Patricia Richard Realtor

Mortgage rates went up slightly last week. Home price appreciation had mixed results in April. Job openings & jobs on payroll increased in May and June, respectively. Mortgage application submissions were unchanged last week. Continuing jobless claims increased while initial jobless claims decreased.

Americans now estimate they need $1.46 million to retire comfortably, according to Northwestern Mutual's 2026 Planning & Progress Study, yet many are still counting on $1 million as their target.

Using the 4% withdrawal rule, a $1 million nest egg generates about $40,000 per year. Add the average Social Security benefit of $2,071 per month and total income comes to roughly $5,400 a month. But housing costs can quickly erode that budget. A typical mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance expenses could easily consume 50% of that monthly income, leaving just $2,700 for health care, groceries, utilities, and everything else. Where you retire matters too. States like Florida, Texas, Illinois, and Pennsylvania do not tax retirement income from 401(k)s, IRAs, or pensions, which can meaningfully stretch savings further.

Track the Fleet!

The Tall Ships are on the way!

You can now follow the worlds Tall Ships live as they take part in Sail4th 250.

Download the Aqua Map App and track each vessel in real time as they sail to NYC!

10 Texas Hole-In-The-Wall Diners With Country-Fried Steak Worth Craving These Texas diners serve country-fried steak done right, with comfort food favorites across the state worth every delicious detour.