In 2020, housing market interest rates hit and remained at historic lows. Government-backed home loans and refinance loans plunged into the low two percent range with a 52-week average for these mortgages and refinance loans at roughly 2.25%. I wrote about these conditions all through 2020, and the number of people including those in my own family who refinanced their home loans last year or in early 2021 was probably higher than any time in … [Read more...]
Where To Exchange Saved Coins to Dollar Bills?
Where to exchange saved coins to dollar bills? This is a no-brainer for some, who just use the local branch of their bank, credit union, etc. But banks frequently require their customers to bring in change in rolled form, not loose coins in bags or other containers. This can be, frankly speaking, a right pain in the backside for those who tend to let their loose change pile up until it gets into the $100 or above range. That’s a lot of coins to … [Read more...]
Not All Saving Cash Advice Is Good Advice
I read a lot of blogs about saving cash. And one thing I encounter again and again? Terrible advice on how to save money. One blogger I recently had a good laugh at (until I started thinking about how truly awful the advice is) provided a list of suggestions which include--and I kid you not--making your own toilet paper and dumpster diving in a list of “50 Ways To Save Money”. Let’s talk specifically about the bad advice related to getting … [Read more...]
How to Collect Money From A Borrower
Do you need to know how to collect money from a borrower? For many people, the first step is simply not to lend money, but that advice isn’t always practical or useful. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position to have to ask someone to pay you back, there are several things you can do to make the process easier for yourself. How To Collect Money From A Borrower: Be Nice Staying away from a hostile relationship is the key to many … [Read more...]
Hierarchy of Savings – What Should Come First?
It can be difficult to establish a hierarchy of savings. What should come first when you are paying yourself? Three basic areas represent parts of your life that need financial attention; your retirement fund, your money set aside for emergencies, and debt repayment. The last one doesn’t sound like you are paying yourself--at first. But debt management is an important part of establishing financial freedom. Emergency Fund: A Savings Account You … [Read more...]