Search found 575 matches

by rotorhead
Fri Aug 27, 2021 7:08 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Switching to a pre paid cell phone plan question
Replies: 40
Views: 5905

Re: Switching to a pre paid cell phone plan question

Consumer Cellular is not a prepaid utility.
by rotorhead
Thu Aug 26, 2021 1:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Switching to a pre paid cell phone plan question
Replies: 40
Views: 5905

Re: Switching to a pre paid cell phone plan question

OP, I would not switch to a prepaid cell phone plan if I were you. There are lots of good plans available. You said you are with AT&T now. That being the case I would recommend you take a serious look at Consumer Cellular. Don't be put off by all those old white haired guys and gals in their TV commercials. They are a MVNO, piggybacking on the AT&T network; and also use T-Mobile as well now. Service is excellent; and anytime I've had to contact their customer service, I was more than pleased with the result. We moved over to them several years ago from AT&T; and could not be more pleased. Currently have 3 phones on the system, plus 10 GB month data. Cost + tax about $60 per month. If perchance we run over 10 gb, they just up us ...
by rotorhead
Thu Aug 26, 2021 9:30 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Help with motor belt for old dryer
Replies: 35
Views: 2938

Re: Help with motor belt for old dryer

At 50 years old maybe time for a new dryer. Or are you trying for new world record?

I have had very good luck getting parts for all our appliances with https://www.appliancepartspros.com/.

Take a look before you go to the auto parts store.
by rotorhead
Thu Aug 26, 2021 9:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Free Carfax?
Replies: 7
Views: 692

Re: Free Carfax?

What is the purpose of your question?

Car Fax is routinely available (for free) on practically any car for sale these days.

Just take a quick look through https://www.autotrader.com/
by rotorhead
Mon Aug 16, 2021 7:55 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How to evaluate HO Insurance in FL?
Replies: 20
Views: 1910

Re: How to evaluate HO Insurance in FL?

Home valuation at $450,000.
by rotorhead
Sun Aug 15, 2021 11:08 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How to evaluate HO Insurance in FL?
Replies: 20
Views: 1910

Re: How to evaluate HO Insurance in FL?

OP, I am surprised you are this close to closing on your newly built home; and don't have insurance in place already. We are in the middle of hurricane season now, and there are two active storms "in the box" - https://www.probate-florida.com/blog/2014/may/dont-get-stuck-in-the-box-during-hurricane-seaso/ . I'm surprised one of the companies already quoting you haven't pressed the issue. Maybe they are more relaxed about that now; but when we purchased our home in August 1995, our realtor cautioned us about this matter. Homeowners insurance in Florida is a hotly debated, and contentious issue; with politics playing a significant role. We have been here 26 years; and our hazard insurance is with USAA, and windstorm coverage is with...
by rotorhead
Fri Aug 06, 2021 4:28 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Palm Beach Research
Replies: 8
Views: 1158

Re: Palm Beach Research

solarcub, just a very quick websearch revealed the following.

https://html.duckduckgo.com/html?q=palm ... 20research

May be impossible to get refund for any remittance paid already; but just stop future payments to them.

Sometimes lessons learned come at a cost.
by rotorhead
Wed Aug 04, 2021 4:56 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: $10k Land Purchase - What is the True Total Downside?
Replies: 47
Views: 4992

Re: $10k Land Purchase - What is the True Total Downside?

OP, there seems to be something in the American psyche about owning land - the freedom of one's own little place, independence, privacy, etc, etc, etc, etc; that captures the dreams of so many. Maybe it's our frontier spirit, whatever. I think it largely has to do with the notion there will be less of it available as the population continues to grow. "Buy it now while it's still available." Look at the craziness going on in the real estate markets during this pandemic period. Buying an empty plot of land that you cannot easily go to each day to monitor; and which you do not plan to build on for several years into the future, is just a big waste of money in my opinion. Take the $10k you plan to spend on this property; and invest it...
by rotorhead
Wed Aug 04, 2021 10:45 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Why is pc so slow
Replies: 86
Views: 6683

Re: Why is pc so slow

OP, a lot of good suggestions have been posted to help solve your problem. There was a thread back in May regard similar issues; and I posted at the time. Re: Windows 10 + Chrome = Slow and Sluggish Post by rotorhead » Wed May 12, 2021 8:48 pm OP, I am currently using a Dell Latitude D630 laptop, that was manufactured for use in China; and was built with Windows XP installed. It was given to me by a relative in 2006. Over the years I upgraded to Windows Vista, then Windows 7, which both worked fine; then Windows 10. I reverted back to Windows 7 to do a trial; and have stayed with 7 for the time being. I don't really like the "plainness" of Win 10; but it works fine on my HP desktop. I upgraded the Wi-Fi card to max supportable, th...
by rotorhead
Fri Jul 16, 2021 4:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best state to buy a used car
Replies: 16
Views: 1902

Re: Best state to buy a used car

OP, take a look at Autotrader.com. Very useful website, with lots of filters you can set to look up exactly the car you want.
by rotorhead
Fri Jul 16, 2021 4:27 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard or Schwab for an Expat?
Replies: 6
Views: 1432

Re: Vanguard or Schwab for an Expat?

OP, I would do exactly as galawdog has suggested. Re: Vanguard or Schwab for an Expat? Post by galawdawg » Fri Jul 16, 2021 2:59 pm While I am not an expat, I have been very satisfied with the outstanding customer service at Schwab. If you are considering moving your portfolio in contemplation of living outside the US, I'd recommend you consider the following: 1. Call a local Schwab advisor (you can find the nearest office and pick one, they list their professional qualifications and experience) and ask all the questions you'd like! You may as well get correct answers "straight from the horse's mouth". 2. If you invest in Vanguard mutual funds, ask about a fee waiver. Depending on your portfolio size, Schwab may waive the transact...
by rotorhead
Wed Jul 14, 2021 10:08 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Unique Investing Opportunities In Fidelity Mutual Funds Not In Vanguard?
Replies: 34
Views: 2836

Re: Unique Investing Opportunities In Fidelity Mutual Funds Not In Vanguard?

I echo what ruralavalon has said. You need a strategy, not a shopping list of funds. Way too many. If any one of them cannot "move the needle" significantly, then why have it?

Have you ever compared the returns of this mix of funds vs the Boglehead recommended 3 or 4 fund porfolio? Try it using Portfolio Visualizer. You might be surprised at what you find. https://www.portfoliovisualizer.com/backtest-portfolio
by rotorhead
Tue Jul 13, 2021 7:46 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Parents (non-US) want to invest 50% of their retirement in USD via me (US)
Replies: 15
Views: 2346

Re: Parents (non-US) want to invest 50% of their retirement in USD via me (US)

OP, have them consult with Interactive Brokers, or Charles Schwab. Very likely they can achieve their objective with either of those folks.
by rotorhead
Sat Jul 10, 2021 2:26 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How to evaluate credit score impact before canceling a card?
Replies: 15
Views: 1581

Re: How to evaluate credit score impact before canceling a card?

This is not an issue to be losing sleep over. You said you don't intend to apply for any new credit soon anyway.

A few years ago I cancelled my longest held card at the time, 50 years. Didn't even make a blip on my credit score.
by rotorhead
Sat Jul 10, 2021 11:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Restaurants in South Florida
Replies: 18
Views: 2658

Re: Restaurants in South Florida

Lots of good places to eat in South Florida.

You won't get the fresh stone crabs at Joe's this time of year; but it's still a great place to eat. Love the atmosphere.
Driving down Collins Ave, is also a bit of a treat.

In Jupiter, I also recommend U-Tiki for lunch. Really good food, and view of the lighthouse; and Jupiter Inlet is fantastic. The Square Grouper is one of my favorites; it's what Florida is all about.

In Riviera Beach, on Singer Island, Sailfish Marina is a great place for lunch as well. They haven't gone back to their Saturday/Sunday brunch yet - hopefully soon. Still a good place. Fantastic location.
by rotorhead
Thu Jul 08, 2021 10:53 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Sold home, need to save equity for 2 - 5 years
Replies: 8
Views: 1499

Re: Sold home, need to save equity for 2 - 5 years

OP, just being overseas doesn't stop you completely from having investment accounts. Are you not going to have any U.S. address at all during this time? Will you be working for U.S. based company? Can you use the company's mailing address for personal mail? I would check out all possibilities. Some of the bigger financial houses may not want your business, but it doesn't hurt to ask. Charles Schwab caters to Americans abroad; and are good to do business with. I lived overseas for 12 years during my working life; and had account with Schwab. They have index funds with ERs comparable to Vanguard and Fidelity. I know things have changed since my time; for many reasons, but it isn't impossible. It's going to be hard to achieve any rate of retur...
by rotorhead
Thu Jul 08, 2021 10:14 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Contractor for building upstairs kitchenette
Replies: 20
Views: 2098

Re: Contractor for building upstairs kitchenette

Re: Contractor for building upstairs kitchenette Unread post by Ollie123 » Thu Jul 08, 2021 9:51 pm Thanks all. Continuing to try to slug through this. I feel like you need a lawyer (or perhaps to be unemployed with oodles of time?) to slug through all this stuff. At least this state doesn't make these things easy to find, let alone understand. RE: Mobility issues, it should be possible to install something to help them get up and down the stairs should that ever become necessary. Obviously hoping it won't and they are in great health at the moment, but obviously that can turn on a moment's notice. Either way, the house structure is what it is so there really isn't another solution. RE: Converting this to a two-family home - I cannot for t...
by rotorhead
Wed Jul 07, 2021 11:33 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Temporary receiving of relative's money
Replies: 51
Views: 5187

Re: Temporary receiving of relative's money

Temporary receiving of relative's money Post by coldnose » Sun Jul 04, 2021 11:28 pm Hi, My sister-in-law (non-US citizen) would like to send funds ($200K) to my Vanguard account for safe keeping as she doesn't trust the banks in her country. I would hold the cash for her, until she either set up another account abroad or I could wire it back to her ($5-$10K) at a time as she needs it. Is there a problem with this scheme? On its face it's simple enough - she's trusting me with her money for awhile. However, I'm concerned that the IRS may see the payments back to her as gifts and subject to gift taxes, etc.. Any thoughts? Coldnose, I looked at this same sort of thing several years ago with one of my overseas relatives. His plan was to fund ...
by rotorhead
Wed Jul 07, 2021 10:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: has dentistry changed, or is new dentist just a money grubber?
Replies: 116
Views: 13824

Re: has dentistry changed, or is new dentist just a money grubber?

I have had lot of different dentists & specialists in my life time, due to moving around the world a lot. Unfortunate to be born with not so good teeth, at a time and place where dental care was hard to come by; and there wasn't much money to pay for it. Lots of issues - partial plates, crowns, bridges, implants, etc. The lot. Several years ago, when I was seeking to change to a new dentist, I asked my PCP during a routine visit, if he could recommend a good dentist. He did, and recommended the dentist his family uses. I went to that dentist, and have been reasonably happy since. His is a single practice, with very good assistants and office manager. It's a very happy place; if a dental office could be described as such :happy As other ...
by rotorhead
Wed Jul 07, 2021 10:13 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best car tires to buy and best place to buy them?
Replies: 54
Views: 7881

Re: Best car tires to buy and best place to buy them?

Re: Best car tires to buy and best place to buy them?
Post by AllMostThere » Wed Jul 07, 2021 8:04 am

While Costco has good service, nothing happens in the Tire Center quickly. Be ready for at least half day of car being in unavailable when using Costco. Again, Costco is good, but I am not a fan of their wait times.
I would just like to say regard Costco, we bought new tires two weeks ago. Ordered on line, made appointment for the installation. Was notified by email when tires arrived. Confirmed the appointment. Went in, watched the tires being retrieved from the rack to go out into the bay. Went into the store to shop. Cell phone rang 35 minutes later; said car was ready.

No complaints here.
by rotorhead
Tue Jul 06, 2021 1:10 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Recommend a fire safe please
Replies: 24
Views: 3365

Re: Recommend a fire safe please

[quoteRe: Recommend a fire safe please
Post by galawdawg » Tue Jul 06, 2021 12:26 pm


If you don't already do so, I'd also recommend you consider using an encrypted cloud storage service to retain PDF copies of all of your important documents. Fidelity offers 5gb secured and encrypted cloud storage at no cost for Fidelity customers and non-customers alike. Their service also provides access to those files upon your death to one person you designate. https://www.fidsafe.com/][/quote]

Thank you galawdawg, for that information. I'm long time Fidelity client; but had not paid attention to that service. Will look into it right away. We use a Sentry, Model 1610, by the way.

What a great message board!
by rotorhead
Sun Jul 04, 2021 8:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: E-bay "Best Offer"?
Replies: 32
Views: 3419

Re: E-bay "Best Offer"?

I have bought and sold quite a few items on ebay over the years; and never had a problem. Only ever had to return a couple of items, and got full refund with no issues. I never "bid" on anything, nor "make an offer". I only "buy it now", and conduct all transactions through PayPal. When I am seriously looking for something, I do my research. First, determine exactly what it is I want, or will settle for. Find out what's out there, at what prices, etc. Then make my purchase; at what I have determined is a fair price. Takes a little time. Never rush into a purchase., I have bought computers & parts, cell phones & parts, golf clubs & equipment, computer ink (lots of computer ink), home appliance parts;...
by rotorhead
Sun Jul 04, 2021 12:29 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to secure house immediately after burglary
Replies: 22
Views: 3275

Re: How to secure house immediately after burglary

Re: How to secure house immediately after burglary Post by OpenMinded1 » Sun Jul 04, 2021 10:49 am galawdawg wrote: ↑Sat Jul 03, 2021 9:13 pm tim1999 wrote: ↑Sat Jul 03, 2021 9:00 pm There have been a few burglaries in my neighborhood recently. I feel I have some decent security measures in place, but I have a sliding glass door that is vulnerable to someone just smashing the glass and walking in, and one window out-of-sight of neighbors that is particularly vulnerable to someone just smashing it and climbing in. I've read some information on some of the obvious things to do when you discover your home has been broken into; call the police, etc. Some say to call your home insurance carrier, I imagine to make a claim on anything stolen. I d...
by rotorhead
Sat Jul 03, 2021 9:06 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medigap Premium Increases over 30 years in Retirement
Replies: 41
Views: 4571

Re: Medigap Premium Increases over 30 years in Retirement

Re: Medigap Premium Increases over 30 years in Retirement Post by Stinky » Fri Jul 02, 2021 7:08 pm DwayneB wrote: ↑Wed Jun 30, 2021 10:42 am In the end I guess I will opt for the Plan G through UHC for the reasons you mention but it is good to have some estimate in hand of how much these premiums will increase over time. While we should be able to afford $800 - $900 a month at 85 or 90 (assuming we are still above ground at that point), many people that start out at those low premiums could be in real trouble 20 years later when rates have tripled or more. Those are some pretty awesomely high premiums! FWIW, my Medicare Advantage plan has a $0 premium for all ages. And it includes a drug plan, plus other ancillary benefits, at no cost. Ye...
by rotorhead
Wed Jun 30, 2021 10:18 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying a Refurbished mini-PC - Does This Make Sense?
Replies: 28
Views: 2378

Re: Buying a Refurbished mini-PC - Does This Make Sense?

OP, I bought a HP Pavilion 570-p023w Desktop, Windows 10, Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD Operating Disc, 1 TB HD Backup Disc, 3 years ago for $400 + tax. It was brand new, open box on eBay. Lightning fast, works like a champ. Good computers don't have to be expensive.

I know there are lots of "refurbished" computers, phones, etc out there; but I just shy away from them.
by rotorhead
Wed Jun 30, 2021 9:58 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Best Way to Explain Basics of Personal Finance to Beginner Friend?
Replies: 25
Views: 2074

Re: Best Way to Explain Basics of Personal Finance to Beginner Friend?

OP, another good tool to use is the 50/30/20 Budget. It's been recommended by many knowledgeable people; and there are plenty of examples of it on the web; just look for it. Here is link to kredit karma site. https://www.creditkarma.com/advice/i/50-30-20-rule

I created my own spreadsheet using excel many years ago. Was real easy to do.

Appreciate what you are attempting to do. Unfortunately many people just "don't get it"; and they can be difficult to help.

Good luck.
by rotorhead
Wed Jun 30, 2021 9:34 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: [Bank in Indianapolis area with excellent web presence and offers safe deposit boxes?]
Replies: 26
Views: 3011

Re: Need to abandon Bank of America

statman, I wouldn't worry too much about it. We discontinued our B of A safety deposit box several years ago, when our account status changed; and were going to be charged an annual fee to keep it. Had never used it all the years we had it as a compliment to our account(s).

Easier to use our safe at home. We have a Sentry Model 1610, at home more than 20 years. It weighs 80 lbs, just over 1 cubic foot capacity. Plenty big enough for our purpose; and heavy enough it's not going to disappear too easily. And it is fireproof. It can be anchored to the floor if so desired; we haven't thought it necessary.

We live in "hurricane" territory; so it's much more convenient to use.

Just a thought.
by rotorhead
Mon Jun 28, 2021 8:00 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Assisting parents in purchasing a retirement house - how to structure and what to know?
Replies: 7
Views: 1358

Re: Assisting parents in purchasing a retirement house - how to structure and what to know?

Good point tbill1. Rental property is different.

I can't remember all the details, since it was 31 years ago. But, as I recall, the lender was not terribly concerned that my wife and I would not be the occupants of the house, and whatever the interest rate difference might have been, it was not a deal breaker.,
by rotorhead
Sun Jun 27, 2021 12:26 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Retirement withdrawal mechanics
Replies: 42
Views: 10989

Re: Retirement withdrawal mechanics

I guess I have been properly admonished. Bad boy!
by rotorhead
Sun Jun 27, 2021 10:44 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Assisting parents in purchasing a retirement house - how to structure and what to know?
Replies: 7
Views: 1358

Re: Assisting parents in purchasing a retirement house - how to structure and what to know?

Marie 10, it's a great thing you are aspiring to do. We did similar thing, albeit on a smaller scale than you, 30 years ago. Go with your option #1, that's the cleanest, easiest way to do it. There was a similar message thread last year on this forum; and these were my remarks at the time: I would not buy the house jointly. Many years ago we were faced with similar situation. To accommodate my disabled father, and my mother; at our insistence, they sold their home and put the money in the bank. My wife and I purchased a house in our names, and concurrently had an attorney draw up a contract granting them the right to live in the house as long as they wished, to cover the eventuality that something happened to me or my wife. The attorney was...
by rotorhead
Sat Jun 26, 2021 6:25 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Retirement withdrawal mechanics
Replies: 42
Views: 10989

Re: Retirement withdrawal mechanics

Thanks ruralavalon, for the tip. I have a long list of Boglehead "bookmarks", and have found bumping a thread if I don't have a cogent comment to make, makes it easier for me to come back to it quickly if need be. I'll take a look at the wrench tab.

Something about "old dogs and new tricks".
by rotorhead
Thu Jun 24, 2021 11:52 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Retirement withdrawal mechanics
Replies: 42
Views: 10989

Re: Retirement withdrawal mechanics

Bumping so I can find this thread again easily.
by rotorhead
Sat Jun 19, 2021 1:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: RAV4 (2007) VSC/4WD lights on
Replies: 2
Views: 458

Re: RAV4 (2007) VSC/4WD lights on

Check out the Toyota RAV4 forum. https://www.rav4world.com/forums/

We don't have a RAV4; but I have found these forums extremely helpful over the years for the cars we do have.
by rotorhead
Fri Jun 18, 2021 5:02 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Florida State University
Replies: 87
Views: 9197

Re: Florida State University

OP, I would caution the kid to make surely he fully understands all the requirements for inter-state transfer; and what impact they would have on his status. It's not so easy to become a FL resident for the lower tuition rates - if that's a concern. Here is the FL Statute on the matter: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?mode=View%20Statutes&SubMenu=1&App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=1000.21&URL=1000-1099/1009/Sections/1009.21.html Also, the AP course credit may not transfer. I really have no idea, but it's certainly a consideration. He really needs some excellent counseling to make sure. Could be in for a rude surprise. Also, the Florida universities have really filled up with students the past few years, a...
by rotorhead
Sun Jun 13, 2021 12:36 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Treasuries as your bond allocation?
Replies: 115
Views: 14987

Re: Treasuries as your bond allocation?

Bumping so I can find the thread more easily in future. Very helpful discussion.
by rotorhead
Sun Jun 13, 2021 12:11 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Back testing a fund
Replies: 9
Views: 1225

Re: Back testing a fund

Glad it worked out for you. It really is quite a useful tool.
by rotorhead
Sat Jun 12, 2021 8:16 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Back testing a fund
Replies: 9
Views: 1225

Re: Back testing a fund

CWRadio, in addition to what has been suggested here: Re: Back testing a fund Post by sycamore » Tue Jun 01, 2021 7:54 am CWRadio wrote: ↑Mon May 31, 2021 10:36 pm I would like to back test DFQTX (DFA US Core Equity 2 Inst) from 2013 to now without using Portfolio Visualizer. Is there any other program I could enter the same information as Portfolio Visualizer and check results but has the options of putting in amounts and dates of withdrawals. Thanks Paul None that I know of that let you put in withdrawal amounts. I'd be interested to see what others suggest. You can get basic total return data from Morningstar. Browse to http://quotes.morningstar.com/chart/fund/chart?t=DFQTX. Just change the start and end dates. Move the mouse along the c...
by rotorhead
Thu Jun 10, 2021 12:07 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Veterans Financial to pre plan for a parent?
Replies: 9
Views: 873

Re: Veterans Financial to pre plan for a parent?

OP, there was a thread re Veterans benefits several years ago, which contained some comments relevant to your question here. Here is link: viewtopic.php?f=2&t=210772

My comments at the time are next to last posting. I don't have any relevant, current information; but imagine that not a lot has changed.

Contact the VA directly is best.
by rotorhead
Fri Jun 04, 2021 8:24 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: When can I splurge a little? (New car purchase)
Replies: 130
Views: 12502

Re: When can I splurge a little? (New car purchase)

OP, I have enjoyed reading this message thread; and the various comments/suggestions. I'll add a few of my own. There is no question you can afford the car; but I suggest you move up to the 5 series. It's just enough bigger that you will notice the difference, and the comfort level will be much better for you as family of 3. I also suggest you take a serious look at a used vehicle. I know the cost of used cars is quite high right now, for reasons we all know - I'm looking for one myself for my wife. I recommend Auto Trader to see what might be available in your area https://www.autotrader.com/ BMW's depreciate sharply in first 2-3 years; and as was suggested, if you insist on a new car, then leasing for 3 years might make sense for you, to ...
by rotorhead
Tue Jun 01, 2021 2:47 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Homeowners insurance [Florida]
Replies: 37
Views: 5166

Re: Homeowners insurance [Florida]

Cookiegirl, there have been numerous message threads about homeowners insurance in Florida over the years. Type in "Florida Homeowners Insurance" in the search box, and you will see them. There was one thread in 2016 that I posted to. Here is link: https://www.bogleheads.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=165429 You can see what I wrote at the time. The situation has only worsened. Lots of press reports as well in past few years. I'm sure a quick internet search for "Homeowners Insurance in Florida" will give you plenty of "hits" for reading. Our policy anniversary date(s) are late August, and I expect we will see significant rate increase as well. If you have not closed on the townhome yet, I would suggest you...
by rotorhead
Sat May 15, 2021 10:24 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: $5M Construction Project :confused
Replies: 62
Views: 7406

Re: $5M Construction Project :confused

OP, I'm not a construction expert; but I do have a couple of things to say about this proposed venture. You said your friend has about 2 years experience in construction / refurbishment. Do you have reasonable assurance he has the experience / knowledge to pull this project off as planned? If you are not absolutely certain he does, then you shouldn't do it. Simple as that. Is his planning accurate enough, and does it contain a large enough contingency margin to protect both of you in the event construction costs soar out of control. I'm not in the business; but in my area there is a lot of home refurbishment and new construction going on right now; and I'm hearing horror stories about how the price of plywood, 2/4's, etc. have skyrocketed t...
by rotorhead
Wed May 12, 2021 7:48 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Windows 10 + Chrome = Slow and Sluggish
Replies: 90
Views: 5345

Re: Windows 10 + Chrome = Slow and Sluggish

OP, I am currently using a Dell Latitude D630 laptop, that was manufactured for use in China; and was built with Windows XP installed. It was given to me by a relative in 2006. Over the years I upgraded to Windows Vista, then Windows 7, which both worked fine; then Windows 10. I reverted back to Windows 7 to do a trial; and have stayed with 7 for the time being. I don't really like the "plainness" of Win 10; but it works fine on my HP desktop. I upgraded the Wi-Fi card to max supportable, the RAM to max, put in a Digital Hard Drive; and the computer is working like a champ. I use DuckDuckGo as my web browser; and it works just fine. It only has a 14" screen, and is pretty heavy; but works just fine. I use it primarily in the ...
by rotorhead
Tue Apr 06, 2021 6:42 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What to do with 26 year old central AC unit?
Replies: 46
Views: 5202

Re: What to do with 26 year old central AC unit?

Re: What to do with 26 year old central AC unit? Post by carolinaman » Wed Mar 31, 2021 11:31 am I pay $195 annually for twice a year service, once for gas heat and other for AC. The guy I use is a one man company recommended by my son who uses him for businesses, condos and homes he maintains. He is very practical and will never recommend something that does not need to be done, unlike these big companies that advertise on TV and have commission based techs. Also, this guy is very responsive when I call him. I am not as handy as some of you and find this a reasonable service. If not comfortable servicing these units yourself, IMO you need to have a relationship with a company you trust and that will promptly respond to your needs. I am in...
by rotorhead
Tue Apr 06, 2021 7:22 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Browser/Website Issues: Where do you get help?
Replies: 18
Views: 2157

Re: Browser/Website Issues: Where do you get help?

Re: Browser/Website Issues: Where do you get help? Post by bhwabeck3533 » Tue Apr 06, 2021 6:49 am rotorhead wrote: ↑Mon Apr 05, 2021 8:17 am OP, it sounds like your ad blockers or some such is causing the difficulty. Try disabling them and see how you go. I have been using Weather Bug for years on my android smart phone, and have found it very useful for my purposes. Use it also on my desktop as well. It wasn't my AdBlocker, maybe my anti-virus? In any case, I replaced Weather.com with Weatherbug.com, it's great. Thank you. Glad you have success with Weather Bug; and like the app. I've tried several different weather apps on my phone; and keep coming back to this one. I also use Intellicast on my desktop, as well as the Weather Channel. A...
by rotorhead
Mon Apr 05, 2021 8:24 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any reason to file taxes before May 17?
Replies: 34
Views: 4229

Re: Any reason to file taxes before May 17?

Our taxes are pretty simple in retirement; pension, RMD & Social Security. Standard deduction more than covers all our deductibles.

When sufficient updates have been done to H & R Block software, I file. This year was February 16th; got my refund on the 24th. No point in waiting. As Victoria said, it's an unpleasant chore that has to be done; so get it over with and enjoy the coming of spring.

Also minimizes the risk of a fraudulent return being submitted to your detriment.
by rotorhead
Mon Apr 05, 2021 8:17 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Browser/Website Issues: Where do you get help?
Replies: 18
Views: 2157

Re: Browser/Website Issues: Where do you get help?

OP, it sounds like your ad blockers or some such is causing the difficulty. Try disabling them and see how you go.

I have been using Weather Bug for years on my android smart phone, and have found it very useful for my purposes. Use it also on my desktop as well.

I use DuckDuckGo as my primary browser on Windows 10 machine; and default to MS Edge (newer version) if I have to. Have had very good luck with this browser.

Spend a little time experimenting, until you find what suits you best.
by rotorhead
Thu Apr 01, 2021 4:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: IRS.gov tax account sign up
Replies: 23
Views: 2471

Re: IRS.gov tax account sign up

Re: IRS.gov tax account sign up
Post by chemocean » Thu Apr 01, 2021 3:37 pm

rotorhead wrote: ↑Wed Mar 31, 2021 10:21 am
Got to the final action; and IRS could not verify my cell phone # to send code to complete the exercise. Suspect because my cell phone is with a non "main line" carrier.

Carrier not the correct reason. We have Verizon and was in the same situation. Your cell phone is not in their system (i.e., you did not include your phone number in the space below your signature on page 2 of your return). Now, why would anyone want not to give the IRS their cell phone number. Beats me.
I put our home phone # on the tax return. That's our primary # for things like this.
by rotorhead
Wed Mar 31, 2021 2:54 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can't remove old shower head
Replies: 38
Views: 3133

Re: Can't remove old shower head

fsrph, a word of caution before you start applying heavy pressure with assorted tools. Make sure the shower head isn't connected to plastic pipe behind the wall. If it is, treat it with care. Our house is 26 years old; and the metal shower head screws onto a 6" metal "gooseneck", which in turn screws into PVC pipe behind the wall. The part of the gooseneck that sticks out from the wall is all tarnished, and has some "grip" marks on it from changing previous shower heads. I've done several over the years. I wanted to change that too since the first time; but it wouldn't budge without applying what I considered to be excessive torque. Metal pipe into PVC, what could possibly go wrong? :annoyed So, I just left it alone...
by rotorhead
Wed Mar 31, 2021 2:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: IRS.gov tax account sign up
Replies: 23
Views: 2471

Re: IRS.gov tax account sign up

Funny thing is, I only signed up at the recommendation of our site boss for the AARP Tax Aide program. He thought it would be helpful to experience the ease of signing up so we could explain it to clients.
friar1610, that's what I was doing also; in addition to satisfying my own curiosity. I was helping a young relative to do her tax return, and determine where in the system her stimulus checks are - if they are there or not. Only her second year to file her own return.

It was educational for me; and will help me coach her through the process.
by rotorhead
Wed Mar 31, 2021 10:21 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: IRS.gov tax account sign up
Replies: 23
Views: 2471

Re: IRS.gov tax account sign up

I just did this, and it seems ok. mhalley's advice to do it early, to prevent hacker from possibly getting in ahead of you seems pretty sound. Getting through the process was not totally intuitive; but I made it. Got to the final action; and IRS could not verify my cell phone # to send code to complete the exercise. Suspect because my cell phone is with a non "main line" carrier. Anyway, they mailed me the code. Got it a week later; and the instructions in the accompanying letter said to "go back to the website where you left off" to complete the exercise; rather than directing me to a specific web page. Caused bit of a brain freeze; and had to think a bit before the light bulb went off. Then my ad blocker was preventing...