Finance Globe

U.S. financial and economic topics from several finance writers.

Chris Bibey is a freelance writer and internet marketing professional located in Pittsburgh, PA.

Top 7 Investments to Boost Your Home’s Value

Top 7 Investments to Boost Your Home’s Value
You can spend your money on whatever you want, but some purchases are better than others. Anything you can do to boost the value of your home is well worth considering. But here is the question: which projects generate the most bang for your buck? Well, here are the top seven investments (in no particular order) in regards to boosting your home’s value: 1. Landscape Makeover Not only does this improve the curb appeal of your...
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Frank
I could not agree more with #5 and #7. Those are the top 2 items a buyer looks for when purchasing a house. You should get your re... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 17:46
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Best Ways to Save a Tax Refund

Best Ways to Save a Tax Refund
So, you have a tax refund coming your way? Or maybe you already received this money from the IRS, state, and/or local tax authority. In this case, you have a big decision: what will you do with the money? While some people immediately spend the money, others realize that it’s probably in their best interest to save. But this leads to another question: what is the best way to save a tax refund? There are a...
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Frank
I am currently saving my tax refund in a money market account. I am not 100% sure what I want to use if for, so I am saving it in ... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 17:44
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Negotiate the Price of a New Car Without the Hassle

Negotiate the Price of a New Car Without the Hassle
The thought of buying a new car is exciting, until you realize you have to negotiate with a pushy salesperson. At that point, you begin to wonder what you were thinking. Would you be better off with your old vehicle? If you are interested in buying a new car, if you don’t want to go through the hassles of negotiation, here are a few things you can do: 1. Start online. Use the internet to not...
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Frank
Online is the best place to go. Most of those prices are the most competitive price they can offer and there is little wiggle room... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 17:43
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7 Mortgage Questions for First Time Homebuyers

7 Mortgage Questions for First Time Homebuyers
If you are buying a home for the first time, the process can be overwhelming (to say the least). Not only do you need to find the right home, but it’s likely that you will require a mortgage to complete the purchase. Nobody wants to choose the wrong type of loan. Furthermore, nobody wants to get hooked up with a mortgage lender that doesn’t have their best interests in mind. That being said, here are seven...
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Frank
On number 7, I would recommend getting quotes from at least 5 lenders. This is a big decision and a lot of money over time. You sh... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 17:40
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A Few Things to Know About FHA Loans

A Few Things to Know About FHA Loans
If you are interested in an FHA loan, you are not alone. But before you can apply for and take advantage of this type of loan, there are a few things you need to know.Here is how Zillow defines an FHA loan: “An FHA loan is a mortgage loan that is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Nowadays, FHA loans are very popular, especially with first-time home buyers because the requirements are less strict than...
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Frank
If you think you are eligible, I would definitely recommend to research further. The benefits are excellent and can really help a ... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 17:39
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Answer these Questions Before Applying for Any Credit Card

Answer these Questions Before Applying for Any Credit Card
Do you find yourself searching for and learning more about a variety of credit card offers? Before you do anything, such as making a final decision, there are a few key details to address. By answering these questions, you have a better chance of finding and applying for the credit card that best suits your situation: •    What type of credit card is best for you? •    Is your credit good enough to qualify for most...
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Frank
These are great first questions to ask yourself and help you think about the process. The process is very important as Chris descr... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 17:35
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Regular Home Maintenance can Save You Money

Regular Home Maintenance can Save You Money
Buying a home is a big investment, as you are required to pay a variety of bills. In addition to your mortgage and utilities, home maintenance comes into play from time to time. Some homeowners shy away from this, hoping that a problem goes away without their attention (this never happens). Others, however, realize this to be true: regular home maintenance can actually save them money. Here is an example. You realize that a few shingles...
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Frank
I couldn't agree with the post more. You may hate wanting to spend the money now, but over time this will save you 1000s of dollar... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 16:32
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How to Hire a Contractor Without Busting Your Budget

How to Hire a Contractor Without Busting Your Budget
At some point, you may realize that taking on a DIY project is not going to work. When this happens, it’s time to call in a professional. It’s time to consult with a contractor. The primary benefit of a DIY job is that you don’t have to pay for the services of a professional. As you know, this can save you thousands of dollars. While there is no denying the fact that a contractor will set...
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Frank
I have also heard people compensate the contractor based on the time to finish and staying under budget. That way both parties are... Read More
Sunday, 22 May 2016 16:30
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Give Your Budget a Chance to Succeed

Give Your Budget a Chance to Succeed
Upon creating a budget, things can go one of two ways: •    You will do whatever it takes to stick with the budget.•    You will soon go back to your old way of doing things. Here is a tip: if you are taking the time to create a budget, you might as well give it a chance to succeed. If you have concerns about staying on track, here are three steps you can take: 1. Be...
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Frank
Budgets are so easy to let go. I know it may not be fun or enjoyable but I promise you if you keep track of your finances each mon... Read More
Monday, 25 April 2016 08:32
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Taking Time Off From College to Save Money

Taking Time Off From College to Save Money
With the cost of college on the rise, some students eventually find themselves in a challenging financial situation. While they want to continue with their education, they simply don’t have the money to do so. They have exercised all their options, such as student loans and other forms of aid, but it still isn’t enough. Most people advise against taking time off from college to save money. The fear is that you will not return. This...
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Recent Comments
Frank
Many college now offer part time offerings as an option as well. You should consider that as well so you can finish school as earl... Read More
Monday, 25 April 2016 08:32
ChrisB
That is a great idea, Frank. It's kind of like the best of both worlds!
Monday, 25 April 2016 08:37
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