A few banking tips.

July 27, 2008

It’s still TIP WEEK. I don’t know why I’m calling it TIP WEEK, when honestly, I don’t know how long it will last, but I’m just gonna go with it, ok? Now on with the tips:

For Checking Account Holders

You can save more than $100 a year in fees by selecting a free checking account or one with no minimum balance requirement. Request a complete list of fees that are charged on these accounts, including ATM and debit card fees.

See if you can get free or lower cost checking through direct deposit or agreeing to ATM only use. Be aware of charges for using an ATM not associated with your financial institution.

For Saving Account Holders

Once you select a type of savings account, use the telephone, newspaper, and Internet to compare rates and fees offered by different financial institutions-including those outside your city. These rates can vary a lot and, over time, can significantly affect interest earnings.

To earn the highest return on savings with little or no risk, consider certificates of deposit (CDs) or U.S. Savings Bonds (Series I or EE).

For Credit Card Users

To avoid late payment fees and possible interest rate increases on your credit cards, make sure you send in your payment a week to ten days before the due date. Late payments on one card can increase fees and interest rates on other cards.

Be aware that credit cards with rebates, cash back, travel awards, or other perks may carry higher rates or fees.

And now for Auto Loans

To save as much as several thousand dollars in finance charges, pay for the car in cash or make a large down payment. Always get the shortest term loan possible as this will lower your interest rate.

Make certain to get a rate quote (or pre-approved loan) from your bank or credit union before seeking dealer financing. You can save as much as $1000 in finance charges by shopping for the cheapest loan.

Make certain to consider the dollar difference between low-rate financing and a lower sale price. Remember that getting zero or low-rate financing from a dealer may prevent you from getting the rebate.

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Just a few housing tips

July 26, 2008

A Few Home Buying Tips

When buying a home, you can often negotiate a lower sale price by employing a buyer broker who works for you, not the seller. If the buyer broker or the broker’s firm also lists properties, there may be a conflict of interest, so ask them to tell you if they are showing you a property that they have listed.

Do not purchase any house until it has been examined by a home inspector that you selected. This is incredibly important.

A Few Apartment Rental Tips

For apartments don’t limit your search to classified ads or referrals from friends. Select buildings where you would like to live and contact their building manager or owner to see if anything is available. Not every available apartment is listed in classifieds. So get out there and get talking.

Remember to look over the lease and read it very carefully. There are several laws to protect tenants’ rights, but if there is something written in a lease and you sign it only to find out that you don’t agree with it, it’s too late, you’ve already signed and you’re obligated.

A Single Home Improvement Tip

Do not sign any contract that requires full payment before satisfactory completion of the work.

A Tip on Buying Appliances

Once you’ve selected a specific brand and model, check the Internet or yellow pages to learn what stores carry the brand. Call at least four of these stores to compare prices and ask if that’s the lowest price they can offer you. This comparison shopping can save you as much as $100 or more.

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It’s Tip Week

July 26, 2008

That is absolutely correct. Starting today I’ve decided to do a TIP WEEK. Of course it’s for our own good, and you’ll find ways to save money. So stay tuned, later today will be the first post for TIP WEEK!!!

(I have these spurts don’t I? Post post post for a week or two and then nothing for a week or two. I’m so sorry, I know it’s no excuse but I do have three kids I’m taking care of… lol)

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