Author: Kentin Waits

9 Ways to Build an Emergency Fund When Money’s Tight

Kentin Waits on February 15, 2018

Are you among the many Americans who have little money set aside for a real financial emergency? Here are nine steps to fix that and help you sleep better.

6 Secrets to Getting a Pay Raise in 2018

Kentin Waits on January 26, 2018

Just 19 percent of Americans are satisfied with their pay. Here are some tips that might help you start the year with more compensation.

8 Creative Ways to Clear Clutter

Kentin Waits on January 12, 2018

Does it feel like you’re swimming against a never-ending tide of stuff? Make 2018 the year you start living happily clutter-free.

4 Big Reasons to Make a Roth IRA Part of Your Retirement Strategy

Kentin Waits on September 28, 2017

Roth or regular? While both kinds of IRAs have their place in retirement planning, here’s why you should consider a Roth.

6 Reasons Why Savers Are Sexier Than Spenders

Kentin Waits on December 24, 2016

They may not be as flashy or stylish as their high-spending friends, but savers have a sex appeal that’s all their own.

5 Forgotten Frugal Strategies — and How to Resurrect Them

Kentin Waits on September 25, 2015

Our grandparents and great-grandparents knew how to stretch a buck. Maybe it’s time to look back to find our way forward.

5 Expert Tips for Better Thrift Store Shopping

Kentin Waits on September 9, 2015

A thrift store shopper with 25 years of experience under his belt shares his top tips for finding the best deals.

8 Home Improvement Projects That Pay Off Big

Kentin Waits on September 8, 2015

As the housing market heats up, the right renovation can be the difference maker that leads to a sale. Here are some changes that tend to recoup a large percentage of your investment.

Duh! 7 Obvious Money-Saving Tips People Often Forget

Kentin Waits on August 20, 2015

There are many “no-brainer” ways to save, but that doesn’t stop us from overlooking them. Here are seven easy ways to build a nest egg.

Stretch Your Budget And Boost Your Health With 14 Superfoods

Kentin Waits on March 23, 2015

If you’ve never heard of superfoods, it might be time to get acquainted with these power-packed staples of good health.

Kick the Habit: 7 Steps to Wean Yourself From Credit Cards

Kentin Waits on January 9, 2015

Easy credit, the tendency to overspend, and the overwhelming acceptance of plastic as a means to pay for everything from home repairs to hamburgers have helped make consumer indebtedness a chronic condition. Here’s how to break free.

8 Ways to Feel Rich When You’re Not

Kentin Waits on January 8, 2015

In the material world in which we all live, it’s sometimes easy to feel like you’re suffering. Here are some simple tips to keep you focused, and more important, happy.

10 Money Lessons I Learned From My Depression-Era Dad

Kentin Waits on June 13, 2014

My dad was a child of the Great Depression. And though there were many families worse off than his, he learned tough financial lessons that stayed with him for a lifetime.

7 Ways to Get What You Want on Customer Service Calls

Kentin Waits on April 1, 2014

I’ve sat on both sides of the customer service line — taking abuse from callers and getting angry at unmotivated CS reps too. Here are some lessons I’ve learned that can help you.

7 Smart Saving Strategies for New Grads

Kentin Waits on March 5, 2014

Graduation is a time of exciting possibilities, high expectations … and new financial realities. Get off on the right foot and build a brighter future with these seven saving strategies.

7 Tips for Writing a Winning Cover Letter

Kentin Waits on February 27, 2014

Few things we write have as much potential value as a well-crafted cover letter. If you’re in the job market now or plan to be, here are seven tips to take your cover letter from tired to hired.

6 Tips to Expertly Explain Gaps in Your Resume

Kentin Waits on January 17, 2014

A hiccup in your employment history doesn’t have to signal slackerdom. Take control of how you present the highs — and the lows — of your professional experience.

Is Your Financial Adviser Really Working for You?

Kentin Waits on December 30, 2013

Did you know that your financial adviser may not be legally required to act in your financial best interest? Here’s how a fiduciary pledge can change that.

What’s the Big Deal About Tiny Houses?

Kentin Waits on December 19, 2013

There’s no place like home, even if it’s only 200 square feet. Find out why tiny houses are gaining in popularity and what makes these small spaces so special.