Budget Blog

Congratulations! If you’re reading this post, you’ve likely found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Perhaps you’re considering popping the question to your partner soon, or you’re just starting to research the cost of an engagement ring so you can begin saving up.

No matter what brought you here, this post will share everything you need to know about buying an engagement ring.

I’ll cover how much you should spend on an engagement ring, how to save up to pay for the ring, creative ways to save money on an engagement ring if budget is an issue, and how to determine the best style to purchase for your partner.

Buying your engagement ring as part of the process of planning a stress-free wedding.

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Who loves a good souvenir? I know I do, that is, assuming I get a good deal on it! Bargain shopping while abroad, when done successfully, can be one of the most fun and satisfying things you do during your travels.

I was not always successful with my bargain shopping…

I can’t tell you the number of times that I’ve gone shopping in India and come home with what I think is a great deal, only to have my family immediately exclaim “you overpaid!”

I’ve learned from my mistakes though, and now I’m sharing for my best tips on how to successfully bargain shop abroad.

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When deciding if you should rent or buy a house, many people don’t consider the hidden costs of home ownership. Yes, there are closing costs and home insurance to think about, but also smaller expenses that can add up fast.

A dead fridge here, a burst pipe there – it isn’t usually just one specific thing, either. You know the saying – when it rains, it pours.

What happens if you’re not prepared for the downpour? What if your furnace and washing machine stop working too?

Is there anyway to prepare?

Well, there a few ways.

You could build up an emergency fund, budget money each month for these expenses, or turn to a home warranty. Below, we’ll dive into what a home warranty is and when one could be worth it for you.

[Read more…] about Is a Home Warranty Worth it?

Joining the group of first-time renters and stepping out on your own can be both an exciting and stressful moment in your life. It’s usually a major milestone and one of the first steps toward adulthood, a period that comes with both freedom and responsibilities.

As you get ready to find the perfect rental apartment, there are many aspects to consider, especially the financial aspect of renting.

Money is important, obviously, but it’s even more important when it comes to renting because your home makes up a major part of your budget. As you get ready to be a first-time renter, it can be helpful to track where your money goes, create a budget, and monitor your spending habits.

There is no better time to start taking control of your personal finances and budgeting than now. Let’s first start with finding the right apartment for first-time renters on a budget.

[Read more…] about Budgeting Tips for First-Time Renters

If you are like most Americans you probably have a car, or even two, sitting in your garage at home. And, not surprisingly, the cost of maintenance on your car(s) is likely not cheap either.

There has been plenty written about the rapidly rising costs of cars and the maintenance associated with them. Not to mention the rapidly rising (and lengthening!) loans buyers are taking on to purchase their vehicles. Both with a negative impact to consumers.

While I may not be able to convince everyone to buy a used, cost-efficient car and take public transit whenever possible. I can help you reduce the price of car ownership and lower your maintenance costs to help you save more money. Even if you do buy a brand new, luxury vehicle!

These 9 money-saving tips will help you drive more efficiently, minimize your cost at the gas pump, and reduce the dent that a car makes in your budget each month through it’s cost of maintenance. Here’s how to save some major cash on your car over the long term.

[Read more…] about The Cost of Car Maintenance: 9 Ways to Lower Your Expenses