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
8 Tips to Turn Your Vacation into a Tax Deduction
Jun 13, 2011 - Vacation budgets are down, and IRS audits are up. But that doesn't mean combining a family vacation with business travel is a bad idea – just that you have to be careful and do it right.
How to Make Dishwasher Detergent (And More)
Jun 08, 2011 - Wondering how to make dishwasher detergent? Good news, it's really simple – and cheap – to brew your own detergents.
6 Steps to Prevent Identity Theft of the Dead
Jun 06, 2011 - Dealing with the loss of a loved one is tough enough without being forced to untangle a complicated web of fraudulent charges. Here's what to do if you're in charge of an estate.
5 Top Credit Tips for College Students
Jun 03, 2011 - The CARD Act made it tougher for college students to get credit cards. But some banks - and students - are finding ways around the rules.
3 Steps to Get the Raise You Deserve
Jun 01, 2011 - The average salary increase last year was 2 percent, which probably won't even cover spikes in food and gas prices. Time to ask for a raise? Here's how...
25 Top Tips to Save on Weddings
May 25, 2011 - Weddings: one of life's great moments, and quite likely the most expensive party you'll ever throw. Here's how to make sure this important milestone doesn't usher in years of debt.
7 Ways to Save on Car Insurance
May 23, 2011 - When it comes to car insurance, where you live is a factor in what you'll pay. Here's a list of the most expensive, and cheapest, cities to insure a car. Plus, how to lower your bill wherever you live.
5 Tips to Save on Summer Camp
May 20, 2011 - Summer camp can be expensive, especially with multiple kids - but cost isn't the only factor to consider, and there are more options than you might think. Here's a step-by-step to finding your best camp value.
The 4 Best Ways to Improve Gas Mileage
May 18, 2011 - When gas prices go up, so do the number of tips we hear on how to save. Some are good, others silly. Here's what you need to know to actually reduce your pain at the pump.
Monday’s Money Deals: Shoes, Makeup, and Free Shower Gel
May 16, 2011 - Today in deals: shower heads, ceiling fans, Disney merch, and plenty more at good discounts.
Do Gas Saving Devices Work?
May 16, 2011 - Gas-saving devices have been around as long as cars, and they become especially popular when prices edge up. But do any of them really work?
6 Signs of a Housing Rescue Scam and Where to Get Free Help
May 13, 2011 - The mortgage crisis has created a new breed of scammer — one that charges up-front fees and tells you to lie to your lender. Need help with a mortgage problem? Here's where to turn for free, honest help.
15 Tips to Find, Buy, and Rent Real Estate
May 11, 2011 - With home values down and rents up, renting out sounds smart. But it's not as easy as you think — so learn how to avoid bad tenants who can cost you money instead of making it.
Monday’s Money Deals: Clothes, Food, and Free Ice Cream
May 09, 2011 - Great deals to kick off the week include Juicy Couture swimwear, Planters peanuts, and San Francisco hotel discounts.
How to Get VIP Treatment When You Travel
May 09, 2011 - The cost of travel is heading higher, even as hotels and airlines are more desperate for your business. Want to use that to your advantage and get the VIP treatment at no extra cost? Here's how.
