Layla Johnson - SmartFinance Guide

Renting vs. Buying a Home Real Estate and Home Ownership

The Impact of Location on Renting Versus Buying a Home in the United States

Introduction to Renting vs. Buying in the U.S.For generations, the American dream has been deeply tied to the idea of owning a home—a symbol of stability, success, and personal achievement.…

Layla Johnson July 21, 2025

Safe Withdrawal Rate in Early Retirement Financial Independence and Early Retirement (FIRE)

Monte Carlo Simulations: Using Probability to Calculate a Personal Safe Withdrawal Rate

1. Introduction to Monte Carlo SimulationsWhen it comes to planning for your financial future, especially retirement, making decisions can feel like a shot in the dark. That’s where Monte Carlo…

Layla Johnson July 17, 2025

Traditional vs. Roth IRA Retirement Planning

Traditional or Roth for Self-Employed Americans: Choosing the Right IRA for Your Business

Understanding IRAs: The Basics for the Self-EmployedIf you’re self-employed in America, planning for retirement might feel like a solo journey. Without an employer-sponsored 401(k), it’s up to you to build…

Layla Johnson July 9, 2025

Extreme Frugality Techniques Financial Independence and Early Retirement (FIRE)

The No-Spend Challenge: How One Month Can Change Your Financial Trajectory

Introduction: Why Try a No-Spend Challenge?Imagine hitting pause on your spending habits for just one month—no online shopping sprees, no impromptu coffee runs, no “treat yourself” dinners out. That’s the…

Layla Johnson July 8, 2025

How to Start Investing with Little Money Investing Basics

Reviewing Top Online Brokerages for First-Time Investors in the U.S.

Introduction: Navigating Your First Steps in InvestingIn recent years, the U.S. investing landscape has transformed dramatically. Gone are the days when you needed a hefty sum and a personal stockbroker…

Layla Johnson July 4, 2025

Student Loan Repayment Strategies Debt Management

State and Employer-Based Student Loan Repayment Programs: Opportunities Across the US

Introduction to Student Loan Repayment ChallengesAcross the United States, the burden of student loan debt has reached unprecedented levels, with millions of Americans facing financial uncertainty long after graduation. As…

Layla Johnson July 1, 2025

401(k) and Employer Matching Explained Retirement Planning

How Economic Downturns Affect Your 401(k) and How to Respond

1. Understanding Economic Downturns and Their Impact on 401(k)sMost Americans have heard phrases like “recession,” “market crash,” or “economic downturn” tossed around in the news, especially when times get tough.…

Layla Johnson June 30, 2025

Understanding Credit Scores Debt Management

The Long-Term Effects of Missing Payments on Your US Credit Score

Understanding Your Credit ScoreIn the United States, your credit score is more than just a number—it’s a reflection of your financial trustworthiness. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home,…

Layla Johnson June 28, 2025

Understanding Property Taxes Real Estate and Home Ownership

How to Read and Understand Your Property Tax Statement

Introduction to Property Taxes in the U.S.Owning a home is a classic part of the American dream, but it also comes with responsibilities—including paying property taxes. Every year, homeowners across…

Layla Johnson June 27, 2025

How Mutual Funds and ETFs Work Investing Basics

Understanding Liquidity: How Quickly You Can Access Your Money in Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

Introduction to LiquidityIn the world of personal finance, “liquidity” is a buzzword you’ll hear everywhere. But what does it really mean, and why should American investors care? At its core,…

Layla Johnson June 27, 2025