Even though the economy has shown some signs of life over the last month and a half, I feel it is safe to say we are still in or around the low-point of the economic cycle, the trough if you will. Many individuals are feeling that because things have gotten so bad, now may be a good time to 'start over'. This starting over can mean many different things for many different people.

Check out the extensive show notes at http://www.moneyguy.com/2009/04/is-now-the-time-to-be-taking-risks 

As many of you are aware, I have been harping on how low mortgage rates have been over the past few months and how much of an opportunity we all have to lock in a long-term low interest rate right now.

So let us assume you have decided to heed my advice, gotten all of your ducks in a row, and have gone to the bank or mortgage lender to negotiate a refinance. BAM! They offer you a refinance somewhere between 5.5% and 6.5%. But, but, but....

Brian, I thought you said mortgage rates were around 4.5% to 5%?

For more of this story, go to http://www.moneyguy.com/2009/04/how-to-build-your-credit-score 

So here you are. You have been listening to the show for a while. You understand efficient markets. You understand asset allocation. You even understand equity-risk premium and risk/reward trade-off. Now, how do you implement? This is a problem I see all too often. Many individuals possess the knowledge and understanding of the financial marketplace, but have no idea how to put it into practice. So what is next step in developing a portfolio to assist you in reaching your long-term goals? Selecting the assets to use.

More information at http://www.moneyguy.com/2009/04/mutual-fund-screeners