t miss rides, food vendors, live music, games and family fun! Find out more at www.squanfiremansfair.com

August 3: Founders’ Victorian Day in Ocean Grove will take place at 4pm in Auditorium Square. There will be period games, activities, crafts, reenactments, refreshments, and a dynamic worship experience. Victorian dress is encouraged. At 8:30pm there will be a silent Victorian era movie for $10 per person. Learn more here.

August 7:

Asbury Park Bonfires on the Beach will take place from 8pm-10pm every Wednesday night during August, weather permitting. The 8/7 bonfire will be at First Avenue Beach. Check the schedule online for other dates and locations through the end of September.

Freehold Free Family Movie Night begins at 8:30pm at the Hall of Records at 1 East Main Street. There will be a showing of E.T., The Extraterrestrial. Don’t forget to bring your snacks and lawn chairs and enjoy a fun outdoor night with your family! Get more details here.

Ocean Township’s Annual Italian Festival begins at Joe Palaia Park (240 Whalepond Road) at 5pm-11pm and will run each night through Sunday, 8/11. There will be lots of rides, games, food, entertainment and fireworks. Get more information.

Pier Village Movie Night begins at 7:30pm with a showing of Jurassic Park. The movie will be shown outdoors on Chelsea Avenue Beach. Bring your favorite chair and blanket and relax under the stars at the Jersey Shore! Find out more details.

August 8: Howell Township’s Movies Under the Stars begins at 6:30pm with activities for kids, and the movie will begin at dusk on the Howell Library Hill (318 Old Tavern Road). This week’s showing will be Paw Patrol – Unleash the Powers. Bring your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a fun night with the family! Learn more.

August 9: A Night in Paradise Hawaiian Show (Manchester) begins at 7pm at Harry Wright Lake. You won’t want to miss a free evening of summer family fun – including hula dancers, a live luau band, Tahitian drummers, and fire knife warriors. Get the details here.

August 10: Seaside Spooktacular at Park Bakery in Seaside Park (408 SE Central Avenue) opens at 7am and will be available for participants through 2pm. Get your cameras ready for some summer fantastic Halloween-themed photo ops and a host of spooky activities. Come say “trick or treat” and receive a FREE gift (costumes optional), and enjoy a free craft table for kids of all ages. Learn more on Facebook, or call 732-793-4090.

August 11: Atlantic Highlands Music and Food Truck Festival will take place from noon to 8:30pm at the Atlantic Highlands Marina (10 Simon Way). There will be 19 gourmet food trucks with something for everyone, plus vendors, music, face painting for kids, and a beer/sangria/margarita garden for adults over 21. Admission is free, so bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy a fun day by the water! Get additional information.

August 13: Dorbrook Park and Recreation Area (Colts Neck) will be featuring a free event called Under the Summer Stars from 10pm-11pm at the soccer field parking lot. Look for key objects and constellations in the night sky! Bring a chair to rest on as you star search and a flashlight to light your way in the dark. Open to all ages. Find out more.

August 14:

Belmar Free Movie on the Beach begins at 7:30pm with a showing of The Little Mermaid. The movie will be shown at 7th Avenue Beach. Bring your own blankets and chairs and enjoy a free movie under the stars and fun for the whole family! Learn more here or call 732-681-3700.

Bradley Beach Summer Movie Series begins at 8pm in Riley Park (615 Main Street) with a showing of The Goonies. Don’t forget your lawn chair or a blanket! Get more details here, or view the event on Facebook.

August 15: Howell Township’s Movies Under the Stars begins at 6:30pm with activities for kids, and the movie begins at dusk on the Howell Library Hill. This week’s showing will be Wonka. Learn more or call 732-938-4500, extension 2106.

August 17:

Spring Lake Police Community BBQ will run from 3pm-8pm at Marucci Park (301 South Boulevard). Stop by for an afternoon of family fun including food, games, inflatables, touch-a-truck, ice cream, a DJ and a beer tent for the adults. Meet police officers and other first responders too. See more details on Facebook.

South Toms River Family Fun Day will take place from 10am-4pm at South Toms River Recreation (1 Drake Lane). This is bound to be a day of fun, games, crafts, vendors, touch-a-truck, and activities for kids of all ages! Learn more.

August 18: Butterfly Tent Event (Toms River) takes place from noon to 4pm at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 1623 Whitesville Road. Walk through the butterfly display tent, learn about the butterfly lifecycle, native plants, and more. There will be activities for kids and exhibitors for adults. Call 732-349-1246 for more details, or click here.

August 21: Freehold Free Family Movie Night starts at 8:30pm at the Hall of Records at 1 East Main Street. There will be a showing of The LEGO Movie. Get more details here.

August 22: Howell Township’s Movies Under the Stars begins at 6:30pm with children’s activities, and the movie begins at dusk on the Howell Library Hill. This week’s showing will be Kung Fu Panda 4. Learn more.

August 23: Date Night Free Movie (Seaside Heights) begins at 8pm with a showing of Sleepless in Seattle at 410 Boardwalk. Participants will be seated on the beach in the vicinity of Beach Patrol North Headquarters. This event is for adults only, as the Seaside Heights Business District will be selling beer and wine on the beach for the event. Call 732-830-3700 to find out more, or click here.

August 24: Manasquan Summer Festival and Craft Show will take place from 10am-4pm at Squan Plaza. There will be lots of vendors, food and music! See additional information.

August 28: Belmar Free Movie on the Beach begins at 7:30pm with a showing of The Wizard of Oz. The movie will be shown at 7th Avenue Beach. Learn more here.

August 31: Fabricated for You Craft Fair (Toms River) will take place from 10am-5pm at 1081 Route 37. With more than 50 outdoor booths and 30 indoor vendors, dive into lots of locally crafted treasures. As you shop, keep an eye out for your chance to win a gift basket through the event raffle. There will be baked goods, unique gifts, handcrafted specialties and more – available for purchase from local NJ artisans. Call 732-608-2040 or click here to learn more.

We hope you have a great August and end of summer!

0% Mortgages Returning: Why This is a Risky Way to Buy a Home

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The allure of a 0% mortgage can be tempting, especially in a market where every penny counts. However, before jumping into what seems like a dream deal, it’s crucial to understand why this type of financing can be a very risky way to buy a home. At First Financial, we want to ensure that you make informed decisions about what is more than likely the biggest purchase you’ll ever make – your home.

The Hidden Pitfalls of 0% Mortgages

While the idea of a 0% mortgage might sound appealing, it’s important to recognize the potential downside. One major issue is that a 0% offer may come with strict terms that lead to unexpected costs. For example – missing just one monthly payment could result in a sudden increase in your interest rate, along with additional fees and penalties.

Moreover, 0% mortgages can encourage you to buy a home you may not be able to afford in the long run. Similar to buy now, pay later deals – you may be tempted into making a significant financial commitment without considering the long-term implications. This can be particularly risky if your financial situation changes or if the housing market fluctuates.

The Return of a Risky Financial Tool

The reintroduction of 0% mortgage programs is reminiscent of the risky financial products that contributed to the 2008 financial crisis. Zero percent mortgages typically allow first-time homebuyers to secure a purchase with no money down, which becomes an attractive option for those without sufficient savings for a down payment.

Such mortgage offers often include hidden catches. For instance, many of these deals require you to borrow a small percentage of the home’s value as an interest-free loan, which needs to be paid back in full when you sell the home, pay off the mortgage, or refinance. This could pose a significant financial burden if your home’s value doesn’t increase as expected or if you face unforeseen financial challenges. As we have seen before, the housing market does not always go up. If your gamble doesn’t pay off, you’ll end up owing more than the home is worth, and if you have to sell your home due to financial hardship – you’ll owe that initial loan in a time when you need money the most.

Avoiding “Too Good To Be True” Offers

It’s crucial to remember that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. 0% mortgages may seem like a great opportunity, but the risks often outweigh the benefits. Instead of falling for this type of home loan offer, consider seeking advice from trusted mortgage experts.

At First Financial, we offer video chats and phone calls with our mortgage experts – with no commitment required. You can also sign up for our homebuying text alerts to stay informed about mortgage rate changes as soon as they happen.* Our team is here to help you make the best financial decisions for your future.

Don’t Navigate Home Buying Alone

While 0% mortgages might seem like an easy way to buy a home, they come with significant risks that can jeopardize your financial stability. By understanding these pitfalls and seeking expert advice, you can make more informed decisions regarding mortgage financing.

For more personalized assistance and tailored solutions call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online.

*The Text Message Signup box must be checked in order to receive text messages. Standard text messaging and data rates may apply.

8 Tips for Planning a Budget-Friendly Vacation

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It’s summer and vacations are a wonderful way to create lasting memories with your family, but they often come with a hefty price tag. At First Financial, we understand the importance of balancing fun and finances. Here are some practical tips to help you plan a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.

1. Set a Realistic Budget

Before you start planning your vacation, it’s essential to determine your overall budget. A good rule of thumb is to follow the 50/30/20 rule: allocate 50% of your income to fixed costs, 30% to discretionary spending (which includes your vacation), and 20% to savings. This approach helps you identify how much you can afford to spend on your trip. Next, outline all vacation-related expenses including travel costs, accommodations, food, activities, and souvenirs. This will give you a clear picture of the total trip cost and how it aligns with your budget. Don’t forget to set aside funds for unexpected expenses!

2. Plan and Book in Advance

Booking your travel and accommodations in advance can save you a significant amount of money. Airlines and hotels often offer early-bird discounts. According to Hopper, airfare prices tend to rise as the travel date approaches – so it’s best to book your tickets early to secure lower rates. Additionally, consider traveling during the off-season or mid-week to take advantage of cheaper rates.

3. Use Credit Card Rewards

One of the best ways to save on vacation costs is by utilizing credit card rewards. First Financial’s Visa Cash Plus Credit Card, linked to the uChoose rewards program – allows you to earn points on everyday purchases that can be redeemed for travel expenses like flights, hotels, and rental cars.* Make sure to check your rewards points and use them strategically to offset vacation costs.

4. Choose Affordable Accommodations

Instead of staying at expensive hotels, consider more affordable options like rental houses, Airbnb, or even camping. Traveling with friends or family and sharing the cost of accommodations can also reduce expenses. If you prefer hotels, look for deals on third-party travel sites or book directly with the hotel to take advantage of any special offers.

5. Save on Food and Drinks

Eating out for every meal can quickly add up. Save money by bringing food, groceries, and drinks if possible, especially for breakfast and snacks. If you’re flying, consider stopping at a local grocery store once you arrive. Cooking some of your meals can be a fun way to spend time with those you’re traveling with too. When dining out, be aware of prices before ordering and research restaurants and menus beforehand.

6. Plan Budget-Friendly Activities

Look for free or low-cost activities at your destination. Many cities offer free museums, parks, and public attractions. Hiking, beach days, and exploring local landmarks are great ways to enjoy your vacation without spending much. Research which activities are available in advance and prioritize those that fit your budget. Facebook events and town/city websites are great places to find lists of free and affordable upcoming local events.

7. Manage Souvenir Spending

Souvenirs can be a fun part of your vacation, but can also lead to overspending. Set a strict budget for souvenirs and consider using cash to avoid charging them to your credit card. Limit everyone to one souvenir each (and think about – do you really need to buy any souvenirs at all?) and before purchasing – make it a point to think about whether it is something the recipient will use and cherish, or if it will end up gathering dust on a shelf.

8. Consider Travel Agents

If planning a vacation feels overwhelming, consider using a travel agent. They often have access to exclusive deals and can help you stay within your budget. Provide them with a clear budget, and they can plan a trip that meets your needs without the stress of overspending. Often, travel agents do not charge you anything for their services as they are compensated by the companies they book with.

A budget-friendly vacation is achievable with careful planning and smart spending. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a memorable vacation without financial strain. Start planning your next getaway with this advice in mind and make the most of your time away without breaking the bank.

For more personalized assistance and tailored solutions call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online.

*APR is 18%, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. This APR is for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. uChoose Rewards is a registered trademark of Fiserv Inc. Login to uChoose Rewards through Online Banking, by clicking on your Cash Plus Credit Card account to view current offers.

Save Money on Your Water Bill and Other Utilities This Summer

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Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and often higher utility bills. With the increased use of water, air conditioning, and overall energy consumption – managing these costs is crucial. First Financial is dedicated to helping you enjoy a cost-effective and comfortable summer. Here are some practical tips to save on your water bill and other utilities this season.

Understanding Summer Utility Costs

Summer utility bills can spike due to increased water usage for gardening, lawn upkeep, washing cars, outdoor activities, frequent showers, and more. Similarly, electric bills rise with the use of air conditioning. By making a few adjustments, you can keep these expenses in check.

Water Saving Tips

  1. Check for Leaks Regularly: Even a small leak can waste significant amounts of water. Regularly check your faucets, toilets, and hoses for leaks and repair them promptly.
  2. Water Wisely: Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Consider using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system, which delivers water directly to the roots, minimizing waste.
  3. Install Water Efficient Fixtures: When it’s time to replace old, inefficient fixtures – opt for water saving alternatives. Low flow toilets, aerated faucets, and high efficiency showerheads can reduce water usage without sacrificing performance. Look for fixtures with the WaterSense label, indicating they meet EPA water efficiency standards.
  4. Use Mulch: Mulching around plants retains moisture, reduces the need for frequent watering, and helps maintain soil temperature.
  5. Don’t Pre-rinse: Instead of pre-rinsing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, scrape or wipe them into the trash. Modern dishwashers are designed to handle dirty dishes without the need for excessive water use. Ensure your dishwasher is fully loaded before running it to maximize efficiency. The same goes for your summer laundry – there isn’t really a need to pre-soak your clothing before a regular washing machine cycle.

Energy Saving Tips

  1. Optimize Air Conditioning:
  • Use a Programmable Thermostat: These devices can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, reducing energy use when you’re not home.
  • Clean and Replace Filters: Dirty filters reduce efficiency. Regularly clean or replace them to keep your system running smoothly.
  1. Use Fans:
  • Ceiling Fans: Run ceiling fans counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze, which can make you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
  • Portable Fans: Place portable fans strategically to enhance airflow and reduce the need for air conditioning.
  1. Block the Heat:
  • Close Blinds and Curtains: During the hottest parts of the day, close blinds and curtains to block out the sun’s heat.

Long-Term Solutions

  1. Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances: Consider replacing old appliances with energy efficient models, which use less water and electricity.
  2. Improve Home Insulation: Proper insulation keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
  3. Install Solar Panels: While it is an upfront investment, solar panels can significantly reduce your energy bills and even allow you to sell excess power back to the grid.

Financial Assistance for Utilities

Many states including New Jersey, offer programs to help lower income households with utility costs. Check with local government or your utility provider for available assistance programs.

By implementing these summer utility savings tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and budget-friendly season. Remember, small changes can lead to significant savings.

For more personalized assistance and tailored solutions call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online.

Free Outdoor Summer Activities in Monmouth & Ocean Counties

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The Jersey Shore is one of the best places to be in the summer. There are so many great outdoor activities for all ages, and many of these things to do are free! Keep reading to discover some no-cost family fun ideas within Monmouth and Ocean Counties, that you can enjoy all summer long.

Free Outdoor Movies

  • Movies on the Beach in Belmar on Wednesday nights at 7th Avenue Beach through 8/28/24.
  • Family Movie Night in Downtown Freehold on Wednesday nights (8:30pm) at the Hall of Records through 8/21/24.
  • Movies on the Beach in Pleasant at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk (300 Ocean Ave.), Tuesday nights through 8/27/24.
  • Movies on the Bay in Lavallette (the gazebo at Philadelphia Avenue & Bay Blvd.) on Tuesday nights through 8/20/24.

Exploring Parks & Nature

  • Did you know the Borough of Tinton Falls in Monmouth County has a waterfall you can visit? Check out the overlook by the falls at 741 Tinton Avenue.
  • Allaire State Park in Wall (4265 Atlantic Avenue), features many historic buildings which include a museum, blacksmith shop, a chapel, and a carpenter’s shop. There are also beautiful grounds you can stroll and view lots of birds and other wildlife.
  • Ocean County Park in Lakewood (659 Ocean Avenue), offers a bike trail, fishing, a driving range and 18 hole disc golf course, a walking trail, large picnic area, playgrounds, softball fields, a swimming lake, and tennis and pickleball courts.
  • Maclearie Park in Belmar (Rt. 35 Marina) boasts a transportation themed playground for kids. There are also tennis courts and outdoor grills available for use.
  • John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park in Berkeley Township, has a great (free) view of Barnegat Bay. It also features a spray park, playground, walking paths, small picnic areas and a crabbing and fishing pier. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day sunning, fishing or crabbing from the pier.
  • Heritage Park and Butterfly Garden in Allentown (off of Gordon Street) is open daily and offers a paved walking path, wooded walking trails, a pedestrian walking bridge, picnic tables, a pollinator garden, and a grilling area and benches.

Beach & Boardwalk

  • Wake up early one morning (or several) and take in the sunrise at your favorite Monmouth or Ocean County beach.
  • Stroll the boards in your favorite beach town. It’s great exercise too!
  • Fly a kite at your favorite beach in the late afternoon, just before sunset.
  • Did you know there are a few free Monmouth and Ocean County beaches? Be sure to visit Ideal Beach or Leonardo Beach in Middletown, Jennifer Lane Beach in Manahawkin, and Keansburg Beach.

Free Concerts

  • The Freehold Raceway Mall’s free summer concert series happens every Tuesday night in July and August through 8/20/24. The concerts take place outside in the Outdoor Village near LL Bean and the Cheesecake Factory from 6:30-8pm. There are also games and vendor booths. Don’t forget your lawn chair!
  • If you’re in Ocean County, don’t miss out on the Barnegat Dock Concert Series every Saturday throughout the summer until 8/31/24 at 6:30pm at the Barnegat Municipal Dock (427 East Bay Avenue).

We hope you enjoy the rest of summer with family and friends, enjoying the many free things to do in our beautiful area of New Jersey!

Article Source: NJFamily.com

Managing a Budget During Retirement

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Very few people can retire without the stress of worrying about money. If you’re like most people, you’ll face a critical task when you reach retirement to make sure that your assets are able to support you through your lifetime.

Cash flow is king here. Quite simply, you must have enough income to pay for your living expenses. This is no easy task, especially as people are living longer today than ever before.

To help keep you on track and get you to a positive cash flow, there are a few key steps to keep in mind.

First, make a plan. You want to get a clear picture of your financial situation, which includes your projected income and expenses. Start by creating a detailed net worth statement, which will give you a comprehensive overview of your assets, debt, and cash on hand.

Next, assemble an accurate budget that itemizes your income and expenses. If you anticipate any major lifestyle changes after retirement, make these notations. Include your anticipated income during retirement, such as Social Security, pension, and other income streams. Include all of your expenses, prorating them on a monthly basis. When you finish creating your statement, look for any cash flow issues that might arise, and then find areas that will help you improve your income/expense balance.

Revisit your planning tool regularly and readjust the figures if your actual income and expenses change. As you monitor your finances, there are several items that could impact your cash flow in profound ways, including interest rates, tax rates, healthcare costs, and life events. Continually assess and revise your plan as necessary to account for their impact.

By developing and monitoring a budget during retirement, you minimize the possibility of cash flow issues that could otherwise constrain your lifestyle expectations.

For help in planning carefully, look to your financial professional for assistance.

Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534 to speak with professionals who can help steer your finances in the right direction.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal.

This material was prepared by LPL Financial, LLC

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