Tim Birkmeier's (timbirkmeier) Blog

At the beginning of each new year, we usually take some time to evaluate where we've been and where we want to go.  We make resolutions in hopes that we can change our personal situation or ourselves for the better.  We write down or verbalize our goals for the future and often find that things r...

While each year, most people make a list of several resolutions, each year those resolutions often fall to the wayside after several weeks.  But personal budgeting is a resolution you can't afford to break.  Don't wait until January 1 to start your planning.  Follow these tips to make budgeting a...

Have you spent a week in your dream vacation spot and never wanted to leave? I think we've all felt that way. You can make that dream a reality by buying a home in that warm-weather vacation spot. It's important to do your research and invest time into considering how the new home will fit with y...

As vice president of mortgage banking at Quicken Loans, I often get questions about my views on leadership. Perhaps most commonly, I'm asked, "What is the most important quality in an effective leader?" Since I see leadership as a complex and complementary set of high standards, I can't really na...

It may be the dog days of summer, but fall is just around the corner. School is almost back in session and that means colder weather is coming soon. The leaves may be turning soon, but you can stay green by making sure your home is energy efficient. With energy costs rising, making your home ener...

It may be the end of summer, but some of us are still thinking about unlocking our inner Bob Vila and fixing up our homes. Whether it's building a new deck, remodeling our bathrooms, or just replacing some old windows, did you know you can save money when you make home improvements through tax d...