When your car insurance bill arrives in the mail (or your inbox), you hope to find a number you can live with. Nobody wants to pay for coverage, but you know this is something you have to do if you plan on driving.If your premium remains the same, one period after the next, it is likely that you will feel comfortable with your current provider. However, if your premium increases, it may be time to pick...
There are many joys associated with home ownership. At the same time, this one word could put a damper on all your fun: maintenance. If you aren’t serious about home maintenance, it could catch up to you in the long run. As a result, it may cost you from a financial perspective. Here is what you need to know: home maintenance will cost you money. From painting the shutters to replacing the roof, you know these...
Can you think of anything worse than student loans that linger, year after year? Not only do you have to make the monthly payment, but you will constantly worry about when the balance will finally be paid off.Like most people with student loans, it is likely that you are interested in repaying the debt sooner rather than later. Here are three tips for speeding up the process:1. Pay more than the minimum amount due. It goes...
Even in its most basic form, a budget can do a lot of good for your personal finances. However, creating a budget is just the start. There are many benefits of reviewing your budget on a monthly basis. These include: 1. Learn more about your spending habits. You probably have a basic idea of where your money is going, but wouldn’t it be nice to dig deeper? By reviewing your budget at the end of every...
Nobody wants to find a new bank, however, you could end up in this position for a variety of reasons.Here are three times when it makes sense to find a new bank:1. It is no longer convenient. For example, if you move from one community to another, it may be a hassle to do business with your old bank. Even if you enjoyed your experience, it is probably time to move on.Fortunately, there are sure to...
Choosing a car insurance agent is no easy task. In addition to searching through many options, you have to do what is best for you from a coverage and cost perspective.Only you know what you are looking for in an agent and company. If you find yourself stuck and unsure of how to make a final decision, focus on the agents that have the following traits:1. Helpful no matter what. There is nothing better than working...
There are people who want nothing to do with a mortgage broker. Instead of relying on professional help, they search far and wide on their own to secure the best loan. There is nothing wrong with this approach, but it would be in your best interest to consider both options.Here are three ways a mortgage broker can help:1. Do all the legwork for you. Do you have the time to contact multiple lenders? Do you know...
There may come a time in your life when you realize you need to earn more money. Even if you enjoy your current job, making a change could be in the cards if you want to improve your financial situation.Here is the question you need to answer: is your budget suffering as a direct result of your employment? You need to earn more money than you spend. If you don’t, you will find yourself drowning in...
Are you the type of person who is “dangerous” with a credit card? In other words, you have no restraint. If your plastic is in hand you won’t be able to stop until you make at least a few purchases. There is nothing wrong with carrying a credit card. In fact, this is a good idea for many reasons, including the fact that it could come in handy in the event of an emergency. On the...
Now that winter is almost in the past, it is time to start thinking about the spring and summer seasons. For many, this means one thing: vacation. If you have yet to plan your summer trip, there is no better time than now to do so. The longer you put this off the more difficulties you will run into as you search for affordable accommodations and transportation. Here are three financially driven reasons to plan your...
