Search found 1174 matches

by takeshi
Mon Jul 31, 2017 10:19 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Non Stick frying pan
Replies: 73
Views: 10496

Re: Non Stick frying pan

saveinvestbecomefree wrote:I'm a huge fan of cast iron and even wrote a post about sanding an inexpensive Lodge skillet to make it like the smooth "machined" bottom skillets that cost about $200.
Vintage cast is another way to get smooth cast iron. My 1940's Wagner is very smooth. Not sure what they're selling for these days but they were creeping up at the time I bought mine years ago.
bovineplane wrote:Never wash with soap.
Modern soap is just fine on properly seasoned cast iron. Back when soap was made with lye you didn't want to use soap.
sunny_socal wrote:Lodge is common, here is the fancy brand
There seem to be a number of the latter these days: Finex, Smithey Ironware, Field Company, Borough Furnace, etc.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 27, 2017 9:08 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Should you wait until the due date to pay credit card balance?
Replies: 126
Views: 14265

Re: Should you wait until the due date to pay credit card balance?

Is there any benefit to waiting to accumulate a balance/debt and then paying it off right before the due date at the end of the month, as opposed to paying it off as soon as something gets processed? It's a lot less hassle to make one payment than to pay for every transaction -- at least for the amount of transactions that I have. It's only one click away for me, so I don't see the drawback to paying it off whenever I see a balance - do I earn credit slower with this though? If paying by the due date means that your revolving utilization (balance /limit ) is high then there can be some benefit to paying your balance down before the report date for the account. However, revolving utilization is determined based on the current balance(s) and...
by takeshi
Thu Jul 27, 2017 9:05 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Maintaining Credit Score without Installment Loans
Replies: 8
Views: 1815

Re: Maintaining Credit Score without Installment Loans

prudent wrote:Haven't had an installment loan in many years and I see the same message regarding my FICO score. These things are relative - if your score is sufficiently high already, it hardly matters.
Definitely keep this in mind. When you have a higher credit score these messages are regarding matters that have a much smaller impact. One can see these messages up until one hits 850 but with FICO 8 the top tier starts around 740-760 so there's quite a bit of margin there.

Don't open an installment just for scoring purposes.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 27, 2017 9:01 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Rental car using travel rewards?
Replies: 5
Views: 826

Re: Rental car using travel rewards?

unclescrooge wrote:What does the collective wisdom of the board suggest? Use rewards and buy insurance, forgo insurance, or pay using credit card and then forgo insurance?
I'd recommend comparing the redemption value of using your UR points on a car rental versus other redemption you could use. You may or may not find better value for your UR points.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 27, 2017 8:58 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Rewards Cards
Replies: 16
Views: 2490

Re: Rewards Cards

JBTX wrote:Curious as to others philosophies in opening new cc accounts to gain the upfront rewards.
There's a massive rewards strategy thread linked above that is still seeing activity if you really want to read up on how others handle it. I don't bonus chase though sign on bonuses have factored into past decisions. At this stage, I'm mostly sticking with cards that I can keep in the longer run that maximize rewards on my existing spend.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 27, 2017 8:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: BMW Z3 or Z4 or nothing at all?
Replies: 82
Views: 17430

Re: BMW Z3 or Z4 or nothing at all?

Do any bogleheads own a Z3/Z4 and if so do you like it? I don't own one but we rented a Z4 for a road trip. It was a fine roadster. Whether or not it's a good fit depends on where you're coming from an what you're specifically expecting. As a prior S2000 and current Boxster owner it doesn't handle anywhere near as well. Trunk space was also severely limited with the top down but the Z4 we rented was a retractable hardtop. Not sure if the softtop differs. However, the S2000 and the Boxster had much more trunk space. If you're looking for more of a touring (casually cruising around) car the Z4 could be a good fit. We weren't going spirited driving on our road trip so the Z4 worked out well for us. No idea on actual reliability but BMW isn't ...
by takeshi
Wed Jul 26, 2017 8:01 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 2018 Subaru Outback with 3 car seats vs. other car/suv options
Replies: 75
Views: 15458

Re: 2018 Subaru Outback with 3 car seats vs. other car/suv options

tsukune wrote:no minivan
What about something like the Mazda 5? I don't know a whole lot about them but they seem like mini mini vans. Not currently in production but you mentioned you were considering used.
tsukune wrote:Volvo, Lexus, Audi, BMW, Mercedes crossover + wagon options - concerned about reliability and ongoing maintenance costs with some of these, ability to fit three carseats in a row, price
As someone else stated above, Lexus shouldn't be lumped with the rest. If you use the Lexus dealer then, yes, maintenance costs are a bit higher but a Toyota dealer or good independent can offer lower costs. As for reliability, Lexus is more akin to Toyota.
thangngo wrote:Have you looked into Nissan Rouge?
Rogue. Rouge is something entirely different.
by takeshi
Wed Jul 26, 2017 7:36 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Home Security System with/without monitoring
Replies: 40
Views: 8715

Re: Home Security System with/without monitoring

It's a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. It's always overwhelming with any topic if you're considering every possible option out there. Make sure you're filtering with your specific needs/wants, budget, etc. For example, you state that you don't want monitoring (or the ability to add monitoring later) but you're considering Comcast? Comcast should have been ruled out already. It does sometimes help to see what all is out there and then figure out what you think you need/want but definitely get that sorted out and you'll have a narrowed down list of options. For those of you with a professionally-monitored system, are there many false alarms? Keep in mind that professionally installed alarm are not all identical. Installation...
by takeshi
Wed Jul 26, 2017 7:29 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: About to buy a rental car, any advice?
Replies: 54
Views: 6587

Re: About to buy a rental car, any advice?

poker27 wrote:No offense but where is the fun in beating on a Mazda 3 or Kia whatever?
Who says it's only about fun? A lot of people have no respect for property that isn't their own and rental cars are no exception. However, that's what the inspection is for. If there's evidence of abuse a good inspection should uncover it.
BogleMelon wrote: Aha! Got it! Yeah that's what I think too, who on earth would abuse a boring Sedan?!
A lot of people. Never conflate "I don't" with "no one does" on any topic.
by takeshi
Wed Jul 26, 2017 7:21 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Need Options - Honda Accord Incredibly Uncomfortable Seats
Replies: 135
Views: 41697

Re: Need Options - Honda Accord Incredibly Uncomfortable Seats

OldSport wrote:Is the Acura TLX any better for seat comfort?
Comfort is a very subjective thing. There are those that find X's seats comfortable and those that do not. Now that you know that it takes an extended time to verify seat comfort for you then take that into consideration when test driving cars and request an extended test drive. Some dealers will offer a test drive over the weekend or similar.
by takeshi
Wed Jul 26, 2017 7:12 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: WiFi Thermostat?
Replies: 59
Views: 7131

Re: WiFi Thermostat?

I am replacing my old thermostat and wondering if it is worth $100 more for a wifi as compared to just a programmable. Thanks. Worth is never just about the object in question. Do you need/want the features and benefits of a WiFi thermostat or would they go unused? Our thermostat is Z-Wave and not WiFi so it's not exactly the same but similar. I find the ability to remotely check, control and program the thermostat very useful -- not just when away from home but even in the home. Our home is 2 stories but we only have a single zone system with the thermostat on the first floor. Additionally, since my thermostat is integrated with the alarm system rules such as "shut off the fan in case of a fire alarm" can be implemented. All thi...
by takeshi
Tue Jul 25, 2017 7:17 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: College student daughter got her car totaled. Advice?
Replies: 34
Views: 4687

Re: College student daughter got her car totaled. Advice?

lazydavid wrote:I would second the recommendation of a Lexus RX. My 2007 is worth about $6k with 150k miles, and does have bluetooth for phone (not for streaming), ESC, and a backup camera. Replace the oil cooler hoses ($70 part and about an hour of labor) and you'll be in good shape. It's not an exciting car by any stretch of the imagination, but then again neither is a CR-V.
I really like our RX even though its handling isn't all that great but I wouldn't recommend it to someone looking for something like a CR-V. Yes, it has a hatch and it is reliable but it is larger and heavier.
by takeshi
Tue Jul 25, 2017 7:11 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Apple or AT&T
Replies: 16
Views: 2519

Re: Apple or AT&T

Cookiegirl wrote:My cell phone contract is over, what do you think about going with apple directly for a new phone or back to AT&T, or another carrier?
No idea. I'd shop the options and compare over the time period if an offer has such a requirement. I.e. if an offer requires signing up for a 2 year payment plan (or contract, etc) then run the numbers for both options over the 2 years and compare.

Carrier selection should be done primarily with whether or not the carrier can provide the coverage you need where you need it.
by takeshi
Mon Jul 24, 2017 7:45 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 0 Percent CC - how to take advantage
Replies: 24
Views: 2886

Re: 0 Percent CC - how to take advantage

I can take advantage to a certain point on pre-paying some utility bills (4K max) to get the bonus money, but will never achieve the spend to utilize the additional 58K available to me. Don't assume that you should max these new tradelines. Extended credit is not money. It's extended credit. My total available credit on all CC's is now $172K, if I maxed out the $62K would still leave me with a decent (not ideal) credit utilization ratio. Assuming you have no balances reporting on the other cards, maxing out the new cards would put you at 36%. General recommendation is to never exceed 30%. 30% is not an ideal. It is a suggested maximum. Ideal Revolving Utilization is in the single digits. Revolving Utilization doesn't just matter across all...
by takeshi
Mon Jul 24, 2017 7:33 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: AnnualCreditReport Equifax
Replies: 31
Views: 3831

Re: AnnualCreditReport Equifax

AlwaysaQ wrote:That is not acceptable. Has this happened to anybody else recently?
It can happen for various reasons and isn't necessarily a matter of timing (i.e. people run into this at various times). It's probably an issue with verifying your identity. You need to sort it out with the credit reporting agency. Check your reports and verify that all information is correct. You may want to check with secondary reporting agencies such as IDA, SageStream, LexisNexis, etc as well as they are also sometimes used by creditors and/or for identity verification.
by takeshi
Mon Jul 24, 2017 7:20 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Teenager taking out loans to establish good credit
Replies: 24
Views: 2516

Re: Teenager taking out loans to establish good credit

You can certainly build credit without incurring debt or paying interest by using credit cards and paying every statement balance in full. There is some scoring benefit to having installments (mortgage, auto loan, student loan, etc) in your Credit Mix but it really doesn't make sense to take on an installment just for scoring purposes. Take one on when you actually need to do so. Got it, thanks for the response! So a large quantity of small charges on a credit card over a period of multiple years would produce a credit score similar to taking out a small student loan and paying it off? Not exactly. Credit scoring doesn't quite work like that and there are a lot of intricacies at plat. However, either way you're establishing Payment History....
by takeshi
Mon Jul 24, 2017 7:13 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: help with a new cell phone strategy
Replies: 8
Views: 1732

Re: help with a new cell phone strategy

Make sure you check with people in your area to determine if Sprint's coverage is sufficient for your needs. If you find that you want to stay on the Verizon network then look into Verizon MVNO's.

Definitely confirm that you need unlimited versus just assuming that more data is better.

And certainly separate your carrier selection from the phone purchase. That is why you're finding this so complicated.
by takeshi
Fri Jul 21, 2017 10:25 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 6K credit line too low.
Replies: 22
Views: 3031

Re: 6K credit line too low.

So, my main question is out of your experiences with the two banks, and taking the CL of the cards into consideration. With simplicity the priority who would you go with? I'd go with USAA but I'm already with them and have a high limit Limitless Visa card with them so I'm not sure my opinion is really going to be relevant to you. See if you can consolidate the USAA card limits (I'm not sure they'll do this) or close one and request the increase on the other. Why are the existing limits insufficient if you only expect to use 15% of $24K? Does your normal monthly credit card spend exceed $2,000? That said, I highly recommend having at least 2 cards, preferably from different creditors. If something happens with one creditor or if you have fr...
by takeshi
Thu Jul 20, 2017 8:26 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Would you let your teenager spend all his savings on a gaming computer?
Replies: 123
Views: 14080

Re: Would you let your teenager spend all his savings on a gaming computer?

markfaix wrote:My son, a rising high school junior, has saved $1500 through summer jobs, chores, gifts, etc. He now wants to spend almost all of it on a gaming computer that he plans to build this summer.
I don't have a teenager and I'm not a parent. I'm definitely not qualified to give parenting advice. However, I do want to say that I have the career that I have today (with no degree) because of computer games and building my own computers and networks to play them. I'm not saying that your kid will accomplish the same things if you allow him to do so but it may be something to consider. You know your son better than we do.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 20, 2017 7:51 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is Amex Platinum worth the high fees?
Replies: 48
Views: 33476

Re: Is Amex Platinum worth the high fees?

Is Amex Platinum worth the high fees? Your call to make just as it is with worth on any topic. Worth isn't just a matter of the topic at hand but how well the given topic fits an individual's needs/wants. My wife and I found it worthwhile for a couple of years but not this year, for example, so even an individual's sense of worth can change over time. We just haven't been traveling much this year though we did use the $200 airline credit (we canceled this year). We didn't get the 100K targeted bonus but the 60K bonus we got helped to offset the first year AF even though we really have not been able to do better than 0.6 to 0.8 cents per Membership Rewards point. Others are certainly able to get better value per point -- you'd have to take ...
by takeshi
Thu Jul 20, 2017 7:36 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Keurig vs coffeemaker - and the Keurig won
Replies: 53
Views: 8742

Re: Keurig vs coffeemaker - and the Keurig won

Shouldn't be a surprise IMO. If convenience trumps all else a Keurig or other single serve is a good fit. Convenience is very popular with many people -- not just with coffee but jut about any topic. I can't stand what comes out of single serve machines though so that's a nonstarter for me. I don't generally drink drip anyway and prefer espresso drinks and enjoy using my grinder and semiauto machine. However, we do have a Keurig as my wife values convenience even above cost & waste. We had the Vue for a while which used partially recyclable cups but the Vue never gained wide acceptance so selection was always poor. While our 2.0 can handle Vue cups she mostly uses K Cups these days. As lazy as I am, I think push button engine starting i...
by takeshi
Wed Jul 19, 2017 7:28 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 18 year old first credit card recommendations
Replies: 44
Views: 4755

Re: 18 year old first credit card recommendations

Best recommendation? Of course no annual fees and if possible good reward points or sign up bonus. Probably doesn't matter much for someone just starting out. You don't get something for nothing so cards with significant bonuses are likely to come with AF's. If she doesn't want an AF then expect a more basic card which is just fine for one starting to build credit history. I'd suggest Discover as they seem to be ok with thin but clean credit profiles. Credit unions are also a general recommendation for those just starting to build credit. Making her an AU on your cards as suggested above can help her with starting out. You don't have to give her the card if you make her an AU. "Good rewards points" isn't really relevant in this c...
by takeshi
Wed Jul 19, 2017 7:25 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Eliminate 0% CC balance?
Replies: 30
Views: 3743

Re: Eliminate 0% CC balance?

Keepcalm wrote:Would it be considered rational to just pay it off? It is 6,000. Or should I just continue my 12 month schedule to pay it down and invest/save the money instead?
How much is it bothering you? What's the $ impact (i.e. how much are you really making on investing $6K over the term of the 0% promo)? Which is more important to you?
by takeshi
Wed Jul 19, 2017 7:18 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Credit Card Extended Warranty for a TV
Replies: 15
Views: 3915

Re: Credit Card Extended Warranty for a TV

Hyperborea wrote:Any advice?
Consider using AmEx for such purchases in future. Their process is generally much less hassle than it is with other creditor provided warranty extensions.
*3!4!/5! wrote:What (type of) entity actually provides these warranties?
Is it banks e.g. Chase, Cap1 etc?
Is it payment networks e.g. Visa, MC AmEx etc?
Is it some 3rd party?
Usually a 3rd party but may depend on the specifics.
by takeshi
Wed Jul 19, 2017 7:15 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How Much Would You Spend on a Blender?
Replies: 47
Views: 6814

Re: How Much Would You Spend on a Blender?

Alf 101 wrote:How Much Would You Spend on a Blender?
Up to several hundred on a refurbed Vitamix or Blendtec but that doesn't really matter unless your usage and preferences happen to align with ours. We use our blender constantly for smoothies, nut milk, cooking, etc. Base your decision on your usage and budget versus just polling others.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 13, 2017 9:01 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best way to buy a iPAD
Replies: 13
Views: 2272

Re: Best way to buy a iPAD

retire14 wrote:Apple does not have it on its refurbished site (only Air 2 at $339)
I am not in a hurry and can wait for a sale to come on.
Keep checking Apple's refurb inventory. Every refurb I've purchased has been good as new.
by takeshi
Wed Jul 12, 2017 7:48 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Credit card vrs checking account for utility bills
Replies: 23
Views: 2677

Re: Credit card vrs checking account for utility bills

meebers wrote:Seems like it would offer more protection in the event of fraud, typos etc. Would add to the cash back from my card. Any good/bad experiences doing it this way.
I pay every bill that can be paid with a card without a fee for the reasons you've stated.
by takeshi
Tue Jul 11, 2017 12:08 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Will a credit score go up or down after student loans are cancelled with disability?
Replies: 4
Views: 781

Re: Will a credit score go up or down after student loans are cancelled with disability?

Can't speak to student loan cancellations specifically but generally speaking with credit: Credit impact is never just about the change itself but a person's credit profile and how the change factors in. If the person does not have any other active installments (mortgages, auto loans, student loans, etc) there can be a small hit to Credit Mix. Other factors matter as well but, generally speaking, those with more accounts in good standing with solid Payment History and older accounts are going to see less of an impact than those with less accounts and/or negative marks in Payment History and/or younger accounts. This gives a rough idea of the impact of the different factors but note that it indicates that percentages may vary a bit. Even so,...
by takeshi
Mon Jul 10, 2017 8:06 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: A good VISA card for Gas & Groceries?
Replies: 66
Views: 23619

Re: A good VISA card for Gas & Groceries?

Any suggestions from forum members? People seem to tend to fixate on % and the assumption that more is better but do the math to understand the impact in $. Is a difference of X% on your spend just a few bucks or is it a significant amount? How much more is 3% getting you versus 2% and is it worth it to you to investing the time and effort for those $? With some math you can get an idea of what % you need to get in order to make it worthwhile and that will help you to quickly narrow down the options. It may be possible that the % you need to find is too high for what you consider to be worthwhile in which case you don't need to chase it down and can stick with what you have. - Chase Freedom Visa (5% Rotating Categories) - Chase Sapphire Re...
by takeshi
Mon Jul 10, 2017 7:53 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Luggage recommendation
Replies: 37
Views: 5435

Re: Luggage recommendation

Are there any other options better deals out there? Depends on your priorities for a "deal". It seems like cost is your biggest concern and that sounds like a good fit for you. Some of us, though, need/want durable luggage with a lifetime warranty despite the price premium and for that route the usual suspects have been mentioned above, e.g. Eagle Creek, Travelpro, Briggs & Riley, etc though you do have be careful with some brands as lifetime may be offered only on specific lines/products. We have used the warranty on one of our Eagle Creek bags but it had been around the world and across the country many times and it was well over 10 years old when it needed service. Wherever you look or read, it seems like Samsonite is like...
by takeshi
Mon Jul 10, 2017 7:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Induction Stoves?
Replies: 11
Views: 1464

Re: Induction Stoves?

There have definitely been recent threads on induction cooktops so don't overlook them.
watchnerd wrote:Are they any good? What are the pros and cons?
Good is up to you to determine based on how the pros and cons specifically suit you -- same as any other topic. Prior discussions cover this but my quick reply is: I generally prefer gas but I prefer induction over gas. It heats quickly. The cooktop itself isn't heated -- the cookware is heated. They tend to cost more and require compatible cookware.
by takeshi
Mon Jul 10, 2017 7:40 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: A question about GENTLE excercise.............
Replies: 22
Views: 3337

Re: A question about GENTLE excercise.............

parigi723 wrote:a name came up
John Schlorholtz,Ageless Yoga
The type of yoga is a good start but even knowing about the type of yoga, one has to consider the specific instructor. It's certainly possible to end up injured with a poor yoga instructor even if the type of yoga is generally considered to be gentle. My wife isn't an instructor but she has taken enough yoga from properly trained instructors to know proper form and alignment and how to recognize when an instructor isn't aware of such things.
by takeshi
Mon Jul 10, 2017 7:35 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: how to destroy hard disk with personal info
Replies: 99
Views: 14644

Re: how to destroy hard disk with personal info

I've found a few threads and Googled for info. Nothing holding them together that could be unscrewed to remove spinning disks to destroy. FWIW I've never run across one I couldn't disassemble to get to the platters. Check under labels and other covers. As other have stated, they're usually Torx screws holding them together. A question for all of you who are physically torturing defunct hard drives: what's wrong with just running DBAN? Choosing one option over the other doesn't necessarily mean that there's something wrong with the other option. I generally don't bother with wiping because it's time consuming or I don't have a desktop system or I don't want to bother with setting up a drive with an external enclosure. Do whatever it is that...
by takeshi
Fri Jul 07, 2017 9:38 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Buy a vehicle cash or finance?
Replies: 58
Views: 6764

Re: Buy a vehicle cash or finance?

What would you do? And why? Not what you're asking but I'd also recommend carefully reconsidering the vehicle choice for reasons stated above and not rushing the decision. Make sure you're buying based on what you're looking for versus trying to justify a decision you've already made. Looking at the specs (granted, spec sheet racing has its limitations and caveats) the Forester doesn't offer significantly more room than your Camry aside from rear legroom though the increased height will be of some benefit with loading and unloading children. However, it's your call if that covers your need for "bigger". As for safer, the Forester probably is safer than a Camry 17 years it senior but, again, don't assume. I personally don't care f...
by takeshi
Fri Jul 07, 2017 9:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What is this cable device?
Replies: 53
Views: 5540

Re: What is this cable device?

C4NT wrote:So, there may be an amplifier somewhere down stream (probably attic) and this is what supplies it power?
Picking nits but that would be upstream. "Up" is towards the cable provider's headend.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 06, 2017 9:56 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Credit Impact on Multiple inquiries for Car Loan
Replies: 2
Views: 642

Re: Credit Impact on Multiple inquiries for Car Loan

However, I am curious, what does the duration between these credit enquiries have to be for them to be classified as single hit? http://www.myfico.com/credit-education/credit-checks/credit-report-inquiries/ It's not just the window of time but the inquiries have to be coded properly. There are those who have not had inquiries coded properly but, as stated above, inquiries are a small factor anyway despite how many tend to obsess over them. During purchase, I want to check with auto-dealer if the dealer can beat the interest rate given to me. If so, I would chose loan from auto-dealer. However, since the auto-dealer would make the credit check after almost 20 days after my initial loan application, will the second credit inquiry give back a...
by takeshi
Thu Jul 06, 2017 9:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Verizon- Why do they treat old customers worse?
Replies: 54
Views: 10653

Re: Verizon- Why do they treat old customers worse?

Nectarineman wrote:Verizon- Why do they treat old customers worse?
It's not just Verizon by a long shot. Many companies work to lure in new customers with offers. If you're an existing customer and you want a better deal then get in touch with the company's retention department or try a bill negotiating service.
by takeshi
Thu Jul 06, 2017 9:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Are you finding any good values at Amazon anymore?
Replies: 169
Views: 26515

Re: Are you finding any good values at Amazon anymore?

Are you finding any good values at Amazon anymore? Are any of you finding bargains at Amazon? If so, what items, types or categories? Bargain & value are 2 different things. Bargains seem to be less common but even so I still find value with Amazon because of convenience. In most cases their pricing is comparable even when I consider shipping & tax but returns with Amazon are also extremely easy. That said, for most large ticket items I'll purchase elsewhere unless there's a reputable Marketplace seller that doesn't charge sales tax. I also find camelcamelcamel to be helpful with some purchases on top of the usual price shopping with other sources. It's worth noting that if you get the Amazon credit card they give you 5% back on yo...
by takeshi
Wed Jul 05, 2017 9:44 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: sleep number bed vs. platform bed
Replies: 6
Views: 2053

Re: sleep number bed vs. platform bed

What are your opinions on the sleep number beds vs. platform beds for comfort, your skeletal structure and durability ? It doesn't really matter what my opinion is -- or the opinions of others. What does matter is what specifically works best for you. That said Sleep Number was too uncomfortable for us regardless of adjustment. Memory foam was supportive but had other issues for us. After trying the options we ended up with a high end spring (Vispring). Comfort and other factors are very subjective so you need to test out the options for yourself versus relying on others. What works or doesn't work for one may be the opposite for the next. If you want feedback, give us info on yourself so we can help guide you if that's what you're looking...
by takeshi
Wed Jul 05, 2017 9:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Delta Air - various classes of service
Replies: 59
Views: 9575

Re: Delta Air - various classes of service

A family member who regularly flies Delta had at least one very, very bad experience recently (I recognize we all have "nightmare" travel stories). Also, I think I recall reading about particularly bad computer problems earlier this year (again, I know that plenty of carrier have "issues"). If you realize these things then you should look at the larger trends versus specific data points. I don't have first hand experience with Delta but overall they are one of the higher rated domestic US airlines. I we had more of a Delta presence here I'd fly them but this is definitely a United city. The ticket price differential between Delta Economy and Delta First Class seems surprisingly small, maybe something like $750 r/t vs. $...
by takeshi
Wed Jul 05, 2017 9:11 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: VPN for Fun
Replies: 13
Views: 3269

Re: VPN for Fun

Is this the right way to do it -- at the router? Like most things in life it's not a one-size-fits-all thing. It depends on what you're specifically looking to accomplish and your preferences. For my concerns, setting up my own VPN didn't make sense since I wanted to keep our ISP from monitoring our usage so a VPN service was needed to achieve that goal. I could have set up VPN connectivity for our home network on the router but we have devices and services that don't support VPN usage so each device connecting via VPN connects on its own. Unfortuantely your OP doesn't really have enough information for us to determine what you're doing aside from tinkering. From that aspect alone, any VPN arrangement will teach you something about setting...
by takeshi
Thu Jun 29, 2017 9:08 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Credit cards' credit lines - pros/cons of requesting reduction?
Replies: 36
Views: 4745

Re: Credit cards' credit lines - pros/cons of requesting reduction?

I guess I was kind of braced for that, but the screen message itself seemed kind of discouraging: "We need to review your request a little longer. We will let you know of our decision by U.S. mail. This could take up to 30 days." There's no telling based on the message itself. If you were going to be denied outright then you'd already have the denial. A review could mean any number of things. Call in and check and see. It may be that you need to reallocate but you find out without asking. No reason to dread it. Google around for the Chase reconsideration number and tell them that you got the 30 day message and you're just checking to see if they need anything. Or just wait it out and see what happens. It's your call how you want ...
by takeshi
Thu Jun 29, 2017 8:41 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Getting a new cooktop, gas vs electric?
Replies: 72
Views: 7852

Re: Getting a new cooktop, gas vs electric?

What do y'all think about the gas vs electric cooktop? Is running gas to my kitchen worth an extra ~$1k on a $5k (total) job for a $300 cooktop (on 4th of July sale at Lowe's)? Your call to make as worth is subjective on any topic. I prefer gas to most electrics but I prefer induction over gas and would even pay a bit of a premium for it if remodeling anyway. YMMV. +1 to the comment that your estimates may be low so carefully price things out and make sure you're budgeting a bit for the unexpected which tends to pop up in projects like this. I am afraid the cast iron will crack/scratch the glass surface, take even longer to heat up than the current cooktop, etc. Cracking is certainly possible. Iron shouldn't scratch glass as, IIRC, iron is...
by takeshi
Wed Jun 28, 2017 9:16 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any Reason to Stay With USAA?
Replies: 21
Views: 3723

Re: Any Reason to Stay With USAA?

anonenigma wrote:Is there any reason to keep a relationship with USAA?
It doesn't sounds like it from what you've stated (only investing at USAA) but that's for you to determine. I have insurance & bank with USAA but I don't invest through them.

If you need X's products then use X's products. If you don't then don't. Despite what a company's marketing tells you there really isn't a relationship. If you were using a small business, on the other hand, a relationship might actually exist. If you have USAA membership (also not a relationship) it doesn't go away just because you're not using their products.
by takeshi
Wed Jun 28, 2017 8:58 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Financing Engagement Ring/ Credit Score Potential Consequences
Replies: 39
Views: 4791

Re: Financing Engagement Ring/ Credit Score Potential Consequences

As long as you're below 30% utilization, your score won't even change based on the purchase (it will change from the account opening, but that already happened). Scores can definitely change for revolving utilization under 30%. I'm under 10% and my scores change with my revolving utilization. 30% isn't the ideal level or a point where revolving utilization no longer has any impact. It's a suggested maximum. That said, unless the OP only has 1 card (number of reported balances is also a factor) he should see little negative impact from using the promotional offer. As another suggested above, do not use the card for purchases while carrying a balance. credit score is upwards of 750 If that's a FICO 8 then you're already in the top bracket wi...
by takeshi
Wed Jun 28, 2017 8:48 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cat teeth cleaning costs
Replies: 41
Views: 19422

Re: Cat teeth cleaning costs

As with anything, shop around and compare. Our cats haven't made it to their first cleanings though one of them recently had to have 3 extractions and that was a lot more than $101 though we use a specialist instead of our regular vet who would have cost less.
by takeshi
Wed Jun 28, 2017 8:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Help, realtors disagree. Take out bookshelves, hidden bed combo before listing?
Replies: 55
Views: 6777

Re: Help, realtors disagree. Take out bookshelves, hidden bed combo before listing?

If I was a buyer, the shelves would be very appealing to me as extra storage or display space. But would that hold true for the majority of buyers? Even the real estate agents have mixed feelings. There's no way of telling what most buyers will want without actually polling buyers. That said, it doesn't make sense to me to go through the hassle and expense of removing them without knowing. My wife & I can't stand built-ins but I have no idea if we're the minority or the majority though I think most buyers aren't bothered by them. That said, the existence of built-ins wouldn't stop us from a home that was otherwise the right home for us but I know we're the minority on this and a big part of that is because the better half is an interio...
by takeshi
Wed Jun 28, 2017 8:28 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Need Credit Card for International Travel
Replies: 45
Views: 5805

Re: Need Credit Card for International Travel

Wife and I are going to Montreal on July 29th. My credit cards charge foreign transaction fees (we don't travel very much so the issue has never come up). What card(s) would you recommend? Maybe we should add a Marriott or Southwest card to our collection now? We are not frequent travelers (domestic or otherwise). We need a lot more information to help you narrow it down. There are many cards out there that do not charge foreign transaction fees. What made you choose the Marriott or Southwest cards as examples? If you don't travel much what these 2? Do you tend to stay at Marriott and do you mostly fly on Southwest? These cards tend to benefits those that frequently use these companies and if you don't travel much you may be better served ...
by takeshi
Wed Jun 28, 2017 8:05 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cellular Data Usage
Replies: 11
Views: 1653

Re: Cellular Data Usage

The amount of data used by itself really isn't helpful in tracking this down. You can see app usage of cellular data and even disable cellular data usage for individual apps (as well as toggle cellular data as suggested above) in Settings->Cellular on your iPhone. You'll probably want to reset the statistics to track just your current usage. On my iPhone, statistics have been collected since 2013, for example. To reset, scroll all the way to the bottom and tap Reset Statistics. You'll see the date & time of the last reset just under. However, as pointed out above, there are features such as visual voicemail & MMS that require cellular data so if you've had an increase in such activity that could be why you're seeing more mobile data...
by takeshi
Mon Jun 26, 2017 12:41 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Credit cards' credit lines - pros/cons of requesting reduction?
Replies: 36
Views: 4745

Re: Credit cards' credit lines - pros/cons of requesting reduction?

I'm debating whether to contact Chase to have my Chase credit cards' credit lines reduced. The motivation would be to minimize the chances of getting rejected for new Chase cards I plan to apply for over the rest of the year. That has no impact on your approval. If your current limits place you at Chase's max exposure for you then you won't be rejected and you can reallocate credit limit(s) to open a new card. There should be no issue with respect to 5/24 (I'm 2/24 as long as Chase business cards don't count) Are you counting all new credit cards and not just Chase cards? The new credit card accounts that show up on your report(s) are what matter. Chase Business cards don't show up on your personal reports unless delinquent. Same goes for ...