Author: Brandon Ballenger
I'm a freelance journalist living in South Florida. If I'm not writing, I'm playing video games or at the beach. My favorite spice is oregano, and I thought you should know. I got my bachelor's degree in English and public communication from Florida Atlantic University in 2008.
Why I’m Still a Happy Renter: 4 Tips for the Apartment Hunt
Brandon Ballenger on October 21, 2011
Experts suggest potential homebuyers should snatch up cheap homes at low interest rates now – and that’s fine if you have the cash. But there are plenty of great rentals seeking tenants for low rents right now, if you know how to look.
Why Men Don’t Read Product Reviews, and Why They Should
Brandon Ballenger on October 20, 2011
A new survey backs up what we’ve all heard before: Guys don’t have the patience for shopping. One of the effects of that is that they don’t read product reviews. But there are ways to do that more quickly so you can save time and money.
8 Ways to Get Your Favorite Music Free
Brandon Ballenger on October 19, 2011
Friends, lend me your ears: The digital music scene has come a long way since the illegal file-sharing boom of Napster and the first appearance of the iPod. If you’ve been looking for an alternative to keeping all those MP3s on your computer or phone, try out these services.
6 Free Ways to Save Your Digital Life
Brandon Ballenger on October 18, 2011
McAfee’s rolling out a new all-in-one security product for computers, phones, and tablets. But their expensive bundle includes a lot of services you already have, or can get for free – in one case, from McAfee itself!
4 Reasons to Start Thinking Taxes Now
Brandon Ballenger on October 17, 2011
Nobody wants to think about taxes heading into the holidays. But there are tax opportunities now that disappear at the end of the year, and others where more time means less pain and better planning.
8 Alternatives to Netflix
Brandon Ballenger on October 14, 2011
A lot of people are mad at Netflix for raising rates. But while there are a lot of other options out there, Netflix may still be the best fit for many. Check out the alternatives and decide for yourself.
New Job Hunting Advice From Hiring Managers
Brandon Ballenger on October 12, 2011
Looking for holiday work? A handful of recent surveys asked the people who make hiring decisions what to do and where to go – see what they said.
Why Don’t More People Buy Electronics Online?
Brandon Ballenger on October 11, 2011
According to recent research, fewer than half of us are likely to buy many types of electronics online. If you’re strictly a bricks-and-mortar shopper, you might be missing out on online bargains.
What Your Sign Says About Your Salary
Brandon Ballenger on October 10, 2011
Some people believe horoscopes can predict their future – so why not your entire career? A new study looks at the most probable job fields for different star signs.
Better Sleep on the Cheap
Brandon Ballenger on October 7, 2011
Insomnia’s a big problem for a lot of people. But if the cost of remedies is keeping you up at night, here’s some good news: The best cures are the least expensive.
3 Steps to Cut Your Cable Bill 90 Percent
Brandon Ballenger on October 5, 2011
The power to watch hundreds of channels is in your hand – but what about the price tag? News flash: You don’t have to pay for cable TV anymore. Technology has provided other cheap, easy options to get your favorite shows.
Fly or Drive? 9 Factors to Consider
Brandon Ballenger on October 3, 2011
Fall is a popular time to travel, but the best way to go may surprise you. For a family, even a trip of several hundred miles might be cheaper to drive, while a solo traveler may be better off flying. But price isn’t the only factor to consider.
4 Ways Generation Y Can Overcome the Recession
Brandon Ballenger on September 30, 2011
Generation Y is freaking out over finances, according to new research. That’s a good thing: Their concern might motivate them to start planning.
The Top 10 Companies to Work For – According to People Who Probably Want to Quit
Brandon Ballenger on September 29, 2011
A lot of people are out of work, but some of the people with jobs have a lot of complaints. Take a look at what one website says are the most satisfying companies to work for, and compare it to what the employees say.
Are You Paying Too Much for Vitamins?
Brandon Ballenger on September 28, 2011
When it comes to multivitamins, there’s almost no relationship between quality and price. If you’re spending more than a few dollars a month, you’re paying too much.
Your Co-Worker Could Be an Identity Thief – 4 Tips for Protecting Yourself
Brandon Ballenger on September 27, 2011
How secure do you think your personal info is? Many people worry about the safety of their details, and for good reason: It’s the top complaint received by the FTC every year. Make sure you’re taking steps to guard it.
5 Smart Uses for Credit Cards
Brandon Ballenger on September 21, 2011
Credit cards have gotten a bad rap, but depending on how they’re used, they can be a consumer’s friend. Here are some reasons you shouldn’t leave home without them.
4 Reasons to Try Google Flights
Brandon Ballenger on September 20, 2011
There are a lot of variables in getting the best airfare, and comparison sites use different methods to hunt for them. But Google’s new tool has a smart approach that’s worth a look.
How to Find the Right Gym or Get Fit on Your Own
Brandon Ballenger on September 19, 2011
Trying to make exercise part of your daily routine? A gym may not be the answer, but if it is, find one that’s a good “fit.”
5 Ways to Save 50 Percent on Furniture
Brandon Ballenger on September 16, 2011
Furniture is expensive, and unless you monitor prices regularly you’re never sure exactly how much you saved – did they mark it up before they marked it down? Here are some best bets for big discounts.
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