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Guide to Retirement Accounts

Planning for retirement can be daunting. According to a 2025 Gallup survey, 40% of Americans report having no money invested in a retirement savings plan, and Social Security alone cannot provide sufficient retirement income. To ensure a comfortable retirement, it is essential to understand your retirement investment options and create a personalized plan.

Key Takeaways

  • Mutual funds, index funds, target-date funds, and exchange-traded funds are all types of pooled investments frequently used in retirement accounts.
  • Investing and planning for retirement is necessary to maintain pre-retirement income.
  • Diversified funds are useful to mitigate risk.
  • A financial advisor can be a valuable resource in navigating the complexities of retirement planning.  

How Should I Save for Retirement? 

Many do not realize they must choose where their money will be invested when contributing to retirement accounts. Several types of investment funds can be held within retirement accounts. Understanding the available options is crucial to maximizing your savings.

Target Date Funds

A target-date fund is an investment option that adjusts its asset allocation over time, starting with higher-risk investments and becoming more conservative as the investor approaches retirement age. Portfolio managers employ a long-term strategy of investing the fund in riskier stocks in the early years, and shifting to more stable assets such as bonds in the later years. 

Because these funds require more oversight, they frequently come with higher fees than other passive investments. However, active management allows for a hands-off approach to retirement investing and is suitable for those who prefer not to manage their own portfolios.  

Mutual Funds

A mutual fund pools money from many investors, then invests the money in stocks, bonds, other assets and securities, or a combination of those options. The combined holdings the fund owns are known as the portfolio, and each mutual fund share represents a partial ownership of the fund’s portfolio. 

Like individual stocks or bonds, a mutual fund is a type of investment you can purchase. A retirement account is not a mutual fund itself, but the account that holds the mutual fund. There are other ways to invest in mutual funds, but doing so through retirement accounts can help alleviate your tax burden. Money contributed to retirement accounts, such as 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs), is most frequently invested in mutual funds. 

Index Funds

An index fund is a type of mutual fund or exchange-traded fund designed to track the performance of a market index, such as the S&P 500. Some index funds invest in all of the securities in a market index, while others invest only in a sample assortment of securities included in the market index.

ETFs

Similar to mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are a type of investment that pools multiple assets rather than just one, but are purchased and sold as individual products. The primary difference is that ETFs are traded throughout the day, similar to stocks, whereas mutual funds are traded once per day at market close.

ETFs are sometimes preferred due to their trading flexibility and lower fees; however, while mutual funds tend to have higher costs, they offer more in-depth professional management. ETFs can also provide more tax advantages, as investors only pay capital gains tax when selling the shares.

Why Diversifying Your Investments Matters

Diversifying your portfolio means spreading your investments across asset classes and investment types. This is done to reduce risk, as diversity across investments means you won’t incur detrimental loss due to the poor performance of an individual stock or other asset. 

Target date, mutual fund, index, and exchange-traded funds offer diversification without the need to buy and sell hundreds of individual assets. These investment options make diversification much easier for the average person since the funds are spread across hundreds or even thousands of different investments without the individual having to choose and purchase them separately. 

Without diversification, you risk losing your invested money by putting all your eggs into one basket, which could set you back significantly when planning for retirement. Some people choose to take on more risk in investments when they’re younger and shift to more conservative options as they approach retirement age.

How much should you save for retirement?

It is generally recommended to save 10-15% of your income for retirement. This amount includes employer-matched contributions and assumes a starting age of 25 and retirement age of 67. The earlier you begin saving for retirement, the lower the percentage of your annual income needed. 

For example, the recommended 15% is based on the assumption of saving and working from the ages of 25 to 67. If you did not begin saving for retirement until age 35, you would need to save around 23% of your annual income. It is also important to consider that these are just average suggestions, and the amount you need to save can differ depending on individual circumstances. 

How can a financial advisor help?

A financial advisor can help you stay on track for retirement by considering your individual needs and guiding you through important decisions, enabling you to maximize your retirement income and minimize taxes with a strategy that maintains your lifestyle. Financial advisors are particularly beneficial for individuals with complex financial situations or a high net worth.

Proper retirement planning analyzes Social Security benefits, tax-advantaged withdrawal strategies, healthcare costs, and longevity risk to ensure you can enjoy retirement without financial stress. 

Bottom Line

Knowing what to invest your retirement account contributions in can be a confusing decision. There are several types of funds, each with its own considerations. Horizons Wealth Management’s financial planning services can help you make informed decisions and develop a personalized retirement plan tailored to your goals.

Retirement Investment FAQ

What is a good monthly retirement income?

Generally, it is recommended that your retirement income be 80-100% of your pre-retirement income.

Are pooled funds required to save for retirement?

While they aren’t required, many prefer to invest in pooled funds for retirement investing as they incur less risk than putting large amounts of money in individual stocks. These funds also enable a more hands-off approach compared to the constant oversight required for personal investments. 

Is it better to have someone manage my investments?

Managing your own retirement investments can quickly become overwhelming and time-consuming. Hiring a professional can alleviate that stress and provide you with insight into options you may not have been aware of otherwise.

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What are the Different Types of Annuities

What are the Different Types of Annuities?

Annuities are a contract between an individual and an insurance company in which the individual pays a premium (or multiple premiums) to the company. In exchange, the company pays a fixed or variable income stream to the purchaser. 

Annuities are most frequently used for retirement income or to manage large sums of money, helping individuals avoid overspending. They are suitable for individuals seeking a stable and guaranteed retirement income. Since annuity holders cannot outlive their income stream, it alleviates concerns about longevity risk. However, annuities are considered illiquid and therefore may not be the right choice for younger individuals who may need access to cash.

Key Takeaways

  • Annuities are a contract between individuals and insurance companies, most frequently used for retirement income. 
  • An annuity can be either immediate or deferred, meaning it begins payments immediately or after a specified period. 
  • Fixed annuities guarantee a minimum rate of interest with a moderate rate, while variable annuities offer no guarantee with chances of a much higher interest rate.
  • Annuities are distinct from life insurance and 401(k) plans.

What are Annuities?

An annuity is a contract between an individual and an insurance company that requires the insurer to make payments to the purchaser. Annuities can be purchased in a single payment or monthly installments. Likewise, the payout can be in a lump sum or a series of installments. 

How Do They Work?

Annuities are designed to provide a steady cash flow, similar to a paycheck or salary, most frequently for retirement purposes. There are two phases in an annuity: the accumulation phase and the payout phase. The accumulation phase is the period preceding the initiation of payments. During this phase, the annuity can be funded in a lump sum or through a series of payments. Earnings are tax-deferred during the accumulation phase. The payout phase is when payments to the purchaser begin and become taxable income.

For many individuals, savings alone would not be enough to withstand inflation rates and maintain their standard of living in retirement. Since annuities are typically paid out in installments, they help prevent overspending and alleviate concerns about outliving retirement savings. 

Different Types of Annuities

Immediate and Deferred Annuities

There are two main types of annuities, differing primarily in when the payments begin. Immediate annuities are generally used in situations where an individual receives a large amount of money at once, such as an inheritance. Payment for immediate annuities begins after the purchaser deposits a lump sum. Deferred annuities are mostly used for retirement, and do not begin payouts until a later age specified by the annuity owner, or annuitant. 

Under these, there are three types of annuities.

Fixed Annuities

Fixed annuities promise a guaranteed minimum rate of interest, meaning the company ensures the annuity will earn a specified amount of interest during the accumulation period. This may be the right choice for investors with a low risk tolerance, as it offers a guaranteed interest rate during the accumulation phase and fixed payments during the payout phase.

Variable Annuities

With variable annuities, insurers invest the principal paid by the annuitant, offering the potential for greater returns than fixed annuities. However, they come with the risk of lower returns depending on market conditions. This type would suit investors with a higher risk tolerance. 

Indexed Annuities

Indexed annuities are a type of fixed annuity that provides a return based on the performance of an equity index, usually the S&P 500. This is a middle ground between the two types of annuities, allowing for the potential of slightly higher gains without the risk of significant loss in down years in the stock market.

How to Choose an Annuity

Choosing the right type of annuity depends on several personal factors, including risk tolerance, retirement plans, and current age. 

 

It is also important to consider that all types of annuities come with fees and are not federally insured, as they are not bank products. However, there are protections at the state level through each state’s guaranty association, providing relief if the insurance company becomes insolvent. 

Fixed Vs. Variable Annuities

Fixed annuities provide a predictable and stable income source, as they offer a guaranteed rate of interest and are based on the insurer’s investments, which typically consist of government and high-quality corporate bonds. In turn, the insurance company is required to pay the rate promised in the annuity contract, even with poor market conditions. 

Since a variable annuity directly invests the principal and can include mutual funds in its assets, it offers the potential of higher growth than the set interest rate of a fixed annuity. However, variable annuities do not provide a guaranteed minimum rate, meaning there is a risk of loss. 

Single Premium vs. Multiple Premium Annuities

A single premium means the annuity is purchased in one lump sum. Multiple premiums mean splitting the payments over a period of time. The difference lies in how the costs are divided; it does not affect the type of annuity. One benefit of paying a single premium is the greater potential for compounding interest, meaning more money once the payout phase begins. 

Immediate vs. Deferred Annuities

The choice between an immediate and deferred annuity is highly individual and depends on the purpose it serves. Immediate annuities are funded in a single payment and typically enter the payout phase within 12 months of purchase. Given these terms, they are generally used for two reasons: to provide a fixed income stream for retirees at the time of retirement, or for an individual who receives a large sum of money at once (such as an inheritance or settlement money) and is concerned about controlling their spending.

Deferred annuities are the more common choice and are most frequently used for retirement income, purchased earlier in life before retirement age.

Bottom Line

An annuity is a contract between an individual and an insurance company, typically used to provide a stable income stream. They can be purchased in a single lump sum or multiple installments. In return, the insurance company makes regular payments to the purchaser, either immediately or at a specified future date. 

 

Financial planning, particularly for retirement, involves numerous considerations. Horizons Wealth Management’s financial planning and retirement planning services can help you make informed choices, tailored to your circumstances and financial goals.

Annuity FAQ

Are annuities the same as a 401(k)?

No, they are not the same. A 401(k) is a type of retirement account that holds various financial products, and an annuity is itself a type of financial product. While both are used for retirement income, there are significant differences in rules, regulations, and funding.

What is the best type of annuity?

Annuities are complex products; the best kind for one individual may be a poor choice for another. The best option is made by assessing one’s financial goals and other individual factors.

What pays better than an annuity?

Bonds typically have a higher yield than annuities, but individuals run the risk of outliving the income generated by these payments.

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Health Insurance Options For Early Retirement

Early Retirement Health Insurance Options Before Medicare Kicks In

One of the most critical considerations for those planning an early retirement is securing health insurance until they become eligible for Medicare at age 65. Navigating this transition can be complex, as the need for continued coverage before Medicare kicks in requires understanding various options, from employer-sponsored plans to private insurance. This article will explore five key options for health insurance coverage during the gap before Medicare eligibility.

1. Employee-Sponsored Plans

If you’re leaving a job but not yet ready to retire fully, one option may be to stay on your employer’s insurance plan. Many employers offer health coverage to retirees or employees who leave the company under certain conditions.

  • Retiree Health Insurance: Some employers, particularly large companies or unions, offer retiree health plans as a benefit. While this is becoming less common, these plans often mirror the coverage offered to active employees, though premiums may be higher.
  • Eligibility: To qualify, you typically need to have worked for the company for a specific number of years. Some employers may also offer retiree health insurance for spouses or dependents.
  • Cost: While more affordable than private plans, premiums can still be substantial, especially if the employer’s contribution decreases after retirement.

Things to Consider

  • Premiums: Expect to pay higher premiums compared to when you were actively employed.
  • Plan Limitations: Coverage may differ from what was available to you as an active employee. Be sure to review any changes in benefits, out-of-pocket costs, and provider networks.

2. Coverage Extension Through COBRA

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) provides a temporary option for those who lose health insurance coverage after leaving their job. Under COBRA, you can maintain the same coverage you had while employed for up to 18 months.

  • Eligibility: You are eligible if your employer had 20 or more employees and you were enrolled in their health plan at the time of job separation.
  • Coverage: Under COBRA, you keep your existing coverage, including limited access to the same doctors, hospitals, and medical services.
  • Cost: You will be responsible for the entire premium, which includes both your share and the employer’s portion, plus a 2% administrative fee. This can make COBRA premiums significantly more expensive than what you paid while employed.

Things to Consider

  • High Premiums: COBRA ensures no gap in coverage, but the cost can be prohibitive for early retirees.
  • Short-Term Solution: COBRA only provides coverage for 18 months, which may not be enough for those retiring before age 65.

3. Private Plans

If neither employer-sponsored plans nor COBRA are viable options, private insurance becomes an important consideration. The individual marketplace provides a range of options, including health plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

  • Affordable Care Act (ACA) Plans: Through the ACA, individuals can purchase health insurance through state or federal exchanges. Plans are available in different tiers—Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum—each offering varying levels of coverage and cost-sharing.
    • Premiums and Subsidies: If your income falls below a certain threshold, you may qualify for subsidies to help lower the monthly premium.
  • Private Insurers: Many private insurance companies offer policies outside the marketplace in addition to ACA plans. These plans may provide more flexibility but could be more expensive and lack the same protections as ACA policies.

Things to Consider

  • Customization: Private plans often offer a wider variety of options, but finding the best plan for your needs requires careful comparison.
  • Subsidy Eligibility: Depending on your income, you may qualify for subsidies that can significantly reduce the cost of premiums.

4. High-Deductible Plan Tied to HSA

A high-deductible health plan (HDHP) combined with a Health Savings Account (HSA) can be a cost-effective option for healthy retirees who want to lower their premiums while saving for medical expenses.

  • High-Deductible Health Plan: These plans typically have lower premiums but higher deductibles than traditional health plans. While you’ll pay more out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in, the monthly premiums are more affordable.
  • Health Savings Account: An HSA allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover medical expenses, including deductibles, copays, and some insurance premiums. Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and funds grow tax-free, making it a powerful savings tool.

Things to Consider

  • Risk vs. Reward: The higher deductible means you may pay more out-of-pocket before coverage kicks in. However, the tax advantages of an HSA can help mitigate some of these costs over time.
  • Eligibility: To qualify for an HSA, you must be enrolled in an HDHP. Not all early retirees may meet this criterion.

5. Strategic Long-Term Planning

Managing your health insurance needs before Medicare requires a thoughtful, long-term strategy. Planning can help you bridge the gap, avoid coverage lapses, and minimize costs.

  • Timing Your Retirement: One way to minimize health insurance gaps is to time your retirement to align with your Medicare eligibility. Retiring close to age 65 can allow you to transition seamlessly to Medicare without a lengthy coverage gap.
  • Bridge Options: Some retirees use bridge insurance or short-term health plans to cover the period between retirement and Medicare eligibility. These plans are temporary and often have limited coverage.
  • Retirement Accounts: Assess your retirement savings (401(k), IRA) to ensure you have enough set aside to cover health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket medical costs until you’re eligible for Medicare.

Things to Consider

  • Comprehensive Strategy: Don’t wait until retirement to make health insurance decisions. Start exploring options early and consult with a financial advisor to ensure a solid plan.
  • Health Care Needs: Your health needs will evolve, so choose a flexible health insurance plan that can adapt as your situation changes.

Bottom Line

Navigating health insurance before you’re eligible for Medicare can be a daunting task, but understanding your options and planning can make the process easier. Whether you rely on employer-sponsored plans, COBRA, private insurance, or a high-deductible plan with an HSA, each option has its pros and cons. A thoughtful, well-researched strategy will help ensure you stay covered and financially secure as you transition into retirement.

By considering these options and taking proactive steps, you can bridge the gap to Medicare and ensure continuous, affordable health coverage during your early retirement years.

Planning for a secure retirement goes beyond health insurance. At Horizon Wealth Management, we specialize in helping individuals like you navigate complex financial decisions, from managing retirement accounts to planning for healthcare costs. Our team can help you create a comprehensive strategy to achieve your financial goals so that you can retire with confidence and peace of mind. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your retirement planning journey.

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How to Retire Early

Early Retirement

Retiring early is a dream shared by many but achieved by few. It’s not just about breaking free from the 9-to-5 grind but also about having the freedom to pursue your passions, travel, spend time with loved ones, or simply relax on a beach. Imagine doing all this while you’re still young and vibrant, without the burden of a paycheck-to-paycheck existence. While it may seem like a pipe dream, retiring early is a realistic goal for those who are willing to put in the effort and discipline required to make it a reality. With the right strategies, mindset, and planning, you can join the ranks of those who have successfully retired early and start living the life you’ve always wanted.

Key Takeaways

  • Retiring early requires a combination of strategic financial planning, disciplined saving, and smart investing to achieve financial independence and pursue your passions.
  • Key strategies for early retirement include taking advantage of workplace-sponsored retirement programs, paying off high-interest debt, investing early and often, using a Health Savings Account, and establishing multiple forms of income.
  • With the right guidance, such as from Horizons Wealth Management, you can create a personalized plan to reach your financial goals and achieve early retirement, allowing you to live the life you’ve always wanted.

What is Early Retirement?

Early retirement is a state of financial independence in which an individual stops working for a salary or wage before the traditional retirement age, which is typically around 65 years old. In this situation, one has sufficient wealth, income streams, and resources to support one’s living expenses without the need for a regular paycheck. Essentially, early retirement means having the financial freedom to pursue one’s passions and interests without worrying about a steady income.

Tips to Retire Early

By combining strategic financial planning, disciplined saving, and smart investing, you can set yourself on the path to retiring early and enjoying the freedom and flexibility that comes with it.

Take Advantage of Workplace-Sponsored Retirement Programs

Take advantage of workplace retirement savings accounts, such as 401(k), 403(b), or Thrift Savings Plan, which offer tax benefits and potential employer matching contributions to supercharge your savings. By contributing enough to maximize employer matching, you can earn free money that can significantly boost your retirement nest egg.

Don’t Withdraw from Retirement Accounts

Avoid the temptation to withdraw funds from your retirement accounts for non-essential expenses. This can lead to penalties, taxes, and a significant setback to your early retirement goals. Instead, treat your retirement accounts as sacred and let the power of compound interest work in your favor over time.

Pay Off Debt

Paying off high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, and avoiding new debt can free up a significant amount of money in your budget to invest in your retirement accounts, accelerating your progress toward financial independence. By eliminating debt and avoiding new debt, you can redirect your hard-earned money toward building a prosperous retirement future.

Invest Early and Often

Investing early and often can help your money grow exponentially over time, thanks to the power of compound interest, and can significantly boost your chances of achieving early retirement. By starting to invest as soon as possible and consistently adding to your investments, you can take advantage of the market’s potential for long-term growth and build a sizable nest egg.

Use an HSA

Utilizing a Health Savings Account (HSA) can be a valuable strategy for early retirees. It allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, reducing your taxable income and lowering your tax liability. Additionally, HSA funds can be invested and grown over time, providing a source of tax-free money for healthcare expenses in retirement.

Establish Multiple Forms of Income

Creating multiple streams of income can provide a safety net and help you achieve early retirement by reducing your reliance on a single income source. Consider creating multiple income streams, such as:

  • Dividend-paying stocks or index funds
  • Real estate investments, including rental properties or real estate investment trusts (REITs)
  • Online businesses or side hustles, such as blogging, coaching, or freelancing
  • A small business or entrepreneurial venture

Bottom Line

Achieving early retirement requires a combination of strategic financial planning, disciplined saving, and smart investing. By following these principles, you can break free from work life and pursue your passions, travel, and spend time with loved ones. With the right guidance, you can create a prosperous retirement future and live the life you’ve always wanted. Horizons Wealth Management can help you develop a personalized plan to reach your retirement financial goals and achieve early retirement.

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Best Gated Communities in Greenville, SC

Downtown Greenville SC

Greenville, SC, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. Among its many attractions are some of the most sought-after gated communities in the region. These exclusive enclaves promise not only privacy and security but also a host of luxurious amenities ranging from championship golf courses to state-of-the-art fitness centers and vibrant social clubs. Whether you’re searching for a serene retreat or an active lifestyle community, Greenville’s gated neighborhoods provide a wide array of options catering to various tastes and needs. This article explores the best gated communities in Greenville, highlighting their unique features and amenities and what makes them stand out as top choices for homeowners seeking an exceptional living experience.

Why Choose A Gated Community?

Opting for a gated community in Greenville, SC, brings numerous advantages that cater to both lifestyle preferences and practical needs:

  • Security: Controlled access enhances residents’ safety by limiting entry to authorized individuals.
  • Amenities: These communities boast exclusive facilities like pools, golf courses and clubhouses.
  • Community Feel: The enclosed environment promotes closer relationships among neighbors through social events and clubs.
  • Property Value: Well-maintained surroundings and architectural harmony contribute to stable or increasing property values.
  • Quiet Living: Reduced traffic results in less noise pollution, offering a tranquil living space.

These factors combine the best of peaceful living with the convenience of urban amenities nearby. For those seeking security, luxury, and a sense of belonging within Greenville’s scenic backdrop—a gated community ticks all the right boxes.

Acadia

Acadia is a gated community with a focus on nature in a woodland space. Located near South West Greenville, SC, Acadia highlights:

  • Luxury Living: These are incredible designed homes that offer a seamless indoor/outdoor living experience and help to reinforce tranquil living in a natural setting.
  • Amenities for Wellness: Amenities include walking/biking trails by the Saluda River, a clubhouse with pools and a gym, tennis courts, a swimming pool and yoga spaces.
  • Community Life: Consistent events at Pavilion Park and various clubs help to promote community engagement.
  • Sustainability Focus: Boasts protected green areas to support local ecosystems.

TLDR: Acadia’s essence is its warm community atmosphere. It’s a choice for those seeking a lifestyle that values comfort, convenience, nature integration and sustainability.

Chanticleer

Chanticleer, located in South Greenville, SC, is a gated community known for its:

  • Luxury and Exclusivity: The Chanticleer community contains elegant homes amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. Each property has its own private retreat with charming gardens, large verandas and incredible views.
  • Golfing Facilities: This facility is adjacent to one of Greenville’s top country clubs, offering golf plus dining and social amenities.
  • Architectural Elegance: Homes range from grand estates to charming villas with a unified aesthetic for scenic privacy.
  • Security: Ensured peace of mind with 24/7 security services.

Chanticleer stands out for its blend of luxury living with a strong sense of community. Its proximity to downtown Greenville ensures easy access to culture, cuisine and entertainment—making it an ideal choice for those seeking comfort and sophistication within a vibrant locale.

TLDR: Chanticleer blends luxury living with a strong sense of community, all in a gorgeous setting with incredible architecture and landscaping.

Claremont

Claremont, situated in East Greenville, SC, is a community with a focal point on the Greenville Country Club Golf course.

  • Exclusive Living: A gated community blending modern luxury with privacy.
  • Recreational Amenities: The community provides ample opportunities for activity, including golf, a clubhouse, walking routes that ramble along gorgeous landscapes and more. 
  • Community Engagement: Many social events put on by Claremont help to foster a close-knit neighborhood feel.
  • Safety and Security: Enhanced by 24/7 surveillance for peace of mind.

TLDR Choosing Claremont means opting for a lifestyle that prioritizes high-end living, family-friendly activities and community connection within a secure environment.

Montebello

Montebello is a beautiful community in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This beautifully planned community provides: 

  • Scenic Luxury: Italian-inspired architecture with a mountain backdrop brings a level of elevated scenic luxury.
  • Incredible Amenities: The community includes scenic walkways, beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, a private clubhouse, a swimming pool, fitness facilities and tennis courts. 
  • Active Community: Many activities and community events allow residents to engage in socialization and connect with their communities through social clubs and events.
  • Enhanced Security: Gated access ensures resident safety.

TLDR: Living in Montebello is about embracing upscale living amidst stunning landscapes while enjoying community vibrancy and security.

The Cliffs at Glassy

The Cliffs at Glassy provides resort-style living in a community atmosphere. Nestled in the mountains but also a short commute to Greenville, it offers:

  • Elevated Lifestyle: Each home has a grand entrance and expansive outdoor living spaces against breathtaking vistas.
  • Community Amenities: The community is home to a championship golf course designed by Tom Jackson. It also contains a cutting-edge wellness center, hiking trails and tennis and pickleball courts.
  • Connected Living: Community events help inspire strong connections among residents.
  • Exclusive Security: Gated entry ensures privacy and safety for all members.

TLDR: Choosing The Cliffs at Glassy means opting for an unmatched living experience that combines luxury amenities with a focus on outdoor living.

The Ridges at Paris Mountain

The Ridges at Paris Mountain, in the North Greenville area, offer incredible vistas and a close connection to nature. Amenities include;

  • Mountain Living: This community offers luxurious homes with panoramic mountain and city views. It is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains but close enough to see the lights of downtown Greenville.
  • Outdoor Activities: This community creates a sense of tranquility with access to a private lake, hiking trails, a wellness center, and a community pavilion for hosting events. 
  • Community Connections: The various clubs and event spaces help to promote resident engagement via community activities.
  • Privacy & Security: Gated access for enhanced privacy and peace of mind.

TLDR: Choosing The Ridges at Paris Mountain means embracing an active lifestyle within a secure community setting surrounded by nature’s beauty.

The Bottom Line

Greenville’s gated communities offer sophisticated, luxurious living amidst stunning natural beauty and opulent homes. With options ranging from tranquil sanctuaries to adventurous outdoor lifestyles, there’s a perfect fit for everyone looking to make Greenville their home. For those in the Greenville area seeking to navigate their finances while exploring luxury living options, consider reaching out to Horizons Wealth Management Greenville.

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Social Security’s Full Retirement Age Will Rise in 2018

The arrival of 2018 will bring with it several changes on the Social Security front.

This slow increase in the full retirement age presents a challenge now that Americans are living longer and saving less.  If Social Security is important in your life — or the life of someone you love — you should know about some key changes that will be made to the program coming in 2018.  Click below to learn more.

Source: http://clark.com/personal-finance-credit/social-security-full-retirement-age-rising-to-67

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4 Post-Work Life Tips

How to have a long and healthy retirement:

It’s a time when we’re supposed to find happiness, but post-work life is often associated with severe health problems. Below are some tips to help you live long and prosper.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2017/may/15/how-to-have-long-and-healthy-retirement

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Test Your Retirement IQ

What’s the biggest threat to a comfortable retirement? Ignorance. The decisions you make leading up to retirement, including how much to save, how to allocate your investments, when to take Social Security and how to anticipate your retirement expenses can make a big difference in your old age.

And the decisions don’t stop on day one of your post-career life. Once you’re in retirement, you’ll need smart strategies for taking withdrawals and investing your resources so they last as long as you do.

So how well-versed are you on this critical subject of RETIREMENT?   Take this quiz to find out.

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When Will I Be Retirement Ready?

How do we know when we have enough for retirement?  Given it’s National Save for Retirement Week, there’s no better time than now to take the mystery out of saving for retirement.  The objective is that when you arrive at the golden years and find that they are truly golden-  It’s called FINANCIAL FREEDOM.   And it’s easier to get there with a little planning-  even in your 20s- Because it’s closer than you think!

 

Click the here to learn when you will be “Retirement Ready.”

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If You Want to Retire in 10 Years, Do These 5 Things Now

The actions you take in the final decade before you quit working are crucial to getting the next phase off to a smooth start.

We provide retirement planning counsel to many clients. Considering retirement is exciting, but it can also cause anxiety and fear. That’s why we encourage our clients to begin planning for retirement with a comprehensive financial plan.  Seeing your personalized financial plan takes away much of the anxiety before your retirement date arrives.

Money Magazine offers this advice if you plan to retire in the next 10 years:

Click Here.

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