July 7, 2026
Buying a Home Family Financial Planning Home Improvement Mortgage
Is it better to build or buy a home in a small town? The answer depends on your timeline, budget, location needs, and how much control you want over the finished home. Buying an existing house may help you move sooner, while building can give you more...
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Winter in Iowa can be a bit unpredictable and brings its own challenges and costs. Between rising heating bills, electric use, and the need for hearty meals, it’s easy for budgets to strain. But with a few intentional tweaks, you can cut costs,...
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We all know the overwhelm of gift season: the endless aisles, the stuff that ends up forgotten or collecting dust, and the “what on earth do I get someone who has everything?” anxiety. What if this year you tried something different, something...
Read Full PostAs we near the end of summer, it’s tempting to pack in one more last-minute vacation, shop those clearance sales, or enjoy spontaneous outings to try and make the most of your time before fall. While all of this sounds great, overspending at the...
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As we near the end of summer, it’s tempting to pack in one more last-minute vacation, shop those clearance sales, or enjoy spontaneous outings to try and make the most of your time before fall. While all of this sounds great, overspending at the...
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Back-to-school time is exciting for parents, but it can also be expensive! You have a whole new round of school supplies, clothes, tech upgrades, and extracurricular activities to worry about, all of which can add up fast. Whether you’re shopping...
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Summer in Iowa: It’s the perfect time to get out, unwind, and make memories that will last a lifetime – but you don’t have to break the bank to do it! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing staycation or an affordable weekend getaway,...
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Having a summer job is a great way to earn a little extra cash while gaining valuable work experience. It also gives you the chance to build your financial independence and establish good money habits. Whether you’re saving up for college, planning...
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After another long Iowa winter, it’s no surprise that many of us are eager to soak up the sun and explore. While spring is a great time to stretch your legs, summer is when Iowa truly comes to life! From festivals and food to nature and adventure,...
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April 15, 2025
Taking care of someone else’s finances is a big responsibility. Whether you’re stepping in to help a parent, a spouse, or another loved one, financial caregiving requires careful planning, organization, and trust. From paying bills to managing...
Read Full PostFeatured Blogs
July 7, 2026
Building vs. Buying in a Small Town: What to Consider Before You Decide
June 25, 2026
8 Small Home Upgrades That Add Value Before Fall
June 25, 2026
11 Easy Summer Side Hustles to Earn Extra Cash
May 19, 2026
7 Garage Sale Secrets That Turn Clutter Into Cash
May 5, 2026
9 Cheap Home Projects That Look Expensive (You’ll Love #7!)
April 5, 2026
3 Money Smart Week Challenges You’ll Actually Want to Try
April 2, 2026
The Ultimate Financial Literacy Challenge for April: A 4-Week Game Plan for Smarter Money Habits
March 16, 2026
How American State Bank Helps Iowa Farmers Thrive Season After Season
March 3, 2026
Ag Lending 101: What Iowa Farmers Should Know Before Planting Season
February 17, 2026
How to Stress Less About Money, Because It Hurts More Than Your Wallet
