To close the loop on this, we just made our decision. We received a total of 4 quotes. 3 quotes from contractors found on Angi and one quote from a landscaper from our town that we previously hired some 7-8 years ago. All quotes were pretty similar. First contractor was 30 min late without notice. Not a deal breaker but not a great look either. All others were perfectly on time and all are saying they are busy. We hired the local landscaper that we hired in the past because of his responsiveness. He was able to show up next day, he changed the quote to fit our budget and desires within 10 minutes, and was immediately available via text and phone. His price per arborvitae was actually the highest.
Thanks to all those here that helped us!
Search found 2476 matches
- Mon Mar 18, 2024 3:14 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
- Replies: 30
- Views: 3044
- Mon Mar 18, 2024 2:25 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Lawn care for first time home buyer
- Replies: 35
- Views: 1778
Re: Lawn care for first time home buyer
I'm a bit of a lawn care nut. The only lawn equipment you need is what you need at the moment (or near future). What I mean by that is don't go buying a ton of expensive equipment you may not need or use much. My first lawn equipment was second hand push mower I got for free from my neighbor who fixes small engine equipment. Then I bought a better one from him for like $50 a few months later. I'd say start with a good workable plan and for equipment get a lawn mower, rake, weed whacker, and a leaf blower. Then add equipment as you see fit. So if you get on a good lawn care plan, you will find you need a drop spreader. EGO makes good ones, but I've also done fine with Scott's. First you need to decide if you need a ride on mower or you can m...
- Sun Mar 17, 2024 7:23 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Anyone purchased a RAV4 hybrid recently?
- Replies: 30
- Views: 3725
Re: Anyone purchased a RAV4 hybrid recently?
Dealer dependent, of course, but we were offered $1,000 off when about to walk away from a Grand Highlander purchase. Also, I can attest to Toyota hybrids being very dependent, besides the minivan power sliding doors. 1 interior light replacement is my only mechanical issue on my 7 year old Prius. I will be hard pressed to buy anything but Toyota (or Honda) for our future purchases.
- Sun Mar 17, 2024 7:14 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: RIP edmunds.com....how can one evaluate the value of a used car now?
- Replies: 25
- Views: 4068
Re: RIP edmunds.com....how can one evaluate the value of a used car now?
NADA
JD Powers
Car & Driver has a new and used car calculator
Facebook marketplace
eBay motors, clicked used
Google the car you're looking for. Click "Shopping".
Car Gurus
Craigslist
Carmax
Truecar
Autotrader
JD Powers
Car & Driver has a new and used car calculator
Facebook marketplace
eBay motors, clicked used
Google the car you're looking for. Click "Shopping".
Car Gurus
Craigslist
Carmax
Truecar
Autotrader
- Sat Mar 16, 2024 10:18 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
- Replies: 30
- Views: 3044
Re: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
A cheap contractor can make you wish you picked the most expensive one... Not "cheap" but "reasonably priced". Here's a couple examples. Right @ 2017 or so, I noticed a huge increase in dollar amount of quotes. - I wanted a very small walkway installed in my front yard and was told $10k, without even a detailed invoice. It was really a $3-4k job. I ended up doing it myself for like $600-$700. - Two basement waterproofing companies told me I needed full French drainage systems for $10-$12k to deal with the water I would get in my basement during heavy rains. I found a local, highly rated company that took the time to assess the situation and resolved it with a partial French drainage system that cost me $5500. Not a drop...
- Sat Mar 16, 2024 5:59 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Buying an Expensive Car
- Replies: 83
- Views: 6716
Re: Buying an Expensive Car
You have a net worth greater than most your age. You can afford to pay cash. If you understand what depreciation will do to your money and are OK with that to have your dream car, then it's absolutely fine to do that. Your rent is low compared to your income. You have a lot in investments. I'd go for it in your position. Enjoy!
- Sat Mar 16, 2024 5:55 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Garmin Watches: do you wear it at night? if not, does it affect stats?
- Replies: 33
- Views: 2421
Re: Garmin Watches: do you wear it at night? if not, does it affect stats?
No. I don't think I'd sleep well with a watch on.
- Sat Mar 16, 2024 5:52 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Utilities cost?
- Replies: 57
- Views: 4086
Re: Utilities cost?
How is any of this actionable?
- Fri Mar 15, 2024 1:52 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: The best game-changing financial advice you ever received (or "discovered")
- Replies: 120
- Views: 11147
Re: The best game-changing financial advice you ever received (or "discovered")
Taylor Larimore's lazy 3 fund portfolio post here.
Meeting my wife. She's frugal and she even makes having kids not expensive.
Meeting my wife. She's frugal and she even makes having kids not expensive.
- Fri Mar 15, 2024 1:46 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Extra Low Mileage Drivers: How much do you spend on your car?
- Replies: 48
- Views: 4201
Re: Extra Low Mileage Drivers: How much do you spend on your car?
I would not own a car if my car sat for 6 weeks at a time. Uber or Lyft would be much cheaper options. Or I'd at least rent it out using Turo.
I recently owned a classic car and I found it impossible to let it sit and collect dust. I spent a few thousand on repairs, new wheels, and audio. When I got my fill, I sold it.
I recently owned a classic car and I found it impossible to let it sit and collect dust. I spent a few thousand on repairs, new wheels, and audio. When I got my fill, I sold it.
- Thu Mar 14, 2024 3:10 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Navigating Speakers for in home theater
- Replies: 41
- Views: 2655
Re: Navigating Speakers for in home theater
madbrain wrote: ↑Thu Mar 14, 2024 3:07 pmSure, you don't have to go that low. But $5K which you originally suggested would be excessive when spending $4.5k on speakers.
Something like a Denon AVR-X6700H would be perfectly adequate, currently retailing for $1699 at best buy. There is open box for $1399 also.
I bought a Marantz SR7011 open box at Best buy for about $1000 in 2017. It is still the main AVR in my 7.1.4 system. I kept my old Yamaha AVR to power the extra 2 speakers that the Marantz doesn't have amplifiers for.
AVRs have gone up quite a bit since 2017, though.
I never suggested that price point, I simply asked what their budget was for an AVR.
- Thu Mar 14, 2024 3:08 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Furniture prices... is this normal?
- Replies: 60
- Views: 9477
Re: Furniture prices... is this normal?
Oh, I wasn't aware of that! Thank you!meowcat wrote: ↑Thu Mar 14, 2024 11:52 amDon't forget, part of that outrageous price for Lovesac is its lifetime warranty from defects.YeahBuddy wrote: ↑Mon Mar 11, 2024 6:35 pm Not normal. Love sac is a trendy, expensive option. My daughter once took me to check out love sac at the mall and I was shocked at the prices.
We purchase sectionals at a trustworthy, local furniture store for around $3k. We currently have a 5 seat sectional, with 3 power recliners, a storage section with cupholders and chargers, it came with a free 5 year free upholstery cleaning coverage and I think we paid $3,500. It's really nice.
But now I'm wanting to read that warranty, as I can't remember ever having defects vs general wear and tear being the determining factor when replacing furniture.
- Thu Mar 14, 2024 3:07 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
- Replies: 30
- Views: 3044
Re: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
tonyclifton wrote: ↑Thu Mar 14, 2024 4:57 amI use Angi.com and e-mail our neighborhood's e-mail list. Through the e-mail list, I was pleasantly surprised to find that two of my neighbors used and raved about the same exterior painter. I also wrote down the names of a siding outfit that did an awesome insulation job and other crew that did a basement waterproofing. I've used Angi since it launched - it has changed a lot but it still a good starting point for contractors - I have not use it for project management or to bid out jobs.
Thank you, and others that recommended Angi. I received an immediate call back and scheduled an appointment for tomorrow at 4pm! This will get the ball rolling.
- Thu Mar 14, 2024 2:55 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Navigating Speakers for in home theater
- Replies: 41
- Views: 2655
Re: Navigating Speakers for in home theater
- Wed Mar 13, 2024 11:36 pm
- Forum: Personal Investments
- Topic: Advice for my investments
- Replies: 9
- Views: 1225
Re: Advice for my investments
I wouldn't pay an advisor anything. I've found more useful info on this forum and that I manage my own portfolio. Basically setup a lazy 3 fund portfolio advocated here. If you're getting close to retirement, I'd probably go closer to 75/25 stocks to bonds. All depends on your own risk tolerance. I have a pension so I'm planning on sticking with 100% stocks until I'm in my 60s, as my investment window is 80+.
viewtopic.php?t=88005
viewtopic.php?t=88005
- Wed Mar 13, 2024 11:15 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: New Home Question
- Replies: 7
- Views: 808
Re: New Home Question
Sounds like a great buying position to be in. Enjoy the new home!
- Wed Mar 13, 2024 11:11 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
- Replies: 30
- Views: 3044
Re: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
Guess I will just google landscapers near me and hopefully find a reasonable one.
- Wed Mar 13, 2024 11:10 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Navigating Speakers for in home theater
- Replies: 41
- Views: 2655
Re: Navigating Speakers for in home theater
7.1.4 layout is the gold standard for Dolby Atmos. Without knowing your budget, it's impossible to make recommendations. Do you want something that just bounces sound off the ceiling? Or you want in ceiling speakers? Bouncing sound off the ceiling won't sound as good as speakers installed directly in your ceiling. Are you looking to spend $5k on a AVR or $50k? Same for speakers, amplifiers. And one or more subs. I recommend Audioholics take on Dolby Atmos for your reading enjoyment https://www.audioholics.com/audio-technologies/dolby-atmos-best-setup-practices Or do you want just a plug and play soundbar system? The Samsung Q990C is currently one of the best under $2k. But it won't compare to a real Dolby Atmos system. https://www.samsung.c...
- Wed Mar 13, 2024 8:27 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: How to find reasonably priced contractors?
- Replies: 30
- Views: 3044
How to find reasonably priced contractors?
[Topic is now in Personal Consumer Issues - mod mkc] How do frugal folks go about finding the best priced contractors? I usually do things on my own or have family members help out when they can, but I have a larger landscaping job I'd like to contract out. But lately the quotes have been through the roof. $2k for tree trimming. $4,500 to run some heat in the basement. $40k to finish my basement (did most of it with a friend for ~ $1,500). In the past, I hired handymen off craigslist. One was good, one did half the job. Just wondering since I haven't hired anyone in a number of years. So how do budget minded folks find reasonably priced pros? Angie's list? Facebook? Google? I plan to get 2-3 quotes. The job is installing green giant arborv...
- Tue Mar 12, 2024 6:14 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: What's your primary credit card?
- Replies: 117
- Views: 10255
Re: What's your primary credit card?
I find not everywhere takes discover, so I go with a Capital One Visa (Quicksilver). 1.5% cash back (cb) on purchases I then have a Penfed 5% cb on gas, AMEX 6% cb groceries, an amazon card, and there's some cards that have rotating rewards that I don't find very helpful most of the time. For many, many years I had a Penfed that was supposed to be 5% on gas and groceries. Except when I wanted to take the rewards in the form of cash they were only worth 80% of value. And, even then it was not easy as I could not take it in the form of a statement credit. I had to buy many Amazon gift cards to use up my balance, all of which took way too much time to buy those Amazon cards. I stopped using the Penfed card after that miserable experience. Wow...
- Mon Mar 11, 2024 6:35 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Furniture prices... is this normal?
- Replies: 60
- Views: 9477
Re: Furniture prices... is this normal?
Not normal. Love sac is a trendy, expensive option. My daughter once took me to check out love sac at the mall and I was shocked at the prices.
We purchase sectionals at a trustworthy, local furniture store for around $3k. We currently have a 5 seat sectional, with 3 power recliners, a storage section with cupholders and chargers, it came with a free 5 year free upholstery cleaning coverage and I think we paid $3,500. It's really nice.
We purchase sectionals at a trustworthy, local furniture store for around $3k. We currently have a 5 seat sectional, with 3 power recliners, a storage section with cupholders and chargers, it came with a free 5 year free upholstery cleaning coverage and I think we paid $3,500. It's really nice.
- Mon Mar 11, 2024 6:27 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?
- Replies: 207
- Views: 14923
Re: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?
My wife comes from a Portuguese background where they keep cash over investments or evening savings in a bank. So she started keeping more cash especially around 2020 in an envelope. Like another posted here, it helps at times when we have large, unexpected car repair bills or other expenses, so we don't have to put it all on a credit card. It's up to $2,000. I'd rather run the large bill on a credit card paying 2% cash back and then pay it off with money from a HYSA or MM fund paying 5% on my 2K than just let it sit in the house. I understand it's a cultural thing, but it doesn't math right for me. Very small price to pay for a happy wife. Life is about more than just squeezing every penny out of every situation. Also, not every merchant ...
- Mon Mar 11, 2024 1:22 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?
- Replies: 207
- Views: 14923
Re: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?
My wife comes from a Portuguese background where they keep cash over investments or evening savings in a bank. So she started keeping more cash especially around 2020 in an envelope. Like another posted here, it helps at times when we have large, unexpected car repair bills or other expenses, so we don't have to put it all on a credit card. It's up to $2,000. I'd rather run the large bill on a credit card paying 2% cash back and then pay it off with money from a HYSA or MM fund paying 5% on my 2K than just let it sit in the house. I understand it's a cultural thing, but it doesn't math right for me. Very small price to pay for a happy wife. Life is about more than just squeezing every penny out of every situation. Also, not every merchant ...
- Mon Mar 11, 2024 5:08 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?
- Replies: 207
- Views: 14923
Re: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?
My wife comes from a Portuguese background where they keep cash over investments or evening savings in a bank. So she started keeping more cash especially around 2020 in an envelope. Like another posted here, it helps at times when we have large, unexpected car repair bills or other expenses, so we don't have to put it all on a credit card. It's up to $2,000.
- Mon Mar 11, 2024 1:51 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: What's your primary credit card?
- Replies: 117
- Views: 10255
Re: What's your primary credit card?
I find not everywhere takes discover, so I go with a Capital One Visa (Quicksilver). 1.5% cash back (cb) on purchases
I then have a Penfed 5% cb on gas, AMEX 6% cb groceries, an amazon card, and there's some cards that have rotating rewards that I don't find very helpful most of the time.
I then have a Penfed 5% cb on gas, AMEX 6% cb groceries, an amazon card, and there's some cards that have rotating rewards that I don't find very helpful most of the time.
- Mon Mar 11, 2024 1:47 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Feeling stuck with the mortgage
- Replies: 30
- Views: 2541
Re: Feeling stuck with the mortgage
Hello all! :beer I purchased a $260k home next to an expanding highway in a fast growing exurb area in late 2019 in order to be close to work in the nearby big city 30 min away. I refinanced for a 30 year 2.9% rate in 2020. Then COVID hit, and I started working remotely and for better pay. Then came a 7k fence upgrade because the dogs were getting out, then after home warranty expired, a 1k roof repair, $500 plumbing repair, a few broken appliances, 2 new babies and high risk medical bills, added insulation , upgraded electrical and solar (we own EV’s and live in a hot desert)... Basically, a lot has already been sunk into this home, and its still in need of cosmetic work. Additionally, the general area, lifestyle, and vibes have changed f...
- Sun Mar 10, 2024 3:13 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Take lower paying job for less stress
- Replies: 14
- Views: 994
Re: Take lower paying job for less stress
Well only you know you, so I'll flip the tables and ask you this - Are you a high stress person?
Did these problems with sleep, not being able to exercise, and problems disconnecting in the evening for family exist prior to your current position/job or are they new issues?
I went through a higher stress opportunity about 5 years back which would have resulted in a pay increase of around 20%. It was challenging and worthwhile but wasn't worth the physical toll for me. I took a step back and since then I've been there for almost all my family's big moments, kids sports and success, I workout frequently, have down time, etc. Hope this helps.
Did these problems with sleep, not being able to exercise, and problems disconnecting in the evening for family exist prior to your current position/job or are they new issues?
I went through a higher stress opportunity about 5 years back which would have resulted in a pay increase of around 20%. It was challenging and worthwhile but wasn't worth the physical toll for me. I took a step back and since then I've been there for almost all my family's big moments, kids sports and success, I workout frequently, have down time, etc. Hope this helps.
- Sat Mar 09, 2024 8:29 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Can I splurge on a family vacation to Hawaii?
- Replies: 56
- Views: 4803
Re: Can I splurge on a family vacation to Hawaii?
Permission granted.
- Fri Mar 08, 2024 6:19 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: What would you have done differently if you could go back and restart your financial journey?
- Replies: 68
- Views: 5602
Re: What would you have done differently if you could go back and restart your financial journey?
Not listened to that guidance counselor that told me I was "too smart" to attend the vocational school/learned a trade.
Stayed the course in 08-09.
All the other spending was memorable and fun, and made me who I am today. So I wouldn't take that back (besides maybe 1 new car purchase that depreciated quickly).
Stayed the course in 08-09.
All the other spending was memorable and fun, and made me who I am today. So I wouldn't take that back (besides maybe 1 new car purchase that depreciated quickly).
- Thu Mar 07, 2024 6:13 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Need to buy a car: Outback or CRV?
- Replies: 55
- Views: 6405
- Thu Mar 07, 2024 1:29 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Should I buy this phone?
- Replies: 24
- Views: 1883
Re: Should I buy this phone?
Which phone do you want? New androids are getting cheaper and they are really good. Google or YouTube best cheap smartphones. iPhones are still expensive. Seems like you can afford it. Cell phone providers also offer lease deals and you can trade in to get the latest and greatest. Cell phone technology isn't moving as fast as it was even 5 years ago, so get yourself a new phone and keep it for 3-5 years and enjoy!
- Wed Mar 06, 2024 5:13 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: How much car can I afford?
- Replies: 114
- Views: 9038
Re: How much car can I afford?
Is there a formula on how much a car a person can afford? Is it based on net worth? Income? :confused Stat: I'm 58, DW 57. Both retired since a year ago. Income: Gross $137K/YR (Pension $94K with COLA, SSDI $43K), Net $10K/month filing married jointly Savings: TIRA $1.7M RIRA $75K (both mostly in fixed income) Primary Mortgage paid off (home worth ~$650K) Second home mortgage paid off (condo worth ~$250K) 2 paid off cars (2021 Mercedes GLE, 2008 Honda Accord) Expenses: the usual, property tax, insurance, groceries, trips etc. Have a really good employer sponsored health insurance During last year, which was my first year in retirement, I didn't have to withdraw anything from my IRA accounts. $10K/month income was sufficient for usual expen...
- Mon Mar 04, 2024 7:03 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Need better sound for music enjoyment
- Replies: 20
- Views: 2897
Re: Need better sound for music enjoyment
I'm no audio engineer, but a recent audio upgrader and my advice is to go with a good, standard 2.1 system. There's not many soundbar systems that can compete with a 2.1 < $1,000. My current system with prices is below, but if you love bass, at that budget, you need a subwoofer. If you don't need tons of low end bass, I have made a recommendation for bookshelf speakers that can do that. My current speakers lack bass under say 100hz. You could buy my speakers and have $400 to add a good subwoofer. Wiim Pro Plus (music streamer/DAC) - $219 Fosi Audio BT20A Pro (amp) - $80 Sony SSCS5 speakers - $125 - come with wire Speaker Stands - $67 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMX3P6TL?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1 I also added a media stand ...
- Sun Mar 03, 2024 6:17 am
- Forum: Personal Investments
- Topic: I want to pay off car using money from Roth IRA
- Replies: 40
- Views: 4479
Re: I want to pay off car using money from Roth IRA
She uses her car only a few days a week? How many days/week do you use the car? And is it on the same days that she needs her car? Uber and Lyft might be a better options for you vs borrowing from your retirement. Just a thought!
- Fri Mar 01, 2024 11:32 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Neighbor Got Burglarized, How To Prevent
- Replies: 74
- Views: 8335
Re: Neighbor Got Burglarized, How To Prevent
Always have a car in the driveway
Nosey neighbors that are always home
Signs: Beware of dog and protected by XYZ security company
Be home as much as possible
Leave a light or 2 on when away
Motion lights
A dog seems like the most expensive option but well worth it IMO. Nobody in their right mind is breaking into a house with a loud barking dog.
Nosey neighbors that are always home
Signs: Beware of dog and protected by XYZ security company
Be home as much as possible
Leave a light or 2 on when away
Motion lights
A dog seems like the most expensive option but well worth it IMO. Nobody in their right mind is breaking into a house with a loud barking dog.
- Fri Mar 01, 2024 6:52 am
- Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
- Topic: Are there any special circumstances in which you'd sell or stop DCA-ing?
- Replies: 25
- Views: 2249
Re: Are there any special circumstances in which you'd sell or stop DCA-ing?
No. Nothing to do with market timing. Only time I'd stop is if I'm in a dire financial situation. I need my entire liquid EF, maxed out the HELOC, some disastrous medical situation, something like that. In fact, in a bad market climate, I'd invest more, such as 2020. I invested heavily from Dow 29k down to 19k, or VTSAX from $80 down to $57.
Edit
Using my imagination, if an impeding complete collapse of the US stock market was predicted, others would probably be able to withdraw much faster so I guess I'd just have to accept the loss. My pension would still hopefully be in tact, but I can't touch that anyways.
Edit
Using my imagination, if an impeding complete collapse of the US stock market was predicted, others would probably be able to withdraw much faster so I guess I'd just have to accept the loss. My pension would still hopefully be in tact, but I can't touch that anyways.
- Wed Feb 28, 2024 11:56 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: When do electric cars stop making sense?
- Replies: 210
- Views: 16117
Re: When do electric cars stop making sense?
Looks like a toss up for you. I have solar and still have trouble justifying buying an EV.
I'd go Rav 4 or some sort of hybrid unless you really want EV.
I'd go Rav 4 or some sort of hybrid unless you really want EV.
- Wed Feb 28, 2024 11:49 pm
- Forum: Personal Investments
- Topic: How Can I Fix This Mess? - Investment Advice
- Replies: 15
- Views: 2425
Re: How Can I Fix This Mess? - Investment Advice
What mess? You're in great shape. Better than probably >80% of those within 5 years of retirement.
Just to give you an example, a coworker of mine is planning to retire within 1 year, has not paid off her house, still has credit card debt, and probably half as much money saved as you. Probably less than half.
Turn off the TV and your emotions. Invest some money into VTSAX or the like, and then DCA going forward, just to feel better.
Just to give you an example, a coworker of mine is planning to retire within 1 year, has not paid off her house, still has credit card debt, and probably half as much money saved as you. Probably less than half.
Turn off the TV and your emotions. Invest some money into VTSAX or the like, and then DCA going forward, just to feel better.
- Wed Feb 28, 2024 5:44 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: rider mower club cadet or john deere
- Replies: 21
- Views: 2155
Re: rider mower club cadet or john deere
Consider going to your local outdoor power equipment supply store over big box. They are generally built better with higher quality parts. Also, I'd go zero turn.
- Tue Feb 27, 2024 5:32 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Any audiophiles on this forum?
- Replies: 321
- Views: 40895
Re: Any audiophiles on this forum?
I've got about 100K worth of Audio Equipment. Slippery slope - if I had discovered this site earlier, I would have socked more money away - and probably would have been happy with a 10K audio system too. Still - if any audiophiles here - love to hear what their systems look like... Can't afford to be an audiophile, but was wondering, if you had to do it all over, and spend as little as possible, what setup and equipment would you want to go with? I am just getting back into audio options. I've been watching a lot of Youtube videos with Andrew Robinson, Cheap audio man, etc. For me, I would like something wireless. Or at least much less equipment. Would be nice to improve my tv's sound system for occasional movies (thought about soundbars w...
- Mon Feb 26, 2024 5:13 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Decision at end of car lease
- Replies: 41
- Views: 4332
Re: Decision at end of car lease
As I said, we love the car, and it's in great condition with low mileage. But this feels expensive to me. KBB puts the private party value at $19,412. [/list] This is your answer. You love the car, it's in great condition, with low mileage. I'd buy it. And it's cheap. You said there's great options for used cars for $10k. Locally I can't find anything decent with under 100k miles. And paying $1k over private party at a dealership isn't much, especially since you know the history. Edit Ah, I see now you made your decision already. Interesting that you went from thinking a used Bolt was expensive to leasing a more premium EV. I've heard good reviews on the Ioniq, but I personally can't get passed the styling. I wonder what you will decide at...
- Sun Feb 25, 2024 5:33 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: What got you out of poverty?
- Replies: 111
- Views: 12862
Re: What got you out of poverty?
Grew up lower middle class, not poverty. But wife grew up in true poverty. Sleeping on beds made out of hay in the old country. Raising their own livestock for food. Poor poor.
Here's what they did. Both parents worked 60-80hrs a week x 20 years. Hand me downs. Cheapest apartment possible.
Here's what I did. Lived at home with parents longer. Higher savings/investment rate. Went back to school for new career at age 29. Now, pension plus higher income.
Here's what they did. Both parents worked 60-80hrs a week x 20 years. Hand me downs. Cheapest apartment possible.
Here's what I did. Lived at home with parents longer. Higher savings/investment rate. Went back to school for new career at age 29. Now, pension plus higher income.
- Fri Feb 23, 2024 5:20 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: How do you live healthy?
- Replies: 107
- Views: 8123
Re: How do you live healthy?
inforapound wrote: ↑Fri Feb 23, 2024 8:33 am Daily exercise: running, hiking, and stretching; I'm trying to incorporate weight-training, but I just don't like it, so it's a struggle!
I'm the complete opposite, love weight training and despise running. But I've found simply doing what physical exercise you enjoy is better than torturing yourself doing something people say you should do. We are still doing more than most people. Enjoy!
- Fri Feb 23, 2024 5:18 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: How do you live healthy?
- Replies: 107
- Views: 8123
Re: How do you live healthy?
Several ways.
1. Get all regular checkups, bloodwork, 6 month dental cleanings, shots, follow expert guidance, take any prescription medications
2. Diet high in lean protein, fruits and veggies. Drink lots of water. Enjoy treats.
3. Weight training 3-4x per week, plus cardio. 25 continuous years now. And I'm currently training my 14 year old how to lift !
4. Lifestyle - keep stress low, not too many work hours, prioritize sleep, take any necessary supplements, no smoking
5. Maintain a "healthy" weight. No abs but I feel good, high energy, lifestyle balance
6. Mental health - which includes strong family connections and lots of time together, time for myself, do things I enjoy, etc.
1. Get all regular checkups, bloodwork, 6 month dental cleanings, shots, follow expert guidance, take any prescription medications
2. Diet high in lean protein, fruits and veggies. Drink lots of water. Enjoy treats.
3. Weight training 3-4x per week, plus cardio. 25 continuous years now. And I'm currently training my 14 year old how to lift !
4. Lifestyle - keep stress low, not too many work hours, prioritize sleep, take any necessary supplements, no smoking
5. Maintain a "healthy" weight. No abs but I feel good, high energy, lifestyle balance
6. Mental health - which includes strong family connections and lots of time together, time for myself, do things I enjoy, etc.
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 6:19 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Might need to replace car: are used Tesla's the value play right now?
- Replies: 41
- Views: 5633
Re: Might need to replace car: are used Tesla's the value play right now?
Depending on location, Teslas are very expensive and very difficult to insure. I obtained 3 quotes and I'm looking at $1,200-$2,100 more per year to insure. That kills the value play for me.
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 6:16 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
- Replies: 168
- Views: 13633
Re: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
Probably because you're been driving them since 2012. Just google why Americans are not buying evs and see for yourself. This is a logical fallacy. If you ask people who don't have EVs, you're getting underinformed, biased opinion about EVs. If you can magically screen for people who have *seriously* considered an EV and earnestly tried it, you'd get more valid answers. And everyone who has an EVs, have and have had other cars, to contrast with. The bold line describes me. The major obstacles for me is the cost of insurance, charging situation, and lesser issues are the cost of the tires as well as lower tire tread life, and specifically for Tesla, some features like the wipers on/off is buried in the main screen. I previously owned a Volt...
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 6:43 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
- Replies: 168
- Views: 13633
Re: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
Probably because you're been driving them since 2012.
Just google why Americans are not buying evs and see for yourself.
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 9:10 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
- Replies: 168
- Views: 13633
Re: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
A used Tesla Model 3 and Y would be my choice. The EV depreciation issue is overblown. This is false. Most EVs depreciate much faster than most ICE vehicles. Just search "do EVs depreciate faster." "All-electric vehicles have the worst depreciation rate by vehicle type. iSeeCars reports the average five-year depreciation rate for electric vehicles is almost 50%, meaning the typical EV loses half its value in just five years. One reason is technology." Here's some examples 2017 Model S 100D $116,250 MSRP. In 2019. In December, 2023, owner posted Caravan indicated the car was worth $36,500. --> $79,750 / 68% depreciation in 2 years. Local examples... 2018 Model 3 was $66,000. Today they are selling for $22k. $44k / 67% de...
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 9:03 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Sound bar
- Replies: 43
- Views: 4023
Re: Sound bar
A soundbar will be much better than any tv speakers. A sound bar is still not better than a real home theatre system like a 3.1 or 5.1 in terms of separation and head space. And no, I would not place the sub that far away. At a minimum I’d go with a 5.1 system. Most shows utilize this to a good effect. I was watching Devil’s Hour this weekend, and it makes great use of 5.1. Not a lot of shows and movies make use to Atmos. But those that do make pretty good use of it. If the sub is properly placed, you’ll feel the sound when a show or movie makes good use of it. I am currently suffering some analysis paralysis. I started with a 2.0 system for music. I plan to add a sub. But my amp (Fosi Audio BT20A Pro) isn't a real AVR so I need something ...
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 8:57 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
- Replies: 168
- Views: 13633
Re: Thoughts on buying cheap, used, "intermediate" range EV?
A used Tesla Model 3 and Y would be my choice. The EV depreciation issue is overblown. This is false. Most EVs depreciate much faster than most ICE vehicles. Just search "do EVs depreciate faster." "All-electric vehicles have the worst depreciation rate by vehicle type. iSeeCars reports the average five-year depreciation rate for electric vehicles is almost 50%, meaning the typical EV loses half its value in just five years. One reason is technology." Here's some examples 2017 Model S 100D $116,250 MSRP. In 2019. In December, 2023, owner posted Caravan indicated the car was worth $36,500. --> $79,750 / 68% depreciation in 2 years. Local examples... 2018 Model 3 was $66,000. Today they are selling for $22k. $44k / 67% de...