Category Archives: Personal Finance

Crisis isn’t that complicated

Posted on February 9, 2009 by Derek

Some people want to believe that our country’s economic crisis is so complicated that mere mortals cannot understand it. Only economists and politicians (hah!) have the brain power and education to decipher the complexity of how subprime mortgages and tightening … Continue reading →

Posted in Derek, Personal Finance, Politics | 3 Comments

Things I’m not buying

Posted on December 2, 2008 by Derek

With Stampede Friday and Shop-At-Work Monday now behind us, I thought it opportune to reflect on some of the frequently frenzied purchases consumers “need” that I don’t. Nintendo Wii – Perfectly happy pulling out my old school PS2 once a … Continue reading →

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Not all young celebrities are spendaholics!

Posted on August 27, 2008 by Derek

Carrie Underwood made this comment in Allure magazine: On money: The Steinway piano she craves? “I have the space. It’s just waiting for the piano, but, you know, they’re expensive!” The SUV she desires? “They’re expensive, too!” She is still … Continue reading →

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A different view of the housing “crisis”

Posted on July 31, 2008 by Derek

Here’s a unique way of looking at housing costs data. Take the average housing prices in the U.S. since 1890, adjust for inflation, then plot it on a rollercoaster. Pay particular attention to 1997 onward. via Consumerism Commentary

Posted in Derek, Homeownership, Personal Finance, Politics | 1 Comment

Wait, their main financial concern is the cost of gas?

Posted on July 22, 2008 by Derek

USA Today has an article that basically illustrates why young “adults” need better education in personal finance and economics. Read this paragraph: Adults aged 19 to 35 do not believe they earn enough to keep pace with the cost of … Continue reading →

Posted in Derek, Personal Finance | 2 Comments

Using credit cards to ease the pain and save some money

Posted on April 26, 2008 by Derek

I have a good handle on my personal finances, and have no problem using credit cards and paying them off each month. In fact, it can be beneficial to do so. Those who are carrying a balance on their cards … Continue reading →

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Operation: I’m With Stupid

Posted on April 1, 2008 by Derek

Here’s a sarcastically hilarious article on the mortgage “crisis” via Free Money Finance. On the heels of his plan to freeze interest rates on subprime mortgages for responsible homeowners who simply needed a helping hand, President Bush announced today he … Continue reading →

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What exactly is a capital improvement?

Posted on December 28, 2007 by Derek

One of the advantages of being a homeowner is that certain home improvement projects are sales tax free, if they fit the New York State’s guidelines of being a “Capital Improvement”. The tricky part can be determining what exactly qualifies … Continue reading →

Posted in Derek, Homeownership, Personal Finance | 3 Comments

A financial milestone

Posted on December 19, 2007 by Derek

Tomorrow marks a momentous day in my personal financial life – the day my college loans will be paid off. I believe in the philosophy that a person can live a debt-free lifestyle if they make it a priority, and … Continue reading →

Posted in Derek, Personal Finance | 2 Comments

Personal finance on the back of five business cards

Posted on December 4, 2007 by Derek

It’s been quite awhile since I’ve done a personal finance post, but having sold a house and bought another this year, it’s certainly a topic that’s been at the top of my mind. I’ve also been following a few personal … Continue reading →

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