You never know where the next nugget of inventive, genius financial advice will emerge. Most people have relied upon their financial advisors, corporate executives, educators and parents to glean the most heady financial advice, however in today’s market keeping your ears and eyes open can be beneficial.

For example, take the guy from the Papa John’s commercials. Recently Money Magazine* interviewed some of the most influential, subjects of success stories in the nation and John Schnatter, Founder and CEO of Papa John’s Pizza was one of the chosen few.

So what does the pizza guy have to say about financial security and staying afloat during these uncertain times? Plenty. His advice is to “live below your means and be frugal.” Sounds pretty old school and something your dad would have told you, right?

Schnatter says that it was his grandfather; he affectionately referred to as “Papa” who pointed him in the direction of being frugal and fiscally conservative, which ultimately helped him to launch the multi-million dollar empire he’s at the helm of today.

He cites the example of when he used to go to the hardware store with his Papa, and noticed that his grandfather would always charge his purchases. The young Schnatter asked his grandfather why he always charged items when in fact he had the money in the bank to pay.

His grandfather’s response was, “I have money, but my credit is good.” Schnatter admits that at the time he had no idea what Papa was talking about until later in life when reflected upon the situation.

Schnatter says this lesson wasn’t that it was good to borrow money, but rather if you borrow money, you should pay it back promptly in order to maintain good credit. Pretty astute advice from one of America’s favorite pizza guys.

And what’s the point of having good credit? Good credit is the gateway to obtaining the American dream. With today’s stringent lending standards, it’s impossible to obtain a traditional mortgage with bad credit. Plus, rates are at historical lows and home prices continue to drop…now is the best time to purchase a home and fulfill the American dream.

If your credit is less than stellar, there are a few things you can do to revive it:

• Check your credit report for inaccuracies—even the smallest error can drop your score several points. Yes, you can do this for free online.
• Pay your bills on time, starting with your mortgage. If you are having trouble meeting invoice deadlines, contact your creditor to work out a plan. It’s better to be proactive and communicate than ignore a possible problem.
• Reduce the number of credit cards you have—many people have several cards that they don’t use. Get rid of them…they are only dragging you down.
• Avoid companies that tell you they’ll fix your credit for a fee. Credit repair companies may have good intentions, but in many cases if you are charged a fee you need to be careful that you are not being taken advantage of.

Above all, ask for help when in doubt. The reason why so many of your friends and neighbors turn to the professionals at AmeriFirst is because we work with clients just like you on the whole picture. Credit score a little eschew? Our loan experts can offer advice and an action plan to put you back on track so you can achieve the American dream of home ownership.

Come by for a review of your financial situation…heck, we can even order pizza. Call us today at 800-466-5626 today.

* Schnatter, John. Money Magazine. Pg. 31. April 2010