Sadly, Your Humble Writer has needed to replace more than one wet cell phone in the past. Let's see, there was the one my niece dropped in the swimming pool, the one I left out in the rain, and, embarrassingly, the one I dropped in the toilet. If only I'd known the trick for drying them out!

A sweet customer service rep revealed this trick to me when I went in to have my latest phone checked, when the battery was on the fritz. Lo and behold, it worked!

Continue reading "A Simple Way to Save a Wet Cell Phone " »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Given the huge economy we enjoy here in the U.S. (and the watchdog organizations that keep an eye on it), it's inevitable that there would be fairly frequent product recalls. They've affected us all at some time or another, generally because something didn't go right with a common product.

Continue reading "Keep An Eye Out for Product Recalls" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Like so many things that we examine in these hallowed pages, newspaper subscriptions aren't terribly expensive. With very few exceptions, you may spend $90-125 per year to enjoy home delivery via paperboy, and generally less than $200 for mail delivery.

This is generally true even of small town newspapers. In fact, big city papers can cost less, given economies of scale. Of course, if you're receiving the New York Times in Cleveland or L.A., you can expect to pay more. But the price probably won't be too bad.

Continue reading "Newspaper Subscriptions: Are They Still Worth the Cost?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

When most of us sign contracts for goods or services, our cancellation rights never even cross our minds -- if, in fact, we're aware of them at all. But the truth is, cancellation is one of your basic consumer rights, so as a savvy consumer it's a good idea to know when and how to take advantage of it.

So let's take a look at your rights of cancellation under American law.

Continue reading "Know Your Cancellation Rights" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

In a recent article, I shared a few microwave tips that can help you save cash here and there, mostly by extending the shelf-life of edibles and revitalizing items like masking tape. But all that was just a drop in the bucket, really.

The fact is, you can do all kinds of things cheaply with a microwave oven... if you know how to do them right. In this article, for example, we'll take the guesswork out of cooking several things you might not expect to work in a microwave, so you don't have to experiment and suffer wastage.

Continue reading "More Money Saving Microwave Tips" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

If you're already handy with a needle, may we suggest that you add these savvy sewing tips to your repertoire? They can help you save even more money on an activity that's already gratifyingly frugal. Take a look!

Continue reading "Savvy Sewing Tips to Consider" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

If you have a cat, you have cat litter. And, chances are, you are very familiar with the ups and downs, the trials and tribulations that one can have with cat litter. Let's face it, if you don't have a good cat litter, everyone knows it. You know it. Your family knows it and everyone who visits knows it.

Continue reading "Do You Know How to Choose the Best Cat Litter?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

In Part I of this article, I introduced the argument that extended warranties, service contracts, and their kin are usually a waste of money. In this concluding article, I'll discuss why you should avoid them -- with a few notable exceptions.

Continue reading "Extended Warranties: Are They Worth It? Part II" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

When you buy most expensive items these days -- from cars to appliances to computers -- you're almost always offered the option of purchasing an extended warranty, a service contract, or something similar to go along with it. That usually seems like a pretty good idea at the time, in a just-in-case kind of way.

But is it really? Let's take a closer look at the concept.

Continue reading "Extended Warranties: Are They Worth It? Part I" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Regardless of your activity, if you're a woman, you need a sports bra. Whether you're the athletic type and enjoy running, racquet sports, or hiking and climbing or you're exercising to lose weight and get in shape, you need support. Here are some tips to make sure you choose this very important accessory regardless of your sport, age, or size.

Continue reading "Are You Wearing the Wrong Sports Bra?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Gift cards - what would we do without them? You can't get more convenient when it comes to gift giving and it's a sure-fire way of getting a gift you'll actually use if you receive one. Most people that receive gift cards say they like getting them. Whether you're on the receiving end or the giving end, here are some helpful tips to get as much as possible from gift cards.

Continue reading "7 Gift Card Giving Tips" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

If you haven't taken advantage of them already, there are several easy ways to save substantially on your cable, phone and Internet costs. The good thing here is that as technology advances, all three are becoming aspects of the same basic communications protocol... and that can make them cheaper.

Continue reading "How to Save on Your Cable, Phone, and Internet Costs" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

The only thing worse than a snow blower that won't work is shoveling the driveway because the snow blower won't work. To avoid this and actually look forward to the snow, follow these tips to buying the best snow blower that fits your needs and your budget.

Continue reading "Buy the Best Snow Blower for Your Money" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

Most of the time, "You get what you pay for" is true. But does it apply to electric toothbrushes? Maybe...maybe not. You may just be surprised. Learn which toothbrushes work best and which ones are worth the price.

Continue reading "Electric Toothbrushes -- Do You Get What You Pay For?" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

If you like to save money and you like auctions, you're in luck. You probably know the government is good at using your tax dollars to buy the things they need. But did you know that when they're through with the items or no longer have any use for them, they put them up for sale in auctions?

Learn how you can save money from these two government auction sites.

Continue reading "Let the Government Help You Save Money" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

"Infant strangled to death in stroller now on recall list." That's it. That's all you hear on the news. The problem is, you have a baby and you have a stroller. Is your stroller is considered unsafe? What stroller caused the death of this baby? How can you know your baby is safe if you can't figure out what stroller is now on the recall list?

Continue reading "Know Important Recalls and Keep Your Family Safe" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

In a lot of cities these days, you can get a hefty fine if you're caught watering your lawn or garden except on a specific, stringent schedule. This makes sense, since our water supplies are often limited. But do you really have to let your plants and yard die?

Not if you use your noggin--and it doesn't have to cost the Earth, either. Here are three tips that can hep you conserve water and have enough for your petunias.

Continue reading "How to Save Money When Watering Your Lawn and Garden" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

Let's be honest from the git-go: organic kitchen cleaners aren't likely to be as effective as the harsh, chemical-based stuff you can get at the local grocery store. But then again, they don't have harsh chemicals in them either, to damage your skin or foul up the environment. That's a point in their favor.

Today, lads and lassies, we're going to take a look at two very simple cleansers you can make inexpensively from items on hand. Add a little elbow grease and your kitchen will soon be sparkling.

Continue reading "Two Inexpensive, Perfectly Organic Kitchen Cleansers" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

You know why you need life insurance -- to keep a roof over your family's head, to pay off debts and the future education of your children -- but when it comes to making a decision, it isn't always easy.

Life insurance is confusing. Here's some help to sort out the different policies so you can buy the best possible policy to protect your family.

Continue reading "Confused by Life Insurance? Here's Help" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

Are cell phones killing your budget...bankrupting you...causing family tension...in danger of sending you to the poor house? If so, you're not alone. Every month people the world over are opening their cell phone bills and receiving heart-stopping shocks. If you're tired of this happening to you, here are a few ideas to use to put a stop to this crazy cycle.

Continue reading "Are Your Cell Phones Giving You Monthly Bill Shock?" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

How safe are baby cribs? With the recent recall of 2.2 million baby cribs by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, it makes you wonder. The Safety Commission has also recalled over 9 million cribs in the last five years. With the lives of babies at risk, it pays to know how to choose a safe crib.

Continue reading "How Safe is Your Baby's Crib?" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

Choosing, buying, and using the right fertilizers for your lawn can be a confusing and frustrating experience. Whether you want a lawn that looks like a golf course or just having something green growing would make you happy, it helps if you have a basic understanding of fertilizer.

Use these tips to help you choose the right type of fertilizer, how much to use and when to use it.

Continue reading "3 Foolproof Tips for Choosing the Right Fertilizers for Your Lawn" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

There's little doubt that biodiesel in general is a good idea, since at some point, fossil fuels are going to be in desperately short supply. And with the breached Deepwater Horizon well still belching thousands of barrels of crude into the Gulf of Mexico daily as of this writing, petroleum is in bad odor at the moment.

Biodiesel is marketed as being the ideal eco-friendly option for any diesel-fueled automobile, since it's made from processed vegetable oil and forms little more than water vapor and carbon dioxide when it's burned. Not so bad, right? Well...

Continue reading "Is Biodiesel All It's Cracked Up to Be?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

A while back, I did an article on the ways you can save money by cutting cable TV completely out of your budget.

http://www.consumersavvytips.org/cut_costs_by_cutting_off_cable_tv.html

But alas, some of us consider cable a basic necessity, like water, electricity, and World of Warcraft. What if you feel cutting cable out of your life altogether is going too far?

Never fear, there is an answer. You can keep a decent cable service simply by trimming away all the stuff you don't need. You'll still have to pay for TV, but you won't have to pay through the nose anymore.

Continue reading "Do You Really Need That Super-Deluxe Cable TV Package?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Let's face it. Dating is expensive and at some point in your life, you won't have enough money to spend on it. But, if you're single and looking for that special someone or even if you just like to get out and meet people, dating is a necessity. What do you do if you want to date but are short on cash? You learn to date inexpensively.

Here are some inexpensive or totally free dating ideas to get you started.

Continue reading "15 Inexpensive but Fun Dating Ideas" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

If you have great credit, you can improve a loved one's poor credit score almost overnight by "piggybacking" them on your credit card.

A few years back, something called "credit piggybacking" was widely advertised as the savior for those with bad credit but plenty of money. According to the credit rebuilders, all you had to do was pay a stiff fee, and they'd make you an authorized user on the credit card of someone with spotless credit.

All it took was a few weeks and a thousand bucks, and voila! Your credit score was instantly boosted. It worked, too. All that the rating services saw was your association with that excellent font of credit, and just like the child's game of piggyback, your score was lifted proportionately.

Continue reading "How to Bootstrap Someone's Credit Score with Piggybacking" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

Here, we'll continue with Part II of our tips on investing in coins. If you missed part I, you can find it here. Investing in coins can be more than just a hobby, if you're willing to put some thought and elbow grease into it.

Investing in coins is simple, as long as you stick to gold and silver; those coins have a value beyond the numismatic. However, the true excitement and expertise of coin investing comes when dealing with rare or scarce coins made of base metals, particularly copper and nickel alloys.

Continue reading "Investing in Coins: Is it Worthwhile? Part II" »

Posted by Lydia | Permalink

If you're like me, no matter how hard you try to conserve energy, there are times when you look at your electric bill and your eyes bug out because of the cost.

Well, if you're tired of your utility bills blowing a hole in your household budget, here are a couple of things you might try to tame your electricity use. In fact, these tips are so easy it's almost a crime not to try them.

Continue reading "Two Simple Ways to Save Money on Your Electric Bill" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Even the most experienced and enthusiastic DIYer gets a little intimidated when it comes to home electrical wiring. Unless you happen to be a licensed electrician, electricity tends to make most people more than a little nervous. If you have remodeling or projects that include the electrical wiring in the home, follow these tips and be sure you don't make these 5 common mistakes

Continue reading "Is Your Home Electrical Wiring a Safety Hazard?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

According to the American Cancer Society, there are more than 1 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer. 60,000 more cases will be diagnosed this year. With statistics like more reports than ever are circulating warning of the dangers of being in the sun and using tanning beds. If these reports have you worried and you wonder if your tanning bed might cause cancer, take this quick test to see if you're using your tanning bed safely.

Continue reading "Are You Using Tanning Beds Safely?" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

How good are you at recycling? For the sake of our environment, we all need to learn the basics about how to recycle and then become experts in this area. Here are 5 quick tips to help you get started and become a recycling superhero.

Continue reading "5 Tips to Becoming a Recycling Superhero" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

If you use an umbrella with any frequency, you know exactly what the Onebrella's producers are talking about when they mention umbrellas flipping inside out. Until I moved to the coast, I thought that only happened in the movies. The first time my umbrella flipped, leaving me battling the relentless rain and wind, I realized that was not the case.

So naturally, the idea of a windproof umbrella caught my eye. The Onebrella claims to be the best umbrella on the market and even offers a replacement guarantee if the umbrella flips inside out, bends, or get damaged. They go so far as to make it no questions asked, meaning you can beat someone around the head with it and still get a new umbrella. That sounds worth a shot!

Continue reading "Onebrella: The Last Umbrella You'll Buy?" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

You wouldn't think saving on soap would save much money. But, hey, little expenses add up. By using the correct amounts, you can cut your expense of washing clothes and dishes in half. Learn the correct amount to use to save big.

Continue reading "Save Soap -- Save Money" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

These days, many people are switching to aluminum free deodorant. Unfortunately, many are doing so without being well informed -- because they received an email, perhaps, or heard about an Internet site linking deodorant to cancer from a friend of a friend of a friend.

Continue reading "The Deal With Aluminum Free Deodorant" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

When it comes to washing machines, front load washers are a hot item. They're cool and everybody wants one, but...they seem to have a problem. A very stinky problem. If own a front loading washer and are bothered by the bad smell, keep reading to learn why your washer stinks and what you can do about it.

Continue reading "How to Keep Your Front Load Washer from Stinking" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

We all use them -- storage bags, that is. If you're like me and want to cut costs to the bare bone, you don't want all your hard work ruined because food wasted or ruins in the freezer. One of the easiest and fastest ways to waste money is by letting food spoil. This is exactly why choosing the right food storage bags means a lot. It might seem like a minor detail, but hey...every little bit counts.

Continue reading "Confused About Which Storage Bags to Buy?" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

There's free stuff and then there's free stuff. You know what I mean. Most of the time when you see offers for free things it's usually just a bunch of junk. But, what if you could actually get things that were free that were useful and good? Then, you could save some serious money. Here's how to get free stuff online and offline that you can really use.

Continue reading "Save Money - Learn How to Get Free Stuff" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Have you seen the slap chop commercials -- online if not on TV. 'That crazy slap chop guy' is probably better known than the product he advertises. But as the novelty wears off, you turn your attention to the product itself, and begin to wonder: can you really do all this stuff with slap chop?

Continue reading "Let's Talk Slap Chop!" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Telecommunication -- you've come a long way baby! Telecommunication is simply a means of transmitting signals over a distance so people can communicate with one another. Once upon a time, this meant such things as smoke signals, flags, drums, etc.

Needless to say, this is not what you think of when you hear this word today. Telecommunication solutions have played a huge part in your world and the world at large.

Continue reading "Telecommunication and You" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

If you're in the market for a new cell phone, you may be wondering if you should take the plunge, be super cool, and buy a smart phone. Before make this decision, first you need to know the difference between the two and which wireless phone is best for you.

Continue reading "Smart Phone or Regular Cell Phone -- Which is Best?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

When it comes to wall paint, there's one cardinal rule: Do not go with the cheapest brand you can find. I made that mistake when I first started painting walls. And the cheap latex garbage I used peeled off in sheets over the next six months. In fact, it became my kids' hobby: peeling off pieces of paint.

Continue reading "Get the Best Wall Paint for Your Money" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Coupons are a good thing. If used properly, they can save you money. If used incorrectly; however, they may just end up costing you money. Here are a few ideas to help you take advantage of coupons and save money.

Continue reading "Are You Really Saving Money with Coupons?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Want to try belly dancing but too nervous to sign up for a class? A belly dance video provides a fantastic option. After all, it gives you the opportunity to try some basic moves without paying too much money, investing in fancy equipment, or having to leave the comfort and security of your home.

As belly dancing becomes more popular, belly dance videos show up all over the place for beginners. But not all videos are created equal! So take a look at the pros and cons of some popular belly dancer videos aimed at beginners.

Continue reading "Find the Right Belly Dance Video" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

If you are planning a wedding, you may be experiencing what many brides and parents of the bride are experiencing -- sticker shock! Avoid blowing your budget and get some money saving ideas, read these tips.

Continue reading "Planning a Wedding? Here's How to Cut Costs" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Some people love the Google phone and say it's going to make the iPhone redundant; others swear by Apple and avoid Google like the plague. Still others prefer their good old blackberries. Who to listen to, and what to do?

Actually, there's no simple answer: what sort of phone you prefer is largely a matter of preference. But it is true that the new Google cell phone is, in many ways, a cross between its main competitors.

Continue reading "Google Phone is Google Good" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Let's face it. We love consumer electronics. Today's world is a gadget world and we all love to have the latest 'toy' to play with. If you like to know what's going on in the world of home consumer electronics, check out this list of the top 5 greatest gadgets.

Continue reading "Top Consumer Electronics for 2010" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

With replacement windows accounting for 8% to 10% of the cost of a home, it's easy to see the importance of choosing the best when it comes time to replace windows in your home. Follow these tips to be sure you get the best for your money.

Continue reading "Buying Replacement Windows can be Mind Boggling -- Here's What You Need to Know" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Cell phone service is notoriously irritating. Just when you really, really need your phone, there's no signal. If you're fed up with patchy service and high bills, you have a lot of company. Learn who is satisfied with their provider and why.

Continue reading "Is Your Cell Phone Service Lacking... 'Service'?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

You did your shopping homework. You have your coupons. You have your sales flyers. You have your lists. You're all set...right? If you've done all these things, you're ahead of the game, but if you don't know these common tricks and traps, your shopping trip could be a costly disaster.

Continue reading "Avoid These Shopping Traps with these Shopping Tips" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

I don't know about you, but paying big bucks for laundry detergent just isn't my idea of fun. I have other things to spend my hard earned money on, but when faced with a mountain of dirty clothes, what do you do? You can shop around and buy the cheapest laundry detergents or try making your own.

You may be thinking, "Hmmmm....homemade laundry detergent...does it actually work? Will it actually be cheaper? Who has time to make their own detergent?" The answers to these questions are yes, yes, and you do. Follow this step-by-step recipe and you will have a detergent that really works, costs only .03 per load, and is fast and kind of fun to make.

Continue reading "Save Money -- Make Your Own Laundry Detergent" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Do you love your cell phone? Come on...admit it. Many people do and wonder how they ever functioned without it. While you may love your cell phone, I bet you don't love your monthly bill. If this is the case, follow these tips to help save money and cut your phone costs.

Continue reading "Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Doesn't it seem like something is always breaking? If you don't have the know-how or the cash to fix it, you can find yourself in a real bind. Now there's help. Thanks to the generosity of everyday people who once found themselves in the same situation, these people have started websites that can help you fix just about anything.

Continue reading "Car, Computer, or Appliances Broken? Fix it for Free with These Tips" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

If you're looking for ways to go green and save not only the planet but your bank account, look no further. With this selection of "green" tips, you can choose the ones that fit your lifestyle without cramping it and still save money.

Continue reading "6 Ways to Go Green and Save Green" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Discover how to save money on groceries -- follow these Do's and Don'ts

Is your grocery bill growing faster than your kids? With skyrocketing prices, if your family is like most, it probably seems like it. Don't worry. If you're having this problem in your house, there are ways you can re-gain control of your grocery bill. Follow these Do's and Don'ts to discover how to save money on groceries.

Continue reading "How to Save Money on Groceries" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Things To Keep In Mind When Buying A Pet Online

When it comes to Internet shopping, anything seems to go -- including buying a pet online. There are many breeders and pet dealers selling their animals in an online environment. Unfortunately in the Internet world, things aren't always what they seem. If you want to make sure you get a happy and healthy pet when shopping online, you need to take some tips into consideration...

Continue reading "Are You Considering Buying A Pet Online?" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Are You Ready For Digital Television?

In case you hadn't noticed, a digital television revolution is on its way. You can ignore it if you want, but it's coming whether you're ready for it or not. That being said, if you're not ready for it, you're going to be in for an unpleasant surprise...

Continue reading "Digital Television Is On Its Way" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

A Few Words on Winter Safety and Severe Weather Preparation

Winter safety and emergency preparation probably aren't the first things on your mind, but if you find yourself in an unexpected blizzard or winter storm, being prepared could safe your life. Even if the storm of the century doesn't hit your home this winter, there are things you need to do to stay safe. These are just a few...

Continue reading "Winter Safety Tips that Could Save Your Life" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

All out spending or a bit of frugality

It is that time of year again...the holidays. Once again we find ourselves trudging to the nearest shopping centers to find a variety of gifts for everyone we know. Inevitably, we end up spending more money than we may intended to. However, there are some ways you can save a bit of money and still please everyone on your list

Continue reading "Tis The Season To Be Spending...Err Saving" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

What You Need to Know to Keep Your Kids Safe on Halloween

Halloween is right around the corner and that means time for trick or treating. Unfortunately, this grand old tradition isn't what it once was as safety concerns take over. How can we continue the tradition with safety in mind? Here are some tips...

Continue reading "Halloween Trick or Treat Safety Tips" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

More Money Saving Ideas to Stretch Your Budget Further

Right about now I figure everyone can use some money saving tips. After all, the economy isn't exactly all peaches and roses right now. We've got double digit unemployment, a foreclosure crisis, high gas prices, and we don't know what else knocking at our back doors. Here's some frugal tips to help stretch your budget further.

Continue reading "Some Common-Sense Money Saving Tips" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Home Surveillance Made Affordable for Everyone

Someone smashes your pumpkin, steals spare change out of your car, trespasses on your property -- wouldn't a home surveillance system be nice? But your not rich and famous so there's no way you can afford one. Or maybe you live in a nice neighborhood and you don't need one. If that's your line of thinking, you need to rethink that logic.

Continue reading "Home Surveillance Isn't Just for the Rich and Famous" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Ever Consider Self Publishing?

Even in an increasingly digital age, most of us recognize the value of having some things in print. Books, for example, are more convenient when bound, and photos are more appealing when arranged into a photo album. The ease of digitally producing, filing and sharing these items electronically has not overcome the preference for having hard copies available for perusal. How can you use that fact to your advantage?

Continue reading "Self-Publishing: The Technological Answer To Creating Tangible Products" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

New Economy Concerns Mean Frugal Living is More Popular Than Ever

We have long been a nation of over-indulgence. Many of us think nothing of spending $300 on a pair of shoes or $500 on a purse, while others can barely make ends meet. Now, as the economy takes a turn for the worse, more and more of us are seeing the benefits of living frugally. But how do you go from the living the "high life" to living on a budget without going insane? Here are some frugal living tips to help you tighten the belt without choking your lifestyle.

Continue reading "3 Common-Sense Tips For Frugal Living" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Money Saving Tips You Never Knew About

With whispers of "recession" riding on the wind everyone is worried about saving money. The problem is, many of us have our budgets squeezed as tight as we can possibly get them. How can you save money when you already practice every money-saving trick in the book? Here are some money-saving strategies you might not be taking using yet...

Continue reading "More Money Saving Tips for Our Savviest Consumers" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

These Strategies Can Save You Big Money With Little Effort

In today's economy it's more important than ever to save money whenever you can. However, there are certain money-saving strategies that people overlook each and every day. If you'd like to know how you can save money on medical bills, home improvement and everything in between, here are some helpful tips.

Continue reading "Easy Ways to Save Money Without Coupons or Sales" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

What You Need to Know About Those "Paid to Shop" Websites

You've probably seen the "get paid to shop" advertisements that seem to swarm the Web. They promise hundreds or even thousands of dollars for going out and spending someone else's money. Are these websites too good to be true? The answer may surprise you.

Continue reading "Can You Really Get Paid to Shop?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

How to Get Legal Advice Without Paying an Arm and a Leg

If you're like most consumers you run into the need for some good legal advice every now and then. The problem is that legal assistance doesn't come cheap. While a few lawyers may be wiling to give some advice or direction over the phone, some won't even take your call without running up a tab. What many people don't realize is that free legal advice is only as far as the nearest Internet connection. Here are some great resources.

Continue reading "Legal Advice Without the High Price" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

How to Have a Big Christmas Dinner Without the Big Cost

Christmas dinner is an important family tradition, but not everyone has the money to fork over for a big feast. Fortunately, there are ways around the financial hurdle. If you want to create a Christmas dinner to remember (without a bill that will haunt you) follow these budget-friendly feast tips...

Continue reading "Christmas Dinner on a Budget" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Consumer Tips That Can Help Maintain Your Holiday Cheer

Okay, it's Christmastime and that's supposed to mean holiday cheer but when it comes to the stores, holiday madness is more like it. If you want some easy ways to deal with shopping rudeness (from staff and shoppers alike) then I've got some consumer tips that will help make your holiday easier.

Continue reading "Two Consumer Tips for Handling Holiday Rudeness In the Stores" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

The Money-Saving Secrets of Savvy Consumers

If you want to save as much money as the best savvy consumers do, there are some things you need to know. Insider secrets, per say. In fact, many savvy consumers pay less than half price for services such as haircuts, massages, dental work, home improvement and more. Wondering how they do it? Here's the scoop...

Continue reading "How Savvy Consumers Get Services For Half Price or Less" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Quick Tips For Consumers Who Want To Save Money

There’s no doubt about it, there are many, many ways to save money. And who doesn’t love a bargain or money-saving tip that you can use at home? How'd you like to double your money by getting more for less? Here's how...

Continue reading "Save Money by Getting More for Less" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Tips That Will Help You Save Money

We know that our readers love to visit us for money-saving advice and tips on where to find the best deals. After all, saving money requires careful planning and insider knowledge. Here are some insider tips that will help you plan to save money like a pro.

Continue reading "You Can’t Save Money Without Proper Planning" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Classroom Materials at a Discount

Whether you home school your children or you are just trying to create an educational nook for your kids at home, we’ve got great tips that will save you big on “classroom” necessities. Here are some classroom materials tips you shouldn't live without.

Continue reading "Where Can You Find Classroom Materials at Bargain Prices?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Environmentally Conscious Ways to Make Money

Saving money is a top priority for savvy consumers, and there are many ways to go about doing this. We often provide you with tips on how to find great deals online or how to use coupons to decrease your grocery bill. Today we’re going to provide you with a money-saving idea that will show you how to turn your trash into cash.

Continue reading "Make Money by Turning Your Trash Into Cash" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

When Should You Ignore the Financial Experts?

No matter what day it is, any time you turn on the television you’ll undoubtedly find a few channels with so-called “experts” telling you everything from how to pick a private school to how to travel. While his or her advice is often well-intended, it’s not always applicable to every consumer. Before you listen to the financial experts, heed our expert advice.

Continue reading "Financial Experts Aren’t Always Right" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Extracurricular Activities Don't Have to Drive You Mad

Kids today have incredibly jam-packed schedules, unlike a generation or two ago. From clarinet lessons to soccer and ballet, kids are busier than ever. In addition to parents playing chauffeur, they have to play the role of an "investor" of sorts. The cost of extracurricular activities can really add up, and managing payments to different companies can be straining indeed. We have some tips to help you get the most out of your money.

Continue reading "Helpful Hints for Navigating Your Kids' Extracurricular Activities" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Savvy Consumers and Wardrobe Staples

If you pick up any magazine geared towards career women, you’ll occasionally see a feature on wardrobe staples -- those essential core clothing pieces that you just can't do without. This career wardrobe advice is great for savvy consumers who want to get the most bang for their buck. However, it wasn’t until I was a parent that I realized this advice applies to virtually everyone -- not just females in the workplace.

Continue reading "Stretch Your Child’s Wardrobe the Way Savvy Consumers Do" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Is it Possible to Save Money While Watching Television?

There’s one little lifestyle change that I got into the habit of doing a few years ago. It’s a great way to save money, even if it seems a little farfetched at first. I’d like to share a secret with you that will help you save money -- and lots of it. And it’s something that less than 10% of consumers know about.

Continue reading "Save Money by Simply Pressing One Button" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink | Comments (1)

How To Make Goody Bags for Less

If there's one thing kids love about birthday parties it's goody bags. You can do away with the cake and the games and if the goody bags are great, the kids won't complain. The problem is that great goody bags don't come cheap -- unless you have some insider secrets. Want your parties to be known for the best goody bags on the block? Here's how to get it done without breaking the bank.

Continue reading "Bulking Up on Birthday Party Goody Bags" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Do These Consumer Choices Save Money or Waste Money?

We all work hard for a living, which is why so many of us know how important it is to save money wherever and whenever we can. But do we sometimes go to far? We do indeed. There are common mistakes consumers make in an effort to save money, that actually cause them to waste money in the long run. Here are the top five.

Continue reading "5 Mistakes That Cause Consumers To Waste Money, Not Save Money" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Consumer Savvy Party Planning 101

The other day our dear friend Max Anderson had discussed party planning on one of his other blogs (ConsumerTipsReports.org). He was talking about the extravagance of today's party planning when it comes to kid's parties. In his article, he mentioned that his friend had been able to save quite a bit of money by planning properly. However, I thought it could still be done for less. I was right. If you want to plan a party to remember but don't want to spend $1,000 I have some tips for you.

Continue reading "Lavish Party Planning Without the Sticker Shock" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Does Car-side Service Warrant a Gratuity?

It used to be that when you wanted to eat at restaurants like Applebee's, Chili's or even IHOP you had to go in the restaurant and sit at a table. Nowadays, however, thanks to car-side service, you don't have to eat at the restaurant to eat their food. The question is, does car-side service warrant a tip? We have the answer.

Continue reading "Should You Tip For Car-side Service?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Get Reacquainted With Milk Delivery

Many of us think that milk delivery is something our grandmothers enjoyed, but not something feasible in today's market-driven world. Milk delivery, however, isn't just for the history books or those who have everything and anything delivered to their homes. Milk delivery may actually be a wise consumer decision.

Continue reading "Milk Delivery Isn't Just a Thing Of The Past" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Luxury and Saving Money Can Go Hand in Hand

My husband and I know a couple who we always assumed was rich. If you would have told us they spent a few hours a week thinking of how they could be saving money on everyday items, we'd have laughed at you. After all, this is the same couple who has their meals prepared for them and employs a housekeeper for 10 to 20 hours each week. Was I shocked to find out they make a total combined income of less (way less) than $100K per year.

Continue reading "Saving Money: Living Like a King on a Pauper's Budget" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

How To Save Money The Smart Way

We all like to save money, but many of us forget that in the pursuit of a penny wise lifestyle, we may, at times, become dollar foolish. How do we avoid falling into the common traps? By knowing when it's wise to save money, and when you just need to walk away and take a hit. Here are some guidelines to help you along the way.

Continue reading "Penny wise, Dollar Foolish: The Right Way (And The Wrong Way) To Save Money" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Learn about the Money-Saving Benefits of Homemade Products

Making your own homemade products is a great way to save money on health and beauty items and even household cleaning items. Below you’ll find some great tips for making your own homemade products including both beauty products and household cleaning products.

Continue reading "Homemade Products Can Save You Money" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

You Can Save Money without Compromising Taste

Making coffee at home is a great way to save money. Buying coffee at a local coffee shop can be convenient, but it is also costly. I’ve talked before about making coffee at home to save money, and hopefully you’re following that advice. Today, I’d like to address how to make coffee that actually tastes good.

Continue reading "Save Money and Brew Tasty Coffee at Home" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Why Don’t You Use Public Transportation?

The face of public transportation has definitely changed over the years. Who would have thought commercials for the bus would be so popular? Wondering what the hype is about? If you’re not using public transportation, you may not know what you’re missing.

Continue reading "If You’re Not Using Public Transportation, You Should Be" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Believe It or Not, Savvy Consumers Do Indulge a Little

As a savvy consumer, you’re probably familiar with how to get the best deals online, how to save big at the grocery store, and how to dress for less. It can be fun and profitable to save on every purchase you make, but let me ask you a question. What is your favorite indulgence? What product can’t you live without? Even savvy consumers who consistently pinch pennies have at least one guilty pleasure that they enjoy on occasion.

Continue reading "Many Savvy Consumers Have a Dark Secret" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Are Gift Clubs Really Worth the Dough?

The other day, I received a shipment of cheese from the DHL driver. Yes, that's right -- I said cheese. See, a friend of mine is all about gift clubs and each year when my birthday rolls around, he signs me up for one of these gift clubs and I get the gift that keeps giving all year. But are these gift clubs really worth the money, or are they just another overpriced indulgence?

Continue reading "The Lowdown on "Of The Month" Gift Clubs" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Eliminating Some Newspaper Subscriptions Can Save Money

If you get more than one newspaper delivered to your door, you might want to rethink your newspaper subscriptions. Some consumers have been able to save $20 or more each month (not to mention hundreds of trees) by eliminating unnecessary newspaper deliveries.

Continue reading "Do You Really Need Three Newspaper Subscriptions?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Savvy Consumers Help the Environment

Earth Day may have come and gone last month, but shouldn’t we care about our environment every day of the year? Savvy consumers understand that the practices and habits that save us money also happen to be good for the environment as well.

Continue reading "Savvy Consumers Care about the Earth" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

How to Cut Back Dry Cleaning Expenses

There are many discount dry cleaning services available that can clean your garments for considerably less. If you’re concerned about saving money and keeping your clothes in pristine condition, you might be wondering if discount dry cleaning services are a good choice. So, the question is, are all dry cleaning services created equal?

Continue reading "Does Dry Cleaning Have to Cost a Lot?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Catering Service Alternatives

So you’re planning a big party at your house and you’re certain you won’t be able to host it without hiring a catering service. You might want to reconsider. Catering services aren’t always necessary, and planning the party yourself is a great way to save money. Below you’ll find some great alternatives to hiring a catering service.

Continue reading "Think Twice before Hiring a Catering Service" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Save Money after Washing Your Hair

Can you really save money when washing your hair? You bet you can! With some easy, yet practical changes you can save change each and every day -- and as every savvy consumer knows, change adds up to dollars and dollars make the bank.

Continue reading "Do You Want to Save Money When You Shower?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Many Consumers Manage without Cable

So many consumers allow technology to rule their lives. In many homes, it’s not uncommon for the television to be turned on even when no one is watching it. Couple that with the fact that usually every bedroom in the house is equipped with a television and you’ll have a lot of viewing hours logged in a given day. There is a growing number of consumers who get by perfectly fine without cable television, and below you’ll learn more about how this is possible.

Continue reading "Is Cable Really a Necessity of Life?" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Do You Have Any Rare Coins in Your Pocket?

Have you heard about the rare coins that were just released? There might be a way to actually make money with your gold George Washington $1 coins. The U.S. Mint in Philadelphia recently released approximately 50,000 coins in error, and because of the error, experts are expecting that the coins will be worth about $50 each. Do you have one these rare coins?

Continue reading "Rare Coins Minted in Philadelphia" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Keep More Money in Your Pocket

Many consumers love to cash in their spare change and get something fun with the money for their efforts. Cashing in spare change can surprisingly add up to quite a bit of money. Avoiding unnecessary fees to count your spare change is essential if you want to keep more money in your pocket and enjoy every last penny.

Continue reading "How Electronic Coin Counting Machines Can Drain Your Change" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink | Comments (2)

Is Table Sugar Good Enough?

When you go to the supermarket you might be confused about all the choices you have for buying sugar. You head to the baking aisle because you decided to bake a cake, and when you approach the sugar, you are overwhelmed by all the options. If you’re wondering whether or not you need to buy the more expensive “healthy sugar” or if you can just buy the cheapest brand at less than $1.00 for five pounds, read more below.

Continue reading "“Healthy” Sugars are Certainly Not a Sweet Savings" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Savvy Consumers Aren't Perfect Either

Sticking to a budget can be hard even for savvy consumers. Don’t lose hope or motivation, though. As you get used to the process of setting up and sticking to a budget you are bound to encounter some “failures.” Every failure is good, however, because each failure teaches you something valuable about budgeting and planning. Savvy consumers learn from their mistakes even if it means they experience a temporary setback.

Continue reading "Savvy Consumers Learn from Their Mistakes" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Ways to Save Money When You are Visiting Amusement Parks

Before you know it summer will be here, and it will be time to visit amusement parks. Spending the day at an amusement park is certainly a fun summer activity. Making the most of your time spent at amusement parks is certainly something every consumer savvy individual aspires to do.

Continue reading "Amusement Parks are Fun (But Costly)" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Unclaimed Property is a Source of Free Money

Would you like free money? Sure, I bet you do. Who wouldn’t love free money? You might not be aware, but there are ways to get free money. Below you will find some resources to help.

Continue reading "Free Money for Savvy Consumers" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Save Money by Avoiding Scams

As a consumer, avoiding scams can be a helpful way to save money. Falling victim to scams costs consumers millions of dollars every year. Avoiding scams not only saves you money, but it saves you time and frustration as well.

Continue reading "Steering Clear of Scams that Drain Your Pocketbook" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Tips for Saving Money This Valentine’s Day

Is it possible to have a romantic and memorable Valentine’s Day on a budget? Valentine’s Day is such a romantic holiday, and many of us give in to the marketing associated with it and spend way more than we can afford. The answer is yes, of course. Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and below you’ll find some helpful suggestions for celebrating this day while not feeling like you took Cupid’s arrow through your pocketbook.

Continue reading "Valentine’s Day on a Budget" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Do Consumer Savvy Individuals Spend Money on Cigarettes?

As consumer savvy individuals many of us try our best to cut expenses whenever possible, but one area that most of us have trouble with is when it comes to our daily habits. If you smoke cigarettes, you might be reluctant to stop or you might want to stop but have failed at your past attempts to quit. It’s important to take a look at the actual costs involved with smoking, both health-related and monetary, to get an idea just how much smoking cigarettes costs you.

Continue reading "Consumer Savvy Smokers?" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Your How-To Guide for Getting Great Deals

You’ve probably heard from a few friends about what great deals they find at yard sales or garage sales. If you’re looking for great deals too, going to garage sales or yard sales can be a great way to get good merchandise at a fraction of the cost. But you might not even know where to go? If you need help finding yard sales or don’t know how to navigate this growing subculture, keep reading. If you are interested in getting great deals, we have just the information you need.

Continue reading "Getting Great Deals at Yard Sales" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Find Out What Savvy Consumers Do to Save Money On-the-Go

Savvy consumers prepare for events before leaving the house. If you want to tighten your wallet and benefit from the tips that savvy consumers can offer, read more.

Continue reading "Savvy Consumers are Always Prepared" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Don’t Let Your Passion for Being Consumer Savvy Cause You to Break Etiquette Rules

Now that Christmas is over, you might try to be consumer savvy and make use of any gifts that you received but either can’t use or aren’t too fond of. While trying to be consumer savvy after the holidays, it is important to keep a few things in mind. There are special rules of etiquette that are important to remember. You should still keep in mind rules about re-gifting even when you are trying to be consumer savvy.

Continue reading "Consumer Savvy Individuals and Re-Gifting" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Vending Machines Offer Convenience but at a High Price

If you want to be more like the savvy consumers you know, you should try your best to avoid vending machines. Certainly, vending machines are a godsend on some occasions. If you have a cranky toddler and he can be calmed down by cheese crackers shaped like goldfish, vending machines can begin to feel like your best friend. However, vending machines charge a high price for their convenience. Savvy consumers rarely use vending machines due to the high cost of the items they contain.

Continue reading "How to Avoid Vending Machines" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Takeout Food Can Put a Dent in Your Wallet

Ordering out or picking up takeout food can get quite expensive. There are fortunately ways to reduce your need to get takeout food. If you want to learn how to avoid the need for takeout food forever, or at least some of the time, read more.

Continue reading "How Savvy Consumers Avoid Ordering Takeout Food" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

Consumer Savvy Shoppers and Environmental Consciousness Go Hand In Hand

It should be no surprise that what is usually good for the environment is also consumer savvy as well. One way to save money and reduce the burden on our environment and limited resources is to avoid unnecessarily using paper and plastic bags. Being consumer savvy is easy if you do things that are environmentally friendly too.

Continue reading "Consumer Savvy Shoppers Don’t Buy Plastic Bags" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Where Can a Savvy Consumer Turn for Help

Being a savvy consumer can sometimes require a bit of homework on the part of the consumer. Many of us love money-saving tips and are excited at the prospect of saving money by making modest changes in our lives. Fortunately, there are several books on the market which can help the savvy consumer to save money.

Continue reading "Books and Websites Can Help You Be a Savvy Consumer" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

The Savvy Consumer Finds Every Opportunity for Discounts

As a savvy consumer, you might be wondering whether or not you should buy a discount card in order to take advantage of more savings. These options are every where from outlet malls to stores that you might occasionally shop at, and it might be confusing to determine whether or not you would really benefit from purchasing such a discount card. You might also be wondering what the typical savvy consumer does in such situations.

Continue reading "Discount Cards and the Savvy Consumer" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Get the Most Out of Dry Cleaning Services

Dry cleaning is an easy way to maintain some of your more costly garments. Some garments we buy have labels that clearly indicate they need to be dry cleaned. There are some important things to keep in mind when deciding on what items to send out to dry cleaning.

Continue reading "Dry Cleaning Know-How" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

How to Avoid Falling for Clever Sales Techniques Used by The Pros

In order to be a savvy consumer, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with sales techniques that are used to encourage consumers to buy items that they either don’t need or don’t really even want. Some sales techniques are pretty successful and are the driving force behind our nation’s tendency to overspend. Most savvy consumers don’t overspend, and it is probably because they are not vulnerable to sales techniques.

Continue reading "Successful Sales Techniques Revealed" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

A Magazine Swap Can Help You Make Use of All Those Magazine Subscriptions

If you’re anything like me, you have at least one or two magazine subscriptions and if that’s the case, you definitely should look into starting a magazine swap. After all, you pay good money for those magazine subscriptions. A magazine swap will ensure that you’re getting your monies worth from each and every magazine you subscribe to.

Continue reading "Ever Hear of a Magazine Swap?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Why All Savvy Consumers Freecycle?

Savvy consumers can benefit greatly from freecycle groups and websites, such as Freecycle.org, that allow them to post and search for items that they are offering for free. Freecycle.org is a giant exchange of products and services at no cost. As they say, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Freecycle.org is taking that adage to a whole new level.

Continue reading "Do You Freecycle?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

How a Website Subscription Can Help You Save Money

No matter how high your household income is, everyone can benefit from learning how to save money. After all, you can never be too rich. In the past we’ve discussed how to save money by shopping online, how to use coupons, and have provided many other useful tips for keeping your hard-earned cash in your pocket. Think we’re out of ideas? Guess again. Now we’re going to tell you how you can subscribe to save money.

Continue reading "Want To Sign Up To Save Money?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

What a Savvy Consumer Needs to Know about Junk Mail

Being a savvy consumer means paying attention to subtle suggestions that might prompt you to buy unneeded merchandise. One way to reduce the temptation to spend is to cancel all of those annoying and unsolicited catalogs you receive in your mail each week. A savvy consumer does not spend money on impulse, and having a bunch of colorful catalogs lying around your house can certainly send you into a spending spree.

Continue reading "How to Be a Savvy Consumer When It Comes to Junk Mail" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

What You Should Know Before Spending Money on Carnival Games

You’re at a traveling carnival or a local amusement park and suddenly you’re caught by the excitement of the possibility of winning a brightly-colored larger-than-life stuffed animal. The thrill of the chase is enticing and you’re wondering whether you should spend the few bucks it will take to try your hand at whatever skill the game requires. You’d better think twice.

Continue reading "Curious About Carnival Games?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Save Money Online with Coupon Codes and Exclusive Online Deals!

If you want to save money when making purchases online, read on. You might be tempted to head to the nearest department store the next time you need to buy a birthday present or a new outfit, but if getting a bargain is important and you would like to save money online, do a little research first.

Continue reading "How You Can Save Money Online" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink | Comments (1)

Charity Fraud Is Becoming Increasingly Common

If you like to be generous when it comes to charities, bless your heart. It takes a special person to give to those who need it most. However, there are a number of unscrupulous trolls who would take advantage of such people. If you want to avoid charity fraud, here are some things you need to look out for.

Continue reading "How To Avoid Charity Fraud" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink

What to Do When You Are Mailed an Unsolicited Product and Billed For It

The other day I was talking to a friend of mine. She was at her wits end due to a collection letter she had just received. About two months ago she had received an unsolicited product in the mail. What I mean by an unsolicited product is a product she never asked for, nor did she authorize it to be sent to her. She had written “return to sender” on the package and left it in her mailbox for the postal carrier to pick up. She thought that was the end of it. She was in for a surprise.

Continue reading "Did You Get an Unsolicited Product In The Mail?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Four Things Homebuyers Need to Look For

When buying a home, many homebuyers fall so deeply in love with a property they don’t stop to think about the things that could be wrong with it. This is especially true with older homes. The historic charm and appeal beckon while a money pit may lurk beneath the surface. If you’re looking to purchase an older home, make sure you check these four things before making an offer.

Continue reading "Homebuyers Beware!" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink | Comments (1)

Some Homebuyers Are Getting More Than They Pay For

For a long time, it was a seller’s market and homebuyers had to act quickly to get the home they wanted. Since the market has cooled down in most areas, many sellers are finding that adding perks to the deal can help their homes sell faster. Whether you’re a homebuyer looking for a great deal or a seller wanting to sell your home quickly, you may want to know about some of the latest perks being offered to homebuyers.

Continue reading "Homebuyers Should Look for Extra Perks" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Ways to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill

Twenty years ago cell phones were usually only carried by the wealthy. Nowadays, almost everyone has a cell phone. They’re even marketing cell phones for little kids. If every member in your family is carrying a cell phone, it can take quite a bite out of your budget. Here are some money-saving tips to help you cut down your cell phone costs.

Continue reading "Is Your Cell Phone Breaking Your Budget?" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink | Comments (3)

Ways to Get Through to a Customer Service Rep

I can not tell you how many times I have called a customer service number only to be given the runaround by a less-than-helpful automated system. If you’ve ever wished you could reach through your phone and rip apart the wires of whatever stupid machine you are trying to communicate with, you can relate to what I’m talking about. Luckily, there are ways to get around this growing tend. The following advice will help you get a real, live customer service rep on the line -- just when you thought they were going extinct.

Continue reading "Whatever Happened to Customer Service?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Using Your Cell Phone at Home Can Save You Money Every Month

Even though cell phones have been widely-used for years, the average person who owns a cell phone doesn’t fully take advantage of what their cell phone has to offer. Your cell phone could literally save you hundreds of dollars each and every year if you know how to maximize your cell phone benefits. So if it’s so easy to save money with a cell phone, why aren’t more people doing it? Simply because they don’t realize they should be.

Continue reading "Use Your Cell Phone at Home and Save Cash" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink | Comments (7)

Iced Teas that Beat the Summer Heat

When some people think of summertime beverages they think of lemonade or Kool Aid or a number of other thirst-quenching concoctions -- but when it comes to cooling off on hot days, I personally think nothing beats a tall, cold, sweet glass of southern-style iced tea. The only thing I never liked about the iced tea my grandma used to make was the amount of time it would take to brew the tea in the sun and then chill it in the fridge. Luckily, that’s no longer a problem thanks to modern conveniences. If you’re looking for fast iced tea fixes, look no further. We’ve got the lowdown on the best iced tea money can buy.

Continue reading "Top 5 Summer Iced Teas" »

Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink | Comments (2)

Money Saving Tips to Aid Your Budget

Considering the cost of living is increasing quicker than people’s salaries are, it’s no wonder that most people could use some more room in their budget. When increasing the money coming into your home isn’t an option, you’re only choice is to decrease your expenses. If you’ve been struggling with how to do this, you’re in luck. We have four money saving tips that will help free up some of your cash.

Continue reading "Four Simple Money Saving Tips" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Don’t Waste Money to Save Money

If you’re anything like me, you do everything you can to save money. Whether it be shopping at the less expensive grocery store or buying gas from the cheaper gas station, there are no limits to the lengths some will go to save a dime. However, you may be taking your quest to save money a bit too far. Are your money-saving activities actually costing you more in the long run? The answer might surprise you.

Continue reading "Going Out of the Way to Save Money" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink | Comments (1)

Will You Be Warned When Severe Weather Arrives?

Whether you’re in the middle of spring, summer, fall or winter, there is always a risk for severe weather. From flash floods to tornadoes and everything in between, severe weather can be devastating and even deadly. Many of us find ourselves relying on our public weather alert systems to notify us when severe weather is on the way, but are these systems something you can rely on?

Continue reading "Severe Weather: Can You Rely on Local Weather Alerts?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Telemarketing Calls Are Still a Headache

When the Do Not Call list was introduced, consumers all across the nation stood up and cheered. No more annoying telemarketing calls during dinner, no more early-morning disruptions on your day off and no more annoying telemarketers insisting that we need something that we really don’t -- or so we thought. Unfortunately it appears that while the Do Not Call List has indeed reduced the number of unwanted telemarketing calls received, it hasn’t completely eliminated the problem. If you’re looking for ways to handle these unwanted calls, we have some sound advice.

Continue reading "3 Effective Ways to Handle Unwanted Telemarketing Calls" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink | Comments (11)

Gourmet Coffee Is Worth It’s Weight in Gold

If you’re one of the many who believe that gourmet coffee houses like Starbucks and Caribou are only for the haughty or those who don’t care about throwing money away, you don’t know what you’re missing. I too used to be one of those folks who scoffed at Starbucks and all gourmet coffee houses, and then one day when my wife ordered me a Frappucino my eyes were forever opened.

Continue reading "Gourmet Coffee: Do You Know What You’re Missing?" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink | Comments (4)

Not All Auctions Are Created Equal

The other day my mother-in-law dragged me along to a charity auction with her. Now don’t get me wrong, I believe in charity just as much as the next person does, I just don’t enjoy spending a Saturday morning in a room filled with dozens of people all bidding on stuff that I don’t really need and as much as I love auctions, charity auctions just aren’t my thing. If you must know why, it comes down to the fact that I’m a bargain hunter, and charity auctions aren’t the place to be bargain hunting as a rule. My mother-in-law learned the hard way what I already knew – not all auctions are created equal.

Continue reading "The Difference between Charity Auctions and Liquidation Auctions" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Are Rental Stores Really An Option?

You’ve probably seen commercials and advertisements for rental stores. If you’re someone who suffers from bad credit or someone who likes to try furniture, electronics and appliances out before actually buying them, these rental stores may seem appealing. But is buying from rental stores a good idea or is it a bad purchasing decision?

Continue reading "The Lowdown on Rental Stores" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Is Backyard Playground Equipment a Good Choice For Your Family?

Do you remember the swing sets of yesteryear? The good old metal frames with a couple of plastic swings attached and a slide that was simple and straightforward? Forget the backyard playground equipment of the past and familiarize yourself with the new era of backyard playground equipment.

Continue reading "Should You Invest in Backyard Playground Equipment" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink | Comments (1)

Make Sure You Get the Restaurant Experience You Deserve

The other day I was eating out with my family at a local restaurant and must say we endured the worst possible service I could ever experience. The restaurant waitress wasn’t just inattentive, she was downright rude. Now I’m not usually one to make a scene, but I wasn’t going to let this behavior slide and you shouldn’t either. So what should you do when you experience horrible restaurant service?

Continue reading "Don’t Let Sub Par Restaurant Service Slide" »

Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink | Comments (1)

This Year, Don’t Squander Your Tax Refund

Each and every year, my wife and I have had a habit of squandering our tax refund. From gadgets that we really didn’t need to vacations that we didn’t have to take, it seems like we’ve always had our tax refund spent well before we got it. This year, we’re taking a different approach to spending our tax refund and being one to preach what I practice, I’ve come up with five wise ways you can spend your tax refund too.

Continue reading "Five Wise Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund" »

Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Consumer Scams Will Soon Be On the Rise

Warmer weather is arriving and along with it will come consumer scams. Usually these scams are targeted at the elderly, but anyone regardless of age, race or socioeconomic status can become the victim of summertime consumer scams. So what are the most common warm-weather consumer scams and what should you look out for?

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Printable Greeting Cards Can Save You Time and Money

Have you ever stopped to think about how much money you spend on greeting cards each and every year? Or how many times have you run out to get a last minute gift only to realize you forgot to get the card to go along with it when you get back home? Are greeting cards a wonderful way to express your feelings, or are they just a royal pain in the rear? If you find they’re more of a pain than a pleasure, you haven’t yet discovered printable greeting cards.

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Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Is Joining a DVD Club Worth the Incentive?

The deal is pretty enticing, get five DVDs for 49 cents each, all you have to do is join the DVD club. But is it really a good deal or is it just another scam? While joining a DVD club might make sense for some people, for others it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Make sure you understand the fine print before joining any DVD Club.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Are Psychic Readings For Real?

It’s quite enticing -- the thought of being able to know what your future holds. Are you going to get that job you’ve been striving for? Will your love interest return your feelings? Is your financial situation ever going to change? Psychic readings promise to unravel the mysteries of your present and reveal the secrets of your future-- for a fee of course. But are these psychic readings real or are they just another gimmick?

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink | Comments (15)

Sweepstakes Scams Are Increasingly Common

You get a phone call or an email stating that you’re the winner of a great sweepstakes prize. You’re all psyched up and ready to claim your grand winnings. There’s just one small catch. For one reason or another, the company that’s ready to issue you your prize needs your credit card information. While you may be tempted to give the sweepstakes company your credit card info, you might want to think twice.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Some Things to Consider When Using Automatic Bill Pay

If you’re someone who finds themselves with too much on their plate, you may find automatic bill pay an enticing way to help alleviate some of the stress of your day to day life. However, there are some important things you want to consider when taking advantage of your automatic bill pay options.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

One Time Use Credit Cards Can Be the Online Shopping Solution

If you’re worried about shopping online with your credit card, you’re not alone. Even though credit cards offer the greatest fraud protection, people are still worried about going through the headaches that the theft of their credit card number would cause. However, if you think that the fear of your credit card information being stolen needs to stop you from shopping the web, guess again. One time use credit cards may be the answer you’ve been looking for.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Some Sites Claim to Be a BBB Member Site without Actually Being One

When you see the BBB logo on a website, you automatically assume it’s a BBB member site. But did you know that there are many sites that display the BBB logo without actually being BBB members and without having any right to have the BBB member logo on their site?

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

You Are Entitled to a Free Annual Credit Report Each Year

If you haven’t gotten your free annual credit report yet, you should think about doing it soon. Each year thousands upon thousands of people receive their free annual credit report and educate themselves as to how their credit stands and what they need to do to improve it. Not sure you need your free annual credit report? Let us tell you why you really do.

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Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

If You Have to Pay for a Sweepstakes Prize, You Didn’t Win Anything

You get a phone call telling you that you’ve won a sweepstakes. Naturally, you’re quite excited, as winning a sweepstakes can be quite an exhilarating feeling. However, don’t get caught up in the excitement of the call. The person on the other line may just be a hired hand working to scam you out of your hard-earned money.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Free Telephone Calls Can Save You Money Each Month

Believe it or not, you can make unlimited free telephone calls worldwide. Think about how much money that can save you each and every month -- especially if you’re a frequent international caller. Want to find out more? Read on.

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Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Telephone Slamming Can Cost You Serious Money

Telephone slamming -- it sounds like something you do when you’re mad, but the reality of it is that telephone slamming is something that telephone companies do to you and it can cost you lots of money if you’re not careful. But what is telephone slamming and how do you prevent it?

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Bogus Check Scams Flood the Web

Bogus check scams take on a number of forms, from requests to help retrieve a lost inheritance to bogus jobs, there are literally hundreds of people falling for these bogus check scams each and every day. If you’re not careful, these bogus check scams can cost you literally thousands of dollars. Here’s what to watch out for.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Is it cheaper to print your digital photos yourself or to have them done professionally?

So you’ve finally caught up with the times and you have a digital camera instead of that old 35mm deal. The question is, do you buy a printer and print your digital photos yourself or do you have them printed professionally? Which one offers the best quality and which one offers the best price? Let’s take a look.

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Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Your Grocery Bills Don’t Have to Be Sky High

With today’s increasing energy costs, it’s no wonder that people are looking to save money wherever they can. One great way to keep your expenses low is to save money on your grocery bills. But how exactly do you go about doing that?

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Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Taking a Look at Emergency Preparedness

In today’s day and age it’s quite a scary world. What with earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, fires, and terrorism it seems like the list of things to worry about is endless. Needless to say, if you’re not practicing emergency preparedness, you should be. But how do you prepare for the worst if the worst is yet to come?

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Don’t let fraudulent online escrow services take you for a ride.

You’re involved in an online transaction for a valuable item and the person buying the item doesn’t want to send any money until they see that the item is safely in their hands and as advertised. However, the person selling the item doesn’t want to send the item until they’ve been paid in full. What’s the answer? Before you say online escrow services, you’d better read this.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Making sure you don’t fall for counterfeit goods when shopping on eBay.

Even though holiday shopping is over, sales on eBay are alive and kicking and if you’re one of the eBay shoppers who are looking for great deals on designer clothing, you’re going to want to be careful. Thousands of counterfeit goods are being sold each and every day to unsuspecting buyers just like yourself. So how can you protect yourself?

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Save yourself time, money and headaches by knowing where to look and what to look for when buying a dishwasher.

Let’s face it, buying any appliance can be a major headache, but something as important as a dishwasher can turn into a nightmare if you don’t buy the right model. A friend of mine has a dishwasher that just died on her and she asked me where to turn for advice on which dishwasher she should purchase next. This is what I suggest when looking for a new dishwasher.

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Posted by Jessica Hunter | Permalink

Bad credit doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

Let’s face it, without good credit our lives can be pretty miserable. You can’t get the credit cards you want, you can’t get the car loan you need and you may not even be able to get a mortgage for a home. So what can you do? Is there anywhere to turn when credit problems are nipping at your heels?

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Posted by Lydia Johnson | Permalink | Comments (1)

What spam is and why you don’t have to live with it.

You’re minding your own business and checking your email and suddenly BAM! You’re hit by dozens of spam messages slamming your inbox with messages about things that you would never buy, let alone have any interest in. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Identity theft is something everyone should be concerned about.

I know, I know. You’re probably thinking it can never happen to you, right? After all, you take basic precautions and you’re a pretty smart cookie. Let me tell you something, that’s what I thought and believe me, identity theft can happen to anyone. In fact, it happened to me.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink

Can you really own your own piece of land on the moon?

Believe it or not, buying land on the moon seems to be bigger than buying bridges these days. Yes, you heard me right, for just a few insignificant dollars you can own your own precious piece of land on the moon -- with terrific Earth views, no less.

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Posted by Max Anderson | Permalink