Brandon Ballenger Writer
I'm a freelance writer based in Pompano Beach, Fla. who's done work for The South Florida Business Journal and BusinessMiami, covering real estate, health care, and franchising. I received a bachelor's degree in English and public communication from Florida Atlantic University in 2008, and am currently pursuing a master's degree in communication there. In my free time, I read fantasy novels, plays video games, and take advantage of South Florida's perennial summer at the beach.
Posts by Brandon Ballenger
4 New Ideas for Protecting Your Online Privacy
Jan 30, 2012 - Data Privacy Day is a reminder that we seem to rely on the Internet more with each passing hour, and that privacy settings aren't getting any simpler. Are you taking enough steps to deter stalkers and hackers?
3 Ways to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster
Jan 27, 2012 - Owning a home offers a sense of freedom and independence. But that's all an illusion until you polish off the mortgage, so here are some ways to do it faster.
When to Buy and When to DIY
Jan 26, 2012 - A new study shows people are taking greater interest in being more independent. That's great news, but some stuff is best left to professionals.
More Help for Homeowners: HARP 2.0
Jan 23, 2012 - When the government realized one of its mortgage refinance programs wasn't helping enough people, it changed the rules. Find out if you qualify for the revamped Home Affordable Refinance Program, which could save you thousands.
Should You Pay for Credit Repair?
Jan 20, 2012 - You've seen the ads – stuff like "We can erase your bad credit, guaranteed!" and "Create a new credit identity!" Are these people for real, and are they worth it?
Resolutions 2012: 4 Steps to Destroy Debt
Jan 18, 2012 - 2012 is when it all ends. No, not the world – your slavery to debt! If you're ready to break free, we're here to show you how.
Resolutions 2012 – 4 Steps to Saving More
Jan 16, 2012 - Still haven't made a New Year's resolution? Well, the Chinese New Year is Jan. 23 - good enough. But instead of the Year of the Dragon, make it the Year of Savings.
Resolutions 2012 – Finding Help With Debt
Jan 13, 2012 - Racked up some holiday debt you've sworn to tackle in the new year? A credit counseling agency can help, and the right one might not charge you.
6 Easy Ways to Save Energy
Jan 12, 2012 - There are dozens of ways to lower your energy costs, and most require little in the way of effort or expense.
Resolutions 2012 – Budgeting Your Way to Happiness
Jan 11, 2012 - Some people see budgets like diets, but starving yourself to meet your goals will never work. Here's how to look at budgets and make them work for you.
Inflation Forecast 2012 – and How to Lower Your Personal Rate
Jan 06, 2012 - If you've ever paid attention to the inflation rate, you probably noticed it doesn't match your experience, and it won't in 2012, either. Here's why, and a few ways to fight rising costs.
What’s Your Dream Job? For Young People, Not Banking
Jan 05, 2012 - Not sure what you want to be when you grow up? A new survey takes a look at what young people consider the ideal employer. Up high: tech. Down low: banks.
2012 Forecast: Stocks, Housing, and Oil Prices
Jan 04, 2012 - It's a new year, which means a new set of economic predictions from every pundit and blowhard in the business. We've collected several, and as usual, pit them against the opinion of average folks on the street. Let's see who wins!
You Can Beat the Wall Street Pros
Jan 02, 2012 - For nearly a decade, Money Talks News has collected market predictions from Wall Street pros and average Joes. Guess who's usually more accurate?
9 Things to Buy in January
Dec 26, 2011 - Did you overspend during the holidays, and vow to start the new year making smarter financial decisions? You're not alone, which is why you should break out the wallet again.
