Search found 39 matches

by cartman
Mon Nov 20, 2023 6:20 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Is it time to sale bond mutual funds and take the loss
Replies: 28
Views: 4643

Is it time to sale bond mutual funds and take the loss

Given my loss of equity in Vanguard total bond mutual funds, I'm considering a sale and take the loss for tax purposes, possibly, reinvesting in a series of certificate of deposits or treasuries.

I do not see any downside to this option.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.
by cartman
Wed Aug 09, 2023 10:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Washington D.C. hotel options
Replies: 12
Views: 1274

Re: Washington D.C. hotel options

Nightly cost including parking around $400.00
by cartman
Wed Aug 09, 2023 10:21 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Washington D.C. hotel options
Replies: 12
Views: 1274

Washington D.C. hotel options

I have visited Washington D.C. a few times and planning a trip this Fall. During my previous visits, I have stayed at hotels in Shady Grove and properties much closer to the National Mall.
My preference is to eliminate Shady Grove as an option given the long metro rail commute and stay at a property closer to the National Mall. I am aware there are many hotel options near the National Mall. They all have their pluses and minuses. Any suggestions based on personal experience, taking in consideration quietness of rooms, cleanliness, and ease of parking would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
by cartman
Tue Aug 08, 2023 8:02 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Status of IRS amended return
Replies: 5
Views: 495

Status of IRS amended return

I submitted our amended IRS 2020 return 18 months ago. I have yet to receive our refund. I do check the IRS website somewhat regularly, which confirms they have received my amended return and apologize that it has yet to be processed. At the same time, the information on the IRS website indicates processing of amending returns generally take approximately 16 weeks.

Just curious if any other Bogleheads are experiencing this type of delay with their amended return?

Thank you
by cartman
Sat Feb 18, 2023 6:52 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: TurboTax Issues
Replies: 10
Views: 1431

Re: TurboTax Issues

To everyone that responded, thank you. The information was invaluable.
by cartman
Sat Feb 18, 2023 1:18 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: TurboTax Issues
Replies: 10
Views: 1431

TurboTax Issues

I have used TurboTax for a number of years and have been fairly satisfied. However, I do have a few issues with TurboTax regarding the preparation of my 2022 1040 return. • At any time, I can drill down and determine if my input is accurate. I do somewhat understand why TurboTax will not allow me to preview my 1040 until I pay for the service. However, why is there not a tab that allows me to check all of my input in one place. This is an annual frustrating issue. • Another issue is IRS form 1116, Foreign Tax Credit. Last year, availability of the 2021 1116 form was greatly delayed by the IRS. Is anyone aware of there being an issue with the 2022 form? I asked TurboTax customer service. They punted with their response. And I was unable to g...
by cartman
Wed Feb 01, 2023 12:47 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Status of IRS amended return
Replies: 7
Views: 651

Status of IRS amended return

In early March of 2022, I summitted a 2020 amended return to the IRS. The online status inquiry, acknowledges the receipt of my amended return and also acknowledges that the return has yet to be processed.

I do understand the IRS is substantially understaffed at the moment. However, they have had my return for 11 months.

Curious if anyone else has had or is having he same issue and is the delayed timeframe reasonable?

Thank you
by cartman
Wed Feb 01, 2023 12:36 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: St. Augustine, Florida
Replies: 14
Views: 1749

St. Augustine, Florida

Planning a trip to Florida in late March. My wife and I typically vacation on the Gulf Coast of Florida. However, for something different, we're considering St. Augustine. It's a vacation destination that seems to get very little press.
We are intrigued by the architecture of the city, but still enjoy beach time.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks
by cartman
Mon Nov 28, 2022 6:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Thermostat with Wifi
Replies: 11
Views: 881

Thermostat with Wifi

I'm preparing to purchase a Google Nest Thermostat with WiFi.

Based on my research, installation appears to be fairly straightforward.

I do have a few questions regarding this particular thermostat's wifi capability. Is installation as simple as connecting my mobile android phone to the Google APP? Does my home router play a role in the connection? Those of you who purchased a thermostat with WIFI, are you satisfied?

Thank you in advance
by cartman
Fri Sep 23, 2022 1:49 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Florence Italy Hotels
Replies: 17
Views: 1140

Florence Italy Hotels

My wife and I are traveling to Italy in the spring of 2023 and seeking Boglehead members' personal experiences regarding Florence hotels. We have traveled to Florence on occasion in the past and have had mixed experiences on where we stayed.
Thank you.
by cartman
Sat May 22, 2021 7:13 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Tucson versus Sedona
Replies: 38
Views: 7330

Tucson versus Sedona

My wife and I are planning a trip to Arizona this September and are having somewhat of a disagreement (surprise...surprise).
In the past when traveling out west and specifically Arizona, we typically headed to Sedona to do some hiking and enjoy the beauty of the redrock environment. For this trip my wife is suggesting we visit, hike and explore the Tucson area as an alternative.

My position is, if we're simply want desert and some hiking, we can stay in the greater Phoenix area. We would like to restrict this trip to Arizona due to a direct flight option at our airport. Any personal experiences and recommended places to stay regarding Tucson would be appreciated.
by cartman
Mon Jan 18, 2021 3:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Radio Frequency Interference Issue
Replies: 25
Views: 2305

Re: Radio Frequency Interference Issue

Thank you for all of the comments and recommendations. They are all valuable. In response to some of the questions; * I am certain of the specific a.m. radio station that is causing the interference since the signal is so clear, particularly when I turn up the speaker volume in each of the rooms. * The radio station is a.m. 1320 is located in Pittsburgh. As I mentioned, the main transmitter is only 3 miles away from my home and sends out a stronger signal to my home than the dominant a.m. station in the Pittsburgh region (KDKA). * There are no built-in amplifiers in the system. * I agree, the problem is mine. * I will install a series of ferrite cores as an initial option. * Guardian Home security services originally installed the speakers ...
by cartman
Sun Jan 17, 2021 7:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Radio Frequency Interference Issue
Replies: 25
Views: 2305

Radio Frequency Interference Issue

Twelve years ago, I had a whole house integrated Bose speaker system installed when my home when was constructed. The speaker system always provided a high-quality sound when connected to a stereo receiver. However, for the last few months I have had a severe Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) issue. A local radio station is now causing radio frequency interference through all eight speakers in four rooms. This RFI even occurs when there are no stereo amplifiers, or any other electronic equipment connected to our speaker system. The station's transmitter is located approximately 3 miles away. I cannot determine why our speaker system is picking up this radio station's broadcast. When we do connect a stereo receiver to the speaker system, th...
by cartman
Sat Dec 14, 2019 10:17 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 2015 Mini Cooper Questions
Replies: 15
Views: 1326

Re: 2015 Mini Cooper Questions

I have a 2015 mini cooper convertible and feel safe and confident in local traffic and on highways.

Yes it is small, but is well constructed, has many safety features and has superior handling.

While I acknowledge the mini it cooper does not have the safety of a large SUV passenger cabin, I offer that the most important safety feature of any vehicle is a good braking system.
by cartman
Sat Feb 16, 2019 5:37 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 2018 1099-B
Replies: 4
Views: 464

2018 1099-B

Vanguard appears to be somewhat late this year with making the 2018 1099-B's available on-line.

Curious if anyone else is experiencing this.

Thank you.
by cartman
Sun Jan 06, 2019 8:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Thoughts on Buying a Ryan Home?
Replies: 36
Views: 16878

Re: Thoughts on Buying a Ryan Home?

Ryan Homes built our home. While acknowledging it was one of Ryan Homes more expensive plans, our home and their warranty service was exceptional. They readily addressed issues where they had responsibility. And they have employees who specifically address warranty issues.

One bit of advice (regardless of the builder), keep on top of everything. Take a lot of videos and photos during construction, and routinely check everything once you take ownership. It is much easier to have issues addressed, when the homeowner lets the builder know during the warranty period.
by cartman
Sat Aug 11, 2018 7:26 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Planning a Florida Gulf Coast trip next February/March
Replies: 5
Views: 771

Planning a Florida Gulf Coast trip next February/March

It's August and I'm already dreading another winter in the northeast. To help with this depression, my wife and I are planning a trip to the Florida gulf coast in February or March 2019. While we are open to any area, our thoughts are to visit the Fort Myers/Naples area.

As expected, prices for decent beach front hotels are high. We're thinking of staying more inland but have access to the beaches. I have done some research on possible hotels, but nothing is jumping out as a candidate.

Any thoughts from fellow Bogleheads on non-beachfront hotel options would be greatly appreciated.
by cartman
Sun Jun 24, 2018 10:46 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 2019 trip to France and Switzerland
Replies: 10
Views: 1355

2019 trip to France and Switzerland

My wife and I are planning a trip in the spring of 2019 to France and Switzerland. While in Paris we plan a one-day trip to Normandy for D-Day’s 75th anniversary.
Our tentative itinerary is as follows; five nights in Paris including the day trip to Normandy, followed by four nights in Luzern, and then back to Paris for one or two nights. On the surface it appears too much time traveling and maybe not enough time in Normandy. Any thoughts, including possible hotels and value to staying near the train stations would be appreciated.

“Bogleheads” advice on our recent Italy trip to Rome, Florence and Cinque Terre was invaluable. The recommended hotels for Florence and Cinque Terre greatly enhanced our trip. Thank you.
by cartman
Sat Jun 02, 2018 8:45 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Need to replace my Vizio TV..............
Replies: 35
Views: 4198

Need to replace my Vizio TV..............

I purchased a Vizio 55" television approximately 30 months ago. Over the last few months the sound inexplicably goes silent after about 30 minutes of usage. I have been working with Vizio tech staff to determine the problem. Everything has been tested including switching from cable, to a DVD or the internet. In every attempt, I lose sound after 30 minutes and it will not come on again for hours. When the sound does come on again, it is for a another 30 minute interval. Vizio acknowledges the television is faulty (likely a circuit board) but because mine is past the standard one year warranty, Vizio's position is that they have no legal obligation. They are correct. Unfortunately, ethnically, they are thieves. Electronics manufacturers ...
by cartman
Sun Apr 22, 2018 8:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Traveling to italy.........
Replies: 19
Views: 3152

Traveling to italy.........

We'll be taking a train from Rome to La Spezia and on to to Cinque Terre. Is is advisable to purchase train tickets well in advance or is a day in advance or the morning of the trip sufficient time?

Also, any recommendations on where to purchase leather goods while in Florence would be appreciated? We have been there before, but we were not quite sure about the quality, authenticity or prices of the shops we visited.

As always thank you.
by cartman
Sun Apr 01, 2018 8:59 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Wireless phone use in Italy
Replies: 18
Views: 2853

Re: Wireless phone use in Italy

I'm also traveling to Italy this summer and have T-Mobile with an unlimited text, data and voice plan.

Is it advisable for me to add the high speed option ($10 per month) while I am there?
by cartman
Wed Mar 07, 2018 8:48 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Providing client feedback to Vanguard.........
Replies: 12
Views: 1324

Providing client feedback to Vanguard.........

There are few purchases I make or services I receive that I am not asked by the provider to rate them. While I will admit at times these requests become annoying, I appreciate they want to know.

I cannot say that about Vanguard. Rarely if ever am I asked to provide them timely feedback on my level of satisfaction and if there are any particular areas I feel they need to address. Other than making my frustration known to my Vanguard representative, there is no other vehicle provided by Vanguard that allows me to make my issues known? Ultimately, my issues are addressed but I find their response time troubling.
by cartman
Mon Jan 29, 2018 3:38 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 2017 1099-B
Replies: 15
Views: 1983

2017 1099-B

Typically this time of the year I would have received my Vanguard 1099-B. Not so this year.

Is anyone else also experiencing this delay?

Thank you,
by cartman
Wed Dec 20, 2017 6:52 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares........
Replies: 4
Views: 979

Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares........

According to my online Vanguard portfolio, Vanguard's Health Care Fund Admiral Shares dropped by $4.39 as of COB 12/20/17. I realize it is a volatile fund but can anyone confirm if this is accurate?

Thanks
by cartman
Sat Nov 25, 2017 7:52 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: VW passat engine light is on
Replies: 8
Views: 1031

VW passat engine light is on

I had the same issue years ago with the same vehicle. Diagnostic test was performed at that time and it was determined to be nothing more than a coding issue.

I suspect the same issue now since the car is running as well as ever.

I plan to take it to my mechanic to have the same test performed but would like to avoid the $100 testing bill if possible.

Any alternatives?

Thanks as always.
by cartman
Tue Oct 10, 2017 1:57 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Wifi Thermostat
Replies: 55
Views: 7492

Wifi Thermostat

I am interested in switching my current thermostat to one that has WiFi capability. My preference is to complete the work myself. I would value hearing from anyone that has installed this type of thermostat and share their experience with the level of complexity. I'm fairly comfortable doing electrical and plumbing work within our house.

As always, thank you.
by cartman
Wed Oct 04, 2017 1:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: When purchasing a smartphone from T-Mobile
Replies: 6
Views: 1057

When purchasing a smartphone from T-Mobile

I'm planning to purchase service and a smartphone from T-Mobile. While I prefer to purchase the phone from T-Mobile, the price for a Samsung Galaxy S8 is considerably cheaper from a big box store or Amazon. Has anyone had experience where T-Mobile will match the prices of their competitors?
by cartman
Tue Sep 19, 2017 9:44 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Convertible in Florida or not...
Replies: 38
Views: 6874

Re: Convertible in Florida or not...

I'm 65, married, living in Pittsburgh, and bought a mini cooper convertible two years ago. We're having a blast with it. I always tell people, the Mini is better than a paying a psychiatrist.

Oh, the convertible option doesn't seem to work in "The Burgh" from November through April.
by cartman
Mon Aug 28, 2017 10:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Possible January trip to Naples, Italy / Amalfi Coast
Replies: 37
Views: 4524

Re: Possible January trip to Naples, Italy / Amalfi Coast

Regarding Naples, I have lost touch with a dear friend who returned to his home town of Naples a number of years ago. Any suggestions how I can locate him?

Thank you.
by cartman
Mon Jul 31, 2017 8:28 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Florence Hotels.......
Replies: 25
Views: 2653

Florence Hotels.......

My wife and I traveled to Florence Italy this past spring and thoroughly enjoyed the city and region. The one issue we did have was the hotel. I understood we would not have the amenities that we enjoy in U.S. hotels but this hotel was to be kindly, very spartan. In fairness the location was terrific and the breakfast provided was very good.

We are seriously considering traveling back to Italy next year; with the intent on spending some time in Florence. I have researched a number of other Florence hotels but have not found an alternative.

Any suggestions based on your own experience would be greatly appreciated.
by cartman
Wed Jul 19, 2017 6:42 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Flying first class/ business......
Replies: 21
Views: 5547

Flying first class/ business......

My wife and I flew economy on our last trip to Europe. Because of connection issues in Rome, American Airlines booked us on another flight. We have decided on our next trip abroad to upgrade our seating to first or business class. The concern with this decision is what happens if we again need to be rescheduled on another flight by the airline.

If the airline cannot provide seating in a similar first or business class as first booked, our we simply out of the money for the upgrade?
by cartman
Sat Jul 15, 2017 5:31 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Las Vegas Trip
Replies: 7
Views: 1852

Las Vegas Trip

My family is planning a trip this fall for about 6-7 nights to the Las Vegas area. Our preference is to stay at a property in the Las Vegas area rather on the strip. We plan to do some day trips i.e. Hoover dam, national parks and only spend a minimal amount of time on the strip. Any suggestions for a reasonably priced resort would be appreciated.
by cartman
Tue Jun 20, 2017 8:58 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Oregon personal Trip
Replies: 25
Views: 4027

Oregon personal Trip

My wife and I considering a 7-day trip to Oregon later this summer. Our initial thoughts are to fly into Portland, stay a day or two to see the city, and then to stop at a few wineries on the way to the coast. We would also like to do a little hiking while we are there.

Our itinerary might be a little too ambitious and thus would value any of the Boglehead's recommendations.

Our May trip to Italy was wonderful, thanks largely to the thoughts posted on this board
by cartman
Sun Jun 04, 2017 7:50 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Flying first class, business, versus economy.
Replies: 184
Views: 29373

Flying first class, business, versus economy.

I recently returned from Italy and had a wonderful time, thanks to the many useful tips from fellow Bogleheads.

The only issue my wife and I had was the flight. We flew economy with American Airlines. Even though we are on the small side, the seats were, nevertheless, uncomfortable and short on leg room. The free wine that was served only helped to a point.

The question we are contemplating is whether it is worth it to upgrade our seating the next time we travel abroad.

Any thoughts from anyone that has experience with this issue would be appreciated.
by cartman
Thu Mar 23, 2017 7:36 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Voya's Corp. Leaders Trust Fund
Replies: 0
Views: 454

Voya's Corp. Leaders Trust Fund

I currently have shares of Voya Corporate Leaders Trust Fund within my Vanguard brokerage account.

Because of additional fund audit requirements, Voya is typically very late in providing my tax information to Vanguard. Does anyone else experience this issue?
by cartman
Sat Mar 18, 2017 3:27 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Looking for a snazzy car
Replies: 78
Views: 8067

Re: Looking for a snazzy car

Suggest a mini convertible. Owned by BMW and assembled in Oxford U.K. Take one out for a test drive. Just extremely fun to drive.
by cartman
Thu Aug 04, 2016 8:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Florence, Italy Hotel?
Replies: 18
Views: 1763

Florence, Italy Hotel?

Planning a trip to Florence, Italy and Bogleheads have been extremely helpful thus far.

Requesting help on where to stay in Florence for approximately four days. There are hundred's of hotels to choose from but interesting no U.S. or international chains. My wife and I looking for a property somewhat centrally located in the $200-$250 a night range.

Your responses are always appreciated.
by cartman
Tue Aug 02, 2016 8:51 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Another Italy Trip
Replies: 33
Views: 2927

Re: Another Italy Trip

Thank you all for the responses. All valuable information.

My wife and I were in Italy approximately 15 years ago. At that time we did the Perillo tours. You know..10 cities in 10 days. To have more freedom and to avoid gift shop stops, we're doing the planning this time.

I particularly appreciate the suggestions to
* Fly out out of Florence or Milan rather than returning to Rome.

* Visit Venice rather than Cinque Terre

* Visit the small hill towns in Tuscany. I assume I need to relearn how to drive a standard.

Oh yea, what the deal with the requirement to have your train ticket validated? We also did it in France and never understood the significance of it.

Thanks again.
by cartman
Mon Aug 01, 2016 3:11 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Another Italy Trip
Replies: 33
Views: 2927

Another Italy Trip

My wife and I are planning a trip to Italy;

* 2 nights in Rome

* 3 nights in Florence

* 2 nights in Cinque Terre, and

* 2 final nights in Rome.

We're thinking this might be too ambitious. Maybe stay longer or reduce the traveling

Any thoughts would be appreciated.