Sharing insights since 2007 on carefully saving money, investing, frugal living, coupons, promo codes because the little things matter in achieving financial freedom!
For the first time years, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates in December 2015. The interest rate hike wasn’t very big, and rates remain near historic lows. However, this move is considered the first interest rate hike in a series of interest rate hikes. While the Fed will likely take a long-term approach and raise rates somewhat gradually, the reality is that we are looking at a situation where higher interest rates will take effect soon.
Are you ready?
Higher Interest Rates = More Expensive Money
I’ve taken advantage of low interest rates in the last few years. I financed my car at 1.9%, and instead of paying it off, I’ve been investing the money I would have used — and seeing better returns. The loan I got to pay for my move last summer was also low-rate.
As interest rates rise, though, loans will become more expensive. Variable rates on credit cards are likely to go up, so try to pay down debt before the rates rise if you’ve been carrying balances.
Some mortgages rates will be higher as well. Car loans, personal loans, and other debt will become more expensive as rates rise. Start looking to refinance your mortgage if you’re hoping to lock in good rates. As rates rise, you won’t find as many good deals for your money. [ continue reading… ]
Shipping is a huge factor in your eBay business. It can suck up your profits if you price shipping too low, and it can drive potential customers away if the shipping prices are too high. How can you handle shipping costs while still maximizing eBay profits? Here are my tips.
Reuse and Recycle
Since I do a lot of buying online and receive several free books or products from companies, I save and reuse as many packages as I can. This tip alone has saved me about $50-100 a year. I also will save and reuse tissue paper from presents to wrap clothing in before placing it in a packing bag.
Some people have shipped items jammed in old cereal boxes or cracker boxes. To me, that is taking the recycling part a bit far, and I always attempt to make my packages look nice, not like leftover trash. Bubblers are easy to reuse because you can cut a little bit off the top and place a new label over the old label so remember to save those whenever you get them. [ continue reading… ]
It’s no surprise that a lot of engagements happen over the holidays – 33%, according to most surveys. In the immediate flurry of euphoria, phone calls, engagement photos, and parties, it’s okay to forget practical things for a few days. When you finally come off Cloud 9 though, check these five items off your pre-wedding to-do list first.
1. Get Your Ring Insured and Re-sized That dazzling ring isn’t just a sign of your fiancé’s enduring love – it’s an asset. First, get the ring resized if it’s a little loose so you’ll be less likely to lose it. Secondly, get insurance. According to theknot.com, the average ring costs $5,598 (wow, just wow). Even if yours only cost a 10th of that, it’s still worth adding it to either your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance. You’ll need to verify its worth by having it officially appraised. Count on most agencies charging $1-$2 for every $100 the ring is worth. [ continue reading… ]
Have you ever listed something for sale on eBay, just to have it end at a horribly low price? Or worse, your listing gets not watchers or buyers? Here are just a few tips to increase your listing exposure and drive more potential buyers to your listings. More views, watchers, and bids, means a better chance at making more money.
Know the Search Engine
Sellers were able to manipulate the search engine with the right keywords or titles in the early days of eBay. Other sellers would create multiples of the same listings with different titles and keywords, and they would dominate the search results. eBay upgraded their search engine optimization software, and it is now much smarter. So don’t rely on those shifty pieces of advice, unless you want eBay to flag your account. [ continue reading… ]
Many of us make resolutions every new year. Typically about getting a new job, eating healthier, or spending more time with family. They are focused around bettering every aspects of our lives and one that is particularly important is our finances.
The new year is a perfect time to reassess our financial situation and set new goals. However, we tend to think very broadly when we think about what we want to achieve financially in the course of a year. For instance, we want to save more money or spend less. While those are great resolutions to have, they aren’t very specific. If you’re looking to better your finances this year, take a look at these 5 money resolutions that can really have a positive impact: [ continue reading… ]
Once you decide on your niche, it is time to build up inventory. Sometimes inventory takes a lot of time to track down and find. Be sure to calculate how many hours you spend looking for and buying inventory, to ensure you are not working too many hours for a measly profit. Here are the best places to get your inventory: [ continue reading… ]
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