The Help Desk

We have 10 years left on our mortgage. Should we refinance?

We currently have 10 years and eight months left on a 15-year mortgage at an interest rate of 5.125%, with a balance of $210,362. Is it smart to refinance now with a 10-year note at approximately 3% and cut eight months off the mortgage? —Angela P.

In a word, yes. But remember that you'll likely have to fork over several thousand dollars in closing costs to get that new mortgage, says MORE

Should I invest now or wait for a market pullback?

I see the markets have had a run. I've been on the sidelines and wonder if it's too late to start investing. Should I wait for a pullback in the market? — Joshua R.

Your chances of timing the market successfully are somewhere between slim and none. "Even the best advisors with the best computers can't do it," says Jason Lampert of New York City-based MTP Advisors. His suggestion: Adopt an MORE

Can I lower my self-directed IRA fees?

In 2006 I invested $100,000 in a self-directed IRA with three other people. Money was invested in land which could be developed into building sites. We anticipated appreciation but in 2008 the land value dropped and we haven't been able to find a buyer. The custodian is charging $460 a year. Is that fee reasonable? Any recourse or recommendations? – Doug H.

According to Tom Fisher, founder of Boston-based Fisher Financial MORE

Should I sell stock now to avoid higher taxes in 2013?

Both of my daughters own Home Depot stock that my father gave them. With the pending tax changes in 2013, should I sell their stock now and place the money into their 529s? One starts college in the fall of 2014, and the other in 2016. —Kathi L.

Long-term capital gains rates are set to rise from 15% to 20% in 2013 (though President Obama and Congress may end up agreeing MORE

Should I tap my retirement savings?

I have a $325,000 home, a $250,000 mortgage and a student loan. I have been taking money out of my IRA since getting laid off, and paying a 10% penalty with each withdrawal. It could be several months before I land a full-time job. Am I better off continuing to tap my IRA, or should I take out an equity loan on my house, rent out my home and move MORE