Billy Crafton, San Diego, Financial Advisor

  While there are various ways to construct a strategy—doing it yourself, using an advisor, working with a financial planner, or a combination of methods—we've emphasized the aspects that should be included in any strategy, regardless of the technique used. ·          Statement of Net Worth Because any plan has a starting point, you should calculate your net worth next. Make a list of all your assets (bank and investment accounts, real estate, and valuable personal property) and a separate list of all your liabilities (credit cards, mortgages, student loans). Your net worth is the sum of your assets minus your obligations. If your liabilities exceed your income, don't be discouraged. "When you're just starting, that's pretty uncommon—especially if you have a home and student loans."   ·          A Budgeting Strategy Debt gets frequently referred to be a four-letter word. But not all debt ...