Money Saving Gadgets

These Money-Saving Gadgets Are Under $25 And Will Save You a Bundle

October 11, 2018 By Amanda Stewart Leave a Comment

Whether it is shopping at a different store, or searching for the best deal, there are a plethora of ways to save. However, in the 21st century, most people are looking for apps and gadgets to help their finances. In fact, there are a number of money-saving gadgets out there for less than $25.

13 Money-Saving Gadgets Under $25

Yes! There are money-saving gadgets. While many of them don’t necessarily put money right in your pocket, you’ll realize some savings over time. Below are just a few of the cheapest, and best, money-saving tools you can find on Amazon under $25.

Electricity Usage Monitor

An electricity usage monitor will help you see how much electricity you’re using through the idle electronics plugged into your wall. For instance, your cell phone charger being plugged in all the time uses more energy than you’d think. Once you see it with this usage monitor, you can figure out which devices are costing you the most and unplug them. Depending on how much you’re spending now, this could take up to three years for you to break even but it will help you cut down on energy use quickly.

Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Certified fluorescent light bulbs can save you up to $100 per year. Not to mention, they look great! With a four-pack of bulbs coming in at $9.97, you’ll break even and begin realizing savings within four months.

Efficient Shower Heads

Energy-efficient showerheads can help you save a ton of money on your water bill. In fact, it has been said these showerheads can save you 15,000 gallons of water per year. Within about 10 months, you’ll break even on this purchase and begin to realize savings through your water bill. Not to mention, you’ll be decreasing your energy usage as well because your water heater will have to heat less water.

Outdoor Solar Lighting

We all love spending evenings outside and, if you like to entertain, even more so. Outdoor solar lighting can help you save money on your electric bill. You can get a four-pack for $24.99 and, if you spend a bit on lighting your backyard, you’ll break even and see savings within six months!

Energy Efficient Space Heater

During the winter months, people spend a bit more money keeping their home’s climate comfortable. Energy-efficient space heaters can help you save money heating small spaces where you spend a bit of time (i.e., the home office or bathroom). Larger heaters may even help you warm up larger living spaces. You’ll realize the savings from this purchase after just one cold winter.

Smart Power Strips

Power strips can help shield your electronics and other items from damage if the power goes out abruptly. A “smart” power strip can do even more. These power strips can sense which outlets on the strip are actually being used and cut the power to the ones that aren’t. You’ll break even on this purchase within four months and start seeing savings after that!

Coffeemaker

This isn’t one of the money-saving gadgets many people think of very often. However, if you are a coffee drinker, having your own machine at home can help you save money every day. The average cup of coffee runs about $5. If you’re stopping for coffee every day, you’ll realize the savings from this purchase within a week.

Luggage Scale

People who travel regularly could save quite a bit with an at-home luggage scale. Most of these are less than $10 and can prevent you from paying unexpected baggage handling fees. Depending on how often you travel, you may recognize savings from this gadget immediately.

Self-Filtering Water Bottle

The average American buys 167 bottles of water per year. For name brand waters, that could cost you around $85 per year. However, you could save $70+ a year by picking up your own self-filtering water bottle. Not to mention, this will cut down on the amount of plastic in America’s dumps.

Lightswitch Dimmers

Finding a dimmer for a light that needs to be on regularly could save you more than you think. Even just dimming your lights half way can save you $30+ per year on your electric bill.

Freshness Extenders

Americans throw away nearly $29 billion in food each year. Most of the time, it is simply because we aren’t able to store food away properly for leftovers or veggies and other products don’t maintain freshness in the fridge. This money-saving gadget can help a family of four save up to $600 a year.

Programmable Thermostat

Did you know you can save 10% on your regular electric bill by turning back the thermostat for eight hours a day? For most people, that would mean just programming your thermostat to be at a certain temperature while you’re at work. If your thermostat shuts off your heating or cooling for just six hours a day, it can save you $4 and the gadget will have paid for itself within a week.

Motion-Sensored Lighting

Motion-sensor lighting can help you cut down on energy use by only lighting the room when someone is actively there. Depending on your personal energy consumption, it can help you save between 35% and 75% on energy use.

These are just a few of the best money-saving gadgets available online. Of course, there are some that may be a larger initial investment, like energy-efficient appliances. However, every step you take towards saving more money is a positive one!

Have a gadget you think should be added to the list? Let us know in the comment section below!

Is FreedomPop Legit? Here’s How to Get a Free WiFi Hotspot

August 16, 2018 By Tamila McDonald 1 Comment

Wireless services from tech giants like AT&T and Verizon usually come with a high price. Especially if you don’t qualify for a family plan. However, what if there was a service that didn’t just offer blazing fast internet speeds through a mobile WiFi hotspot, but also wouldn’t cost you a dime? FreedomPop could be the answer. But, is FreedomPop legit?

FreedomPop is a wireless provider that’s working to turn the industry on its head. While most mobile carriers charge high prices for their service, FreedomPop offers the cheapest hotspot plan on the market today. One that’s entirely, 100 percent free.

Fast and Easy WiFi Setup

When you order a hotspot through FreedomPop, the first thing you’ll appreciate is the low cost shipping. You’re charged about $9.99 to get your device.

Once the mobile WiFi hotspot arrives, I found that the setup was a breeze. I just had to follow the instructions that came with the device and was ready to go in only a few minutes.

The instructions are so simple. You don’t need to be a tech genius to follow them. Practically anyone can handle the process.

After the hotspot was ready, it was time to get online. I grabbed my laptop (though it works for smartphones, tablets, or any other WiFi-enabled device), and headed over to my WiFi connections window. Then, I just had to find my hotspot on the list and enter my password. It’s that easy.

Using the FreedomPop Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Once you get online, you can enjoy the benefits of the genuine 4G LTE network. You get access to some of the fastest speeds around, so your time on social media, streaming music, or watching videos should proceed without a hitch.

I went ahead and tested it out with a few of my favorite sites and streaming a video. Overall, the experience was great. No long buffering or load times here.

Plus, FreedomPop’s mobile WiFi hotspots run on Sprint’s national network. Even if you travel completely across the country, you’ll likely have great 4G or 4G LTE service nearly the entire way. Since the device is incredibly portable (not much larger than a credit card), taking it with you is easy. You can put it in your pocket, place it in a purse, or even sit it in a car’s cup holder.

Lastly, let me say that I live in a rural area and never lost wifi while going through the same areas that I would have otherwise lost my signal and coverage. That meant a lot to me.

Essentially, when it comes to performance and portability, the FreedomPop mobile WiFi hotspot is hard to beat.

FreedomPop Internet Plans

When it comes to affordability, it’s practically impossible to beat FreedomPop’s $0 plan. After all, it’s entirely free, and nothing is better than free.

With the free basic plan, you get 200 MB of 4G LTE data every month. This can be ideal for low internet users or people who want an emergency backup for their home internet that costs them absolutely nothing.

But, if 200 MB doesn’t cover your needs, there are other FreedomPop internet plans that provide you with additional data at industry standard prices. They also offer premium plans depending on your needs.

Ultimately, the pricing is extremely competitive, and often below what other carriers would charge. Plus, you can change your plan at any time. If you need more data while traveling, just upgrade your plan. Need less now that you’re back at home? Then consider downgrading.

You get complete flexibility when it comes to choosing a plan that’s right for you, even if your needs change frequently.

No Contract Required

Additionally, FreedomPop’s services never require a contract. So, you don’t have to commit to a long-term arrangement like you do with some other carriers.

You can also try FreedomPop’s mobile WiFi hotspot out before you decide if you want to keep it. Just sign up for the 14-day free trial of the 2 GB plan, and you can use the device however you want within that limit. Then, you can decide if you’re going to keep the 2 GB or upgrade or downgrade. If you move over to the free basic plan within that 14-day window, you’ll receive continuous free service.

If, after the 14-day free trial is over, you decide that FreedomPop isn’t right for you, that’s okay too. You can cancel within 30 days, follow the instructions and get a refund.

So, is FreedomPop legit? Can you really get free WiFi? The answer is yes. You can have a plan that doesn’t cost you anything, including over the long-term.

What About Their Customer Service?

Wireless providers aren’t always known for exceptional customer service. In fact, FreedomPop doesn’t really have a great reputation when it comes to customer service.

However, that wasn’t my experience. In fact, I found their customer service to be excellent. Here’s why:

After ordering the mobile WiFi hotspot from FreedomPop, the company accidentally sent me three devices. Yes, I was faced with a trio of matching hotspots, which isn’t something I was expecting.

I quickly realized that this must have been a mistake, so I reached out to customer service over the phone to remedy the issue. The customer service representative was incredibly easy to work with, listening carefully to my concerns and assisting me with my two returns.

Immediately after the call, I received a set of detailed instructions that covered my next steps. The entire process was easy and painless. Now, I do need to let you know that there is a small fee to return the product. My costs for returning the two I opened were $18.29. I felt this was a small price to pay, especially, since the product worked so well.

So, if you were wondering if FreedomPop is legit when it comes to customer service, I would have to say, yes.

What If You Exceed Your Allotment?

As with most plans with data limits, you can be subject to overage fees if you exceed your allotment. FreedomPop uses a “top-up” approach to help you manage your data. When you get close to your limit, you can top-up for an additional $15, giving you more data to use.

Before a top-up goes through, you do get an email from FreedomPop. This gives you a chance to opt out or to sign into your account and upgrade your plan.

If you decide not to top-up, your device won’t have any data if you hit your limit until the next month unless you use one of the other available options. This includes a per MB option, though that can get expensive.

However, you also get 50 MB of free data if you have friends or family sign up through the Freedom Friends program. Additionally, you can complete software downloads, offers, or surveys to get even more free data.

If FreedomPop Really Offers Free Service, How Do They Stay in Business?

When a product or service is provided at no cost, many potential customers wonder if they will simply be nickeled and dimed, giving the company a way to stay in business.

However, that isn’t the case with FreedomPop.

FreedomPop’s $0 plan functions as a form of loss leader. The company chooses to accept lower profit margins to secure customers. They take a loss on their $0 paying customers to broaden their customer base. A broader customer base means that FreedomPop can convert more of its free customers into paying customers.

You are never required to leave the free plan. However, FreedomPop hopes that, if your data needs increase, that your experience while using this $0 plan will lead you to think of them for your future wireless needs. Additionally, they do make money from free plan customers who choose to buy more data when they hit their limit, though this is entirely optional.

While FreedomPop has a lot of customers on the free plan, they also have plenty of paying customers too. This keeps their business model working.

Is FreedomPop Legit?

To put it simply, yes, FreedomPop is completely legit.

If you order a mobile WiFi hotspot from FreedomPop, you’ll get a device that comes with 100 percent free service – no tricks or false advertising.

Plus, if you’re a light internet user, the free plan might handle all of your needs. That means you get blazing fast internet for absolutely nothing, no matter where you go.

If you could use more data, the prices are incredibly reasonable and exceedingly competitive, so you can choose an option that meets your needs without breaking the bank. It really is that easy.

So, now it’s your turn. Go ahead and take advantage of the 14-day free trial. That way, you can experience it for yourself first and then decide what is right for you.

If you’ve used FreedomPop and believe FreedomPop is legit; let us know in the comments below.

Fine Print: We are an affiliate of FreedomPop. Although this posting contains affiliate links, the review and opinions expressed below are my own.

Combined Grinder Coffee Makers vs. Separate Grinder and Coffee Maker vs. The Benefits of A Keurig?

July 5, 2018 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

Benefits of a Keurig

Coffee consumption is on the rise in the US. In a recent survey, 64 percent of Americans age 18 and up stated they had at least one cup of coffee the previous day. Based on data from the US Census Bureau, that means that around 150 million people had a cup of joe.

When it comes to making your own coffee, there are quite a few options. You can grind your own beans, buy ground coffee, or opt for convenient pods. But, when it comes to getting a quality cup of coffee, which option is most cost-effective? Are certain coffeemakers better than others?

With so many options on the market, you have a lot of choices for controlling your costs and creating an ideal cup of coffee. Here’s how you figure out what’s right for you.

Ground vs. Whole Bean Coffee

Your biggest ongoing expense when you brew coffee at home is the coffee itself. Typically, outside of pod form, you have two options: ground and whole bean.

Ground coffee has already been through a grinder and is ready for use. You simply place it in the area of your coffeemaker designated for grounds (usually in a coffee filter), and there’s no extra work.

Whole bean coffee must go through a grinder before use. Many people attest that grinding your own coffee creates a fresher, more flavorful cup of coffee.

Usually, whole bean and ground coffee have similar prices per pound, though the exact cost varies by brand and size. Store brand coffees in either form may be only $3 per pound. However, specialty or rare coffees can run much higher.

For example, Kopi Luwak whole bean coffee, often considered the most expensive in the world, can run almost $400 per pound.

While coffee prices vary, you can typically find similar prices for ground and whole bean variants. However, if you choose whole bean, you’ll need a grinder.

Combined Grinder Coffee Makers

A combined grinder coffee maker has a bean grinder built into the machine. That means you don’t need two separate appliances to enjoy freshly ground coffee.

The cost of these coffee makers tend to be a little higher than regular drip models since they are more complex. However, that doesn’t mean they are unaffordable.

For example, you can find a Hamilton Beach Grind and Brew Single Serve Coffee Maker for under $100. This can be a great option for individuals or couples that don’t need an entire pot of coffee at a time.

The Krups Grind and Brew Automatic Coffee Maker, which can make a full carafe, is often available for less than $140.

If you want more features, the Breville BDC650BSS is a great option. You can choose from eight strength settings and hold up to ½ pound of coffee inside the machine. However, it does come with a nearly $300 price tag.

Regular Drip Coffeemakers

For those who use ground coffee or prefer a separate grinder, then a regular drip coffee maker is the direction you need to go.

Prices for a drip coffee maker can vary, with some available for less than $20, like the Black+Decker 5-Cup. Low-cost machines don’t have the bells and whistles of their more expensive counterparts. Options like setting an automatic brew time typically aren’t available. However, they can still produce a reasonable pot of coffee.

If you want additional features, like delay brew or larger capacity, you usually need to spend between $50 and $100 to get a quality machine. The Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew 10-Cup Thermal fits right in that price area, and it brews up to 20 percent faster than certain competitor units.

When you cross over $100, you get even more options. The Cuisinart DCC-3200CPAMZ PerfecTemp 14 Cup Programmable Coffeemaker gives you the ability to control the brew strength and adjust the warming temperature.

Separate Grinders

If you use a drip coffee maker but want to freshly grind beans, you will need a separate grinder. You can find many to choose from for under $15.

The Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Electric Coffee Grinder offers a large capacity and multiple settings. This makes it not only cost-effective but also pretty high-quality.

If you want additional grinding options, spending over $40 isn’t uncommon. The Cuisinart DBM-8 Supreme Grinder is just below $45 but offers 18 different grind settings. Plus, you can set it to grind for the equivalent of anywhere between 4 and 18 cups of coffee brewed, giving you a lot of options.

Benefits of a Keurig Coffeemaker

Keurig quickly took the world by storm once it hit the market. These machines provide a quick and convenient way to brew a single, fresh cup of coffee at any time. So what are the benefits of a Keurig.

From a cost perspective, you can find Keurig coffeemakers at a variety of price points. For example, the Keurig K15 is an entry-level model. You can easily find it under $100, though, at times, you can buy one for less than $60. In many cases, it’s still noticeably more expensive than the cheapest drip coffeemakers. However, the brand has a strong reputation, so you should get enough use to justify the price.

The Keurig K475 is on the higher end of the price scale, usually coming in around $250. For that price, you do get additional features. Along with a bigger water tank, you have options like strength and temperature control. If you have a multi-person household, you can also brew an entire carafe at a time, as long as you have the right pods.

Overall, the price range of Keurig machines isn’t unlike other coffeemakers, so you aren’t necessarily spending more to enjoy the convenience.

Where Keurig gets expensive is the pods, called K-cups. One estimate showed that if you use K-cups, you pay the equivalent of around $40 per pound of coffee, though the exact amount varies by brand and whether you buy in bulk.

If you want to keep the cost of your coffee down, you do have options. One of the easiest is to buy reusable K-cups. These mesh containers allow you to put any ground coffee into the basket and brew your beverage using the Keurig. This is another great benefits of a Keurig Since you can get a 4-pack of reusable K-cups for around $10, that is a cost-effective option.

Which is Most Cost-Effective?

When it comes to machine costs, it depends on whether you use ground coffee or whole bean. If you like to grind at home, then a combined coffee maker or drip version with a separate grinder can come in around the same price point.

Keurig machines start at a higher price than drip coffee makers but aren’t outside of the usual range by much. However, if you use K-cups, you could spend a lot more on coffee than if you use beans or grounds.

If you want to keep your Keurig costs low, opt for the reusable K-cups and purchase ground of whole bean coffee. Otherwise, just make sure the additional expense fits in your budget.

What kind of coffee maker do you use at home? Tell us in the comments below.

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Plan Your Financial Future with WeVest

August 2, 2017 By Mary Newton Leave a Comment

Financial planning apps are everywhere, and each has something different to offer. WeVest is a fairly new financial planning app that offers a new perspective on saving money and growing your net worth. The app promises a straightforward and inexpensive solution to you financial planning needs. But how well does it keep those promises?

How WeVest Works

When you create a WeVest account, you have to answer a few questions. In order to get your full financial picture, WeVest asks you basic questions about your assets, debt, income, age, and more. These questions allow their algorithm to create separate accounts on your dashboard for each item, as well as categorize you with peer groups who use the app. Then, WeVest asks about your saving goals. Their primary options are saving for retirement, building a college fund, and paying off credit card debt.

WeVest% and Your Financial Plan

The primary goal of WeVest is “to optimize the growth of your net worth in a way that achieves your goals.” Using your answers, WeVest algorithms formulate a financial plan specific to you, using the money you are willing to invest in yourself. Your WeVest% is the percentage of your income that you want to put towards growing your net worth. Your WeVest% is divided according to your goals – savings, retirement, college debt, etc. – in the most efficient way possible.

While this seems a lot like putting your money in someone else’s hands, fear not: WeVest also allows you to compare several recommended plans and pick the one you prefer. You have total control over your financial plan, supported by WeVest’s professional advice. In addition, you have constant access to that financial plan whenever you need it.

Once all your information is in and you have decided which financial plan you prefer,. Your dashboard shows how much money is going to which “bucket” – savings, debt repayment, retirement, etc. – for that month. You are given a graph that will measure and predict the growth of your net worth and savings, as well as whichever other buckets you prioritize. Finally, you can also see your exact current net worth with assets and liabilities, your financial plan, and a savings comparison between you and other users in your peer group.

WeVest Pricing

WeVest is not a free service. Their plans consist of a $4/month plan or a $35/year plan. Both plans have identical benefits, with the exception of the $35/year plan offering a 27% discount from the monthly plan. When you sign up, you have to select a plan and input your card information. However, you have a 45-day free trial before WeVest takes money from your account. You may also cancel your account at any time. This way, if you think you may use the app regularly, you can still sign up for the yearly plan knowing you have time before fully committing. This app boasts the low cost of its services in comparison to face-to-face professional financial planners.

WeVest Drawbacks

WeVest offers some fantastic insights into your financial planning, but it does have its drawbacks. Its primary drawback is its accompanying app. Rather than having an app which allows you to log in and view your information on your phone, WeVest’s mobile app is a simple calculator. It is free, and allows you to calculate simple savings projections for a large purchase, your child’s college tuition, or retirement. While these are useful, they are also pointless if you have an account with WeVest. Furthermore, toggling the “See The Full App” option within the mobile app simply opens the WeVest page in your mobile browser.

WeVest also caters more toward adults starting in their mid to late twenties with a stable, full-time job. College saving plans are geared towards planning and saving for your child’s future tuition rather than your own. Each financial plan prioritizes retirement funds. If you are a college student with a part-time job looking to get ahead in the financial planning game, or you are retired but still looking for a place to manage your finances, WeVest is not that place.

WeVest also requires a separate account for each individual item. For example, you need a separate account for student loans, a separate account for your retirement fund, a separate account for your savings, etc. Having this many accounts seems impractical, and having to input this many different accounts gets confusing on the website.

Is WeVest Worth It?

WeVest is perfect for the right people. If you are looking to keep track of your retirement fund, flesh out your savings, or invest in a home, WeVest has exactly what you need. If not, you may be better off looking elsewhere. WeVest is an incredibly thorough financial planning app that is truly a bargain for all it offers. If you want to invest in your financial future through financial planning, look no further than WeVest.

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Photos: WeVest

20 of the Best Personal Finance Books to Add to Your Reading List

July 25, 2017 By Mary Newton 1 Comment

In a world of misguiding money advice, how do you find the right personal finance book for you? Covering everything from saving money to the consistent habits of the wealthy, these personal finance books offer a wealth of tried and true advice. Listed in no particular order, each book offers sound council rooted in experience; no frills, no tricks, just the honest truth about getting your finances in order. So, if you’re looking for a list of the best personal finance books to read in 2017, here you are.

1. The Intelligent Investor: The Definitive Book on Value Investing by Benjamin Graham

“The greatest investment advisor of the twentieth century, Benjamin Graham, taught and inspired people worldwide. Graham’s philosophy of “value investing” — which shields investors from substantial error and teaches them to develop long-term strategies — has made The Intelligent Investor the stock market bible ever since its original publication in 1949.” If investing is your game, start off with Graham’s essential work. Updated and revised to apply to modern markets, this text offers everything you need to know to make smart investment choices, and thus has earned a spot on our list.

2.The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason

“Acclaimed as a modern-day classic, this celebrated bestseller offers an understanding of—and a solution to—your personal financial problems that will guide you through a lifetime. This is the book that holds the secrets to keeping your money—and making more.” Included for its classing standing, Clason’s parable-style novel is rich with all the right solutions to your financial problems.

3.Debt-Free Forever: Take Control of Your Money and Your Life by Gail Vaz-Oxlade

“Make no mistake: Getting out of debt isn’t easy. But in Debt-Free Forever, Gail gives you a clear strategy and the steps needed to implement it. So if you’re finished with excuses, overdue notices, and maxed-out credit cards, pick up this book, follow Gail’s plan, and start becoming debt-free forever.” In this remarkable book, Vaz-Oxlade makes the path to becoming debt-free look like the yellow brick road: long and difficult, but also clear, straightforward, and definitely possible. We selected Vaz-Oxlade’s book for its unique yet universally applicable problem solving.

4. The Bogleheads’ Guide to Investing by Taylor Larimore, Michael LeBoeuf, and Mel Lindauer, with a foreword by John C. Bogle

“Invest like a Boglehead, and let their grassroots investment wisdom guide you down the path of long-term wealth creation and happiness, without all the worries and fuss of stock pickers and day traders. If you face a financial crisis or problem, or simply want to know what is prudent to do with the money you save, the Bogleheads will have the answers you need to help you gain your financial footing and keep it.” In keeping with John C. Bogle’s investment advice, this witty and clever guide has all you need to know about investment. We chose this guide for its all-around, easy to follow, and thorough information on investing.

5. Pirates of Financial Freedom: A Novel by Joey Fehrman

“Through the financial advice they receive and the other characters they meet along the way, you will learn how to take control of your destiny and start achieving the thriving life of financial success you deserve!” Told through the eyes of fictional pirates, this entertaining read offers essential lessons on the most essential personal finance skills. This is the perfect book for learning those essential healthy financial habits through the experience of relatable characters.

6. The Wealthy Barber: Everyone’s Commonsense Guide to Becoming Financially Independent by David H. Chilton

“David Chilton simplifies the complex puzzles of personal finance and helps you achieve financial independence. With the help of his fictional barber, Roy, and a large dose of humor, Chilton shows you how to take control of your financial future–slowly, steadily, and with sure success.” See also: The Wealthy Barber Returns. Selected because it is one of the top-rated financial books ever, Chilton’s plan makes it possible to achieve financial independence, no matter your salary.

7. Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt

“Through forceful storytelling and wry insight, they show that economics is, at root, the study of incentives—how people get what they want or need, especially when other people want or need the same thing.” While this book does not offer twelve-step plans for financial independence or a six week get-rich-quick program, it is essential in transforming your worldview. Understanding the freakonomics mindset will allow you to make smart and beneficial financial decisions.

8. Your Money: The Missing Manual by J.D. Roth

“Guides readers with practical advice for getting — and keeping — their finances in order, covering all the money-management bases, from saving and spending to getting out of debt to investing, and planning for retirement.” Roth’s sensible advice on money management is important in any financial journey. We chose this book because it offers the most comprehensive and simple guide to an essential aspect of financial health: taking control of your money.

9. Secrets of the Millionaire Mind: Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth by T. Harv Eker

“According to T. Harv Eker, it’s simple. If you think like rich people think and do what rich people do, chances are you’ll get rich too!” Finances start with the person, and Eker’s approach to thinking like a millionaire will get you in top shape to begin your financial journey. We selected Eker’s book for the way it will transform your mindset on wealth.

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10. Financial Peace Revisited by Dave Ramsey

“With practical and easy to follow methods and personal anecdotes, Financial Peace is the road map to personal control, financial security, a new, vital family dynamic, and lifetime peace.” A radio host and best-selling author, Dave Ramsey is a giant in the personal finance world. His advice for achieving financial peace comes from real experience grappling with gaining — and losing, and regaining — wealth and financial health. His financial plans are hailed for their honesty and effectiveness, which is why we had to include one of his works on our list. Ramsey’s acclaimed work focuses not only on financial peace, but also on peace in your life.

11. Think and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller by Napoleon Hill

“In the updated version, Arthur R. Pell, Ph.D., a nationally known author, lecturer, and consultant in human resources management and an expert in applying Hill’s thought, deftly interweaves anecdotes of how contemporary millionaires and billionaires, such as Bill Gates, Mary Kay Ash, Dave Thomas, and Sir John Templeton, achieved their wealth.” We included this classic in motivational literature as it offers an updated version of Napoleon Hill’s 1937 work with a modern perspective on success.

12. Effortless Savings: A Money Management Guide to Saving Without Sacrifice by Richard Syrop

“Effortless Savings is the ultimate guide to saving without sacrifice. Perfect for readers of any income level or household size, it contains hundreds of ways to save money that are easy and manageable.” We chose Syrop’s guide to saving money because it offers a wealth of ways to save money without having to make sacrifices.

13. On My Own Two Feet: A Modern Girl’s Guide to Personal Finance by Manisha Thakor and Sharon Kedar

“Succinct, straightforward, and visually appealing “On My Own Two Feet” will redefine “personal finance 101” for women in their 20s and 30s.” If you want a go-to guide for personal finance, look no further. Included because it meets the need of a modern target audience, Thakor and Kedar cover the basics of personal finance in fun and simple way.

14. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing: The Only Way to Guarantee Your Fair Share of Stock Market Returns by John C. Bogle

“Filled with in-depth insights and practical advice, The Little Book of Common Sense Investing will show you how to incorporate this proven investment strategy into your portfolio. It will also change the very way you think about investing. Successful investing is not easy. (It requires discipline and patience.) But it is simple. For it’s all about common sense.” Bogle’s common sense approach to basic investing from the man himself is sure to offer the best advice out there for those looking to polish their investment game. We chose to include this book for its standing as an essential investment read, as well as for its short and sweet length.

15. Rich Bitch: A Simple 12-Step Plan for Getting Your Financial Life Together… Finally by Nicole Lapin

“In RICH BITCH, money expert and financial journalist Nicole Lapin lays out a 12-Step Plan in which she shares her experiences—mistakes and all—of getting her own finances in order. She talks to you not like a lecturer but as your friend. And even though money is typically an “off-limits” conversation, nothing is off-limits here.” Included for its spunky yet expert perspective, Lapin’s 12-step plan is offered in a fun and funky style, perfect for those seeking a bit of pizzazz in their financial advice.

16. Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your Twenties and Thirties by Beth Kobliner

“From tackling taxes to boosting credit scores, Get a Financial Lifecan show those just starting out how to decrease their debt, avoid common money mistakes, and navigate the world of personal finance in today’s ever-changing landscape.” Since Finance 101 is not a class offered in high school, Kobliner’s guide to finances for young people offers the best and most thorough advice for young adults starting out in the scary world of finance. We chose this book because it offers the most comprehensive basic guide to beginning your financial journey.

17. Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki

“Personal finance author and lecturer Robert T. Kiyosaki developed his unique economic perspective from two very different influences – his two fathers.” Kiyosaki’s honest observations of his and his friend’s fathers was chosen for its unique perspective on wealth and what it takes to make it financially.

18. I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit Sethi

“A completely practical approach delivered with a nonjudgmental style that makes readers want to do what Sethi says, it is based around the four pillars of personal finance— banking, saving, budgeting, and investing—and the wealth-building ideas of personal entrepreneurship.” Perfect for young adults seeking structure, Sethi’s 6-week financial plan will have you starting on the right foot.

19. Money: Master The Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom by Anthony Robbins

“Based on extensive research and one-on-one interviews with more than 50 of the most legendary financial experts in the world – from Carl Icahn and Warren Buffett, to Ray Dalio and Steve Forbes – Tony Robbins has created a simple 7-step blueprint that anyone can use for financial freedom.” Robbins’ guide follows advice of financial greats and was included for its merit as a well-rounded first read for anyone looking to learn the ins and outs of the financial game.

20. The Automatic Millionaire: A Powerful One-Step Plan to Live and Finish Rich by David Bach

“David Bach gives you a totally realistic system, based on timeless principles, with everything you need to know, including phone numbers and websites, so you can put the secret to becoming an Automatic Millionaire in place from the comfort of your own home.” Centered around an anecdote about an average American couple, Bach’s insights into financial health will change your world. We selected this book for its comprehensive information on how to make modern technology work for you.

Personal finance books offer a wide range of advice. While these twenty personal finance books cover a range of topics and financial situations, one thing remains true: their advice is the best of the best. These authors have proved their worth in the financial game, and now they are passing that wisdom on to readers like you. With all these topics out there, you are sure to find the right one for you! Have you read any great personal finance literature? Let us know in the comments.

Photo: Christopher

Saving Money on Your First Home Purchase

June 9, 2016 By Elliot Caleira 1 Comment

Buying a home. It’s a quintessential part of the American Dream and, to this day, still one of the main goals to which millions of Americans aspire. But it is no small decision, and it’s something that takes a great deal of research and preparation to build towards. Buying a house is a difficult process whether it is your first or third time, so you can imagine how daunting it is to try to figure it out yourself without any prior experience.

One of the main things that you are likely concerned about when entering the housing market for the first time is the price. Naturally, you want to keep the costs as low as possible, without sacrificing on the things that are really important to you. Here are some ways to keep the costs down and save money on your first home purchase.

Shop Around for a Good Loan

It is not exactly a thrilling process to visit different banks and lenders to find a good mortgage on a house, but it is one of the most important parts of buying a new house. Don’t be tempted to simply take the first offer that you receive on a loan. Instead make sure that you shop around and be discerning in your final decision. You also need to make sure that you have a realistic budget set aside, for how much you can spare each month without harming your finances seriously.

Know Your Limits

Lenders will decide your loan amount based on your credit and tax information, but occasionally they will approve loans that are slightly above what you can really afford. It is important that you know what you can and cannot afford before you even go to the mortgage lender. You don’t want to end up with a house purchase that is going to put you in severe debt for the rest of your life. For this reason, you need to stick firm to your upper limit. It is also important to remember that, even if you see a good deal on a bigger house, there are things like higher utility costs to take into consideration.

Use a Realtor

You may have heard talk of the web making things so much easier when it comes to buying houses in this modern age. And while, yes, it is definitely a lot easier to buy and sell a house yourself today, it would be a mistake to forgo a realtor altogether. Especially for a first time home purchase, a realtor can lend expertise and knowhow that in invaluable to a novice, not to mention they will do most of the hard work for you. How does paying for a realtor save you money? They are likely to get you a much better deal on a property than you could ever get on your own.

Don’t Limit Your Search

Some people have preconceived ideas about what they want their first house to be like, but sometimes you have to realize that when you are entering the market for the first time you may have to make certain compromises. Of course, there are some things that are essential to each home buyer, so the best technique is to work with your realtor to put together a list of things that you would like (but are not necessarily deal breakers) and a list of your non-negotiables.

Decide What It’s Worth Spending On

This is another thing that your realtor can help you out with. Think about the things that you want out of a house, and which things you are will to pay for. For example, a home inspection and a home warranty are things that you will want to budget for, while extensive renovations might be something that you want to avoid. Again, it comes down to personal preferences, but all of the aforementioned are the kinds of decisions you will want to think about before you choose a house.

Photo: Flickr: reynermedia