Search found 1130 matches

by davebo
Sat Feb 10, 2024 8:38 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hybrid Car - Cost Savings?
Replies: 68
Views: 6938

Hybrid Car - Cost Savings?

So I'm pretty close to trading in my 2011 Odyssey and getting a 2024 CRV. I am between the CRV and the CRV hybrid. I've run the calculators and looks like I'll break even in 5 years with current gas prices. Are there any other hidden costs to owning a hybrid that I'm not aware of? I know the battery needs to be replaced at some point, the dealer told me that it's about $3K to replace, but I'm seeing estimates up to $8K.

I don't know, do Hybrids make sense from strictly a cost savings perspective? I drive around 11K miles per year, 80% suburban driving and 20% highway.
by davebo
Wed Dec 06, 2023 12:54 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Avoiding being an overbearing sports parent
Replies: 5
Views: 856

Re: Avoiding being an overbearing sports parent

fabdog wrote: Wed Dec 06, 2023 12:51 pm If the coaches are giving him the same feedback and he's blowing it off.. a short conversation that hey the coaches are trying to help you improve to progress on your goal of making the HS team. And then let it go...

Mike
I wouldn't say it's completely blowing it off. I think he feels like he gets mixed messages because the coaches don't like unforced errors (like missed serves). I think the takeaway should be that you should be improving your skills in practice, not on the court during game day.
by davebo
Wed Dec 06, 2023 12:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Avoiding being an overbearing sports parent
Replies: 5
Views: 856

Avoiding being an overbearing sports parent

I've never gotten on my kids about their sports. I've always let them do their thing, let the coaches coach them, and cheer them from the sidelines. I am very careful to not talk about the game after it ends, and really I don't ever bring up their performance unless it's to give encouragement. My HSer has started to play club volleyball. He is a very good player, but what my wife and I have noticed is that he tends to play safer than needed. As an example, instead of hitting the ball hard, he resorts to tipping it over blockers. This can be used strategically, but he does it more than necessary. This is something his coaches have pointed out, but he continues to do it more than needed. The latest thing is his serve. The way he is doing it s...
by davebo
Tue Nov 14, 2023 12:32 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How long should I keep this car?
Replies: 26
Views: 2510

How long should I keep this car?

[Topic is now in Personal Consumer Issues - mod mkc] My wife and I tend to keep cars for a pretty long time. Neither of us have very long commutes, so we can keep them a little longer than the average person. Up until buying a 2023 Odyssey, I was driving a 2006 Honda Accord (170K miles) and my wife a 2010 Odyssey (160K miles). Instead of trading one of the cars in, I decided to keep both of them. Mainly because I have a 15 year old and I thought the Accord would be perfect for. I would then drive the 2010 Odyssey since I have a side business where the extra storage space would come in handy. My Accord has been pretty much maintaince free this year, but it is pretty rough looking. My Odyssey had some more expensive repairs which cost me aro...
by davebo
Sun Nov 05, 2023 10:13 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Thermostat - Ecobee vs. Nest vs. Others?
Replies: 49
Views: 5586

Re: Thermostat - Ecobee vs. Nest vs. Others?

I did get the Ecobee and it's working out great so far, although haven't gotten to play around with it as much since it's still barely heating season. I was coming from a pretty old school thermostat where it was such a pain to program the thermostat. Just being able to do it on the APP is so nice.
by davebo
Sun Nov 05, 2023 10:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Beach Umbrella for Windy Days
Replies: 24
Views: 2651

Re: Beach Umbrella for Windy Days

We recently bought this and it works great. Compact, holds up in wind, and lightweight. We paid around $90 for it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BW9M1YTQ
by davebo
Tue Oct 10, 2023 9:34 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Thermostat - Ecobee vs. Nest vs. Others?
Replies: 49
Views: 5586

Thermostat - Ecobee vs. Nest vs. Others?

I have an older thermostat and am going to upgrade soon. Thinking of doing either the Nest or the Ecobee, but unsure which one to go with. I have an older home and some cold spots in certain bedrooms, I'd like the thermostat to be able to target a certain tempature in those colder rooms if necessary.

Any thoughts on the best option these days?
by davebo
Wed Sep 20, 2023 12:42 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best Noise cancelling buds
Replies: 44
Views: 6428

Re: Best Noise cancelling buds

vnatale wrote: Wed Sep 20, 2023 12:13 pm
davebo wrote: Wed Sep 20, 2023 11:31 am I've used Airpod Pros for 2.5 years and think they are great, but can't compare them to anything. The only time I use them for noise cancelling is when I'm riding on the tractor, working out, or on a plane. Other than that, I typically just have 1 in.
Are you saying only one in to use on phone calls?
Yes, most of the time I'm making calls in my house and I'll only use 1. I'll only put 2 in if I need to drown out the noise, but it's not usually necessary.
by davebo
Wed Sep 20, 2023 11:31 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best Noise cancelling buds
Replies: 44
Views: 6428

Re: Best Noise cancelling buds

I've used Airpod Pros for 2.5 years and think they are great, but can't compare them to anything. The only time I use them for noise cancelling is when I'm riding on the tractor, working out, or on a plane. Other than that, I typically just have 1 in.
by davebo
Tue Aug 29, 2023 9:54 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Odd Amazon Experience
Replies: 12
Views: 1388

Re: Odd Amazon Experience

I've been selling on Amazon for about 13 years now. Early on, it was a "normal" marketplace where people that were selling elsewhere also listed on Amazon. Around 2015, it became popular to have a generic product made in China, put their own brand on it, and sell on Amazon. Over the last 8 years, this has intensified. The plus side is that it has driven prices WAY WAY down across all of Amazon. The downside is that it's hard to sift through when a product is cheaper because it's a good deal or because it's inferior.

Unfortunately, the review manipulation muddies the waters. Amazon cracked down on requesting reviews through their own platform, but now people are obviously going outside that.
by davebo
Mon Jul 10, 2023 4:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What's the best way to deal with an inherited lake house?
Replies: 30
Views: 3566

What's the best way to deal with an inherited lake house?

My in-laws own a very nice lake house in Michigan. The 6 siblings grew up going there and all love being up there. Only 2 of the kids (including us) are somewhat local and the rest live across the country. My in-laws are still alive and healthy and spend quite a bit of time up there, us "local families" probably spend 3 weeks up there per year. The remaining 4 families are just 1 week in the summer. I'm almost certain that when my in-laws pass, nobody will want to sell the house. On the flip side, I also don't see the out of towners really wanting to put the money into the upkeep. This isn't a real world planning exercise, but I just thought it was interesting because I'm sure this comes up all the time. How do families deal with ...
by davebo
Fri Jun 23, 2023 11:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Important Mail which service? Fed-Ex, USPS, UPS or?
Replies: 12
Views: 952

Re: Important Mail which service? Fed-Ex, USPS, UPS or?

I have an ecommerce business and send out tons and tons of packages using UPS/Fedex/USPS. They all lose stuff occassionally and probably at about the same rate. If I was shipping out 100 envelopes/packages, I would use USPS every single time due to the cost savings and success rate. If I had to send 1 vitally important document, I'd go with Fedex probably. Fedex seems pretty well run and efficient, I'm actually pretty surprised that USPS doesn't lose more of my packages.
by davebo
Thu Jun 01, 2023 4:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for kids?
Replies: 51
Views: 4783

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for kids?

My 12-year old son is a really sweet, well rounded kid. Does well in school, participates in a couple sports, healthy, plays videogames, etc. He does seem to have pretty low confidence though, at least that's the way he comes across when he's not with people he's comfortable with. As he's moved into middle school, I think it's hindered him a little bit when it comes to dealing with other kids. I wouldn't say there have any bullying issues, but he's so nice that he doesn't know how to stand up to kids that are crossing the line. We have gone through exercises with him, enrolled him in sports or activities that might help with his confidence. I think ultimately some of it has to do with not knowing how to deal with kids that are loud or aggre...
by davebo
Sat May 06, 2023 12:10 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Any honda dealer upgrades worth it?
Replies: 28
Views: 2999

Any honda dealer upgrades worth it?

We ordered a new Honda Odyssey a couple months ago and the car is finally coming in. It was sold with no dealer upgrades, but they told us that we could add certain upgrades when the car gets here. The only thing I've ever gotten in the past has been wheel locks, but not really sure if that's worth it or not. We live and work in a very safe neighborhood, so not sure how much of a concern I'd have. I know they will try to sell us on the Hondacare, but I have gotten quotes from Hyannis to compare to so feel prepared there.

Any other upgrades to watch out for? Or just say no to everything?
by davebo
Fri Apr 14, 2023 2:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sellers on Ebay, what info do you see about your buyers?
Replies: 9
Views: 1404

Re: Sellers on Ebay, what info do you see about your buyers?

Like others said, you can see name, address, and phone number. Phone number is probably the one you used at sign-up and for shipping purposes.

They have an ebay generated email address that is specific to each transaction, so are you saying you received one that went through Ebay's servers? Or are you saying they sent you an email that went directly to your email address?

I have heard of services that Amazon sellers use where they run all your personal info that is available (name, address, phone) to try and get your email or facebook page or whatever.
by davebo
Tue Mar 14, 2023 12:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: When to let kids quit band?
Replies: 9
Views: 1156

When to let kids quit band?

I have 2 kids in band right now through the school. It's been very clear over the last couple years that neither one of them likes band. They hate practicing and they hate waking up early for practice. I didn't make it past 7th grade for band in school and neither did their older brother. It hasn't come up yet because they know they'll need to finish the school year, but what is everyone's thoughts on when to push a kid with an activity vs. let them stop. In a perfect world, my son will continue with band and actually enjoy it. He's a little harder to convince to join an activity, so once he's in, I like to encourage him to keep going. He is on a couple of travel teams, which he enjoys but he's a homebody so I like to keep him in more organ...
by davebo
Mon Mar 13, 2023 10:00 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is it okay to go to a dentist who is not in your dental insurance network?
Replies: 41
Views: 3891

Re: Is it okay to go to a dentist who is not in your dental insurance network?

I've been going to my dentist since I was a kid and he is in-network. Haven't had anything besides cleanings/x-rays, so I don't pay anything out of pocket, but anything like fillings or cavaties are much less expensive when they are in-network as they are meeting the insurance companies cost. I supposed that could be bad if the dentist looks for other ways, but I haven't found that to be the case for me. My wife's dentist accepts insurance, but is not in network. Since it's close to our house, we bring our kids there as well. I feel like i"m always paying out of pocket there and it just seems way more expensive, but my kids are comfortable there and he does a nice job so we just keep going. Ultimately, you are looking for a good/honest...
by davebo
Fri Mar 10, 2023 2:22 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Do you go for walks?
Replies: 175
Views: 17256

Re: Do you go for walks?

My wife and I started going for walks after dinner during the pandemic, up until that point we always didn't like the idea of leaving the kids alone in the house. After we feel they were old enough, we would go for a quick walk around the block to get some exercise and to talk. Now they are a little longer, it's been a great way to catchup after work and get some exercise in.

When it's cold, we don't do it as religiously, maybe 5x per week for about a mile at a time. In the spring/summer/fall we do it everyday on top of regular exercise.

It's actually something we enjoy most about going on vacation too, walking around and exploring.
by davebo
Fri Mar 10, 2023 9:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: FLA gulf coast Red Tide - Plan B - FLA east coast?
Replies: 10
Views: 1360

Re: FLA gulf coast Red Tide - Plan B - FLA east coast?

We are on Venice Beach. The red tide has been pretty bad here since Super Bowl weekend however in the last couple of days it is pretty much gone. Can't predict what it will be like in early April but wanted to give you some first hand info for the area. You may want to get the Mote Aquarium report each day to keep an eye on it. We are going to Naples in a couple weeks and it seems pretty high there. We're staying about 5 blocks from the beach and there is a pool at the house, so sounds like (not ideal) but it will be fine and not worth switching plans. I know this is personal risk tolerance, but is it generally advisable to stay away from the beach until you have several days/weeks of samples showing it's gone? For instance, Marco Island s...
by davebo
Thu Mar 09, 2023 2:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Which Honda dealer should I believe?
Replies: 32
Views: 5109

Re: Which Honda dealer should I believe?

I just bought a Honda Odyssey so I'll give you my experience. I told the dealers the color/trim I wanted and they basically looked out into production to see if something was coming, 1 of them said they could "trade" with other dealers for what I wanted. I never specifically asked if they could order the car, but they never offered it. I tend to think this is a dealer policy because demand is so high, I even called one dealer where I had bought a car previously and they didn't have anything in the pipeline that matched me and they didn't try to sell me something else. They just said "sorry we couldn't help you" I started out by emailing 3-4 dealers and asking for prices without any dealer add-ons. Most were starting at $...
by davebo
Thu Mar 09, 2023 1:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Red Tide in Florida - Cancel Trip or Wait?
Replies: 8
Views: 2137

Red Tide in Florida - Cancel Trip or Wait?

We are heading down to Naples, FL on the 24th and started hearing about Red Tide warnings. I had heard of them prior, but really not that familiar with them. I've read that they can be anywhere from short-lived to lasting several months. The house we're staying in is maybe 5 blocks from the beach and does have a pool, I'm just wondering is the smell/air quality so bad that it would impact us if we stayed away from the beach? I'm assuming that it's not possible to get cleared up within a couple weeks, so wondering if we should call an audible and go elsewhere. We'd lose a bit on the security deposit and it would overall be a bit of a pain, but not sure what's worse. Looking at the map as of today, Naples has high concentrations. My wife floa...
by davebo
Thu Mar 02, 2023 9:49 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Should I stop saving for college?
Replies: 128
Views: 16677

Re: Should I stop saving for college?

What are you going to tell your really smart kids, when they get accepted to some overpriced college and they really want to go there, but it is way above the cost of a state school? They have to take out loans ? They can't go there ? They have to pay the difference ? I went through that several times with my kids, it blows the college budget out of the water. When you save your entire life, accumulate money and have a good income, I would not expect a large amount of grant money or subsidized money to make up the difference. All we qualified for, was a high interest non subsidized loan through FAFSA. Just because your kid is really smart, there are alot of really smart kids out there, and those with high needs get priority over those with...
by davebo
Wed Mar 01, 2023 2:18 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Should I stop saving for college?
Replies: 128
Views: 16677

Should I stop saving for college?

I know this is all personal preference, but just looking to take a poll and see how others would handle this. I have 3 kids (14, 12, 11) and we have been pretty diligently saving for college for their entire lives. I checked the balance today and we have roughly $232K in total saved for the 3 kids. I use the calculators and it tells me I'm close to funding 70% of the cost of a state school for all 3 kids (tuition only). My oldest is very smart, will do all honors/AP in HS, very diligent. Younger ones are smart too, but too early to tell what HS tract they will be on. Really have no clue on the college process and how easy it is to get scholarship money and whatnot. I know there is still room/board, but people also tell me that the "sti...
by davebo
Tue Feb 28, 2023 12:09 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: With Addition, When Do New Building Codes Apply.
Replies: 13
Views: 1269

Re: With Addition, When Do New Building Codes Apply.

I did an addition and was able to reuse certain windows, I'm in a fairly restrictive county. Personally I don't think they would notice that, but what do I know.
by davebo
Fri Feb 24, 2023 2:42 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Mini vs. SUV with Teens
Replies: 17
Views: 1553

Mini vs. SUV with Teens

We've had a minivan for 11 years and wife is ready for a new car. Originally looked at the Pilot, but the lack of space and 3rd row legroom gave me some pause.

I know it's generally recommended to go minivan when they are young, but we have 3 kids (12, 13, 14) so wondering if we should get another minivan or just go with the wife's choice and get the SUV. She really doesn't want to drive a minivan for her next car, but is starting to see the downside of the SUVs.

Anybody else with 3-4 kids stick with a minivan in this case? Or did you hop to an SUV and just deal with it?
by davebo
Mon Feb 20, 2023 12:31 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: dishwasher recomendations
Replies: 110
Views: 8263

Re: dishwasher recomendations

We've had a kitchenaide for 3 years and it's been great, we were also upgrading from an old dishwasher. My in-laws had a Miele, they liked it but did not think it was worth 2x the price.
by davebo
Mon Feb 20, 2023 11:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Have until Dec. to decide on a new 3-row car
Replies: 81
Views: 9611

Re: Have until Dec. to decide on a new 3-row car

We have an 06' Accord and 10' Odyssey. My wife drives the Odyssey and really wants to get a new car and wants it to be an SUV so she can fit our 3 kids in the car. She's pushing for the Honda Pilot, but I'm worried about the space since we usually take it on 3-4 roadtrips per year. We test drove the pilot and our 12 year old (who hasn't hit a growth spurt) was complaining about the lack of room back there. There is clearly way less luggage space in the back compared to a minivan.

Any families of 5 use the Pilot (or similar 3-row SUV) as their primary car? Is it workable or are you better off with a minivan?
by davebo
Tue Jan 24, 2023 12:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Standing Desk vs. Standing Desk Riser
Replies: 16
Views: 1402

Standing Desk vs. Standing Desk Riser

Sitting for long periods has been a little hard on my back, so looking at a standing desk option. Have an L-shaped desk that I really like, so I tried buying one of those desk risers that you see on Amazon. The problem is that when lowered, they are about 5 inches off the top of the desk, so I had to raise my chair up and, even then, the monitor seemed way too high. Also the riser is just way too bulky on top of the desk.

Anyone have any recommendations? Or is that something you just need to deal with if you have a riser?

I looked at standing desks that move up by pressing a button, so that is probably the way to go. I'd have to get rid of my existing desk though.
by davebo
Fri Jan 13, 2023 11:07 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Top Load vs Front Load washers?
Replies: 58
Views: 7729

Re: Top Load vs Front Load washers?

I have had a very basic top loader washer for the last 12 years and it's completely no frills. I fill it up, I drop the detergent in, I put the clothes in. I've never had issues with mold, clothes not getting clean, smells, etc. I feel like there are a lot of complaints with front-loaders. I'm sure mine uses more water or energy, but I can't imagine the difference to be that much to justify the higher cost/hassle.
by davebo
Tue Nov 15, 2022 2:13 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying a home - Asking the seller to buy down my interest rate
Replies: 40
Views: 5476

Re: Buying a home - Asking the seller to buy down my interest rate

Your offer makes it sound like you're trying to make life more complicated than it needs to be. Make a lower offer.
by davebo
Tue Nov 15, 2022 2:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Teams vs Zoom meetings
Replies: 23
Views: 1955

Re: Teams vs Zoom meetings

I prefer Teams, but it could be because that's what I'm used to.
by davebo
Thu Nov 10, 2022 10:40 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Contractor estimates time and scope, but finishes job much faster?
Replies: 65
Views: 5929

Re: Contractor estimates time and scope, but finishes job much faster?

I see OPs point, but not sure I would complain about it. Realistically you evaluated him based off the quote to get the job done, if he did it quicker then all the better.

On the flip side, I just finished a siding job where the guy estimated 10-14 days. It ended up taking closer to 19 days and he did not come back looking for additional money.

I have wondered this though with Landscapers in particular. I have had landscapers look at my mulch and estimate anywhere from 7 yards needed to up to 20 yards. When you figure the cost of mulch plus installation, it's a huge difference between the 2. I asked one guy what would happen if he ended up using less and he said "Well we wouldn't charge you". ....no idea how I would know.
by davebo
Mon Oct 31, 2022 6:10 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pilot vs. Telluride vs. Highlander vs. Palisade
Replies: 36
Views: 5748

Re: Pilot vs. Telluride vs. Highlander vs. Palisade

As someone that has fixed these cars for the last 40 odd years I would buy the Highlander. No comparison at all to me once you have seen how these cars are actually built. The Pilot would be my second call and they are a very good car now that they have the engine issues worked out again. Still a little transmission issues reported but I think that is very minor. If you can get a hybrid it is a complete no brainer to me. Best of luck. That's what I was a little concerned about. I understand the Kia is a hot car now and I do love their features, but worried about the car when it hits 70 or 80K miles. My parents/siblings have owned probably 20 Honda's over the last 20 years and we've all had great experiences. I'm sure Toyota is very similar...
by davebo
Mon Oct 31, 2022 6:07 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pilot vs. Telluride vs. Highlander vs. Palisade
Replies: 36
Views: 5748

Re: Pilot vs. Telluride vs. Highlander vs. Palisade

If you look at specs, the Highlander SEEMS very close to the Pilot in terms of third row/space, but the Pilot just FEELS considerably bigger to me. I have generally preferred Toyota to Honda, and I would really like the hybrid Highlander, but got pushback on the Highlander by my wife. We did the 2017 Pilot and I'm still running our 2009 Pilot. My wife feels any Kia looks cheap. However, on Consumer Reports, the Telluride TROUNCES everything else. The Highlander comes in about 10 points behind alongside the Palisade. The Honda Pilot then comes in another significant step down. I'm waiting for the Kia EV version of the Telluride to update my 2009 Pilot. We'll see. Maybe I have too high of expectations, but I was surprised at the lack of stor...
by davebo
Mon Oct 31, 2022 8:32 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 6 month delay in dentist appointment
Replies: 39
Views: 4564

Re: 6 month delay in dentist appointment

I might be in the minority, but I do not think this is normal at all. My wife and kids go to her childhood dentist and we have had to reschedule cleanings for various reasons. It might not be immediate, but we can get in within 1-3 weeks if we're flexible on the times.

I still go to my childhood dentist and I found the exact same experience.

I was always under the impression that everyone in the medical profession kept holes in their schedule for this exact reason.
by davebo
Sun Oct 30, 2022 8:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pilot vs. Telluride vs. Highlander vs. Palisade
Replies: 36
Views: 5748

Pilot vs. Telluride vs. Highlander vs. Palisade

Looking for a 3 row SUV, tried to talk my wife into another minivan but she's not interested. I had 2 questions: 1) We've always have been a Honda family, but I do really like the look and features on the Telluride. From my understanding, the Palisade is basically identical as well. The downsides of the Kia that I read about are the fire risk (assuming that's fixed) and dealing with Kia dealers. Honda would be a very safe bet for me, but wondering if it's time to venture out. Any thoughts on this? I've heard the Telluride is the best deal on the market now if you can get it at/below MSRP. We keep our cars for a long time, I'm driving a 15 year old Accord and my wife is driving a 12 year old Odyssey. 2) If my wife buys a car, I will likely t...
by davebo
Fri Sep 09, 2022 4:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Install Frost-Free Hose Bibs for outside?
Replies: 9
Views: 1162

Install Frost-Free Hose Bibs for outside?

I'm getting new siding and thought that maybe I should consider having a plumber check out my outdoor faucets. I've never really been sure if they are frost-free and I do worry about them freezing since we always see below zero temps, sometimes much lower. I sent him photos to give me an estimate. He said he can replace both of them for $475 and that would include 2 frost-free anti-siphon hose bibs with separate shut off valves. The one in the back has inside access through an unfinished part of my basement and that one, per the plumber, does not look like a frost-free one. The one in the front does not have inside access (without removing some drywall ceiling), but plumber thinks (from photo) that it looks like a frost-free one. Should I j...
by davebo
Tue Sep 06, 2022 3:02 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Did you ever push sports/activities on your kids?
Replies: 9
Views: 920

Did you ever push sports/activities on your kids?

Having our kids be healthy and active has been important to my wife and I. We always let them choose the sports they wanted to do, but also gave them some suggestions based on what we think they'd like. With our 2 older kids, we cycled through a lot of sports before having them find something they were really interested in. Even though they had periods of waning interest in certain sports, they generally enjoyed it overall and I never had to fight with them to go. My youngest is a little more challenging. He takes awhile to get comfortable, but once he does, tends really enjoy things. He has really not expressed a strong desire for any sport/activity that we've put him in. A lot of times we'll make him finish it out and then we'll allow him...
by davebo
Tue Aug 23, 2022 10:10 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 401k Allocation?
Replies: 4
Views: 350

401k Allocation?

I am 44 years old, roughly $1.2M saved for retirement (combined), 1+ year outside of retirement, Married, wife has 20 years into a state pension that will max out at 70% of her highest 3 years salary.

Not sure what my allocation should be in my 401k since I hear mixed advice. Currently this is how it looks:

FID Index 500 - 70%
FID MID CAP INX - 10%
Vanguard Real Estate Index - 10%
Stable Value Bond Fund - 10%

Most of the other choices are Blackrock Target Date funds, there is TRP INST SM CAP STK (TRSSX) with an expense ratio of .66%. Outside of that, there aren't a lot of choices.

Thoughts?
by davebo
Thu Jun 23, 2022 10:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best browser for saving Internet history? Another forum for ?'s?
Replies: 8
Views: 816

Re: Best browser for saving Internet history? Another forum for ?'s?

I use Chrome as well and for normal everyday saving, I just use bookmarks. If you want to get a little fancier, you can use Evernote, which has webclipper and advanced screenshots.

However if you didn't save something and want to backtrack, you can do a search of your history. I'm always logged in, so I think you need to be on Chrome and logged into your google account for this to work.. If you are logged in, you can go to myactivity.google.com and you can search your history.
by davebo
Wed Jun 08, 2022 10:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Radon Mitigation System - Not Quite All The Way to Roof
Replies: 11
Views: 1719

Re: Radon Mitigation System - Not Quite All The Way to Roof

Call_Me_Op wrote: Wed Jun 08, 2022 2:54 pm
davebo wrote: Wed Jun 08, 2022 2:17 pm I wouldn't necessarily be too concerned about it, but it should go all the way above the roof line, so if you ever sell the house you'll probably need to fix that. The contractor I used used white PVC so it was an eyesore, but some contractors are better at concealing the pipe or having it blend in with the siding.
Mine goes above the roof line, and looks fine to me - although it in on a rear corner of the house,
Mine does as well. It is what it is, I'm just saying that an improperly placed white PVC pipe could look bad. If your contractor is aware of this, they can put it in a place that gets the job done and is up to code, but also hides it as best possible.
by davebo
Wed Jun 08, 2022 2:17 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Radon Mitigation System - Not Quite All The Way to Roof
Replies: 11
Views: 1719

Re: Radon Mitigation System - Not Quite All The Way to Roof

I wouldn't necessarily be too concerned about it, but it should go all the way above the roof line, so if you ever sell the house you'll probably need to fix that. The contractor I used used white PVC so it was an eyesore, but some contractors are better at concealing the pipe or having it blend in with the siding.
by davebo
Wed Jun 01, 2022 4:25 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Movies for 10 year old
Replies: 70
Views: 5442

Re: Movies for 10 year old

Outside of the normal movies (Disney, Pixar) that you've probably seen, here are some movies that my 11-year old really liked. My wife questioned whether these were appropriate, but I thought they were fine.

-Indiana Jones 1,2,3
-Goonies
-Back to the Future 1,2,3
-National Treasure 1/2
-Uncle Buck
-Star Wars (any)
-Marvel (any)
by davebo
Mon May 30, 2022 10:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sedona Vacation Recommendations
Replies: 26
Views: 2272

Re: Sedona Vacation Recommendations

We went recently and I know we did Mesa Grill and The Hudson for restaurants, both of which were great, I think there are tons of great options there. We did the Broken Arrow Jeep Tour in Sedona and that's definitely something you should do, keep in mind though that it is a little bumpy and if there are other ones if you need a smoother ride. From what I've heard the Pink Jeep Tour in Grand Canyon is not recommended. I was a little worried about the crowds on the trails when we were there over Spring Break, but it was overblown. There isn't abundant parking on the trail, but we never had an issue getting a spot. We had 3 kids under 13 years old, so we didn't want anything too difficult, we basically just headed towards Sedona (we were stayi...
by davebo
Mon May 30, 2022 10:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sedona Vacation Recommendations
Replies: 26
Views: 2272

Re: Sedona Vacation Recommendations

We went recently and I know we did Mesa Grill and The Hudson for restaurants, both of which were great, I think there are tons of great options there. We did the Broken Arrow Jeep Tour in Sedona and that's definitely something you should do, keep in mind though that it is a little bumpy and if there are other ones if you need a smoother ride. From what I've heard the Pink Jeep Tour in Grand Canyon is not recommended. I was a little worried about the crowds on the trails when we were there over Spring Break, but it was overblown. There isn't abundant parking on the trail, but we never had an issue getting a spot. We had 3 kids under 13 years old, so we didn't want anything too difficult, we basically just headed towards Sedona (we were stayi...
by davebo
Fri May 13, 2022 11:12 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Stone patio really costs $15K?
Replies: 78
Views: 12146

Re: Stone patio really costs $15K?

I did a Unilock patio back in 2019 and got 3 quotes. For $19K, we ended up with about 700 SF patio/walkway, 2 steps to patio door, and then a firepit.

One thing I will say is that the steps, ledge, and firepits are way more than you would expect, in particular the ledge.

I'd get a couple more quotes and see how they come in, also let them know you are flexible with the instal date. Personally I got quotes in the fall and got in lined up for the following spring. That seems to be the best time.
by davebo
Wed May 04, 2022 9:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: The solar panel salesman
Replies: 89
Views: 12452

Re: The solar panel salesman

I don't buy anything from door to door salespeople as a general rule, only exceptions are for local kids selling things door to door for fundraising. After we had moved into a new community, there was a door to door guy that was selling water softeners. My wife talked to him briefly outside and then told him that she wanted to check with me, so he offered to come back when I'd be home. He came back and gave me the pitch, but then couldn't justify why his softener was better than the ones sold at Sears. All he kept saying was that they were junk and then left in a huff. After that experience, I'll never even speak with these guys again.
by davebo
Tue May 03, 2022 2:50 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Venting / Insulation in Attic
Replies: 14
Views: 1746

Venting / Insulation in Attic

I'm looking at doing new siding and had a couple things come up while getting quotes. Insulation - I have minimal insulation in my walls based on what I can tell. I had one contractor say that when they replaced the siding, they could use foldable insulation board, but that it only had minimal R value (1 or 2). The other 2 contractors said that it's not even worth installing and typically doing the foam insulation is expensive, messy, and a long payoff. They recommended making sure the attic was well insulated, but as far as I can tell it is. There is blown in insulation already, so not sure what more can be done. Snow accumulates on my roof and I heard that's the sign of a well insulated roof, little ice damming here and there but nothing ...
by davebo
Mon May 02, 2022 9:45 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Ideal virtual employment
Replies: 22
Views: 2737

Re: Ideal virtual employment

I work in finance and probably do 1-2 meetings a day maximum. We still work in a hybrid environment, but there have been several people that had sitauations come up where they had to move out of state. In those cases, exceptions were made and they were allowed to work 100% remote. They all have situations like you are describing.

I think it's similar to what someone said above...I don't think you can filter by remote work, I think you need to just apply for jobs and then try to negotiate a fully remote position if possible. Then just hope that you don't have a boss that micromanages you.
by davebo
Fri Apr 29, 2022 12:10 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: House Siding Recommendation
Replies: 23
Views: 2237

Re: House Siding Recommendation

Are you asking for a recommendation on whether you should do this or not, or are you asking specifically about the choice of product? Although siding is an important part of your home's envelope, I think you might consider waiting if it's just a cosmetic thing. Have you spoken to someone about stripping and re-painting (or solid color staining) what's there? I think materials and labor are very pricey at this moment in time. This may be the case forever, as in prices will never come down, but it might be a worthwhile bet; perhaps if there is a recession or a mild housing bust, vendors will be more accommodating price wise. Of course, prices could keep going up and your quotes will seem like a bargain. I have no experience with the material...