Search found 2622 matches

by mmmodem
Tue Oct 25, 2022 12:47 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Zelle Question
Replies: 42
Views: 4575

Re: Zelle Question

If you still believe you have a valid reason for usage then, your "compartmentalization" plan is a good risk reduction path. I would take it one step further though. Do not open a separate account at a bank you already have accounts (i.e., Capital One) as in theory any non-sufficient event for the Zelle account could be covered by Capital One by moving funds from one of your other accounts. As alternative, open another account at another financial institution where you have no other accounts or funds. Only fund this account via push or pulls initiated from another external account. Your exposure will then be limited to the account balance, so you will then be protected, somewhat. +1 As Zelle is already integrated with the bank, o...
by mmmodem
Tue Oct 25, 2022 9:39 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Zelle Question
Replies: 42
Views: 4575

Re: Zelle Question

If you still believe you have a valid reason for usage then, your "compartmentalization" plan is a good risk reduction path. I would take it one step further though. Do not open a separate account at a bank you already have accounts (i.e., Capital One) as in theory any non-sufficient event for the Zelle account could be covered by Capital One by moving funds from one of your other accounts. As alternative, open another account at another financial institution where you have no other accounts or funds. Only fund this account via push or pulls initiated from another external account. Your exposure will then be limited to the account balance, so you will then be protected, somewhat. +1 As Zelle is already integrated with the bank, o...
by mmmodem
Sun Oct 23, 2022 8:28 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Xfinity Xfi Gateway/Complete or bring your own modem?
Replies: 28
Views: 9889

Re: Xfinity Xfi Gateway/Complete or bring your own modem?

Same as you, OP, after getting charged with a $30 overage fee for going over 1.2 TB for a second month in a row, I looked up Comcast's prices and found it confusing. $30 to add on unlimited data or add xFi service for $25 which includes unlimited data and modem rental. I was previously on a 100mb plan for $100 I called in and they said they can sign me up on a 2 year plan for $66 total for150 mb and xfi. CSR said it will double after two years but said I can sign up for the next promotion at that point. Opted to pick up the gateway in person at the local comcast store instead of paying shipping. The gateway was clearly used. I now have a single gateway device that has better connections than my self-owned wifi-N router plus motorola modem. ...
by mmmodem
Tue Oct 04, 2022 10:22 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 2023 Honda Odyssey EX-l
Replies: 38
Views: 3902

Re: 2023 Honda Odyssey EX-l

Same, we considered the Sequoia but it was way out of our price range. The Odyssey while nicer overall, it just couldn't compare to the Sienna's 36 mpg. We're in CA where gas just peaked at $8 a gallon in some places. So even if the Sienna is more expensive, we'll definitely come out ahead.

Good luck, OP. We've been waiting since March 2022 but I hear the waiting list on the Sienna is uber long if one doesn't pay above MSRP. I thought people disliked minivans. :annoyed
by mmmodem
Tue Sep 27, 2022 9:46 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: ACH Transfers
Replies: 12
Views: 1721

Re: ACH Transfers

I just ACH transferred $16k between banks to purchase a vehicle. Bank said it could take up 3 days but was available and transactible the next day. The only issue I had was paying for the vehicle. It triggered a fraud alert and I had to call in to confirm it was me.

They won't tell me if the fraud trigger was because a large sum went in and subsequently went right back out. :confused
by mmmodem
Mon Sep 12, 2022 7:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car in body shop. Ever taken a long road trip on the rental?
Replies: 28
Views: 2762

Re: Car in body shop. Ever taken a long road trip on the rental?

I had a courier job that required 300+ miles of driving per day. There were no company vehicles available when I was hired so my employer paid for my rental. The company I rented from required me to swap every 7 days. I drove 1500 miles and swapped the cars every week for about a month until a company car became available. Good luck, OP.
by mmmodem
Mon Sep 12, 2022 3:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Maxing retirement accounts vs saving for car
Replies: 47
Views: 4079

Re: Maxing retirement accounts vs saving for car

Given, OP must save for a vehicle and their retirement, the impact to their lifestyle is the same whether they choose 1 or 2. Smoothing out ones lifestyle consumption or maxing retirement isn't at question. If OP is willing to take out Roth contributions and/or able to take out an auto loan, then the consideration is math. Strictly mathematically, the expected return in equities (call it 10%) is higher than the cost of a loan (call it 5%), so you are better off financing the car and investing the money (higher NPV). Of course, behavioral considerations and tax planning are important too. And if OP chooses the loan, there's also the tax savings of saving for retirement while paying off an auto loan. That's pretty significant in my book. Yes,...
by mmmodem
Sat Sep 10, 2022 12:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New Refrigerator - Samsung vs LG - need to decide in 2 days
Replies: 129
Views: 8492

Re: New Refrigerator - Samsung vs LG - need to decide in 2 days

On our old Kenmore, we were able to coax a few more months out of it by turning the coldness dial the other way. Max actually brought the temperature up a few degrees. Perhaps the dial was faulty? Placing on the middle brought temps just under 40 and at max would go to mid 40's? I forget. Give it a try and see if you can past until Thanksgiving. I also got another degree in the fridge by turning down the freezer dial. I've had Samsung, Whirlpool, and currently LG. Don't think you'll get a concensus from BH on the brand to get. We got the LG because it was the only one with a door in door which we like being able to get a drink quickly and has a built ice maker/water dispenser. We fully expect the door to break and the ice dispenser to break...
by mmmodem
Tue Sep 06, 2022 1:19 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Minimize lodging cost when traveling
Replies: 28
Views: 3023

Re: Minimize lodging cost when traveling

I almost exclusively use Priceline.com Express Deals. You don't get to choose the hotel you stay at but you can make a reasonable guess at the clues they give you. I even used it in Paris and London a few years ago.

We're gonna check-in to a La Quinta hotel near Disneyland later today for about $80 a night using a 10% priceline coupon on top of the Express Deal and another $2 off booking from the app. Booking direct would've been $116 a night. It states 17 and under are free so our party of 6 will be just fine. Also chose a hotel with free wifi, free breakfast, and free parking.

Good luck, OP.
by mmmodem
Sun Jul 10, 2022 2:41 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Geico Homeowner Insurance Increases
Replies: 74
Views: 9791

Re: Geico Homeowner Insurance Increases

Here is the response I received in the email: "I called our partners and was able to get the reasoning for your rate increase. Your premium is raising due to an increase in the rates filed for our area. As you know, our area has been the victim of many natural disasters in recent years, and this has had an unfortunate affect on the cost of insuring property across the entire state and especially here in the valley. As these disasters grow, our rates need to keep pace in order for GEICO to ensure It can protect its customers should the worst come to pass." Sounds like they gave you gobbledygook. gob·ble·dy·gook /ˈɡäbəldēˌɡo͞ok/ noun: gobbledegook language that is meaningless or is made unintelligible by excessive use of abstruse t...
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 23, 2022 1:42 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: FIRE in Early 40's?
Replies: 130
Views: 12115

Re: FIRE in Early 40's?

Why do you want to FIRE? Why do you want to trade your finite time on this planet for money you don't need? Because the right work gives life meaning. I added that in red, not because you’re wrong, but because others never realized that there’s a thing such as capital W work… Work with meaning. Their loss, on a continuing basis unfortunately. Retired at 42. Unretired at 43 because work gives my life meaning. Getting paid way more than I ever did. Not that I am complaining. Odd how it works out that way. I didn't hate retirement. I enjoyed it immensely. An opportunity presented itself and I, haphazardly, accepted. OP, you're fine. Only on BH would you get people doubting a retirement with $4m. [disrespectful comment removed by moderator old...
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 23, 2022 1:26 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Dealing with the "what ifs?" - psychology of committing to an AA
Replies: 54
Views: 4269

Re: Dealing with the "what ifs?" - psychology of committing to an AA

I know this is not a helpful place to be, and resolving this mental pattern would help both my investing career and life overall, so I would appreciate any insights you all have here. I heard this on the radio today so thought I might pass it on to you. Let's transport you to the future 20 years from now and look back on this decision. At 56, what decision made would've made you proud of yourself back when you were 36? Looking back at my AA decision, at the beginning of my journey, I did not choose the optimized path. In fact, I did not even stick to my AA. I didn't stick to the glide path that I set as I aged. You know what made me proud? I stayed the course. I continued to invest despite multiple downturns. I lived below my means so that...
by mmmodem
Mon Jun 20, 2022 5:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: CA DMV vehicle renewal notices and late fees
Replies: 17
Views: 1832

Re: CA DMV vehicle renewal notices and late fees

A few years ago, CA DMV admitted they were late on sending out renewal notices. The due date was before the postmark date on the envelope.
https://abc7news.com/archive/8260075/

When we received our notice, we went to the DMV to make our case. The employee unapologetically said, the system won't allow us to waive the late fee. You can pay for it and I can issue you your registration or you can leave and wait until the system fixes itself. We paid the late fees, what else could we do? We did not want to risk getting pulled over. We were not refunded even after they found their error.
by mmmodem
Mon Jun 20, 2022 10:22 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Inflation: are you helping?
Replies: 39
Views: 4071

Re: Inflation: are you helping?

Some of the things I am doing are below. Whether they help with inflation or not, I don't know. I certainly hope so and I'm sure a lot of people will have opinions on both sides. 1. Buying a hybrid vehicle but delaying until we can get it for MSRP. Depending on when we actually take delivery, both our vehicles are currently in perfectly good working condition. We not need to buy. We're buying because we can. 2. Going to restaurants every other day. We used to go mainly once or twice on weekends. We just want to help out the local restaurants. We only order togo and we do not use deliveries. 3. I'm not going on vacations that require flying. The changing Covid requirements makes taking a vacation risky. I do not want to be stranded somewhere...
by mmmodem
Sat Jun 18, 2022 7:24 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: As summer electric bills go up, has anyone invented an air conditioner that doesn't use as much electricity?
Replies: 133
Views: 14283

Re: As summer electric bills go up, has anyone invented an air conditioner that doesn't use as much electricity?

I rarely ever turn on my AC despite living in CA with multiple 100 degree days. The home is newer so has very good insulation. All the heat is trapped in the attic. My home is 1 story and 2 story neighboring homes surround and shadow a good deal of my home. I chose a home with windows facing north and south. I use the whole house fan at night with windows open to cool the home as much as possible. I close all windows and blinds in the morning to preserve the cold throughout the day. I install ceiling fans in every room so I can turn up the temperature to 76 degrees. 78 is recommended but other family members complain. I understand some of these things are physical and you cannot change but you can choose for your next residence. My electric...
by mmmodem
Fri Jun 17, 2022 10:56 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What previous bear market most closely mirrors this one?
Replies: 23
Views: 2212

Re: What previous bear market most closely mirrors this one?

They all seem different to me. I guess that's why they keep saying, "it's different this time."

This coming recession or already here recession happened even though there are plenty of jobs. Plenty of jobs that pay don't necessarily pay well but pay more than they did in 2008. Very few people I know are out of the job except by choice. My employer is looking so hard to find workers they've increased the referral bonus.

Anyway, every downturn I've experienced has been different. My investments, though, have stayed the course.
by mmmodem
Fri Jun 17, 2022 10:42 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: HELP buying a used car
Replies: 8
Views: 669

Re: HELP buying a used car

You would find this pattern of service a lot of Prius. In fact, a lot of Toyotas. Why? Maintenance is included the first two years or 25k miles. The owner likely did maintenance elsewhere just like I did with my Prius after the "free" services expired.
by mmmodem
Fri Jun 17, 2022 9:51 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any reason to NOT get the Apple Card?
Replies: 80
Views: 12869

Re: Any reason to NOT get the Apple Card?

Admiral wrote: Fri Jun 17, 2022 8:35 am Tracking charges on it is very easy. I realize other cards have their own apps to accomplish this but Apple does it seamlessly.
That's what I was trying to point out. Once added to Apple Pay, my charges on the Citi card are tracked through the Apple Pay app. Unless I'm mistaken and the Apple card provides additional tracking features I'm not aware of?
by mmmodem
Fri Jun 17, 2022 8:31 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any reason to NOT get the Apple Card?
Replies: 80
Views: 12869

Re: Any reason to NOT get the Apple Card?

Agree with above. There's no reason to not get it. However, with the existence of the Wells Fargo Active Card and Citi Doublecash card both paying 2% with no annual fee, I see little reason to get an Apple card unless you like the look of it.

A coworker has it, I marveled at it for about 10 seconds. It is a well designed credit card a la America Psycho business card kind of thing. Then I proceeded to buy my lunch with Citi card through Apple Pay.
by mmmodem
Fri Jun 17, 2022 8:18 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sanity Check: Car for Teenage Driver
Replies: 101
Views: 8775

Re: Sanity Check: Car for Teenage Driver

Yes, don't forget about insurance. I'd buy a vehicle that was safe enough and low cost enough that I wouldn't need full coverage. Liability only would suffice because auto insurance for a teenager would likely double or triple our insurance premium. And, I'm planning that vehicle to be a hand me down from their parents or family. It's highly likely the vehicle will experience "growing pains" from the teenager's learning.
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 16, 2022 11:57 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Is there any reason to tax loss harvest if you can't invest the savings now?
Replies: 19
Views: 1331

Re: Is there any reason to tax loss harvest if you can't invest the savings now?

To use your own example, you tax loss harvest now and save $100 in taxes, then when you retire you pay $60 in increased capital gains taxes. Do you claim to be indifferent between $100 now and $60 in 30 years, even if you spend that $100 on Starbucks? Where do you get that I'm saving $100 now & paying $60 later? In this scenario, it's all long term capital gains. When I TLH now, I save 20% * $400 = $80, but the money is held in something that pays 0% interest and I can't get at it for 9 months. Then, when it goes back up, assuming I hold until it's long term gains, I pay same amount, 20% * $400 = $80. Inflation. $100 today may be worth $60 tomorrow. No money is being held in for 9 months. If you did not TLH, you still don't have $80. Y...
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 16, 2022 9:56 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Where would you put $1,000 right now?
Replies: 88
Views: 7267

Re: Where would you put $1,000 right now?

Just for fun, I calculated that on average, I invest $1042.31 in the equivalent of VTI combined across all my accounts every week.
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 16, 2022 9:46 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Buy Mom’s House?
Replies: 80
Views: 8268

Re: Buy Mom’s House?

We bought my grandma’s house when my uncle put her into foreclosure (con man) — we owned it, she lived there. She paid her utilities from social security. We sold it when she died. My mom and my uncle had no money to do that. My sister and cousins were not able to/willing to help. It worked out well but was some drama with my uncle. YMMV We did this not only once but twice with grandma and with our parents when they could no longer afford their mortgage. The situations are ripe with drama and dread. It was a terrible decision to make and has been a terrible experience since. However, we would likely do it again given the choice. I do not see a better option, at least not for us to maintain family harmony and status quo. The point is that w...
by mmmodem
Wed Jun 15, 2022 3:21 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: My problem with the answer, "What does your IPS say?"
Replies: 53
Views: 4957

Re: My problem with the answer, "What does your IPS say?"

Taylor Larimore wrote: Wed Jun 15, 2022 12:33 pm With my simple Three-Fund Portfolio I do not need an "Investment Policy Statement." I know my desired asset-allocation, I am happy with my three funds, and I intend to stay-the-course.

Best wishes.
Taylor
Jack Bogle's Words of Wisdom: "We ignore the real diamonds of simplicity, seeking instead the illusory rhinestones of complexity."
Thanks, Taylor. I don't have an IPS either. I've been meaning to write one but just never did. It's been over a decade for me and I've stayed the course. Basically, before I do anything, I search BH. So far, all questions have been answered.
by mmmodem
Tue Jun 14, 2022 11:16 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Wedding fund/debts
Replies: 68
Views: 5267

Re: Wedding fund/debts

Breezyyy wrote: Tue Jun 14, 2022 10:07 am Definitely not! I’ve booked the cheapest vendors I could find. It should end up being $20-25K all together with our parents giving $5-6k. I’m just such a frugal person that this is painful for me lol.
Congratulations. $20-$25k sounds reasonable and on the low side of the national average. We did not save for our wedding and cash flowed it. You don't pay $20-25k all at once. You pay deposits along the way. Yes, there is a big payment at the end but like the deposits, most can be paid by credit card. I think I did have to decrease my 401k contribution to just company match for the final bill on that month. I still maxed out the 401k by the end of the year, though from wedding gifts.
by mmmodem
Mon Jun 13, 2022 11:20 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Tips for getting service centers to honor car warranty?
Replies: 7
Views: 707

Re: Tips for getting service centers to honor car warranty?

Reminds me of when the engine cut off in the middle of driving in my vehicle. I was not worried. I purchased a vehicle with a 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty from the manufacturer. The dealer proceeds to tell me it does not cover the repair with a very specific reason. But, but, but, the engine is part of the powertrain and it does not turn on...?

1st or 3rd party, warranties just don't give me the peace of mind it gives others. I don't buy them. I self insure and I always pay out no matter what breaks. I have no advice, just learn from your mistakes. I did complain and I think they gave me a percent discount. Although, who knows if it's what they would've normally charged anyway. Good luck, OP.
by mmmodem
Sun Jun 12, 2022 10:11 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What 3 things have you done to anticipate the recession?
Replies: 164
Views: 23781

Re: What 3 things have you done to anticipate the recession?

In 2008, our home price dropped 50%. By 2012 it fully recovered. Today, in 2022, it has quadrupled from what it was in 2008.

In 2008, I stayed the course in investments. I think my investments fell as much as 40% and like the home, had fully recovered by 2012. Sooner, probably. In March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic, it fell again some 30%. This time, it recovered so quickly, I didnt even notice when it came back. Within the year I think. Today, in 2022, it is still double digit percent larger than it was in March 202 despite the recent drop.
GingerU wrote: Sat Jun 11, 2022 8:31 pmWith this in mind, what are you doing to prepare for this eventuality?
1. Don't keep that in mind. Ignore the noise.
2. Choose your AA.
3. Stay the course.
by mmmodem
Sat Jun 11, 2022 10:36 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: How are the "100% Stocks" people doing?
Replies: 256
Views: 41987

Re: How are the "100% Stocks" people doing?

Que1999 wrote: Sat Jun 11, 2022 8:16 pm We delayed our bathroom/kitchen renovations to buy equities. Absolutely loving this opportunity to buy some of the biggest/best companies in the world at a discount!

:sharebeer
Ditto. Our checking account went dangerously low this month to <$100 after I lump summed both of our Roth IRA and increased my 401k contribution to 75% last month. Woops, went a bit too far and barely had enough to pay the bills. Oh well, back to 6% on the 401k and we'll be at a surplus again next month. Yup, absolutely loving this buying opportunity. :greedy
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 09, 2022 1:14 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Out of State Car Sales Tax CA & WA
Replies: 17
Views: 2246

Re: Out of State Car Sales Tax CA & WA

No first hand experience but sales tax and registration tax on automobiles is paid to the state and local ordinance where you live. A dealer should know how to process this for you. You only pay state and registration tax for your state. Your drive it off the lot with a temporary state registration.
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 09, 2022 12:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cost of Drinking Water Test
Replies: 15
Views: 1279

Re: Cost of Drinking Water Test

We tested the water prior to purchasing our home with well water in 2018 in NH. It is $150 for the comprehensive test plus radon.
http://www.nelsonanalytical.com/water_s ... _radon.php
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 09, 2022 10:48 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Solar panels quote
Replies: 17
Views: 2138

Re: Solar panels quote

Basically I will pay $9600 after federal tax credit and my electricity bill is usually $900-100 per year. They also said I can get 6 SRECs so about $300 per year. Thanks, OP. A Vivint salesperson rang our doorbell last night. We didn't answer. He comes by everything month or so. If I'm reading it right, your payback is 10 years. My electricity usage is little over $1000 a year. The last time I got a solar quote in 2015 from SolarCity was in the $25k range so we're talking 2 decades to break even after rebates. I obviously declined. I don't know if you've got a good price but it's certainly an improvement from 7 years ago. 10 years is still too long for me. I guess I'll need to increase my electricity usage with an EV before solar makes sen...
by mmmodem
Tue Jun 07, 2022 11:17 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Home Insurance Increasing
Replies: 37
Views: 4512

Re: Home Insurance Increasing

I don't buy the reasons of higher construction material and labor costs for big increases in insurance rates. Costs have have always gone up with no rhyme or reason. It always cost more to rebuild a home this year than last. That's inflation. You will likely find a thread on this topic every month since inception of BH. Last year, Liberty Mutual went up 50% and we switched to Geico. This year Geico went up a couple of dollars, we renewed. On the secondary home, QBE went up 50% this year and we went to Hippo. I've read a dozen threads on here speculating the reasons and while compelling doesn't account for why some people have high increases and some do not despite no claims. I am the same the person and experienced a huge increase on one ho...
by mmmodem
Mon Jun 06, 2022 8:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Experience buying a new car recently?
Replies: 122
Views: 19862

Re: Experience buying a new car recently?

We went to two Toyota dealerships looking for a Sienna. Both said the same thing. Neither will take our deposit. Neither will put us on a waiting list. Neither will order one for us. They have nothing. The only thing they could do was put us a call list. When a Sienna is confirmed to be delivered they call each person on the list and the first person to show up at the dealership with financing wins gets to buy the vehicle. I told them we are perfectly happy giving them a deposit and they can call me back in two years (their wild guess on when the factory will allow them to order again) They refused. The first dealership said we can be first on the call list on a more expensive trim than we wanted coming in 8 weeks with an additional $10k m...
by mmmodem
Mon Jun 06, 2022 10:27 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Taxable much better than 529 for certain scenarios?
Replies: 31
Views: 3282

Re: Taxable much better than 529 for certain scenarios?

We plan to pay for our kids college but have contributed to a taxable account over a 529 because we don't get a state tax break, want to reach FI first, don't want certain strings attached, aren't 100% sure we'll pay for it/kids will go to college... We have ample retirement tax advantage space which we maxed for a number of years plus built up a taxable account (instead of a 529). I know we've had some small tax drag on the account, but we've also been able to tax loss harvest effectively, so it's probably close to a wash. Are you maxing out retirement accounts? If not, then it is more advantageous to save for college expenses in tax advantaged retirement accounts than in taxable even if you have ample retirement savings. As you've said, ...
by mmmodem
Mon Jun 06, 2022 8:52 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Taxable much better than 529 for certain scenarios?
Replies: 31
Views: 3282

Re: Taxable much better than 529 for certain scenarios?

We plan to pay for our kids college but have contributed to a taxable account over a 529 because we don't get a state tax break, want to reach FI first, don't want certain strings attached, aren't 100% sure we'll pay for it/kids will go to college... We have ample retirement tax advantage space which we maxed for a number of years plus built up a taxable account (instead of a 529). I know we've had some small tax drag on the account, but we've also been able to tax loss harvest effectively, so it's probably close to a wash. Are you maxing out retirement accounts? If not, then it is more advantageous to save for college expenses in tax advantaged retirement accounts than in taxable even if you have ample retirement savings. As you've said, ...
by mmmodem
Mon Jun 06, 2022 8:22 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Storage card for moto x4
Replies: 9
Views: 802

Re: Storage card for moto x4

While it may be simple to install SD card storage to your phone, it's not exactly easy to use SD card on Android. You have to assign apps to use SD card space which it is not default to do and even then some apps won't allow it. It's best used as media consumption for podcasts as you suggest, music, pictures, and videos.

Given you can barely put one podcast on your phone which takes very little space and very few apps, 32 gb on your X4 may not be enough for your usage, especially if you have a game like Kenshin Impact that's takes up 20 gb all by itself. One app and you're out of space.

Suggest you try to cleanup what is on your phone to delete unnecessary files or apps or it's time to upgrade to a 64 or 128 gb model.
by mmmodem
Sat Jun 04, 2022 2:12 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Should we buy a cheap home for a mentally ill family member?
Replies: 61
Views: 8993

Re: Should we buy a cheap home for a mentally ill family member?

She is mid 30s, has no education, no employment history, and has multiple kids. Still lives with her parents. This has been handled terribly for over a decade, but what’s done is done. Parents are late 60s and should be getting ready for retirement. But obviously having to stay in a 4 bedroom house and supporting an entire young family with food and such is expensive, so they both still work. Was talking about this the other day and IMO something drastic needs to happen. The idea was floated to simply buy a house for this family. Nothing fancy, but we could get a viable SFH in a town of 30k for under $100k. Split that up 3 ways and it’s easy to swing financially. We would not transfer the title, just allow her to live there for free. We al...
by mmmodem
Thu Jun 02, 2022 9:06 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Is it wise to buy car maintenance plans
Replies: 75
Views: 6643

Re: Is it wise to buy car maintenance plans

I am thinking if it makes sense to buy additional warranty, just because it is an electric car. I am little skeptical because I am not sure if mom-pop shop mechanics will be able to handle issues with electric cars. This line can be said about literally anything you buy. I hope I can dissuade you believing it. Here, this is what they told me when I tried to buy my first car at the dealership. "You should purchase the extended warranty. Today's cars have a lot of computers in there now and electronic systems that are new. If they fail, they can be costly to replace like the airbag and the ABS. Not every garage can repair it." Yes, this was said to me about a 1990's vehicle. And when I say anything, I mean it. They said this about ...
by mmmodem
Tue May 31, 2022 11:14 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How do you choose a family doctor?
Replies: 75
Views: 6368

Re: How do you choose a family doctor?

dknightd wrote: Mon May 30, 2022 4:22 pm 1) takes my insurance
2) convenient location

Has worked fine so far
Same. Will add on

3) if dislike after meeting doctor, repeat steps 1 and 2

I've found good doctors and dentsits that friends and family recommend tend to not accept new patients, which makes sense if you think about it.
by mmmodem
Tue May 31, 2022 10:26 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Value of 2007 Toyota Camry?
Replies: 11
Views: 1975

Re: Value of 2007 Toyota Camry?

In a word: no.

I have a 2009 Ford Escape AWD hybrid with 133k. I saw similar vehicles priced anywhere from $8000 - $9000. Sounds great, I'm going to buy a new car! I fired up Carmax, Vroom, and Carvana. Results were $1000-$2000. I didn't even bother bringing it in for a real price check.

I'm not really sure what is going on with the price disparity. Is that really what people are paying? It certainly isn't what Carmax is paying for. $6000 - $8000 seems like a huge profit margin between private sale and trade-in to me. I would've guessed around $3k profit is reasonable. Maybe you'll have a different experience than us. Maybe I should bring in my vehicle to Carmax? Good luck, OP
by mmmodem
Tue May 31, 2022 8:40 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How far or how long walking per day age 70
Replies: 104
Views: 13672

Re: How far or how long walking pAr day age 70

Mel Lindauer wrote: Mon May 30, 2022 9:59 pm One day, while waking on the beach, I passed a lady and she asked me why I was walking so fast. I told her the grim reaper was behind me but now he's behind you. She actually turned around and looked. :)
Yikes! :shock: Alright, let me set a goal of 4 miles per day for myself.
by mmmodem
Sat May 28, 2022 11:23 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Keeping existing telephone number
Replies: 9
Views: 846

Re: Keeping existing telephone number

No flame. This is what everyone does when they purchase new cell phone service: transfer their old number. You receive a temporary number first so your cell phone works immediately. Then, over the course of a couple of days, your landline number is ported over.

Alternatively, you can switch your landline number to Google Voice. It's a free service and can be accessed via the app on any smartphone. Thus, the number stays with you no matter what cell phone provider you use.
by mmmodem
Thu May 26, 2022 9:17 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Escrow reported our house sale - now IRS wants their cut
Replies: 75
Views: 9932

Re: Moved out of CA, later sold our CA. Now CA wants tax return.

Correct, I had a similar issue with my fed return. I filed an amended return, included the rental depreciation recapture, haven't heard back from the IRS. For CA, is it easier to use Turbotax for the missing 2020 return or just use the FTB online version of the form? I got the same notice from the FTB on a home we sold in 2018. Moved out of state in 2017. 1. The first thing I did was get an extension online. 2. And then proceeded to fill out a tax return at FTB online. I was fearful that staff shortages meant doing this digitally would expedite my case. This was August 2021. I forgot what stopped me, but something did and I couldn't proceed further without a great deal of effort or time. 3. Went to TurboTax and filled out a CA return, I ow...
by mmmodem
Thu May 26, 2022 8:46 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: New baby - conflicted on paternity leave??
Replies: 123
Views: 10041

Re: New baby - conflicted on paternity leave??

Most people at my work takes 2 weeks.

I took all 7 weeks available to me and they were at half pay. I just didn't do it consecutively. I took 2 weeks per the usual at my mega corp and then every Friday until I ran out. DW remembers I went back to work the next day and reminds me every time the topic is broached that I didn't support her. No amount of discussion will budge or change her mind to what really happened. If I had a choice to do it over again, I'd take all the time, all at once.
by mmmodem
Tue May 24, 2022 12:14 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Seeking advice on Laptop
Replies: 11
Views: 763

Re: Seeking advice on Laptop

This one is easy. In terms of features and performance, both are pretty similar. The only difference is that the AMD system can play modest games while the Costco one is an Intel system and cannot play games as well. If this doesn't matter to you, or if you must have Intel or if the Costco warranty and easy return process is important then get the Costco model.

My take? Even if I don't play games, having the option is better than no option, I'd go with the AMD system from Lenovo. The Lenovo warranty will suffice, I don't need another year from Costco. The Lenovo brand is reliable even if their Ideapad line is not as robust as their other products.

Current owner of a 5 year old Lenovo Ideapad that still works fine.
by mmmodem
Tue May 24, 2022 9:18 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: ID4 - EV Home charger recommendations?
Replies: 28
Views: 2497

Re: ID4 - EV Home charger recommendations?

m@ver1ck wrote: Mon May 23, 2022 10:20 pm 3 year charging is free with electrify America - but supposed to be not great for battery life to only fast charge.
This isn't necessarily true. The manufacturers think it is true based on what we know about batteries but that hasn't exactly shown to be true.

With one day a week commute and school drop offs, I wouldn't install anything. Just plug into a standard 120v and the battery will be fully charged in the morning. No need to spend money on a home charger when the included EVSE is sufficient.
by mmmodem
Mon May 23, 2022 5:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Tires for 16 year old car
Replies: 125
Views: 9342

Re: Tires for 16 year old car

cabfranc wrote: Mon May 23, 2022 2:38 pm I have been unable to find four new tires for under $600 out the door. And these are brands I have never heard of, like Kelly and Delinte. Used tires can be gotten for like $250-300, but it is probalby not worth it.
I got a quote for $427 out the door including installation and tax for 4 new tires at America's Tires on a 2006 Honda Accord. Those were the lowest cost ones.

I just bought new 18" tires for my SUV for a tad under $600 from the same place. Keep looking, OP.
by mmmodem
Mon May 23, 2022 10:47 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What movie should I show for a movie in the park event?
Replies: 63
Views: 4925

Re: What movie should I show for a movie in the park event?

Chip n Dale Rescue Rangers was just rebooted with a movie on Disney+. At 42 years old, I thoroughly enjoyed the 90's homage flick. My 5 and 9 year old loved it so much, they actually asked me to start it over but it was bedtime. It just came out I think? so likely fewer people have seen it. It's a Roger Rabbit esque flick with animations and real life. Story is a crime caper like an episode of the original series so may hold some adults attention with a twist ending. Although, I am biased as I am a huge Disney Afternoon fan.
by mmmodem
Mon May 23, 2022 10:36 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much spend on car? Boglehead Standard
Replies: 169
Views: 14870

Re: How much spend on car? Boglehead Standard

If you can pay cash for the vehicle, you can afford it. That's my standard. It doesn't mean you have to pay cash. You can finance with low or no interest loans if you prefer.

This meant when I was younger, I could only afford a few hundred dollars. Any vehicle I purchased then was more than I could afford. So I purchased the lowest cost vehicle that did the job. The question wasn't how much I can spend. It was how little I can spend?

Now that I can afford cash. The standard is the same. I can buy the Plaid Model S but I may be just as happy with the base Tesla Model S.
by mmmodem
Sat May 21, 2022 4:49 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Moving from one house to another
Replies: 9
Views: 1424

Re: Moving from one house to another

We had to do this a few years ago and chose to keep the money invested rather than pay down the mortgage. Buying and selling a home is complicated enough without involving a bridge loan, 401k loan, etc Following tax efficient fund placement, https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Tax-efficient_fund_placement Our down payment was invested in VTSAX in our taxable account as part of our AA. Our bond allocation was adjusted as necessary in our 401k. We successfully made the transition last year. We sold our old home. We then sold enough VTSAX to cover the down payment on the new one. Because the funds were in taxable, no bridge loan was necessary. No contingency to sell the old home was necessary on the new home contract. It may seem that our downpaym...