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McNamara Financial

McNamara Financial is an Independent, family-owned, fee-only investment management and financial planning firm, serving individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond for over 30 years.

  1. Mastering Reverse Mortgages as Financial Tools

    6D AGO

    Mastering Reverse Mortgages as Financial Tools

    In this radio interview, financial expert Alyssa McNamara Reed and certified specialist David ourtillott discuss the mechanics and benefits of federally regulated reverse mortgages. They clarify that modern Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM) are transparent, government-insured tools designed to help seniors aged 62 and older access their home's wealth without monthly payments. Tourtillott explains how a reverse line of credit can grow over time, serving as a strategic resource for long-term care or supplemental retirement income. The conversation addresses common fears regarding heir inheritance and vanishing equity, emphasizing that these loans are non-recourse, meaning the debt never exceeds the home's value. Ultimately, the sources frame the reverse mortgage as an underutilized financial instrument that provides retirees with increased liquidity and security while allowing them to remain in their homes. Alyssa McNamara Reed, CFP®is a financial planner with passion for the intersection of taxes and investing. Alyssa works with motivated savers, beneficiaries of estates, business owners, divorcees, and pre-retirees. 📅 Want to speak with the team at McNamara Financial? Schedule a consultation today: 👉 https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact ⸻ McNamara Financial is a family-owned, independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. For over 30 years, we’ve helped individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond navigate their financial futures with clarity, confidence, and care. 💼 Come see what it’s like to work with a fiduciary. http://mcnamarafinancial.com

    49 min
  2. Navigating the Costs of College and Cars

    APR 6

    Navigating the Costs of College and Cars

    Financial advisor Mike McNamara provides a detailed analysis of major life expenses, specifically focusing on the high costs of college education and automobile ownership. He argues that the primary purpose of higher education should be career preparation, urging parents to set strict budgetary limits and consider higher-earning majors or trade schools to protect their retirement. McNamara highlights the financial strain of college by discussing the impact of inflation and the various methods for funding tuition, such as saving, borrowing, or using cash flow. Shifting to transportation, he introduces the concept of "Too Much Car" (TMC), noting that many Americans overspend on depreciating assets at the expense of their long-term savings. He provides a mathematical breakdown of new car prices, insurance, and maintenance, comparing the financial outcomes of buying versus leasing. Mike emphasizes that living within one’s means and prioritizing appreciating investments are essential for achieving a secure and successful retirement. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the founder of McNamara Financial. A seasoned financial planner with over 40 years of experience, Mike is now semi-retired and works exclusively with long-time clients and a select few new ones. 📅 Want to speak with the team at McNamara Financial? Schedule a consultation today: 👉 https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact ⸻ McNamara Financial is a family-owned, independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. For over 30 years, we’ve helped individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond navigate their financial futures with clarity, confidence, and care. 💼 Come see what it’s like to work with a fiduciary. http://mcnamarafinancial.com

    48 min
  3. Navigating the Modern College Selection and Financing Process

    MAR 30

    Navigating the Modern College Selection and Financing Process

    In this episode, Alyssa McNamara Reed interviews Stacy Havens, an independent college counselor from Student Pathways, to discuss the complexities of higher education planning. They emphasize that the application timeline has shifted earlier, suggesting that students begin exploring interests as soon as freshman or sophomore year to reduce senior-year pressure. The conversation covers the financial realities of college, including how institutional "yield rates," FAFSA requirements, and merit-based aid influence the final cost. Havens argues that finding a "right fit" involves balancing academic rigor with social comfort rather than focusing solely on prestige. Finally, they touch on evolving career trends, noting a renewed value in the trades and humanities alongside high-demand fields like healthcare and technology. Alyssa McNamara Reed, CFP®is a financial planner with passion for the intersection of taxes and investing.  Alyssa works with motivated savers, beneficiaries of estates, business owners, divorcees, and pre-retirees. 📅 Want to speak with the team at McNamara Financial? Schedule a consultation today: 👉 https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact ⸻ McNamara Financial is a family-owned, independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. For over 30 years, we’ve helped individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond navigate their financial futures with clarity, confidence, and care. 💼 Come see what it’s like to work with a fiduciary. http://mcnamarafinancial.com

    46 min
  4. Navigating the Massachusetts Health Connector Enrollment Process

    MAR 22

    Navigating the Massachusetts Health Connector Enrollment Process

    In this episode, Justin McNamara interviews an interview with Niki Conte from the Massachusetts Health Connector, who explains the state’s insurance marketplace and upcoming enrollment deadlines. The discussion clarifies that open enrollment typically ends in late January, providing a critical window for individuals without employer-sponsored coverage to secure health plans. Ki describes how subsidies and tax credits can lower monthly premiums, specifically highlighting the ConnectorCare program for residents within certain income brackets. Listeners are encouraged to use online estimation tools to compare private carriers and find plans that meet state requirements. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the availability of free professional assistance, such as navigators, to help consumers manage the application process. Managed by Justin McNamara, the segment also touches on the financial implications of healthcare for early retirees and those in career transitions. 📅 Want to speak with the team at McNamara Financial? Schedule a consultation today: 👉 https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact ⸻ McNamara Financial is a family-owned, independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. For over 30 years, we’ve helped individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond navigate their financial futures with clarity, confidence, and care. 💼 Come see what it’s like to work with a fiduciary. http://mcnamarafinancial.com

    49 min
  5. Navigating the Massachusetts Health Connector in 2026

    MAR 16

    Navigating the Massachusetts Health Connector in 2026

    This week, join guest host Patrick Haraden, Employee Benefits and Risk Management Strategist at Lockton Companies for a discussion about Insurance and Employee Benefits along with his guest Nikki Conte, the Director of Outreach and Education for the Massachusetts Health Connector, explaining how the state’s official insurance marketplace functions. The discussion clarifies that the Connector serves individuals, families, and small businesses who lack access to employer-sponsored insurance, including early retirees and those aging out of parental plans. A major highlight is the ConnectorCare program, which combines federal tax credits with state subsidies to provide low-cost or zero-premium plans with no deductibles. The experts emphasize the importance of using the official mahealthconnector.org website to avoid predatory sites and explain how qualifying life events allow for enrollment outside the standard year-end window. Furthermore, the dialogue distinguishes MassHealth (Medicaid) from Medicare, noting that the Connector simplifies the process by using a single application to determine eligibility for various state programs. Finally, the source outlines the metallic tier system, helping consumers understand the trade-offs between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. 📅 Want to speak with the team at McNamara Financial? Schedule a consultation today: 👉 https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact ⸻ McNamara Financial is a family-owned, independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. For over 30 years, we’ve helped individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond navigate their financial futures with clarity, confidence, and care. 💼 Come see what it’s like to work with a fiduciary. http://mcnamarafinancial.com

    47 min
  6. The True Cost of Homeownership and Market Downturn Prep

    MAR 8

    The True Cost of Homeownership and Market Downturn Prep

    In this episode, Mike McNamara discusses the hidden expenses of homeownership and strategies for enduring a potential market downturn. He argues that most homeowners significantly underestimate total costs, emphasizing that mortgage payments are merely a financial floor rather than a ceiling. To manage these properties, he recommends budgeting at least two percent of a home's value annually to cover rising insurance premiums, taxes, and inevitable maintenance like roof or septic repairs. Transitioning to investment advice, McNamara warns that the current economy is due for a period of high volatility or a bear market. He advises retirees to protect themselves by maintaining two to three years of cash reserves in "income buckets" to avoid selling assets during a crash. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to proactively stress-test their financial plans to ensure long-term stability regardless of economic shifts. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the founder of McNamara Financial. A seasoned financial planner with over 40 years of experience, Mike is now semi-retired and works exclusively with long-time clients and a select few new ones. 📅 Want to speak with the team at McNamara Financial? Schedule a consultation today: 👉 https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact ⸻ McNamara Financial is a family-owned, independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. For over 30 years, we’ve helped individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond navigate their financial futures with clarity, confidence, and care. 💼 Come see what it’s like to work with a fiduciary. http://mcnamarafinancial.com

    46 min
  7. The Modern Travel Agent: Expert Planning and Group Destinations

    FEB 23

    The Modern Travel Agent: Expert Planning and Group Destinations

    This week join Mike McNamara and his guest Susan Peavey, a veteran travel professional. The discussion highlights the evolving role of travel agents, emphasizing how their expertise provides security and personalized logistics that internet booking sites often lack. Peavey explains the benefits of bundled vacation packages, the importance of travel insurance, and the complexities of organizing destination weddings or multi-generational family trips. Throughout the show, the participants share anecdotes about handling unforeseen travel disruptions, such as flight cancellations and medical emergencies, to illustrate the value of professional oversight. The segment serves as both an informative guide for listeners planning international getaways and a showcase for Peavey’s localized travel agency. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the founder of McNamara Financial. A seasoned financial planner with over 40 years of experience, Mike is now semi-retired and works exclusively with long-time clients and a select few new ones. 📅 Want to speak with the team at McNamara Financial? Schedule a consultation today: 👉 https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact ⸻ McNamara Financial is a family-owned, independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. For over 30 years, we’ve helped individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond navigate their financial futures with clarity, confidence, and care. 💼 Come see what it’s like to work with a fiduciary. http://mcnamarafinancial.com

    46 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

McNamara Financial is an Independent, family-owned, fee-only investment management and financial planning firm, serving individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond for over 30 years.

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