Walter Updegrave’s “Ask the Expert” column on CNN Money has an article entitled Starting with an interest-only loan which is a response to a reader’s question about — you guessed it! — starting with an interest-only loan with the purchase of a house. The reader is writing from Baltimore, which is a hot area for … Read more
I promised some more discussion about Douglas Andrew’s Missed Fortune 101 — which is not really an investment book as much as it is a plug for lenders and insurance companies. In this post I’ll talk about some of the points he brings up against paying down your mortgage faster. The main idea of the … Read more
I heard about Douglas Andrew’s Missed Fortune 101 when somebody recommended it for the “Best Financial Book I’ve Ever Read” series on FreeMoneyFinance. (FMF is merely the messenger, so don’t shoot him! :)) It immediately drew criticism from other readers. I posted a comment after reading part of the book and reading the reviews on … Read more
MSN House and Home featured an article on Top 10 Home Repairs. These are common ones — and ones that you can do very inexpensively. Among them: Leaky faucets — try replacing the washer or replacing the faucet Caulking — supplies will set you back $20 Torn door or window screens — $10 for 15 … Read more
There’s an excellent chance you’ve experienced a lapse in customer service or corporate stonewalling. The company in question gets some of your money that you feel it isn’t entitled to, and they won’t give it back. Or, more frustrating, they drag their feet, and treat it as an interest-free loan from you. Calls to customer … Read more
Got vending machines in your building at work? They’re making a killing. Especially sodas. You’re paying a hefty premium for convenience. I went around with a gentleman with a small vending machine route because I was interested in purchasing it. He shared some information: he aims for a 100% markup on the items he vends. … Read more
This was forwarded to me in an e-mail about a year ago by a friend who knew that my wife and I were expecting. I don’t know who wrote this, but I’ll be more than happy to give credit where credit is due. I updated the numbers a bit and changed the phrasing slightly. Enjoy! … Read more
I have a bit of a confession. I come from a long line of pack rats. Getting rid of my old stuff is a chore, and I’m a sucker for anything and everything free. I’ve gotten a little better about letting stuff go, but there’s always a bit of protest before the stuff goes. The … Read more