Search found 49 matches

by livelifealittle
Wed Dec 01, 2021 3:00 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: U.S. stocks in free fall
Replies: 36221
Views: 4683223

Re: U.S. stocks in free fall

surfstar wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:49 pm
livelifealittle wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:47 pm
atdharris wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:44 pm
livesoft wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:24 pm
atdharris wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:19 pm Officially lost 14 months worth of gains in my ARKK position. Maybe it's time to learn a lesson from this, book my small losses and roll it into VTI
Another lesson would be to learn to buy more when the something has dropped in value.
I am not sure what I will do. I hold ARKK as a riskier asset in my portfolio, and it does sound silly to sell after the big drop this year, but this is the risk and dilemma I take by owning non-index funds.
In the same boat with exactly the same dilemma :(
Going down with the Arkk? :D
Still debating. Should I abandon ship?
by livelifealittle
Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:47 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: U.S. stocks in free fall
Replies: 36221
Views: 4683223

Re: U.S. stocks in free fall

atdharris wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:44 pm
livesoft wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:24 pm
atdharris wrote: Wed Dec 01, 2021 2:19 pm Officially lost 14 months worth of gains in my ARKK position. Maybe it's time to learn a lesson from this, book my small losses and roll it into VTI
Another lesson would be to learn to buy more when the something has dropped in value.
I am not sure what I will do. I hold ARKK as a riskier asset in my portfolio, and it does sound silly to sell after the big drop this year, but this is the risk and dilemma I take by owning non-index funds.
In the same boat with exactly the same dilemma :(
by livelifealittle
Fri Nov 05, 2021 2:55 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

Refinance Refinancing this loan will depend on your future financial situation, the property value, and market conditions. You may not be able to refinance this loan. I think that's generic language that appears on all loan estimates (it definitely showed up on mine). I don't think you'll have an issue refinancing as long as you meet the new lender's requirements. Is the builder getting some sort of commission as part of your using of their preferred lender? If so, their commission might get clawed back. The builder is a shareholder of the lending company. I think we're gonna go with higher rate with a credit so we can keep the builder/lender credit and then refi immediately to a much lower rate with different lender. I don't see any other...
by livelifealittle
Fri Nov 05, 2021 2:51 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinancing soon after cash-out refinance
Replies: 4
Views: 726

Re: Refinancing soon after cash-out refinance

This is brilliant! I'm also doing cash out refi on my rentals but will probably do similar thing with our new home. Thank you for posting this OP!
by livelifealittle
Thu Nov 04, 2021 9:33 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

Can someone please help me to check if the loan we're getting can be refinance immediately? We're getting lender credit from the builder's preferred lender (new construction) and would like to refi asap soon after closing. Where in the LE should I check for the term? Is it this clause?

Refinance
Refinancing this loan will depend on your future financial situation, the property value, and
market conditions. You may not be able to refinance this loan.

It's conventional 30 yr loan.
by livelifealittle
Mon Sep 20, 2021 2:11 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: U.S. stocks in free fall
Replies: 36221
Views: 4683223

Re: U.S. stocks in free fall

harikaried wrote: Mon Sep 20, 2021 2:09 pm Looks like new lots of Total US / VTI since the end of June are likely to have losses to harvest. We realized more than $1k today. Maybe too early? :confused
If you TLH now, what will you do with the funds?
by livelifealittle
Tue Aug 31, 2021 3:04 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

Has anyone refinanced after COVID payment deferral? I read into my deferral letter. It states "You will be responsible for paying the past-due amounts upon the maturity date of the mortgage or earlier upon the sale or transfer of the property, refinance of the mortgage loan, or payoff of the interest-bearing unpaid principal balance. The payment deferral balance can't be pre-paid prior to maturity of payoff" It doesn't explicit say you need to pay this out of your pocket vs as part of the refi funds. So has anyone recently refinanced a deferred conforming mortgage and can you use borrowed funds to pay off the entire amount (regular principal plus deferred principal). Or you are required to pony up a chunk of cash to satisfy defer...
by livelifealittle
Thu Jul 29, 2021 5:27 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Sole Prop Taxesl/SS/FICA/Payroll service Advice?
Replies: 14
Views: 954

Re: Sole Prop Taxesl/SS/FICA/Payroll service Advice?

arsenalfan wrote: Thu Jul 29, 2021 5:14 pm Thanks

What’s getting me is I switched from my w2 to this 1099 on 7/1

So I need to make the last 2 quarterly estimated payments for 2021.

Overall I’ll make a little more than 2020, so guess I’ll just look at my 2020 w2, divide by 4, and add a few thousand to each of the 2 payments
More like double your w2 since it's only half of the payroll taxes. Your employer paid the other half.
by livelifealittle
Wed Jul 28, 2021 2:15 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

I think I might have shot myself in the foot since the new lender said we can only refinance as investment and the refi lender also said the same thing. A broker disagreed with it and said since when the refi closes this is still our primary, it shouldn't be an issue. But I'm a little nervous about jeopardizing the new home loan if we go ahead. Maybe I should've said nothing and played dumb! :oops: I agree with the broker! Technically, until the new home purchase is finalized, nothing is guaranteed so to count that against you in the present time is silly. You can change your mind anytime. But proceed according to your own comfort level. That’s a lesson I have learned. You don’t have to show all your cards to the lenders. Don’t lie, but ju...
by livelifealittle
Wed Jul 28, 2021 1:53 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

I think I might have shot myself in the foot since the new lender said we can only refinance as investment and the refi lender also said the same thing. A broker disagreed with it and said since when the refi closes this is still our primary, it shouldn't be an issue. But I'm a little nervous about jeopardizing the new home loan if we go ahead. Maybe I should've said nothing and played dumb! :oops: I agree with the broker! Technically, until the new home purchase is finalized, nothing is guaranteed so to count that against you in the present time is silly. You can change your mind anytime. But proceed according to your own comfort level. That’s a lesson I have learned. You don’t have to show all your cards to the lenders. Don’t lie, but ju...
by livelifealittle
Wed Jul 28, 2021 10:51 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

Oops. DW forgot to pay her credit card bill :annoyed . We are supposed to close on a refinance with Better soon. Her credit score went from 801 to 686. Undoubtedly they will check our credit again. Will this be a problem? This will be a problem and lead to a higher rate. Try to get the credit card company to give a one time pass and remove it from your credit. Good idea. She's had the card for a decade and this is the first late payment so hopefully they can help us. Alternatively, is it possible to have better take my wife off the loan application? I'm pretty sure I can qualify on my own. If you could qualify on your own, I would definitely do that so your wife's credit is free for other things (assuming she doesn't need to build her cred...
by livelifealittle
Wed Jul 28, 2021 10:50 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

If you are gonna keep your current house as a rental or second home, now is the time to refi for a lower rate. Once it is no longer your primary residence the rates are significantly higher. If you are gonna sell it, then maybe refi is too much work for too little gain. On the mortgage app they do ask if you are doing any other refi. Maybe drop the loan app for the new built and restart after you are done with current home refi. We'll keep the current house. What does dropping the loan app mean? We submitted the app several months ago but since it is being built, nothing is going on with that app until at least November. Will the lender for the current house refi be able to find out about the mortgage app for the new build? If credit score...
by livelifealittle
Tue Jul 27, 2021 11:45 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

If you are gonna keep your current house as a rental or second home, now is the time to refi for a lower rate. Once it is no longer your primary residence the rates are significantly higher. If you are gonna sell it, then maybe refi is too much work for too little gain. On the mortgage app they do ask if you are doing any other refi. Maybe drop the loan app for the new built and restart after you are done with current home refi. We'll keep the current house. What does dropping the loan app mean? We submitted the app several months ago but since it is being built, nothing is going on with that app until at least November. Will the lender for the current house refi be able to find out about the mortgage app for the new build? If credit score...
by livelifealittle
Fri Jul 23, 2021 12:07 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

This thread is great. I hadn't been keeping track of it for a while but I got a call from a loan officer I did a refi with a year ago, asking if I wanted to do it again. His rate wasn't great but it prompted me to check this thread again. After seeing the rates people were getting I was able to lock with Better yesterday for 2.375% 30yr, A+B+C+E + AMEX should end up with me getting ~$200 in my pocket at the end of the process. This will be our third refinance in the last 18 months, each time I think the rates can't possible go any lower. Thanks for all the great content in this thread all! :beer We did a refi exactly one year ago and thought rate wouldn't go lower either. And yet here we are. It makes me think that maybe we might have to g...
by livelifealittle
Thu Jul 22, 2021 8:52 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

MiddleOfTheRoad wrote: Thu Jul 22, 2021 8:19 pm
livelifealittle wrote: Thu Jul 22, 2021 7:57 pm We'll keep the current house. What does dropping the loan app mean?
We submitted the app several months ago but since it is being built, nothing is going on with that app until at least November. Will the lender for the current house refi be able to find out about the mortgage app for the new build?
If credit score has not been pulled then they have no idea. But if there is a pull on your credit report they may ask. If it was me, I’d probably go ahead and refi. If they ask then say you were shopping for a mortgage (refi :wink: )

Great idea. I think we'll do that. Thank you so much!
by livelifealittle
Thu Jul 22, 2021 7:57 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

MiddleOfTheRoad wrote: Thu Jul 22, 2021 4:04 pm If you are gonna keep your current house as a rental or second home, now is the time to refi for a lower rate. Once it is no longer your primary residence the rates are significantly higher.

If you are gonna sell it, then maybe refi is too much work for too little gain.

On the mortgage app they do ask if you are doing any other refi. Maybe drop the loan app for the new built and restart after you are done with current home refi.
We'll keep the current house. What does dropping the loan app mean?
We submitted the app several months ago but since it is being built, nothing is going on with that app until at least November. Will the lender for the current house refi be able to find out about the mortgage app for the new build?
by livelifealittle
Thu Jul 22, 2021 3:26 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

We are purchasing a new build from a builder and won't close until December. Can we refi our current primary in the meantime? It'll bring our rate from 3.25% to 2.625%. I emailed our LO for the new build but he hasn't responded yet.
by livelifealittle
Fri May 15, 2020 1:58 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

grp2c wrote: Fri May 15, 2020 1:25 pm FYI if you are considering refinancing do not ask for covid 19 forbearance from your current lender.

I'm kicking myself. I made this mistake and it's complicating the underwriting for my refinance even though there are supposed to be no negative credit affects from the covid 19 forbearance.

My loan officer said there is some guidance from Fanny/Freddie saying if banks underwrite a loan and they think that the customer will ask for forbearance within the next year then the banks are subject to penalties.
So what happens with your refi now?
by livelifealittle
Thu Apr 09, 2020 2:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

PavlovsCat wrote: Thu Apr 09, 2020 2:32 pm
Numerous reports on other forums of non-targeted people getting the $2500 back. I myself was not targeted, but used the link and confirmed with my officer that my account was flagged for the Amex deal... I would look into it if I were you.
I was feeling disappointed already since we locked yesterday but Better.com is not available in my state anyway (NV). That made it easier to swallow what could've been $2,500 lost opportunity cost. Thanks for the tip though and I'm glad you were able to get the $2,500. That is an awesome deal.
by livelifealittle
Thu Apr 09, 2020 2:26 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

I hate sounding like a shill, but I recommend everyone at least check out Better Mortgage using the better.com/with/Amex link. Better has a price match guarantee and promises to beat your estimate by at least $1000, and, if you have a personal (non-business) Amex card you get $2500 after closing. Appraisal is free too. Make sure you go through the link though. My understanding is this is a targeted offer only. I have both personal and business Amex card but didn't get the email. Would jump on it if I can get the $2500 rebate but I don't think I qualify. Scratched that... not available in NV anyway. Anyway, locked yesterday at 3.25% 30yr with 1.125% credit and 3.625% with 0 pt for investment property. Then I keep second guessing myself if I...
by livelifealittle
Thu Mar 05, 2020 2:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

amindu wrote: Thu Mar 05, 2020 1:07 pm NV as in Nevada? If so OneNevada Credit Union by far the lowest rate and underwriting fees ($560). I locked in a 2.5 15 year with 1/8 credit, plus lender and title cost. If interest i can get you the info to the loan officer.
Yes, Nevada. That would be much appreciated. Thank you!
by livelifealittle
Thu Mar 05, 2020 12:32 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

Ramjet wrote: Thu Mar 05, 2020 12:20 pm Fed meets in 2 weeks I think, waiting to see if they cut again before I do anything
Awesome. We have 1 primary and 2 rentals to refi and best I can find for the main residence is 3.25% 30yr 0 pt but with $995 loan fee.
by livelifealittle
Thu Mar 05, 2020 11:34 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance Mega Thread
Replies: 12862
Views: 1276450

Re: Refinance Mega Thread

Anyone got a good rate in NV? I'm not finding anyone who can get anywhere near 3.25% no fee, let alone 3%. And today's rate is actually higher than yesterday.
by livelifealittle
Wed Aug 02, 2017 2:07 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much money do you want to retire?
Replies: 1367
Views: 208726

Re: How much money do you need to retire?

Age: 36, DH: 35 (DINK)
Target: now but that's not possible so maybe 50?
I think we need $1m to draw 4% (2017 $) but probably can do with less.

I'm good in finding deals and stretching my dollars - I actually enjoy it. Fancy dinners costs are pretty low since we eat a lot of veggies and we both don't drink.
Mortgage is low and we can always downside to a condo and rent out the house. Or better yet, travel full time, work occasionally, sell my landscape images (not hopeful though). I'm also qualified to do tax return and once I gain enough experience & confidence, pulling $10-20k during tax season should be doable.
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 15, 2017 2:59 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Have you had this issue with Subaru Forester windshield replacement?
Replies: 33
Views: 17365

Re: Have you had this issue with Subaru Forester windshield replacement?

I know with my 2015 Outback they sent out a notice that if you had to replace your windshield, they'd reimburse you up to x amount (don't remember). Not sure if it applies to Forester as well. I have a 2015 Outback, but did not get such a "notice." Do you still have it, does it have a title I can contact Subaru about? I have no idea what I did to the notice I received but here's the same letter someone posted on subaruoutback.org http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/138-gen-5-2015-present/301441-warranty-extension-windshield-cracking-deicer.html . Give them a call and see if yours is covered as well. OP, you might want to check if your warranty is extended to 5 yrs as well. See the letter posted on the above link. Never mind. Saw ...
by livelifealittle
Wed Jun 14, 2017 7:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Have you had this issue with Subaru Forester windshield replacement?
Replies: 33
Views: 17365

Re: Have you had this issue with Subaru Forester windshield replacement?

I know with my 2015 Outback they sent out a notice that if you had to replace your windshield, they'd reimburse you up to x amount (don't remember). Not sure if it applies to Forester as well.
by livelifealittle
Wed Jun 14, 2017 2:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Multi-page scanner?
Replies: 26
Views: 4135

Re: Multi-page scanner?

Brother ADS-1500W I have also come with cloud feature where it would upload the scanned doc directly to Google Drive. However, I think that doc will not be private to only you (gov access is allowed or something like that) - see review on Amazon link I posted above.

You can easily send the scanned doc to your dedicated folder, drag and drop to Google Drive if you wish, or scan directly to Dropbox folder and have it automatically updated.
by livelifealittle
Wed Jun 14, 2017 1:46 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

Update: We test drove the Prius at local dealer. Much to my surprise, DH doesn't mind the slow acceleration and says he'll live with it. When it was my turn though... I hit the gas like the Subaru and although I have the 2.4L, the Outback's gas is quite sensitive so I'm used to feathering it. Did that with the Prius. It didn't go anywhere :shock: :mrgreen: I floored the gas and it was still going very slow (compared to the OB). Anyway, it was hilarious and we all had a good laugh, including the sales guy who was pretty cool and not pushy at all. Note: I understand to compare the Prius slow acceleration to the OB is not fair given they both offer different mpg. I just wasn't expecting it to be THAT different. Feels like going back to regular...
by livelifealittle
Wed Jun 14, 2017 1:32 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Multi-page scanner?
Replies: 26
Views: 4135

Re: Multi-page scanner?

I have Brother ADS-1500W (https://www.amazon.com/Brother-ADS1500W ... B00EKW6JZ4)

Bought the refurbished one from Staples with $30 coupon and got 3yr Squaretrade protection plan for $15.99.
It scans both sides in one go. Obviously not as fast as the more expensive Fujitsu but I scan while doing other things as well.
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 8:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

I am in the Baltimore area. Anyone looking for a new Subaru? Lol Also what ultimately made my decision is the safety of the outback. Even without eyesight, it is a very safe vehicle to drive and better suited to handle an accident if one would occur. I don't have kids, but if I did, I would want the safest vehicle to drive. I'll take it you've decided to keep your Outback for many more years now? :D The ES is nice feature but to be fair, I can't say for sure that mine works properly as I never used that before. There was someone in the subaru forum who tested it in the dealer parking lot and it crashed the cardboard they used for testing though. I tend to be defensive driver and keep my space from the car in front of me but I agree, it can...
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 8:29 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

Easy Rhino wrote:You also say you work from home. you might not put many miles on the car. this means that savings on gas won't add up to a lot of money over the course of a year.

Registration costs are not significant compared to other costs.

You don't actually go camping much, and can do it in either anyway.

So by my judgemental standard... none of your factors actually matter.
I think you might miss the part where I said "we will be driving more". But if you already made up your mind that my factors doesn't matter, ok then.
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 8:26 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

We enjoyed our V6 2012 Outback, but didn't enjoy the ~20 mpg gas mileage. We traded it in for a 2012 Prius V, and netted about $8k in the transaction. How many people get cash BACK when they trade in a car??? We really enjoy the Prius V. It is really versatile, and has all the space of the Outback, while getting twice the gas mileage of our old V6. As someone pointed out, its really nice filling up a 10-gallon tank for around $20 and going 400 miles on it. Feels liberating, being able to travel so cheaply. We even car-camped in the trunk on a long summer road trip, and enjoyed the a/c that can run on battery while the engine only needs to intermittently crank on. Then, we moved to Colorado, and occasionally miss the ground clearance and AW...
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 8:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

You would net cash, but you lock in the loss on the Subaru. You already spent the money, the loss would be between perceived value and sale/trade value. Buying a 2009, you are several years (6) closer to buying the next vehicle. The purchase is in the future, but it is coming. With a 2015, that next purchase is 10 years out (if you want it to be). But, driving a car that is "not the car" is not great either. I've learned "there is no right answer" when commenting on car topics. You get different options/perspectives, gather them together and do nothing or do something. :happy Got it. Thanks for explaining :) And yes, I am still gathering lots of information before making the decision. Mind is definitely not set yet.
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 1:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

tyrion wrote:Yes, they are boring. Very little road feedback. When you accelerate the engine revs but it feels like nothing happens for a few seconds before it finally starts to go. The gauges are mildly interesting if you want to make a game out of getting really good MPG.

I would suggest going to your local Carmax (I think they have them in Nevada) and test driving a Prius or two. Last time I was at a Carmax they had 5 or 6 of them sitting on the lot. Once you've driven it and compared it to your Subaru you can make a more informed decision.

Thanks for the feedback and suggestion. I think we'll do that and then rent one for a day to see how we feel.
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 1:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

Right. Sorry about rambling. Doing nothing is your BEST option for saving money. Down carring will net you some cash, but I'm not sure that qualifies as saving money. I have 2 teen kids driving, wife has a newer car. I drive a 2001 Toyota Echo that I paid $1,600 cash for. Close to 40 mpg. Registration is $49 for a year. Liability only insurance is $149/year. $198/year. I don't recommend it for everyone. I could have saved more money by riding my bicycle and not buying the car at all. Cars take your money in big and small chunks. :confused Sorry, I didn't mean to imply you were rambling. I thought it'd save some space to not quote the whole post. I appreciate the story and your input :sharebeer I lived in NY and didn't have car before. Howe...
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 1:28 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

This is a tough decision to be sure. On the one hand, Subarus are really dependable. On the other hand, the deadly Prius is more eco-friendly than any Subaru. Honestly, I think it would come down to which car had the lower insurance rate, higher mpg, and cheaper repairs/maintenance. I like the idea of the deadly Prius, but I like my money more, so I would only get it if it was the optimal option given the three categories I mentioned. That's where I'm at currently. I heard Prius is very dependable too. Prius will win on the mpg and registration (this is an annual cost so kinda hard to overlook). Insurance wise, I will have to double check with my ins co. I actually don't care much about cars and DH doesn't even like the look of a Prius but...
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 1:23 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

I haven't chimed in yet and won't even offer a recommendation as there's not enough information. My own observations: Subarus have their own quirks and things that go wrong. Understand what they are and decide what you can live with. Subaru also offers factory extended warranties up to 7 years, 100k miles. You might want to consider one. Maybe not. A hint, look at Mastria Subaru for a discount on the factory warranty. Ok, on to driving impressions. Sorry, but an Outback is a step above a Buick (I say that in a bad way) and drives almost like a boat. (I own an Outback). That being said, I HAVE driven Priuses? Priusi? Many units of cars named Prius. To be honest, if you're not a total nerd trying to hypermile or marvel at the gauges and info...
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 1:09 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

bloom2708 wrote:...
I see your point on your dad's story but failed to understand how getting a new Prius will help me in saving money?
I will need to spend more money buying the car, registration will cost roughly the same with the OB, and insurance is probably the same too. Can you elaborate more please?
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 12:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Do You Pay for an Oil Change?
Replies: 217
Views: 25808

Re: What Do You Pay for an Oil Change?

We also have Fumoto valve installed in our Outback. DH changes the oil. We got the oil from Walmart when there are rebate so about $15 for 5 quartz synthetic Mobil1 0W-20.

I got $250 voucher when buying the car so I stocked up on air and oil filters. I changed the air filter (youtube the process) while hubby changed the oil.
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 12:07 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

kwarden13 wrote: So I have a 2015 Subaru Outback Limited w/ eyesight, nav, everything and was contemplating selling. The lowest amount on Autotrader for a car like mine was $28,000. I went to every dealer I could think of and they all low balled me to $23,000. Even most dealers would not honor the Subaru Guaranteed Trade-in amount which is $24,300. Then I decided to try privately and priced it at $26,000 and got mostly sketchy people w/ low ball offers even worse than the dealers. Basically, it is not worth it. Keep the Subaru and drive it for 10 years. It is a great car and will drive well over 200k miles.
Where are you located? Your thread was the one I referred to in the OP :happy
by livelifealittle
Thu Jun 01, 2017 12:05 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Re: Subaru to Prius?

Interesting. Only 1 person who say yes to Prius (and you actually did make the switch and happy with it) :happy Those of you who recommend to keep the Subaru, what are you reasons? Is it because you have driven both and the OB is more comfortable or fun than the Prius? Or is it because of the monetary reason (it's not worth the hassle of selling and buying another car)? I admit I've never driven a Prius before. Will rent one and see how we like it (DH does most of the driving so if he hates it then it won't work). For the monetary part, what I'm thinking is, assuming I can only get $23k for the OB, that means the cost of ownership for the past 2.5yrs is $7k ($3k/yr or $250/mo). Not cheap, but not too bad either since it still costs less tha...
by livelifealittle
Wed May 31, 2017 2:45 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Subaru to Prius?
Replies: 44
Views: 6045

Subaru to Prius?

Hi, I've just read the other Subaru thread and didn't want to mix my own situation there :) I also have a 2015 Subaru Outback. Bought brand new, got pretty good deal below MSRP, total OOP was $30k and some change. I bought it for car camping but unfortunately, work got too busy and I didn't get to do what I would love to do with it. It is financed at 1.5% (cash is earning higher ROI). Currently owe $17.5k, car value at Edmunds $25k ish for private party sale. We (me and DH) moved from CA to NV late last year and registration in NV is double what we paid in CA. We paid $450 for this year's registration alone. I'm thinking if it's a good idea to sell the OB and buy a used Prius (2009 or 2012) instead. Thoughts: - Registration for the 2012 Pri...
by livelifealittle
Mon Oct 10, 2016 2:27 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Advice on Portfolio
Replies: 13
Views: 1871

Re: Advice on Portfolio

HeadSpinning wrote:+1 to ruralavalon suggested portfolio, with a slight modification. I would use FTIPX instead of FSGDX for the international portion. It is a more complete fund.
Got it. All 3 funds will match the Fidelity 3 funds suggested on https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Three-fund_portfolio
Thank you!
by livelifealittle
Mon Oct 10, 2016 2:02 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Advice on Portfolio
Replies: 13
Views: 1871

Re: Advice on Portfolio

Welcome to the forum :) . It's good to see that you are nearly debt free, with no high interest debt. Bogleheads' Guide to Investing is a good choice for where to start your reading. It's good to see that you are interested in using low expense ratio mutual funds.. Asset allocation. The first decision to make is to settle on an asset allocation, the stock/bond mix and domestic/international mix that you want to aim for. In my opinion at age 34 an asset allocation of 70/30 stocks/bonds is within the range of what is reasonable. In my opinion 43% (30/70 = 43%) of stocks in international is too high. I suggest around 20 - 30% of stocks in international stocks. Vanguard paper (March 2012), "Considerations for investing in non-U.S. equitie...
by livelifealittle
Fri Oct 07, 2016 2:53 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Advice on Portfolio
Replies: 13
Views: 1871

Re: Advice on Portfolio

Lou354 wrote:A three fund portfolio would be fine. You don't have to have all three funds in each account. Instead you could implement the three fund portfolio concept across all accounts (IRAs, HSAs and taxable) viewed as a single portfolio. Look up the wiki on tax-efficient fund placement.

Does the HSA offer any lower-cost funds?
I searched and it seems that Saturna HSA has access to all Vanguard funds. The fee is $14.95 per trade but there is inactivity fee of $25/yr. Is this a better option?
Here's the thread where I got the information from: viewtopic.php?t=135513
by livelifealittle
Fri Oct 07, 2016 2:51 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Advice on Portfolio
Replies: 13
Views: 1871

Re: Advice on Portfolio

It looks like you are backing into this and hopefully are getting the hang of our approach. If the book is too much, have you read the Wiki? The basic idea is simple, but everyone struggles a bit when they are trying to get the hang of it. You've edited an asset allocation of 70/30 (40 US stocks, 30 intl stocks/30 bonds) which is about right for your age IMHO. Evaluate your plan as a whole, not in separate pieces. This is a big help when some accounts are too small to comfortably include the 3 funds (minimum $45,000). So, you may end up with one account that holds all bonds and another that holds all stock until each account is large enough to split it up into several funds. Otherwise, you end up paying a higher commission on all the funds...
by livelifealittle
Fri Oct 07, 2016 12:43 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Advice on Portfolio
Replies: 13
Views: 1871

Re: Advice on Portfolio

Bump. Anyone?
by livelifealittle
Thu Oct 06, 2016 8:12 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Advice on Portfolio
Replies: 13
Views: 1871

Re: Advice on Portfolio

Oh right! Thanks, I didn't see 403b there. Editing it shortly.
by livelifealittle
Thu Oct 06, 2016 7:32 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Advice on Portfolio
Replies: 13
Views: 1871

Advice on Portfolio

Emergency funds: Yes Debt: car $21k @1.49% Tax Filing Status: Married Filing Jointly Tax Rate: 25% Federal, 8-9.3% State State of Residence: CA Age: 34 Desired Asset allocation: 40% US stocks / 30% bonds? Desired International allocation: 30% stocks? Current retirement assets Taxable 76% $120k cash (for investing – do not include emergency funds) $70k cash (house down payment) Tax Advantaged total 24% His Traditional IRA at Vanguard $11.7k Vanguard Target Retirement 2045 Fund (VTIVX) (0.16%) Company match? No Her Traditional IRA at Fidelity $5.5k not invested to anything yet $6k HENNESSY GAS UTILITY INVESTOR CL (GASFX) (1.02%) Her Rollover IRA at Fidelity $15.6k FIDELITY SELECT BIOTECHNOLOGY (FBIOX) (0.73%) His and Her HSA at Saturna $9k Am...