Help a Reader: Dealing ...

Here’s an email I recently received from a reader: My wife and I got married last fall and we both were fortunate/unfortunate to be homeowners.  I’m 32 and my wife is 28 and while we both bought homes before we met which were perfect for our situations, obviously things have...

When Should I Refinance...

Refinancing your mortgage can be a money-saving move, but not in every situation. Since there are costs associated with all refinances, sometimes getting a lower interest rate can actually be more expensive than keeping your current loan. Plus, sifting through all those lender offers...

Developing a Side Gig...

I love stories of people who develop side businesses in addition to their regular jobs. The story of how they did it is usually fascinating and I always end up admiring their determination to build something in their “spare time.” So I had to share this piece from US News...

Beware of the Mortgage ...

Applying for a mortgage can be tricky. There are many things to consider, including something known as a prepayment penalty. A loan with a prepayment penalty may also come with a lower rate and so can seem more attractive. However, the prepayment penalty will hurt you if you want to...

How to Get Your Securit...

I have many friends who firmly believe that landlords do not give security deposits back at all, or that they will do just about anything to keep however much they can. While I’m sure that slumlords do exist in this world, as a former property manager, I can tell you that most good...

10 U.S. Cities Where It...

After the real estate market deteriorated in the wake of the sub-prime mortgage crisis, the prospect of renting a home vs. buying became much more attractive. In fact, this trend has been well supported by a substantial decrease in home ownership to levels not reached in decades. To be...

8 Issues with Buying Re...

Do you dream of owning property? Perhaps multiple investment properties from which to earn a monthly stream of income? Ah, the life… But before you contact your real estate agent, consider what’s really involved. If you want to create an income immediately, you’ll need...

15 Ways to Reuse Coffee...

I’m a coffee junkie. I make at least half a pot of coffee every morning, and if I’m having a particularly stressful day, I make a second pot in the afternoon. A few months ago, I started thinking about how much coffee I drink, and how the grinds end up in the trash. I...

Flipping Houses for Pro...

Several years ago, I became friends with a young woman who was just getting started in real estate. She became a real estate agent, and then started learning about renovation. She bought her first house, flipped it, and made a ton of money. Thanks to some exceptionally lucky...

Should Military Familie...

There is a great debate among active duty military regarding renting vs. buying a home. Because these military members may be called upon to deploy or change duty stations at any moment, numerous active duty families choose to rent. Still, others have determined that despite an...