Search found 165 matches

by WatchinU
Fri Aug 16, 2013 8:04 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: help me understand new car buying
Replies: 12
Views: 1870

Re: help me understand new car buying

Shopping, negotiating, and purchasing new vehicles has changed much since the internet. You can go to sites like truecar.com to get some pricing. In the past some sites would show MSRP, Invoice, and even dealer cost. Most sites removed the dealer cost and read it was related to some lawsuit -- instead the refer you to the dealer. I recently purchased a new car following the approach and research that I purchased (from fightingchance.com but you can find similar stuff on the internet at no charge). I did it all over the phone and email. I would not drive to the dealership unless we had an agreed deal in email that listed the car, options, and OTD pricing. I ran into one issue with a dealership that wanted my SSN, claiming it was necessary to...
by WatchinU
Wed Jul 24, 2013 6:51 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New Honda Accord v/s CPO BMW 328i
Replies: 88
Views: 23954

Re: New Honda Accord v/s CPO BMW 328i

BMWs are nice cars. I have friends that sell them just as soon as they are out of warranty because the repairs are so expensive. I know folks that spent thousands of dollars trying to maintain the BMW and they got to a point that they couldn't afford it. It was a 6 year old car. for me the safe route was buying a 13 Honda Accord EX-L v6. I've been driving Hondas for years and had great experience. I didn't get the navigation system as I saw no point in spending $2k for something that had to be updated with a disc each year for additional cost. I have Garmin Nuvi and that works very well and has lifetime maps included. One thing I learned recently....you can purchase the Discount Tire Road Hazard Certificates for your new car with OEM tires ...
by WatchinU
Sun Jul 14, 2013 3:12 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Vanguard Flagship l Advisor
Replies: 41
Views: 6695

Re: Vanguard Flagship l Advisor

Levett wrote:"He recommends I go all in by the end of the week. I don't believe in the notion of market timing but is it wise to jump in with both feet with this kind of investment?"

In a word, yes.

Lev
If there is a concern or hesitation, its ok to move slowly into the recommended funds. Move at the speed you are comfortable with over the course of the next several weeks.
by WatchinU
Fri Jun 21, 2013 7:18 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Career as a trader
Replies: 32
Views: 4785

Re: Career as a trader

there are some former traders that are educating individual investors how to trade. they run a show as streaming video starting at 7am CT from Monday through Friday. They trade a lot. They also have guest interviews with various folks. I don't get to watch every day but at times I find some stuff they discuss interesting. the site is tastytrade.com much of the things they discuss are over my head. they have mentioned the probability of a trade and that seems interesting. they do research and talk about statistics. they emphasize to get good at it that you have to trade a lot -- trade small, trade often is their motto.
by WatchinU
Fri Jun 21, 2013 7:08 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medical Bill Improperly Invoiced
Replies: 14
Views: 1450

Re: Medical Bill Improperly Invoiced

I had a similar experience with a regular dental cleaning. The person kept filing with insurance incorrectly. Then 3 years later that I received the bill. I called the company benefit department and they said to call the insurance. I called the insurance that I had 3 years prior and they told me the right way to file the claim. I then gave that info to the dentist office along with a contact name and number for the insurance company. It worked but only because a new person was working the claims filing for the dentist. I was surprised the insurance paid the claim even though it was so late and I had a different insurance in current year. The previous folks at the dentist office were incompetent unfortunately. The claim was handled electroni...
by WatchinU
Tue Jun 18, 2013 4:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Lower cable rates but in new neighbohood
Replies: 3
Views: 819

Re: Lower cable rates but in new neighbohood

go for high speed internet like fios. skip the cable and tv programming.
get a subscription to netflix or hulu or amazon prime. watch streaming video and/or get some rabbit ears
by WatchinU
Sun Jun 16, 2013 9:05 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New Car Advice
Replies: 58
Views: 7694

Re: New Car Advice

also consider the Hyundai Santa Fe. I know someone that purchased this vehicle and they are happy. They considered CRV but the Santa Fe had more room in the backseat
by WatchinU
Tue Apr 23, 2013 10:09 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Any suggestions for a refrigerator that broke after 2 years?
Replies: 24
Views: 5203

Re: Any suggestions for a refrigerator that broke after 2 ye

you might try doing a search for the make and model of the refrigerator to see if other folks have had similar issues.
i've done this on cars and laptops before. I discovered others had a similar problem and what they did to fix it. sometimes it could be an easy fix but you never know.

A family member had their refrigerator stop working and come to find out it was not hooked up properly when it was delivered. something burned out prematurely as the fan or something was not hooked up. it was out of warranty and no extended warranty was purchased unfortunately.

for $500, you might be able to purchase a good used refrigerator on craig's list or an estate sale.
by WatchinU
Tue Apr 16, 2013 8:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying Tires at Costco
Replies: 38
Views: 38667

Re: Buying Tires at Costco

I've purchased tires from Costco and Discount Tires. Costco is very busy and if you have a flat you might be in for a long wait. That is what happened to me. There were so many folks ahead of me that had purchased tires that Costco had no time to help me and suggested that I purchase a new tire. I went to Discount Tires and they fixed my tire it right away. After fixing the tire, Discount Tires suggested that I may want to replace the tire -- not a hard sell but I appreciated them giving me the option. I currently price match Costco to Discount Tires. If you don't get the price match right away, call back and talk to someone else. I've had guys at Discount Tires tell me they want to be competitive. I've also had Discount Tires setup a time ...
by WatchinU
Wed Mar 20, 2013 6:12 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Finding a house/realtor in Fort Worth
Replies: 7
Views: 791

Re: Finding a house/realtor in Fort Worth

Saginaw is considered north of 820. lots of traffic and construction and highway always looks like a parking lot.

you might also want to check out Mansfield and south Arlington areas. it might be an easier commute for both of you.
by WatchinU
Mon Mar 18, 2013 8:22 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Tipping a hairdresser
Replies: 85
Views: 9990

Re: Tipping a hairdresser

Generally a 20% tip is normal assuming you are happy with the result. I've never seen a hairdresser able to do anything in 30 mins, especially if it involves coloring hair. Some folks color their own hair and they are satisfied with the result. Others folks experienced a less than ideal result (think about mistakes) when doing it on their own and they go to have it done professionally. They are in the camp that they will never do it themselves again. Getting your hair done professionally is costly and for many it is worth it because of how it makes you feel and look. I have a family member whose husband assisted in the process of coloring hair. It turned out terrible. she suffered so much ridicule and criticism at work and other places. she...
by WatchinU
Tue Mar 12, 2013 12:50 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Need Advice.....Better Late Than Never
Replies: 31
Views: 5072

Re: Need Advice.....Better Late Than Never

if you do decide to transfer your accounts, ask about the fees for the transfers and/or closing the accounts. you can do a search on this forum on fees where folks were hit with unexpected fees. ask how to transfer without fees or what other options are possible.
by WatchinU
Tue Mar 12, 2013 12:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Prudential sent my info to someone else
Replies: 26
Views: 3576

Re: Prudential sent my info to someone else

you can put a fraud alert via the credit bureaus. it has to be renewed every 90 days
or you can put a credit freeze on but impacts your ability to apply for loans.
by WatchinU
Tue Mar 12, 2013 12:08 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Umbrella Liability Policy
Replies: 5
Views: 752

Re: Umbrella Liability Policy

I got quotes from State Farm and other companies. They told me the most coverage I can purchase was $2m without providing proof of assets to them. It was cheap..about $215 a year when I had my cars with them. I just moved to Amica for all coverage and they are about $50 more.
by WatchinU
Tue Mar 12, 2013 11:04 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Pros and Cons of buying a franchise
Replies: 25
Views: 8399

Re: Pros and Cons of buying a franchise

suggest OP get a part time job at Firehouse Subs in the evenings and weekends. Learn how they operate and how they do things from the inside. Study the store management and employees. I think you have to really know whether this is your passion. Many have commented when you own the franchise that you have long days and never have time off. I had a friend that bought a franchise that worked on transmissions. It was a hard road--always having to get loans to keep the business going. It was 5 years before he was able to draw a paycheck. He also had a setback with the highway planning -- they redesigned the freeway making it more difficult for folks to get to his location. He eventually grew tired of working so many hours and days. Even though ...
by WatchinU
Tue Mar 12, 2013 9:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New Auto: One payment lease vs. buy outright?
Replies: 12
Views: 9179

Re: New Auto: One payment lease vs. buy outright?

if you don't own the car out right then why would a person consider making an up front large payment for a 3 year lease?
Is that the best use of you money? cars are typically considered to be depreciating assets. wouldn't it be better to invest that money into something that has a chance of appreciating. Perhaps I'm more skeptical of the dealer than I should be. I never tell them my options regarding financing or paying for the cars. I have it worked out before I step foot in the dealership.
by WatchinU
Tue Mar 12, 2013 9:17 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Umbrella Cost - Is Agent upset he lost auto business
Replies: 13
Views: 2394

Re: Umbrella Cost - Is Agent upset he lost auto business

I just recently broke up with State Farm after many years of having them for auto insurance. I added a car and their rates went up way more than I expected. The billing was held up and it was explained to me they rewrote all their systems and someone had to review the bill before it could be released. When I inquired again about the jump in premiums, I was told that all their discount programs had been reworked and they no longer differentiated between driving the car for pleasure vs driving it to work everyday. I found their new billing statement to be confusing and misleading. I also had my umbrella policy with them. State Farm office said they would review the bill for errors and call me back. They never called me back. Folks at the agen...
by WatchinU
Mon Mar 11, 2013 12:27 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Nissan Murano vs. Acura RDX vs. ??
Replies: 35
Views: 15934

Re: Nissan Murano vs. Acura RDX vs. ??

I know someone that just purchased the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and are very happy with it. It was redesigned for 2013. might be worth comparing and test driving. I had an Acura transmission rebuilt. The guy that did the work mentioned that the Murano has a proprietary transmission and I think that means it can't be rebuilt. If the transmission is serviced regularly, perhaps a rebuild will not be necessary. On my Acura, it was known to have poor design on transmission and they extended warranty until 100k but my issue didn't happen until well past that mileage. I would recommend OP do some research on RDX and Murano transmissions -- history of defects, recalls, design issues, etc... there are many forums on the internet where folks discuss th...
by WatchinU
Mon Mar 11, 2013 10:12 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: My former financial advisor-do I have any recourse?
Replies: 38
Views: 4830

Re: My former financial advisor-do I have any recourse?

I learned the hard way that financial services companies have standard ACAT fee transfers after getting dinged like this before. Apparently they have no obligation to remind you of such fees before a transfer is initiated.

Recently, I called eTrade and inquired about the ways and the fees involved to transfer my money over. We don't always know to ask about the fees involved. The woman I talked to was very nice -- she told me the way to do the transfer without any fees.

Writing to the SEC might work. some firms may cave and refund the fees. some may not. no firm likes to have issues in front of the SEC.
by WatchinU
Sun Mar 03, 2013 6:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: leather vs cloth car seats
Replies: 32
Views: 7075

Re: leather vs cloth car seats

I like light color leather seats because its easy to clean up spills should someone spill a drink or food on the seat.

I have seen seat covers that go over the car seats that are made out of cloth. They are to protect the leather seats but it might also meet your needs for cloth seats.
by WatchinU
Tue Feb 26, 2013 7:11 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New car: I'm about to replace my 2003 Accord V6.
Replies: 66
Views: 11399

Re: New car: I'm about to replace my 2003 Accord V6.

Try the 2013 Honda Accord. It drives nice. Do some research. There are many that recommend it. I've owned and driven Hondas and Toyotas for the last 20 years. one thing i learned recently from my mechanic is when they do a recall -- they replace the recalled part with the same part. They are not really fixing a design issue. I have an Acura TL (in Honda family) and I've replaced broken motor mounts multiple times. the mechanic says...its the way it was designed. the ignition switch was recalled and replaced under warranty. then years later it had an issue. I replaced it and that is when I learned -- its the same part but its newer. no fix to the design issue. I take good care of my cars -- regular oil changes and maintenance is performed. T...
by WatchinU
Tue Feb 26, 2013 6:29 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Deceased leased car in a towing yard? Advice?
Replies: 14
Views: 2025

Re: Deceased leased car in a towing yard? Advice?

I wouldn't let that car sit in the towing yard too long. They are going to be expensive and they will want to be paid. Get the receipt and seek reimbursement from the estate. Agree that you have to read the lease on the car. You can also consult with an attorney
by WatchinU
Mon Feb 25, 2013 5:00 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Paying cash for first house: A bad idea?
Replies: 40
Views: 4557

Re: Paying cash for first house: A bad idea?

interest rates are a consideration. some would say interest rates are so low why not have a mortgage and put your money towards generating better returns?

Others might point out the deduction you get for taxes and interest. If you file long form, you might want to evaluate the impact of that deduction. Its still a valid deduction but there has been talk that it may be removed some day.

Its nice not to have a mortgage payment.
by WatchinU
Mon Feb 25, 2013 7:34 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Just Can't Trust BOA
Replies: 25
Views: 3219

Re: Just Can't Trust BOA

I've had good experience with BOA and I have been using their online bill pay since they came out with it in 90s. Perhaps I've just been lucky all these years. I also like the convenience of ATMs all over the US. Its possible to have negative experiences with just about any company in financial services. Its unfortunate when errors occur and it takes a long time to get that understanding across to get it resolved. One thing I do like about BOA is they attempt to train their employees really well instead of having them read from a script. They can walk me through a transaction online if I'm having trouble. I really dislike it when I call any company and the person is reading a script. We end up talking in circles and they are unable to under...
by WatchinU
Wed Feb 13, 2013 3:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Lexus RX 300. Timing belt. $884.
Replies: 55
Views: 18362

Re: Lexus RX 300. Timing belt. $884.

The estimate is not bad. you might be able to find a local mechanic that specializes on servicing Lexus vehicles who may be cheaper. Replacing the timing belt is at least a 4-6 hour job.

I use a mechanic that specializes in toyota and honda including luxury vehicles.I've noticed their labor rates have been rising over the last several years. The were $60 per hour when I started using them and now they are around $90 per hour. the labor seems in line with your quote.
by WatchinU
Wed Dec 26, 2012 10:10 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: How have Jim Cramer's stock picks performed?
Replies: 28
Views: 5034

Re: How have Jim Cramer's stock picks performed?

I've noticed when he mentions a stock in the sense of "backup the truck" way that somehow influences the price to go up. Probably because folks are buying based on his recommendation. However, the price does not stay there. I think he puts on a show for entertainment and has been successful from that stand point. There was one time I purchased a stock after his recommendation and it was an epic fail. He can walk folks through what seems like good logic to buy or sell a particular stock but that does not mean he knows anything special. He is often wrong. Others say you have a 50-50 chance of being right when you pick a stock. I think he has performance data on a charitable trust that he manages but even that is suspect.
by WatchinU
Mon Dec 10, 2012 10:57 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: transmission failure: 2003 honda odysee with 172k miles
Replies: 36
Views: 4034

Re: transmission failure: 2003 honda odysee with 172k miles

I'd recommend purchasing a new vehicle if you can find one that you really like at a price that you are happy with I paid to have my transmission rebuilt last year for about $2,000 (plus a rental car as this took several days). Other estimates were $3,600. I've gotten another 22,000 miles (now about 185,000 miles) so far but did develop a leak. I was lucky that fixing this leak was covered under the 2 year/24,000 warranty. I'm about out of warranty on it and I'm not sure I how long it will last. This is a 99 Acura TL (in the honda family) and it was known for having transmission issues, however the issue did not show up while it was under warranty. The reason I had the transmission rebuilt is that I did not find any vehicle that I really li...
by WatchinU
Fri Dec 07, 2012 6:18 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Tuition Reimbursement "Clawback"
Replies: 29
Views: 7853

Re: Tuition Reimbursement "Clawback"

What I am thinking is the payment plan may only be an option once officially turned over to the debt collector. Hopefully, I can get some more info via e-mail from them today payment plan to the debt collector is not a good idea. everyone on this forum is advising you to setup a payment plan with your former employer. I can't believe you are unable to call the general number for the company and speak to a specific HR person or get your former boss to put you in touch with an HR person. You can send an automatic check monthly to the company for $x if you have online banking. Keep track of your payments and proof. go for zero % interest if possible. if it goes to collection agency after you started paying then fire them -- that is your right...
by WatchinU
Fri Dec 07, 2012 12:12 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Tuition Reimbursement "Clawback"
Replies: 29
Views: 7853

Re: Tuition Reimbursement "Clawback"

I had this happen long ago when I was much younger. the company took out the cost for the classes out of my last paycheck. It was for a much smaller amount of $ but it was a surprise that my last paycheck was hardly nothing. If this does go to collections then I suggest you send a cease and desist letter which basically fires the collection agency. this is a right you have. you can find examples on bendover.com. my view is its best to NEVER work with a collection agency. Many have made promises offering to settle for less and then they sell the debt to another collector all the while your credit is getting dinged. Also, suggest you work out a payment plan with your former employer. also, ask them for a copy of the first notice since you nev...
by WatchinU
Fri Nov 23, 2012 9:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Would you dispute a credit card charge for poor service?
Replies: 20
Views: 3465

Re: Would you dispute a credit card charge for poor service?

I really like USPS flat rate box shipping because the pricing is fixed and no surprises. Hope USPS can survive the tough times but their service has always been dependable for me.

Typically, I void FedEx and UPS if at all possible as I do not like their business practices such as demanding to scan or copy your DL info into their system if you go to pick up a package. No thank you to identity theft.
by WatchinU
Fri Nov 23, 2012 9:10 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Bank of America and ATM problem
Replies: 33
Views: 4422

Re: Bank of America and ATM problem

about a week ago, the BofA ATM took my card and never returned it. The ATM seemed to work for the person in front of me. For some reason the ATM went through a lengthy reboot process. after about 20 mins, I still did not have my card nor could I make a transaction. I called the phone number posted. All they could do is cancel my card and send me another one. I kept asking about what happened to my card. They claimed the ATM would shred it. I don't know for sure. It bothers me but I know that they canceled that card. There are criminal elements committing fraud everyday. They attempt to make fake cards to pull out $ from other people's accounts. I'm not exactly sure how they steal enough info to do it but it does happen. Perhaps that deposit...
by WatchinU
Fri Nov 23, 2012 9:22 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Loophole to Avoid Ameriprise ~$200 Termination Fee?
Replies: 6
Views: 1649

Re: Loophole to Avoid Ameriprise ~$200 Termination Fee?

have you called and asked Ameriprise about the options and fees associated to transfer out including no fees?
i did this one with etrade and they were very nice. they told me they would leave the account open but allow me to transfer the money out without fees. some companies will pick up those fees if you are transfering a large portfolio. its worth asking before you sign the paperwork. Fees and interest are the ways these companies make money. ACAT fees are normal.
by WatchinU
Mon Nov 05, 2012 6:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: do you use your work cell phone for personal use?
Replies: 39
Views: 7344

Re: do you use your work cell phone for personal use?

i have 2 cell phones -- one for work and one for personal. although I would like to combine them into one ...i know work locks down the BB so that I am unable to use all the features. Also, they monitor everything on those phones. Its not worth it to me to jeopardize my job by using the BB for personal use on a regular basis. Its an inconvenience and an extra monthly cost but its one way to maintain my privacy and perhaps not get in trouble at work.
by WatchinU
Mon Oct 29, 2012 1:03 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Umbrella Policy Cost
Replies: 16
Views: 1646

Re: Umbrella Policy Cost

is your car insurance with state farm and does it include your daughter as a driver?

my umbrella policy with state farm is about $200 premium per year for $2m coverage.
by WatchinU
Mon Oct 22, 2012 6:33 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Need a tax professional, will H&R Block do?
Replies: 12
Views: 1842

Re: Need a tax professional, will H&R Block do?

one of the best ways to find a qualified tax professional is via referral from a friend you trust who has had similar situations.
who are your friends and business associates using to do their taxes? Then you can contact them and conduct informational interviews to find out how they work and other questions you may have.

H&R Block is fine for getting your taxes done -- my brother and mother use them every year. However, H&R Block are not going to give you the considerations, strategy options, and advice you need for tax planning in future years. A good Tax professional will look beyond your current circumstances and look for ways the tax code can work for you. They can provide you options and the criteria.
by WatchinU
Fri Oct 19, 2012 10:59 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Question about Amex card
Replies: 13
Views: 1841

Re: Question about Amex card

I closed my gold card years ago in favor of the Costco Amex. I got tired of paying the annual fee and I had that card since 1980.

I love my Costco membership which is about $110 per year. The Costco Amex card has cash back for purchases made (restaurants, gasoline, etc) and there is no annual fee. Its a good deal for me because I do shop Costco often. The cash back feature more than pays for my Costco membership. This is not a good deal if you don't shop at Costco and love it.
by WatchinU
Thu Oct 18, 2012 4:10 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Honda extended warranty
Replies: 38
Views: 9922

Re: Honda extended warranty

I sometimes buy extended warranty on cars in the honda family as long as it it sold close to cost. I know there are big markups. cars now have so many electronics or computers that something major and costly could break. for example, the door locks stopped working on my acura suddenly. the dealership had to fix it due to the extended warranty. the transmission failed after the extended warranty ran out so that cost was on me. I'm not willing to pay thousands of $ for an extended warranty. I paid like $300-$400 about 10 years ago for the last one purchased. I'm sure the prices are much higher now
by WatchinU
Thu Oct 18, 2012 4:03 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Promised refund but not received
Replies: 14
Views: 1099

Re: Promised refund but not recieved

I learned a long time ago that the financial services companies always charge fees for transferring $ and/or closing accounts even if its not at your request. I was sent a letter and told I had to leave this broker because my adviser had quit. They gave me 30 days. I got things moving and was charged $100 for that transfer even though it wasn't my choice to move. This is especially true with ACAT transfers. In another situation, I called the broker (etrade) that I was leaving and asked about the ways to transfer the $. The person gave me options and also told me the costs. I also noticed that the receiving broker doesn't want you to call the broker you are leaving to discuss -- they just want you to sign the ACAT transfer to get things movi...
by WatchinU
Thu Oct 18, 2012 1:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I ditch Bank of America :-)
Replies: 48
Views: 6124

Re: I ditch Bank of America :-)

I was with a bank that went through a series of mergers over the years and ended up with BOA.
They were one of the first with online bill pay in the 90s. I'm all setup with bill pay and they handled the stamps if necessary. Customer service has always been great for me. I don't have any issues. I have no reason to leave them. I really like having the access to so many ATMs in many cities. It's very convenient for me.

I also have a credit union account and they didn't send me a 1099 for last year. Their turnaround time on getting back to me was about a week. It's not my main account but if it was then that level of customer service would not work for me.
by WatchinU
Sat Oct 13, 2012 7:05 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Job Change : Bank of America or Ernst & Young
Replies: 27
Views: 5289

Re: Job Change : Bank of America or Ernst & Young

also investigate the other benefits from both companies. I've heard that BOA is changing insurance plans and the new plans are terrible. The best health insurance is given to folks making less money. folks with experience and making more money get squeezed by having the worst insurance and paying more out of pocket all under the heading of consumer driven healthcare plans :-) I suppose most companies are heading that way to push more of the costs to employees.
by WatchinU
Sat Sep 15, 2012 6:56 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Should I hire an attorney for my closing
Replies: 26
Views: 4408

Re: Should I hire an attorney for my closing

if you already have a legal plan at work then having an attorney at closing may be covered on your plan. of course the realtor, title company, financing folks, etc... don't want you to bring an attorney to closing as they think it indicates a problem. I got nervous days before my closing when the title company and financing folks didn't follow through and return calls. it seemed as if they abandoned me. I called up my legal plan and the attorney offered to come to closing. it was covered under my legal plan from work. he reviewed every piece of paper that required my signature and asked questions. it made the title company, realtors, etc... very nervous but the attorney was the only one looking out for my interests. everything went smoothly...
by WatchinU
Sat Sep 08, 2012 4:57 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: refinance with PMI or no PMI?
Replies: 4
Views: 4007

Re: refinance with PMI or no PMI?

years ago I took a 2nd mortgage for the other 10% down to avoid paying PMI.
the 2nd mortgage had a higher interest rate but it made it appear to the 1st mortgage that I was putting 20% down.
I'm not sure if this approach is allowed in today's practices in financing but it worked out great for me.
by WatchinU
Tue Sep 04, 2012 1:21 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New Nissan Altima 2013 with 300 miles on it...
Replies: 24
Views: 4812

Re: New Nissan Altima 2013 with 300 miles on it...

I had looked at buying a vehicle before that had 900 miles. The dealer's explanation was they had traded for a different color with a dealership in the next state over and it was the only vehicle they had to test drive. They are willing to knock off a few $ here and there but they did not feel it was necessary to compensate me. They said the vehicle had never been "titled" to a person and it was considered new and not used.
by WatchinU
Mon Sep 03, 2012 6:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car Buying Advice: 2012 Camry vs Sonata vs Passat vs Altima
Replies: 31
Views: 4346

Re: Car Buying Advice: 2012 Camry vs Sonata vs Passat vs Alt

There is a new 2013 Honda Accord coming out and there is talk of some nice improvements. Might also be worth considering
by WatchinU
Sun Aug 19, 2012 3:47 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: brokerage fees
Replies: 17
Views: 2552

Re: brokerage fees

You will need the rules and fees sections when you open an account with a discount broker. Some have a min balance requirement to avoid account fees. If the balance is maintained, then the fees you pay are when you execute trades. Some brokerages allow investing in mutual funds without fees and others would charge a fee. Just have to research it.
by WatchinU
Wed Aug 01, 2012 12:11 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Possible upcoming layoff- reveal reason for interviewing?
Replies: 22
Views: 4195

Re: Possible upcoming layoff- reveal reason for interviewing

You will have to work out the wording of how you address those type of questions in a way you are comfortable with, otherwise it can backfire. some options: 1) better career opportunities 2) changing business landscape, marketplace dynamics, and business declines indicate you are in a shrinking division. that was unknown when you accepted your position initially. I love the work I'm doing and committed to the success of my company, however its prudent to keep my eyes open for opportunities where I can add value and make a difference 3) a recruiter brought to my attention an opportunity that captured my interest. They convinced me to take a serious look at this opportunity that matches my skills. I'm open to exploring opportunities where I c...
by WatchinU
Wed Jul 11, 2012 1:02 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Bank of America error - no longer a customer
Replies: 10
Views: 1665

Re: Bank of America error - no longer a customer

did you send a certified letter to bank of america regarding your issue?
I think when an issue goes longer than a week then the communication needs to be in writing

I've never had any issues with that bank. I was with a small bank that was acquired years ago by BofA. I've always had good customer service -- talking with a person in the US.
by WatchinU
Mon Jul 09, 2012 4:26 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Thanks Alot Ameriprise....
Replies: 22
Views: 10383

Re: Thanks Alot Ameriprise....

I learned the hard way that when doing a transfer called an ACAT there will always be fees that financial institutions will charge. Financial Services companies prefer the ACAT transfer. Sometimes the receiving company will pick up those fees when they acquire you as a new client. It's something to ask. I also learned it never hurts to call the place you want to transfer from to ask if there are any fees and whether the transfer of assets can be done fee free. I did this last part with eTrade and they were very helpful.
by WatchinU
Wed Jul 04, 2012 11:09 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: recruiter asks for birth month and day and last 4 of SSN
Replies: 36
Views: 22192

Re: recruiter asks for birth month and day and last 4 of SSN

I've run into this before where recruiters for contractors for large companies demand the full SSN claiming that their client insists this is necessary before presenting the candidate for an interview. If you ask the big company about their policies then you will find most times they do not require it up front. The recruiting company is set up to move fast and collecting this info before a candidate is presented streamlines the process. I'd ask who's requirement is it really? You can check with Verizon directly about it. Another approach is to fudge the bday and SSN as an experiment to see what happens. If you get hired, they will need an I-9 form where your identify and SSN have to be verified. They won't rely on the last 4 SSN. There is r...
by WatchinU
Wed Jul 04, 2012 10:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hospital costs
Replies: 189
Views: 15457

Re: Hospital costs

I attempted the same approach to pay cash and the hospital would not negotiate. They wanted the full list price for everything, which is way more than the negotiated rate of the insurance company. Unfortunately, it was at a time when I did not have any health insurance. I learned quickly the folks that can least afford to pay for a hospital visit are charged the highest rates. This makes no sense as the statistics are that this same hospital collects .10 on the dollar from uninsured patients. I also saw too much waste in the hospital operations and duplicate tests. It seemed like they wanted to run the bill up. I eventually paid it off the bill and it took a while. It really depends on the hospital on whether they will negotiate.