Help Your Wallet: 8 Creative Ways to Lower Utility Costs

As the cost of living continues to rise, finding ways to lower expenses is becoming more important than ever. One area where we can all make a difference is in our monthly utility costs. 

In this article, we'll explore some creative and practical tips to help you reduce your utility bills without sacrificing comfort or convenience. 

Let's get started!

Unplug Unused Electronics

Did you know that even when your electronics are turned off, they can still use energy? This is known as "phantom" or "vampire" energy and it accounts for approximately 5% of household energy use. 

To combat this, make it a habit to unplug devices such as chargers, kitchen appliances, and entertainment systems when not in use. You can also invest in power strips with timers or switchable outlets to easily turn off multiple devices at once.

Switch to Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

Switching out traditional incandescent light bulbs for energy-efficient options such as LED or CFL bulbs can significantly reduce your energy consumption. 

These bulbs not only use less energy but also last longer, saving you money in the long run. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles to suit your preferences.

According to the Department of Energy, switching to LED bulbs can save you an average of $75 per year on energy costs. That adds up to over $750 in savings over a 10-year period! 

LEDs are known for their durability and can last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, meaning fewer replacements and more money saved.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Heating and cooling account for nearly half of a household's energy expenses. By adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees (lowering it in the winter and raising it in the summer), you can save up to 10% on your utility bill. 

Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat that can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule or usage patterns.

If you're unsure about how to efficiently use your thermostat, consider getting advice from an HVAC company, such as someone at Brown Service Company. These professionals can provide personalized recommendations for your home and heating/cooling system. 

They can also perform routine maintenance to ensure that your system is running at its best, saving you money on energy costs in the long run.

Take Advantage of Natural Light

Make the most out of natural light during the day by opening blinds and curtains to let in sunlight. This will not only reduce your need for artificial lighting but also provide warmth on chilly days. 

Consider using lighter colors for your walls and décor to reflect more natural light into your space.

Upgrade Your Appliances

Older appliances are often energy hogs, using more electricity and water than newer models. If it's time to replace your refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine, look for energy-efficient options with an Energy Star label. 

These appliances use less energy and water without sacrificing performance.

Budgeting for appliance upgrades can be daunting, but keep in mind the long-term savings. Start by researching the energy-efficient options available and compare their costs to your current appliances. 

Consider setting aside a specific amount each month towards an appliance fund, or look into financing or rebate options offered by utility companies or government programs.

Use Cold Water for Laundry

Heating water accounts for a significant portion of your household's energy consumption. To save on your utility bill, consider washing your clothes in cold water instead of hot. 

Most laundry detergents are effective in cold water and you'll still get clean clothes without the added cost.

Install Low-Flow Fixtures

Another way to cut down on water consumption is by installing low-flow fixtures such as showerheads and faucets. These fixtures use less water without sacrificing pressure, helping you save on both your water and energy bills.

Low-flow fixtures can be found at most home improvement stores. You can also purchase them online through websites or directly from the manufacturer. 

If you're not sure which fixtures are best for your needs, consider consulting with a plumber or doing some research to find highly rated options. Some utility companies may also offer rebates for installing low-flow fixtures, so be sure to check with them as well.

Do an Energy Audit

If you're not sure where to start with lowering your utility costs, consider conducting an energy audit. This involves a professional coming to your home and identifying areas where you can improve energy efficiency. 

They may also offer tips and suggestions specific to your home's layout and needs.

Energy audits typically take a few hours to complete, depending on the size of your home. While it may cost money upfront, an energy audit can ultimately save you money in the long run by identifying areas for improvement and providing personalized recommendations. 

Plus, some utility companies or government programs offer rebates or discounts for energy audits, making them more affordable. It's worth considering investing in an energy audit to potentially save hundreds of dollars on your utility bills each year.

Final Thoughts

By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, you can make a significant impact on your monthly utility bills. Remember, small changes can add up over time, so start incorporating these habits into your routine today. 

Your wallet (and the environment) will thank you! Happy saving!

6 Ways to Save Money When Moving House

Moving can be a stressful and costly experience, so it's no surprise that people often try to find ways to save money during the process. 

Whether you're moving across the country or just down the street, saving money can help make the process less stressful and more manageable.

In this article, we'll look at five different ways to save money when moving house. From using a storage facility to getting neighbors and family to help pack, these tips are sure to help make your move more affordable.

Get Neighbors and Family to Help Pack

The easiest way to save money when moving is to get your neighbors and family to help pack. This can be especially helpful if you have a lot of items to pack or if you're short on time. 

By getting your loved ones to help you pack, you can save money on packing supplies and help ensure that everything is packed properly.

Rent Your Own Moving Truck

Renting your moving truck can also be a great way to save money when moving. This can be especially helpful if you're moving long distances and need to transport a lot of items. 

By renting your own truck, you can save money on moving costs and ensure that your items are transported safely and securely.

Use a Storage Facility

Another way to save money when moving is to use a storage facility. This can be especially helpful if you're moving long distances and have a lot of large items to store. 

By using a storage unit like those provided by Handy Storage, you can take some of the stress off of your move and move a few things at a time. 

This can also help you save money on gas, as you won't have to make as many trips back and forth to your old home.

Sell Unwanted Items

Before you start packing, it's a good idea to go through your items and sell anything you no longer need or want. This is a great way to save money when moving, as you can earn some extra cash by selling your unwanted items. 

Additionally, by selling your unwanted items, you can reduce the amount of things you need to move, which can help lower moving costs.

Plan Your Move During the Offseason

Another way to save money when moving is by planning your move during the off-season. Moving companies tend to charge more during peak moving season, which typically runs from May to September. 

Moving during the offseason allows you to take advantage of lower rates and potentially negotiate better deals. Additionally, you're more likely to have a wider range of options available to you during the offseason.

Pack Your Own Boxes

Finally, packing your own boxes can be a great way to save money when moving. By packing your boxes, you can save money on packing supplies and ensure your items are packed properly. 

Additionally, packing your own boxes can give you more control over the moving process and help ensure that everything is packed and transported safely.

Final Thoughts

Moving can be a daunting task, but using these tips to save money can make the process a little bit easier. 

Whether you're using a storage facility, getting neighbors and family to help pack, selling unwanted items, or packing your own boxes, these tips will help you save money and reduce stress during your move. 

So go ahead and use these tips to save money and make your move a success!

5 Smart Ways to Save Money on Your Water Bill

It's generally a good idea to live within your means. A large contributing part of this is controlling the impulse to buy things you don't really need. 

But there's more to it than that. You also have to look at your habits when you're at home. Take your water bill, for example. Is there anything you're doing that could be wasting more water than you realize? 

It might be enough to impact your bill. Here are some tips on keeping the water bill low and saving some cash in your wallet at the same time.

Change How You Shower

Showering instead of taking baths will help you save on water. But if you are already taking showers, consider switching to a lower flow intensity shower head. 

They use fewer gallons of water per minute, and can save you money. No matter what type of shower head you use, it also helps to take shorter showers. 

The shower is a common place to zone out for a little bit, but it's most likely costing you on your water bill. Try to keep your showers between 5 and 10 minutes at most.

Fixing Leaks

Find and fix any water leaks as soon as you can. Faucets can leak thousands of gallons of water a year. Updating to more current models of toilets and faucets can help limit your chances of getting a leak due to new innovations like the aerator. 

This device works in faucets to reduce the water's flower without also lowering pressure. If you don't want to make any installations yourself, you can always contact experts like Rakeman Plumbing and Rakeman Air.

Washing Dishes

Assuming you've got a full load's worth of dishes to clean, using a dishwasher is more efficient than washing by hand. In fact, you could be using up to nine times more water hand-washing than by using your dishwasher. 

Remember, taking advantage of your dishwasher means using it correctly and observing proper routine maintenance.

Watering the Lawn

Taking care of your lawn is important, but overdoing it while trying to save on your water bill is not a good idea. Instead, give your lawn time between waterings so that rain or cooler weather can help keep the grass hydrated and healthy instead of relying solely on your sprinkler system.

Rainwater

In a pinch, you can turn to the sky for a water source. Collecting rainwater isn't allowed everywhere, so check the laws for your area. Be sure to purify it best you can and keep it stored securely.

Much of the advice you can find for saving on your water bill boils down to making small changes and sticking with them. If you can find tips that work for you, committing to them will help save you an impressive amount over time.

Tips for Growing Your Bank Account

When it comes to personal finance, one of the most important things you can do is grow your savings. After all, having a healthy bank account is key to weathering life's unexpected financial storms. But how exactly do you go about growing your savings? Here are a few tips to get you started.

Create a Budget and Stick to It

One of the best ways to grow your bank account is to create a budget and stick to it. This may seem like an obvious tip, but it's one that far too many people ignore. 

Before you can start putting money away into savings, you must ensure that all of your other financial obligations are taken care of first. Sit down and figure out how much money you need to cover your basic expenses such as rent, food, utilities, etc. 

Once you have that figure, you can start allocating money towards savings. And, if you find extra money left over at the end of the month, don't be afraid to put it into savings as well!

Pay Yourself First

Another great way to grow your bank account is to pay yourself first. This means that before you spend money on anything else, you should transfer a fixed percentage of your income into savings. 

This will help ensure that you always have money for a rainy day. And, over time, you may even find that you're able to increase the percentage of your income that you save each month.

Create Specific Savings Goals

When it comes to saving money, it can be helpful to set specific goals. This will give you something to work towards and help keep you motivated. 

For example, maybe you want to save up enough money for a down payment on a house or a new car. Or perhaps you're aiming to build up your emergency fund so that you have at least six months' worth of living expenses. 

Whatever your goal may be, make sure it's specific and realistic. Then, once you reach it, celebrate your accomplishment! And then, set a new goal and get started on saving for that. Speaking with a wealth management professional may also help you set specific financial goals for your future.

Saving money can seem daunting, but it's definitely doable with careful planning and discipline. By following the tips above, you'll be well on your way toward growing your bank account in no time!

How to Save Money and Plan for Your Financial Future

Living from paycheck to paycheck is a leading cause of stress among much of the population. There are surveys that indicate nearly 50% of Americans would have trouble coming up with the money to pay for a $400 emergency.

This is not a good recipe for financial success. That's why saving money is so important.

Make Saving Automatic

David Bach popularized the concept of the latte factor, which suggests cutting out mindless spending to build wealth over time. While that is perhaps his most famous recommendation, he also encourages people to make their savings automatic. 

Signing up for automatic withdrawals to a savings or investment account is a great way to make sure the money actually gets saved. 

People who wait to save what's leftover at the end of the month generally have no money left over to put toward their long-term goals. Therefore, paying yourself first is a necessary step to start building some savings.

Consider a Credit Union

When most people think of where they might put their savings, a large commercial bank might come to mind. However, credit unions are also a great option. 

Some companies, like Credit Union of Denver, know that these financial institutions run just like a bank. They offer loans at competitive rates, and they also have accounts that allow for savings and investments. 

Sometimes, these accounts come with better interest rates for savers. Members run credit unions, rather than shareholders who may or may not use a commercial bank's services.

Track and Trim Expenses

Many Americans spend mindlessly. Sure, there are bills that you'll have to pay monthly that stay relatively stable. These include things like rent, car payments, and food. 

There are other expenses that are completely unnecessary. Going out to a movie theater every weekend and eating out for lunch every day can get expensive. 

Tracking these expenses and trimming them back a little could put $100 or more back into your budget every single month. Over time, what might not seem like a huge sum of money could grow into a significant nest egg.

Make More Money

There are several options for making more money. The easiest might be simply asking for a raise. It can also pay to do a bit of job-hopping. 

Sometimes, switching employers can lead to some pretty hefty pay increases. Another option is starting a new side hustle that can bring in a few bucks. 

Over time, a side hustle might turn into your primary income, which means that it doesn't hurt to start one.

Putting some money away for emergencies or for the future is key to your financial health. That's why it's important to make savings automatic. 

Taking these tips into consideration can be a great way to increase your financial freedom over time. The earlier you start, the more likely you are to succeed in stashing some cash for your long-term goals.

7 Prominent Ways To Save Money Wisely in 2022

Saving money is one of the crucial aspects of building wealth and having a secure financial future. As they say, it is never too early to start saving; saving money provides you with an opportunity to enjoy a quality life.

Saving money is all about how calculative you are, along with the kind of techniques you use to save. Unfortunately, there are a handful of people who have mastered this art consistently.

Through this article, we aim at educating readers who find it difficult to save money, straight forward ways to save and have a financially secure life in 2022:

1. Always plan your expenses monthly: One of the essential things you should start doing as a habit is making a monthly expense budget and sticking to it as much as you can. This method is foolproof, but people avoid it as it is tedious. As you save money by the end of the month, you may use it to invest smartly and watch your money grow with a specific time frame. You may work on your budget and alter it according to your needs, allocating some for emergencies, savings, leisure, etc.
2. Saving maximum money to the best ability: If your monthly expenses are high and you cannot save as much as you want to, it is time to have a robust money-saving plan. You can identify things that you can spend less money on things like dining out or entertainment. Use resources like community events or free memberships. Limit activities like eating out, shopping, and watching movies to once a month. When tempted do an impulsive purchase, hold on for a few days. You may be glad you passed the urge to buy or look forward to saving up for it.
3. Smart investing: Saving and investing a certain amount of money in a recurring deposit is one of the best ways to save money every month consistently. This activity will inevitably make its way into your monthly budget plan. The early you start investing, the more benefits you can reap out of compounding eventually. SIP is another option if you are willing to incur a negligible risk. You can browse the internet for multiple investment options depending on how much and how long you are ready to save.
4. Manage your debts wisely: If you want to be debt-free at the earliest in life, managing them wisely is very crucial. Irrespective of the nature of the loan, you can be debt-free if you incessantly set aside the EMI amount money and make it a part of your monthly budget.
5. Manage your spending impulses: If you can list down all the expenses you can avoid in a month like limited eating out or shopping, it will automatically make it easier for you not to overspend or buy things on an impulse. This will help you to the extent to which we succumb to temptation typically boils down to our willpower. If you see something you like, wait at least a week before buying it, it might happen that the urge to buy that will pass.
6. Plan and eat home-cooked food: Food budgeting and groceries are often a large part of the monthly expense, especially when you live with your family. Planning your meals for the week, making a list of the ingredients, and prepping them accordingly is a great way to avoid wasting food, which saves money. Additionally, you may prevent packaged food and make dressings, gravies, and sauces from scratch. They taste better and cost less.
7. Earn a passive income at home: A single or even two sources of income are often insufficient with the ever-increasing inflation. A great way to earn a passive income is to channel your passion and creativity to supplement your current income. Baking cakes, making jewelry, tiffin services, or even a small online business, etc., are great ways to start.

All these techniques are tried and tested. Let’s start work on building a financially secure life in 2022.

Author Bio:

Aatish Khanna works with the Content Marketing team at Money Club, a digital chit fund platform that makes saving, borrowing, and investing your money more efficient. He writes on topics to help his readers understand processes so they can make better financial decisions. He’s the go-to person that his family, friends, and colleagues turn to for all their money matters. He loves to play board games and aspires to one day build his one finance-related board game and app.

Four Ways to Quickly Pay off and Save Money on Your Home Loan

Paying off a loan on your home is a large undertaking, but there are several tricks you can use to make the process faster. With a little know-how and some financial discipline, you can pay off your loan before its due date and save thousands of dollars in interest. 

Here are four ways to pay off your home loan quickly and save money.

Put Your Tax Returns Toward Your Loan

If you’re like most working people, you probably see a decent chunk of money come back to you during tax season. Although most people use their returns to pay for non-essential luxuries, it’s usually smarter to put it toward your debts. 

Depending on the size of your return, you can off several hundred or even a few thousand dollars each year this way. Over time, you’ll significantly reduce your loan and save large amounts of money in interest payments.

Refinance Your Loan

For older loans, refinancing may be a good option. Whether you have a mortgage or an outstanding home equity loan, you can likely get a lower interest rate today than you would have a few years ago if you refinance. 

If you can secure a lower rate, you’ll be able to save a great deal of money over the life of the loan.

Take on a Side Job

If you really want to pay your loan off as quickly as possible, you can consider getting an extra job on the side and putting all of the earnings from it toward your loan. Even a part-time job that allows you to work an extra 10 hours each week will allow you to reduce your loan amount by thousands each year. 

If you can’t arrange your schedule to accommodate a part-time job, consider driving for Uber or some other form of flexible gig work.

Rent out a Room

Speaking of gig work, you can also make some extra money by renting out part of your home through short-term rental platforms like Airbnb. This method is especially good for young, single people working on paying off their first homes. 

Whatever profits you make from your rentals can be used to pay down the loan. Once it’s paid off, you can even continue to rent the space out to generate some extra income for yourself.

These are four of the best and fastest ways to pay your home loan off as quickly as possible. Paying your loan down will take time and require some sacrifices, but you’ll save thousands of dollars in interest payments if you go about it correctly.

How to Save Money When Buying New Tires for Your Car

New tires can easily cost $1,000 or more, an amount of money many people are not prepared to fork over, even when their car needs them. When it is time to replace your car tires, do not pay more than you should for the purchase. 

Drivers can find tons of easy money-saving strategies that help them keep more money in their pocket without sacrificing wheels for their car. Want to learn how to save money on the cost of your tires? Put the following ideas to work to save your money the next time you need vehicle tires.

Shop Around

One tire brand may pop in your mind before the rest, but that isn’t to say other manufacturers do not offer great tires that might cost a fraction of the price. Keep your options open when shopping for tires. One brand may offer a fantastic sale that saves you hundreds of dollars on your tire purchase, but you will only know if you shop around.

Shop in April or October

Tire dealers put tires on sale through the year, but those sales are not half as awesome as those you find during the months of April and October. Visit your favorite all-weather tire retailer during either month for tire purchases if you want the best prices you will find on tires during the year.

Search for Coupons

Yes, tire coupons are real, and using them can chop a nice amount of money off the final cost of your tires. Search for coupons on the tire manufacture website at the same time you check out the rebates. Look for them in newspapers and on banners as you drive about town.

Look for Rebates

Many tire manufacturers offer rebates. Follow the rebate instructions and get cashback on the purchase of selected tires. Tire manufacturers offer rebate deals throughout the year and on many different models of tires. Take advantage of the opportunity to get sometimes hundreds of dollars back in a rebate. There is always time for this.

A simple strategy that many people take for granted when it is time to save money on their tires is to maintain their current set. Following simple tire rules like proper inflation will help you drive longer on the wheels. In turn, you get your money’s worth from the tires and replace them far less often.

5 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score and Save Money

A credit score refers to a vital number that moneylenders use to determine if they will grant you credit and the terms and interest of the loan or credit. If your score is low, then you have lower chances of your loans getting approved. If approved, you might have to repay higher interest. 

That is why you want to score very high if your plan is to get a car or personal loan, a credit card, or make a mortgage application to purchase a home. Discussed below are five ways you can use to increase your credit rating and save cash.

1. Manage Your Debt

Since the second most important factor in your credit rating is the total debt, it is significant to keep your loans under control. In case you presently have a substantial amount of unpaid debt, your main concern should be to avoid having another loan and work to reduce the figures.

This is not always easy; however, the only means to enhance your debt condition is to stop utilizing credit cards or borrowing and continue making well-timed payments that minimize your balance.

You must also consider the amount of available credit. For instance, if you have several credit cards that have reached the maximum or are close to the bounds, it will negatively affect your score. Dual credit cards, which have a limit of $5,000 and a balance of $1,000 each, look better than one card with a limit of $2,500 and a balance of $2,000.

Use notifications to inform you of fresh purchases with a debit or credit card to better track your balance and expenses. You may also establish a split alert to notify you when the credit card amount hits a certain value. Consider scheduling biweekly or weekly payments to the cards to lose some interest and lower your debt balance faster.

2. Pay Promptly

The most significant thing you should do to maintain or improve your credit score is to pay promptly. Disbursement history is the single most important factor used to calculate your credit rating. Payments past due one month or more will point up on the report and affect your credit rating negatively. These negative numbers typically stay on the report for around seven years.




Consider scheduling automatic overheads from your current account to make it easy to pay on time. If you are not at ease with payments automation, you may set up prompts with your billing agent or through the account to inform you when the due day is approaching.

3. Use Different Forms of Credit

A minor portion of your credit rating is according to the kinds of credits you are using at a given time. Moneylenders would like to perceive your responsibility for returning credit, that is, loans and credit cards. If you do not possess a credit card, consider having one. In case you do not have a loan on your report, you can apply for a small individual loan to build credit.

4. Keep Your Old Accounts Activated

Credit history length is another significant creditworthiness factor, so keeping old accounts open can be an advantage. While you need to keep all your accounts manageable, it can sometimes be harmful to your score if you close the old account. 

Locking the old account while you still have a balance may also affect your score, as it directly upsets your credit use. For instance, if you want to purchase a credit mortgage and have a low score, consider using a bad credit mortgage broker instead of closing your old account.

5. Be Cautious When Opening Fresh Accounts

Although fresh credit is not a significant feature in your credit rating, it is an essential concern. If you are looking for a credit card or new loan, make your purchases quickly. You do not want your credit report to display that you always look for credit.

Also, you do not want to apply credit accounts that you don't want to utilize. It can be luring to get the extra 10% off for opening a new loyalty card; however, the little cash you save can be negligible when several new accounts like this lower your score. 

Also, loyalty cards can regularly have a greater annual cost compared to the conventional credit card. If you fail to immediately reimburse the balance, the greater APR may offset the savings you get when you open the account.

Conclusion

Improving your credit rating can save you money. Use the above methods to build your score.

4 Saving Tips to Help You Afford All of the Luxuries You Want in Life

Save Money

Everyone enjoys indulging themselves now and then. However, if you're the type of person who wants all the best that life has to offer, then you're going to need an enhanced savings plan. Without a doubt, saving money on any level is good, but it takes some extra effort to always have the money available to use when you want to truly enjoy yourself. 

To help enhance your lifestyle, here are four savings tips to help you afford all of the luxuries you want in life.

Do-it-Yourself

A four-dollar cup of coffee isn't going to break the bank. However, a four-dollar cup of coffee every single morning for an entire year just might. Not including taxes, you'd spend almost $1,500 on coffee. That's a large chunk of change that could make for quite the luxurious purchase. 

Therefore, rather than gulping your money down, it makes sense to buy your own coffee gear so that you can make coffee exactly how you like it for a fraction of the cost. Even if you go all out and buy the best equipment, the cost of making your own coffee will quickly be recouped.

Think Ahead

If you're going to save a lot of money, you've got to have goals to shoot for. Sure, essentials like a retirement account and emergency fund are nice, but it's also important to have some fun goals to save for to help hold your interest. Make sure you know what you’re aiming for and have all the information you need to get there. 

Perhaps you're saving for a luxury yacht from somewhere like Naples Nantucket Yacht Group. Maybe you are looking to install a new indoor pool. Whatever you aim for, be sure to keep it front and center to help maintain your motivation.

Remove the Distractions

There are plenty of things in life that, while nice to have, aren't the ultimate in luxury. Therefore, it's important to look over your expenses and determine what you can eliminate to help you save money for those things that are truly worthwhile. 

Try to consider how much value you get out of things like monthly subscriptions, entertainment packages, and other ongoing costs to determine if they're worth keeping around. If they don't add value to your life, then it's time to kick those costs to the curb.

Flex Your Money Muscles

Cash that's sitting in a safe in the basement of your home isn't doing you any good. While it may be protected from loss, it's not doing any work to help you earn and save more money. 

That's why it's important to ensure that every cent possible is in some type of interest-bearing account to help grow your wealth. As you continue to earn money, this passive income becomes like a snowball rolling downhill, allowing you to achieve your savings goals more quickly.

When you're chasing after your savings goals, it can be easy to become distracted. Especially when you see people around you spending money on frivolous things, it can be tempting for you to spend money on those same frivolous things. By staying focused on what truly matters, though, you'll be able to avoid these temptations and be rewarded with a luxurious lifestyle that puts those around you to shame.

4 Ways to Save Money When You Need New Tires

Even though most modern tires are designed to be incredibly durable, that rubber has a finite lifespan. There will come a point when you need to purchase new tires, and you might want to plan ahead so that you can afford that future purchase.

Change All Four at Once

One of the easiest ways to save money when you need new tires is to pick up all four at once. Many tire companies offer relatively large discounts to those who purchase four at once because it is fairly easy to install additional tires once the vehicle is up off the ground. 

As an added bonus, the tires are all going to have close to the same lifespan as long as they are regularly rotated, and you won’t have to worry about keeping track of multiple tires during seasonal maintenance.

Have the Wheels Realigned at the Same Time

Having your wheels realigned while your new tires are being put on isn’t going to make this process any cheaper, but it will save you money down the road. Most experts agree that wheels should be realigned at least once every two years, but you might need to have them aligned as often as once a year if you have an older vehicle. 



Many tire companies offer free or extremely inexpensive realignments because they are fairly easy to carry out as long as the vehicle is already on the lift.

Wait for Seasonal Sales

Just like most other products, tires tend to go on sale at regular points throughout the year. As a general rule, many tire companies will offer discounts during the months of April and October. 

In April, the weather is starting to warm up and families are often thinking about upcoming road trips, and new tires will become a priority. Once October hits, many drivers consider buying new tires because of the icy conditions that are just around the corner.

Invest in a Warranty

While tire manufacturers almost always offer warranties that cover material defects, the company that installs the tires could have an upgraded warranty as well. A robust tire warranty is going to cover a wide variety of risks ranging from premature wear to certain road hazards. If one of your tires becomes punctured in the months following the installation, the warranty should cover the cost of replacing it.

In addition to these few tips, you must also make sure that you are properly caring for your tires so that they last for as long as possible. Regularly rotating the tires and keeping them out of the sun as much as possible could potentially extend their lifespan by a considerable amount.

How to Save Money on a Newly Built Home

If you want to live in a home that was recently built but are worried about the extra expense, there are many ways that you can save money on a new property. A new home doesn’t have to cost much more than an older abode, and keeping some important details in mind will help you buy for less. Here are a few of the best ways to save money on a newly built home.

Avoid Costlier Building Materials

Some new homes are built with expensive materials to try to ensure better quality. You can cut the cost of your home purchase by buying a new house that was built with standard materials and then upgrading the materials at a later date. 

To save yourself some additional money and stress, you may choose to upgrade sections of the house so that you can make gradual renovations instead of trying to upgrade the entire home all at once.

Buy from a New-Construction Neighborhood

Entire neighborhoods that feature homes that were recently built can sometimes be the best places to go to find the best deals. Real estate developers often put these homes on the market at a lower rate so that they can get more people to move into the neighborhood quickly and not leave any homes sitting vacant. 



New houses for sale in the Greater Toronto Area and other regions where new-construction neighborhoods are often developed usually come with lower price tags.

Go for a Smaller Yard

Choosing a home with a smaller yard can also yield better savings. If you don’t have a big family with kids or don’t plan on entertaining outdoors very often, a new home with a small yard can be a better option.

Along with saving money on the house purchase, you won’t have to worry about investing as much in yardwork and other ground maintenance if you have a smaller yard.

Shop During Discounted Selling Seasons

House prices are generally lower during certain times of the year, and you can potentially save a lot of money by buying during one of these discounted selling seasons. January is known to be one of the best months for finding homes at reduced prices. 

Buying a home on Easter Sunday or Christmas Day can also save you money. You should avoid trying to buy a home over Memorial Day Weekend since prices tend to be much higher this time.

You can have the new home of your dreams without having to pay a fortune if you’re savvy with your purchase. Knowing what to look for and when to buy will make it easier for you to save money without having to give up a lot of the things that you want in a newly constructed home.

Smart Savings: 4 Digital Ways to Save Money on What You Already Buy

If you remember Sunday evenings being spent at the dining room table clipping grocery coupons, then you will really want to pay attention to this post. You want to save money so that your family can have more disposable income, but you would also like to not have to spend hours trying to get coupons ready to present. 

This is yet another way that technology has come in to save the day. There are now many opportunities for you to use digital media to save money on items that you already buy regularly. Here are four ways that you can accomplish this.

Use Rakuten

If you have not heard of Rakuten, then it is time that you looked it up online today. They represent thousands of products literally. You buy via their app online, and you will get cashback on each purchase. 

You click through the app to go to your favorite online retailers and get a percent back on your purchase. Just look for the items that you would be buying anyway and then watch the savings really begin to add up.

Install Restaurant Apps on Your Mobile Devices

Even great cooks like to eat out every now and then. When that mood hits you and your family, it is time to pull up one of the many available restaurant apps on your smartphone. You can search for an Asian food restaurant, for example, and find many in your area that is currently offering discounts. 



You can also join loyalty programs to earn free meals and more. If you order through the Sonic app, you get ½ price drinks all day and night long. Your phone can save you lots of money in your favorite eats.

Use Ibotta to Get Rebates

Ibotta is a fun app where you actually go in after the fact and scan in your receipts. You will then get rebates on individual purchases, all without having to mail anything in. This not only will save you a lot of money, but it will also save you a great deal of time as well.

Download Digital Coupons

Almost every major retailer today offers some sort of digital coupons. You can go into your store’s app and look for current deals. Then, you will just download the coupon and have your phone ready when you go to checkout. It is really as simple as that.

These are just four of the many ways that you can use digital technology to begin saving money on purchases that you would be making anyway. The key is to plan ahead and have the technology available at a moment’s notice. It is incredible to consider that virtually everything can be bought at a discount if you have the right tools to do so. This is a way to put money right back into your family budget, so begin implementing these strategies today.

Planning Your Budget? 5 Monthly Costs You Can Alter to Lower Your Spending

Preparing a budget is a great way to start getting your finances in order. If you actually want to start saving money or improving your finances, you will need to start making changes in how you spend money. 

In some cases, you don’t need to make cuts, but you can certainly lower some of your costs for the same thing. Here are five ways to alter some of your monthly costs to lower your spending.

Food

Obviously you aren’t going to cut out food entirely, but it is important to look at how you spend money on food. If you spend $10 a day on lunch, that adds up to between $200—$250 a month just on lunch alone. 

If you spend $5 a day on coffee, that’s $100—$150 a month. You don’t have to cut out eating out entirely, but the point of a budget is to budget the money you spend on eating out.

Cut the Cable

The average cost of cable in the US is around $100. Conversely, you can pay for several premium subscription services each month for less than $10 each. Even better is you can start and stop them on demand. 



You might want to do Hulu, Netflix and HBO for a few months until you get caught up on your favorite shows, then switch to Amazon Prime and Showtime for a few months.

Car

If you drive an SUV, you might consider switching to a smaller, more fuel efficient car. You can also check to see if you qualify for refinancing at a lower rate on your current auto loan. Another great way to save some money is to walk more, bike to work or take public transportation a few times a month. You might be surprised at how much you can save.

Pay down (or Off) Your Credit Cards

When you add up all the interest you pay every month on your credit cards, you might be shocked by just how much it is. In some cases people can be spending $200- $300 a month in interest alone. While it may only be $10 or $20 per card, if you have a number of store cards or credit cards with high limits, the interest each month can really add up.

Insurance

While getting quotes on insurance can be a pain, it’s something you should do at least once a year. While getting online quotes may be easiest, you might get better rates calling an independent agent, such as Bear River Insurance. Much like accountants, agents can often help you find discounts you didn’t even know you were eligible for.

You don’t have to give up everything good in life to lower your spending. In fact, by getting rid of some of the things that don’t actually matter much to you, you may find you have even more money to spend on the things that really do.

How Families Can Save Money on Winter Recreation Gear

There are so many ways for families to bond during the winter season. They can connect in front of their fireplaces while sipping delicious hot cocoa. They can connect to each other by going on getaways that involve winter recreational activities, too. Fortunately, buying gear for winter recreation doesn’t have to be costly for the members of your household.

Look for Used Winter Gear Products

Don’t assume that your winter recreation equipment has to be brand new. There are so many online and offline retailers that have expansive selections of preowned winter activity equipment pieces. 

If you want to buy skis without having to break the bank, you should browse used selections as soon as possible. Remember, used winter recreation gear often matches brand new options in sheer quality and reliability.

Make “Off-Season” Winter Gear Purchases

It’s no surprise that people tend to rush to make winter gear purchases during the fall right before the frigid season starts. If you want to reap the rewards of discounts and bargains, however, it can be practical to complete any of your purchases at different times of the year. 




Some companies, such as Bob’s Cycle & Snowmobile Supply, know that you should avoid trying to make any purchases right before the start of the winter. If you time your family’s purchases intelligently, you may be able to decrease your expenses.

Ask Family Members and Friends for Hand-Me-Downs

Purchasing a helmet that’s suitable for snowmobiling fun can often be a pretty costly effort. If you don’t want to have to fork over a significant sum of money for a helmet purchase, you can ask people around you if they can help. You may have a cousin who purchased a top-tier helmet a couple of years ago only to never use it even once.

Search for Gear Coupons on the Internet

Savvy families know how to shop like experts on the Internet. If you want to slash your winter recreation gear expenses substantially, then you can turn to the Internet. If you’re diligent, you may be able to come across coupon codes that you can use to acquire winter gear products of all kinds. 

Check social media pages and official websites for winter recreation gear brands, too. They may discuss sales opportunities that are coming up.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a snowboarding fan or a ski buff. You probably don’t want to have to set aside a lot of money for gear purchases. If you’re part of a family of winter recreation lovers, there are so many things that can help minimize your costs.