Latest news with #JoshStrange
Forbes
31-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Top Misperceptions About Taxes
Josh Strange is the Founder & President of Good Life Financial Advisors of NOVA. The firm works with federal employees and contractors. The U.S. tax code is maddeningly complicated, making it difficult for most to navigate it effectively without professional help. Making matters worse is that tax laws keep changing. Therefore, it's not surprising that numerous misconceptions and myths surround taxes, which can lead to costly mistakes. Perhaps the biggest one isn't a single misstep. Rather, it's a mindset: Most tend to view taxes as a single transaction each year. The reality is that managing taxes is an inescapable part of wealth planning, one that requires a long-term strategy that accounts for today, tomorrow, a decade from now and beyond. With that said, here are four common tax misperceptions: 1. I'm in the 22% tax bracket, so my annual income is subject to that rate. People often fail to understand how the tax brackets work. The system is progressive, meaning, in reference to the above, only a portion of your annual income is taxed at 22%, not the entire amount. For example, if you made $58,000 in 2024, the government taxes the first $11,600 at 10%, the next $35,550 at 12% and the remaining $10,850 at 22%. Minus deductions and credits, that would come to $7,813—18.7% of your salary and significantly lower than what you'd owe ($12,760) if all your income were taxed at 22%. For all the griping about taxes, a lot of people pay less than they think, thanks to this miscalculation of the tax code. 2. I will be in a lower tax bracket in retirement. On the surface, this is a reasonable assumption. After all, no more employment income equals fewer taxes. And for the most part, this is true, with research suggesting that retirees have lower tax rates than they did during their working years. But it's not always the case. Several factors can boost your tax bill in retirement. Take required minimum distributions (RMDs), which are taxable. Let's say you have a $2 million IRA when you turn 73, the age at which you must start taking RMDs. The good news is that you saved and invested well enough to be reasonably wealthy in retirement. The bad news is that you will be taxed like it because an IRA of that amount comes with an initial RMD of about $80,000, which could push you into a higher bracket. The issue becomes even more acute if, on top of large RMDs, you also have a pension, an annuity or significant capital gains—all of which are also taxable. Further, keep in mind that depending on your income, up to 85% of your Social Security benefits can also be taxable. 3. You can mitigate estate taxes, but you can't eliminate them entirely. If your estate is valued at $13.99 million or more at the time of your death, you will owe taxes on it. However, not many estates are worth that much, and virtually no one pays taxes on them. However, even wealthy individuals and families can avoid estate taxes with proper planning and forethought. Currently, it's possible to give as many people as you want up to $19,000 each in a single year without them having to pay taxes or it impacting your roughly $14 million lifetime estate tax exemption (for married couples, those numbers are $38,000 and about $28 million, respectively). Many states, like Virginia and Florida, don't have estate or inheritance taxes at all. However, most do, and the exemption amounts are typically lower than the federal one. For instance, Oregon taxes estates valued at $1 million or above. 4. Paying more taxes is always a bad thing. Nobody likes paying taxes. In fact, getting a refund is often a cause for celebration, even though that's the equivalent of providing Uncle Sam an interest-free loan for a year. However, a higher tax bill suggests that good things are happening. For example, it means that your income, whether from your job or investments, has substantially increased. Given the choice between paying no taxes and earning more money, I suspect most people would opt for the latter. In truth, paying more when you're younger is sensible if it means paying less when you're retired, and, ostensibly, have a greater need for the money. Some of the above examples (e.g., drawing down your IRA strategically to avoid big RMDs) are a testament to that. That's lifetime tax planning, and it's just as important to a long-term financial plan as anything else. People dislike taxes. A lot. Part of it is natural: Who likes giving up money? Another reason is undoubtedly that the tax code is so multifaceted and complex. Working with a financial advisor can help demystify taxes, enabling you to craft a long-term tax strategy that can increase your wealth by reducing the amount of taxes you pay over a lifetime. The information provided here is not investment, tax or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation. Forbes Finance Council is an invitation-only organization for executives in successful accounting, financial planning and wealth management firms. Do I qualify?
USA Today
28-06-2025
- Business
- USA Today
Fort Worth Homeowners Choose Stellar Painting as Reliable Exterior Painting Contractors
Stellar Painting, a respected name among exterior painting contractors in Fort Worth, recently completed a comprehensive transformation for a two-story brick home in the area. The project, which was finished in just three days, reflects the company's commitment to premium craftsmanship, customer-first service, and efficient, detail-oriented execution. The work was led by founder Josh Strange, whose extensive experience positions Stellar Painting as a trusted partner in exterior home painting throughout Fort Worth and nearby communities. Homeowner Kallie de Vries had a specific vision in mind: to brighten the look of her dark brick exterior and refresh the entire façade. 'Stellar Painting did an amazing job of transforming the entire outside look of our house,' said de Vries. 'Josh's team was quick and efficient to paint the brick, trim, and doors in 3 days.' For homeowners seeking both impact and value, understanding exterior painting cost is essential—Stellar Painting provided a clear and competitive estimate while delivering top-tier service and performance. To achieve the updated design, the team selected a balanced, timeless palette. Sherwin-Williams Pure White SW7005 was used for the primary brick surfaces to create a clean, luminous finish. For trim, eaves, and fascia, Iron Ore SW7069 delivered bold contrast and architectural depth. The front door was coated in Positive Red SW6871, providing a vibrant and classic focal point. To complete the project, newly installed shutters were painted to complement the rest of the home's refreshed style. Beyond aesthetics, material selection was critical to the project's success. Loxon XP, a high-performance masonry coating, was chosen to meet the homeowner's request for breathable yet protective coverage. 'We used Loxon XP, a premium exterior coating designed for masonry,' said Josh Strange. 'It allows the brick to breathe, helping moisture escape while protecting the structure from water intrusion. In Fort Worth's climate, that's non-negotiable for long-term durability.' The Fort Worth area presents unique environmental challenges for exterior surfaces. Prolonged sun exposure, intense UV rays, and seasonal storms can damage paint and masonry over time. To withstand these conditions, coatings must be UV-resistant, flexible, and capable of managing moisture intrusion. Loxon XP has proven effective in this environment, providing both structural protection and long-term appearance retention. According to de Vries, the company's professionalism during the planning and estimating process stood out immediately. 'Stellar Painting was right in the middle price-wise of the 3 estimates I got, but what sealed the deal for hiring him was the thorough estimate process,' she said. 'Josh sat down with me and went over the process and detailed quote. It eased my mind that we would be getting superior customer service.' Stellar Painting's project management model includes detailed consultations, transparent pricing, and regular progress communication. Each project is approached with a commitment to organization, responsiveness, and accountability. 'The team doesn't just paint—they plan, explain, and deliver,' said Strange. 'Every homeowner deserves clarity and results they can trust.' Efficiency on-site matched the preparation beforehand. The crew completed the transformation in three days, operating with a coordinated workflow developed through years of experience. The pace did not compromise quality—every surface was prepped and finished with care, and cleanup was handled promptly and professionally. 'At the end of the day, it's about respecting the customer's time and their home,' said Strange. 'We know our clients don't want to live in a construction zone. That's why we aim for precision, speed, and cleanliness. When we're done, it's like we were never there—except the house looks brand new.' In addition to curb appeal and personal satisfaction, professionally executed exterior painting offers strong financial benefits. Real estate industry data indicates that exterior paint can raise a home's value by 2% to 5%. With proper preparation and materials, results can last 10 to 15 years—offering a high return on investment and long-term peace of mind. 'Please consider hiring Stellar Painting for your next painting project. I promise you won't be disappointed,' de Vries added. Stellar Painting's continued growth in Fort Worth and surrounding communities reflects its core values: excellence, reliability, and communication. As demand rises for qualified exterior painting contractors who understand both the technical and personal aspects of home improvement, Stellar Painting stands apart for its ability to consistently deliver on both. The company remains dedicated to providing superior exterior home painting services that align with architectural character, climate needs, and client expectations. Each project is treated with the utmost respect for the property and the people who live there—delivering more than a new look, but real long-term value. For additional information about Stellar Painting or to request an estimate, visit or call (817) 672-0755.
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Fort Worth Homeowners Choose Stellar Painting as Reliable Exterior Painting Contractors
Fort Worth, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stellar Painting, a respected name among exterior painting contractors in Fort Worth, recently completed a comprehensive transformation for a two-story brick home in the area. The project, which was finished in just three days, reflects the company's commitment to premium craftsmanship, customer-first service, and efficient, detail-oriented execution. The work was led by founder Josh Strange, whose extensive experience positions Stellar Painting as a trusted partner in exterior home painting throughout Fort Worth and nearby communities. Homeowner Kallie de Vries had a specific vision in mind: to brighten the look of her dark brick exterior and refresh the entire façade. "Stellar Painting did an amazing job of transforming the entire outside look of our house," said de Vries. "Josh's team was quick and efficient to paint the brick, trim, and doors in 3 days." For homeowners seeking both impact and value, understanding exterior painting cost is essential—Stellar Painting provided a clear and competitive estimate while delivering top-tier service and performance. To achieve the updated design, the team selected a balanced, timeless palette. Sherwin-Williams Pure White SW7005 was used for the primary brick surfaces to create a clean, luminous finish. For trim, eaves, and fascia, Iron Ore SW7069 delivered bold contrast and architectural depth. The front door was coated in Positive Red SW6871, providing a vibrant and classic focal point. To complete the project, newly installed shutters were painted to complement the rest of the home's refreshed style. Beyond aesthetics, material selection was critical to the project's success. Loxon XP, a high-performance masonry coating, was chosen to meet the homeowner's request for breathable yet protective coverage. "We used Loxon XP, a premium exterior coating designed for masonry," said Josh Strange. "It allows the brick to breathe, helping moisture escape while protecting the structure from water intrusion. In Fort Worth's climate, that's non-negotiable for long-term durability." The Fort Worth area presents unique environmental challenges for exterior surfaces. Prolonged sun exposure, intense UV rays, and seasonal storms can damage paint and masonry over time. To withstand these conditions, coatings must be UV-resistant, flexible, and capable of managing moisture intrusion. Loxon XP has proven effective in this environment, providing both structural protection and long-term appearance retention. According to de Vries, the company's professionalism during the planning and estimating process stood out immediately. "Stellar Painting was right in the middle price-wise of the 3 estimates I got, but what sealed the deal for hiring him was the thorough estimate process," she said. "Josh sat down with me and went over the process and detailed quote. It eased my mind that we would be getting superior customer service." Stellar Painting's project management model includes detailed consultations, transparent pricing, and regular progress communication. Each project is approached with a commitment to organization, responsiveness, and accountability. "The team doesn't just paint—they plan, explain, and deliver," said Strange. "Every homeowner deserves clarity and results they can trust." Efficiency on-site matched the preparation beforehand. The crew completed the transformation in three days, operating with a coordinated workflow developed through years of experience. The pace did not compromise quality—every surface was prepped and finished with care, and cleanup was handled promptly and professionally. "At the end of the day, it's about respecting the customer's time and their home," said Strange. "We know our clients don't want to live in a construction zone. That's why we aim for precision, speed, and cleanliness. When we're done, it's like we were never there—except the house looks brand new." In addition to curb appeal and personal satisfaction, professionally executed exterior painting offers strong financial benefits. Real estate industry data indicates that exterior paint can raise a home's value by 2% to 5%. With proper preparation and materials, results can last 10 to 15 years—offering a high return on investment and long-term peace of mind. "Please consider hiring Stellar Painting for your next painting project. I promise you won't be disappointed," de Vries added. Stellar Painting's continued growth in Fort Worth and surrounding communities reflects its core values: excellence, reliability, and communication. As demand rises for qualified exterior painting contractors who understand both the technical and personal aspects of home improvement, Stellar Painting stands apart for its ability to consistently deliver on both. The company remains dedicated to providing superior exterior home painting services that align with architectural character, climate needs, and client expectations. Each project is treated with the utmost respect for the property and the people who live there—delivering more than a new look, but real long-term value. For additional information about Stellar Painting or to request an estimate, visit or call (817) 672-0755. ### For more information about Stellar Painting - Ft Worth, contact the company here:Stellar Painting - Ft WorthJoshua Strange(817) 672-0755joshstrangefw@ Winthrop Ave Ste 150Ft Worth, TX 76116 CONTACT: Joshua StrangeError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
03-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How Emotion Hurts Investors: 4 Common Mistakes To Watch For
Josh Strange is the Founder & President of Good Life Financial Advisors of NOVA. The firm works with federal employees and contractors. Many people today pay close attention to interest rate policy. Perhaps too close. The reason they do, of course, is that the Federal Reserve added a ton of fuel to the most recent bull market. When capital is easier to come by—as is the case when rates come down—the valuations of firms that rely on debt to finance operations tend to go up. That's how scores of tech companies operate, which is, in part, what allowed the equity markets to do so well over the last two years. The S&P 500 advanced by more than 20% in both 2023 and 2024, while the Nasdaq did even better over the same stretch. The issue, though, is that sometimes investors hear, 'Interest rates are coming down,' and then make all sorts of assumptions about mortgages, credit cards and other types of loans. The same is true for bonds. However, as some have found, the Fed can lower rates consistently for 18 months, yet buying a house may not get any cheaper—nor will financing a loan to start a business. The confusion hints at a larger issue: Every day, people make consequential financial decisions based on bad information, misjudgments, emotion or all of the above. Here are some common examples I frequently see in my practice. For better or worse, people remember the recent past best, not historical trends. This helps explain why millions of investors, especially those under 35, have an aversion to bonds—investments that have largely underperformed in recent years. It's hard to blame them. If bonds have done nothing but decline in value, why invest in them? But recency bias clouds a crucial truth: Market cycles don't last forever. Bonds have been battered. But if inflation moderates further and the Fed begins to cut rates again, they could bounce back, particularly if economic growth slows and riskier assets take a hit. If it's worked for me before, why change? Right? That's the mindset of investors who fall victim to endowment bias—a tendency to favor what's familiar over what's optimal. While routines in life provide comfort and predictability, investing requires adaptation. A great example? The classic 60/40 portfolio—60% stocks, 40% bonds—was considered a near-perfect asset allocation for decades. But investors who stuck to it rigidly in the last five years likely lagged behind those who adjusted to market realities. Now, consider tech stocks. Over the past decade, they've been pretty dominant. But history shows that sector leadership rotates, and those with an unwavering tech bias may find themselves on the wrong side of the next cycle. The best investment strategies aren't set in stone. They evolve based on data, trends and economic conditions. The lesson? Be flexible, even if it means letting go of past successes. Nobody likes to lose money. And no advisor wants their clients to experience losses. But here's the problem: Many investors have goals they will never reach if they don't take some degree of risk. Loss aversion—the tendency to fear losses more than we value gains—keeps people on the sidelines when they should be investing or leads them to overly conservative allocations. While being cautious is prudent, there's a big difference between managing risk and avoiding it altogether. The role of a good advisor is to help you appreciate that delicate dynamic—and overcome it. By setting realistic expectations and constructing a portfolio through deliberate risk, investors can experience returns over the long run without undue stress. Few things trigger an emotional reaction quite like seeing an asset skyrocket in value—especially if you missed out. This phenomenon, known as FOMO (fear of missing out), has led countless investors to chase performance instead of making sound, strategic decisions. We saw it happen during the pandemic. Meme stocks, cryptocurrencies and speculative assets soared as retail investors piled in, hoping for quick profits. Some made fortunes—many more lost everything. It happened again near the presidential election when bitcoin took off. At the start of November, it was in the $70,000 range. Once it became clear that President Donald Trump, whose policies were perceived to be crypto-friendly, would emerge victorious, bitcoin skyrocketed in value, eventually eclipsing $100,000 about a month later. Sounds great. The problem is that chasing momentum isn't an investment strategy—it's a gamble. And like gambling, it sometimes pays off, but over time, the house wins. Investing is an emotional exercise. And anytime emotions come to the fore, people tend to do things they regret. If that happens too many times, the damage could eventually be too much to overcome. That's where a good advisor is worth their weight in gold. They can't eliminate emotion. However, they can allow you to appreciate what you're feeling and help you act—or don't act—accordingly. Forbes Finance Council is an invitation-only organization for executives in successful accounting, financial planning and wealth management firms. Do I qualify?
