Author: Brandon Ballenger

8 Foolish and Costly Financial Fouls — and How to Avoid Them

Brandon Ballenger on September 12, 2017

These common money mistakes can cost you thousands. But you can sidestep them if you follow these simple tips.

How to Insure Your College Student

Brandon Ballenger on August 28, 2017

As students embark on the academic year, here’s how to make sure they have the coverage they need at the best possible price.

Have Too Much Stuff? 10 Ways to Cut the Cost of Self-Storage

Brandon Ballenger on July 27, 2017

There are times when storage space may be necessary, but don’t spend thousands to keep stuff you don’t really care about.

10 Top Tips for Saving on Your Vacation Cruise

Brandon Ballenger on July 12, 2017

Cruise travel can be a grand adventure — but the price tag can get out of hand if you’re not careful. We’ve got advice from a cruise expert on sailing, and saving, on the high seas.

Buying a House? Get the Right Pros on Your Team

Brandon Ballenger on June 6, 2017

Real estate pros can make homebuying easier and, ultimately, cheaper — if you pick the right ones. We talk to two experts to see who they’d look for if they weren’t experts themselves.

8 Cheap Ways to Keep Your Car Running Cool in the Summer Heat

Brandon Ballenger on May 24, 2017

We’re in for another super-hot summer. Here are some smart ways to prevent your car and your wallet from overheating.

15 Tips for a Super-Profitable Yard Sale

Brandon Ballenger on May 2, 2017

A yard sale is just clearing your clutter, right? Wrong. It’s an opportunity to become a master of marketing and merchandising. Here’s how to make more money with less sweat.

26 Top Tips to Save on Spring Break 2017

Brandon Ballenger on February 17, 2017

Finish those exams and pack your bags: It’s time for spring break! Haven’t planned yours yet? We’ve got lots of ways to save.

6 Tips for Making a Home Inventory Right Now

Brandon Ballenger on October 24, 2016

These tips and tools can help you recoup thousands of dollars if the unthinkable happens.

11 Ways to Save Big on College Textbooks

Brandon Ballenger on July 29, 2016

Students at public four-year colleges spent an average of $1,298 on books and supplies during the 2015-16 school year. Here are ideas for slashing those costs.

14 Ways to Get Awesome Freebies

Brandon Ballenger on January 28, 2016

Our needs don’t stop just because our desire to spend stops after the holidays. But there are some great ways to get things for free — definitely worth trying before pulling out your tired credit card!

8 Tips to Stop Annoying Robocalls

Brandon Ballenger on January 27, 2016

Most robocalls are illegal. But if you’ve answered a phone lately, you know they’re happening anyway. Here’s how you can fight back.

Want to Live Forever? What It Costs to Get a Shot at It

Brandon Ballenger on November 20, 2015

Suspended animation is an expensive roll of the dice. But if you’ve got an extra $30,000-$200,000 that you’re dying to spend, you might consider trying cryonics.

Which Debt to Pay First — Lowest Balance or Highest APR?

Brandon Ballenger on October 23, 2015

There’s a less expensive way, and then there’s the way that works for you. The two may not be the same. Read on.

Should You Pay the Price for a Concierge Doctor?

Brandon Ballenger on October 1, 2015

Concierge medicine lets you see the doc when you want to in exchange for a regular, ongoing fee. Here’s how to figure out if the costs make sense for you.

11 Ways to Save on Straight Teeth For Your Kids (or Yourself)

Brandon Ballenger on September 30, 2015

Braces can be costly and painful, but the payoff comes in oral health and confidence. And there are ways to take a bite out of the orthodontist’s bill.

Spend Less on Vitamins and Boost Your Nutrition

Brandon Ballenger on August 7, 2015

Getting the nutrients you need does not mean paying more — not even when it comes to buying vitamins — but it does mean paying attention.

5 Ways to Dramatically Reduce the Cost of College

Brandon Ballenger on July 13, 2015

Don’t let the sticker price of college scare you away from getting your degree. Few students pay the asking price. Here’s how to reduce your net cost.