Search found 1283 matches

by researcher
Fri Jun 19, 2020 2:49 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Car Insurance for 21 year old male - full or liability coverage
Replies: 12
Views: 972

Re: Car Insurance for 21 year old male - full or liability coverage

AtlantaFamily-2013 wrote: Fri Jun 19, 2020 11:30 am Full coverage runs $250 and liability $160.
Are these prices weekly, monthly, quarterly, bi-annually, annually?
Your question can't be answered without this information.

If this is an annual premium, then yes, I would spend the $90 for full coverage.
If this is a weekly premium, then no, I would not spend an extra $4680 for full coverage.
by researcher
Thu Jun 18, 2020 7:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sellers agent not letting me view property without preapproval or "proof of finances"
Replies: 189
Views: 13638

Re: Sellers agent not letting me view property without preapproval or "proof of finances"

At least in theory, this requirement would potentially lead to lower home prices, since the seller is weeding out folks who are able to buy a home but may choose to buy another with easier requirements. I would predict (with no data whatsoever), that the majority of potential buyers during the pandemic aren't "lookie loos." You are WAY overthinking this. You really think a pre-approval/proof of funds requirement would result in a LOWER sales price!?!?! Anyone who is serious about the house will immediately provide the proof without a second thought. It is wishy-washy non-serious people like you who they are eliminating. Offers from these people are likely to be LOWER than those who are actually ready to buy. You really think seri...
by researcher
Thu Jun 18, 2020 6:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sellers agent not letting me view property without preapproval or "proof of finances"
Replies: 189
Views: 13638

Re: Sellers agent not letting me view property without preapproval or "proof of finances"

phisher4 wrote: Thu Jun 18, 2020 5:54 pm I may have been interested, but they are reducing their basket of potential buyers...
That is precisely the reason for the requirement.

The sellers are weeding out people like you who only "may be interested."
They want serious interested buyers who are ready to buy...such people would immediately provide the documentation in order to see the house.

If I was selling a house in a pandemic, I would also want to reduce the basket of "potential" buyers, to only those serious enough to clear a very low hurdle to seeing the home.
by researcher
Thu Jun 18, 2020 5:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sellers agent not letting me view property without preapproval or "proof of finances"
Replies: 189
Views: 13638

Re: Sellers agent not letting me view property without preapproval or "proof of finances"

I was told by my buyer's agent that I will need either a "preapproval or proof of funds" to forward to the seller, prior to viewing a home. My feeling is that I'm not willing to share my financial information with a random seller prior to even seeing the home. Has anyone else run into this? I don't see what the big deal is. Either you accept the seller's terms or move on. It's that simple. It is perfectly reasonable for the seller to require pre-approval before allowing random strangers to wander through their house, especially during a pandemic. And your reasoning for not getting pre-approval also seems silly. You're worried about taking a tiny "hit" to your credit score? Is your score that low that a temporary miniscu...
by researcher
Tue Jun 16, 2020 3:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Why are you NOT buying rental properties?
Replies: 1134
Views: 139174

Re: Why are you NOT buying rental properties?

I just read a few more posts and have a question for the OP. You've stated the following about your approach... - I stick to single family homes. I only buy in a good neighborhood with good schools. - Look at 100 houses before buying. I like going to open house so I can talk to the listing agent and get the latest information. - Buy below market value Given that you buy SFH in good neighborhoods with good schools, how do you go about getting these houses below market value? Aren't all of the homes in these areas in extremely high demand? And how can you possibly visit 100 open houses before buying? I'd be interested to know what housing market you are in. Where I live, virtually every home has multiple offers within a few hours of being lis...
by researcher
Tue Jun 16, 2020 12:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Should I sell my stash of dental floss now worth $3,000?
Replies: 123
Views: 18581

Re: Should I sell my stash of dental floss now worth $3,000?

Caduceus wrote: Tue Jun 16, 2020 11:22 am I have a stash of dental floss from Listerine that apparently has been discontinued as of earlier this year.
they are selling now (actual sold prices, not just listed prices) for about $25 per pack.
$3000/$25 = 120 packs
120 packs x 150 feet/pack = 18,000 feet

If you floss EVERY DAY and use 1 ft of floss each time, you have enough to last you nearly 50 years.

I'm afraid to ask how much toilet paper you have hoarded!
by researcher
Tue Jun 16, 2020 12:44 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: best way to give away a table saw
Replies: 53
Views: 4216

Re: best way to give away a table saw

48 posts on this topic over the last 3 days!?!

The OP could have had these items GONE IN 30 MINUTES by simply posting to Craigslist instead of writing about it here.
by researcher
Thu Jun 11, 2020 4:15 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Does Buying an RV make sense?
Replies: 97
Views: 9307

Re: Does Buying an RV make sense?

galawdawg wrote: Thu Jun 11, 2020 5:35 am People can make informed decisions about many things without having to "actually experience it." I'm glad you enjoy RV travel, I'm just not sure why you feel the need to ridicule a contrary point of view.
I'm not trying to ridicule, just simply correcting RV'ing misconceptions from people who have never RV'd before.

The predictable comments here are the same that you find in "boat advice" threads...
People who have never stepped foot on a boat who chime in with lots of wildly incorrect negative commentary.
by researcher
Thu Jun 11, 2020 1:36 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

I think the hypothetical intent of the comment goes this way: This clearly isn't some spur of the moment decision where the OP rushes out and buys a $150K (hence the reason he posted here). It is ridiculous to form a "hypothetical intent" that the OP and his wife didn't have these conversations before making such a purchase. In fact, the OP has already stated... she has been requesting a remodel and allocated $150k for it a few years back. We have spent about $65k of it so far...That money as well as my mortgage payoff money is currently sitting in a Citibank account...I have not counted that cash as part of my portfolio. As someone else asked, since you think it's crazy for the OP to buy this car, what are your plans for the $3M...
by researcher
Wed Jun 10, 2020 10:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Does Buying an RV make sense?
Replies: 97
Views: 9307

Re: Does Buying an RV make sense?

Please help me avoid being "misinformed" then... So two (2) showers of ten minutes... And this is why you prefer staying at Hampton Inns. Wanting to take 10 minute showers in an RV when you don't have full hook-ups is just silly. I don't even take a FIVE minute shower at home! There are a few extremely simple solutions to your issue... - If you are the type of person to take such long showers, then simply stay at campground with full hook-ups. - If boondocking & remote camping (with no hook-ups) are important to you, then select a camper with large holding tanks. - If you stay at campground with no hook-ups for an extended period, use the dump station/water provided, or bring 6-gal jugs with you. Also, on your list of nationa...
by researcher
Wed Jun 10, 2020 3:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Does Buying an RV make sense?
Replies: 97
Views: 9307

Re: Does Buying an RV make sense?

So plan on hauling that RV around to get water and dump waste if you are there more than a night or two. That is the case at other National Parks as well. You are misinformed. The overwhelming majority of self-contained RVs can go far longer than "a night or two" before needing water or dumping waste. Here is the list of National Parks that have full and/or partial hook-ups. Don't forget about all of the state campgrounds, as well as the thousands of private campgrounds, with hook-ups. https://www.nationalparkstraveler.org/2019/07/rving-parks-top-tips-national-parks-rv-hookup-campsites To each his own. For us the cons far outweighed the pros. We also saw that the comfort and amenities in even the more expensive units was far less...
by researcher
Wed Jun 10, 2020 9:12 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

BuckyBadger wrote: Wed Jun 10, 2020 7:51 am Of course not - don't be silly and don't pretend you don't see the difference here.
I'm assuming you recognize the difference between keeping a tally for normal purchases and this particular situation when one partner intends on spending over 6% of the net worth of the entire family on this sort of purchase that benefits only him.
I was responding to the comment that "it's actually a $300-$400k expense we're looking at here," claiming the wife must spend $150K-$200K on something of her own, just because the OP is looking to purchase a fun car of that value.

The OP can clearly afford this vehicle. If his wife doesn't object to the purchase, then what is the big deal???
by researcher
Tue Jun 09, 2020 2:14 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

smalliebigs wrote: Tue Jun 09, 2020 2:09 pm So many people seem to be projecting their own ...insecurities into seemingly trying to convince him/her not to do this. Man, it's his money, let him to his thing. Either make a recommendation, or not.
+100
by researcher
Tue Jun 09, 2020 1:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

tibbitts wrote: Tue Jun 09, 2020 1:13 pm
investingdad wrote: Tue Jun 09, 2020 12:42 pm
BuckyBadger wrote: Tue Jun 09, 2020 12:26 pm Still wondering how the wife is spending her $200k?
That is an interesting question. :)
Unless they have the same passion, that's an excellent point: it's actually a $300-$400k expense we're looking at here. That might change some of the responses.
An eye for an eye. A tooth for a tooth. Is that how your marriages work?

I've never ran out and purchased something of equal value as something my wife buys (and vice versa).
We don't keep a tally sheet of who buys what, and what partner is "owned" something.
by researcher
Tue Jun 09, 2020 11:32 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

investingdad wrote: Tue Jun 09, 2020 11:14 am I suspect there is a misconception about what type of lifestyle one can afford when trying to make $3 million pay for 45 years of retirement.
But that is NOT what position the OP is currently in.

He has explicitly said..."I am still working and adding to the 401k, HSA, Roth."
by researcher
Tue Jun 09, 2020 10:33 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

Folks that are calling $3 million ... a multimillionaire type situation that can easily drop 200k on a car are not even close, in my opinion. But 200k car territory? Not even close. Seriously??? A "multimillionaire type situation" is EXACTLY what the OP is in!!! I get it. You want to hoard your money for some undefined purpose and some undefined time period (that may never come). The OP is a multimillionaire. They want to get some enjoyment out of it now, rather than being buried with it. I see absolutely no problem with the OP's plans. I haven't seen you explain what exactly you think the problem is, or what the OP should be doing with this money. Should he just continue to watch it accumulate, while being scared to do anything ...
by researcher
Tue Jun 09, 2020 9:15 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Does Buying an RV make sense?
Replies: 97
Views: 9307

Re: Does Buying an RV make sense?

galawdawg wrote: Tue Jun 09, 2020 7:54 am When we travel, we like to stay at places like Embassy Suites and Residence Inn with their larger suites, better breakfast options and even evening cocktail receptions at most locations.

without having any particular desire to enjoy an RV/camping "lifestyle".
It is quite odd that you'd even consider an RV, given that your travel preferences are the exact OPPOSITE of an RV/camping lifestyle.

Even if it were the costs were the same or lower than staying at Embassy Suites, why would you care, since you don't enjoy the lifestyle?
by researcher
Tue Jun 09, 2020 9:07 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

BogleBoogie wrote: Tue Jun 09, 2020 9:02 am Have you looked at an Acura NSX? This would be the first car I would test drive if that were my budget.

https://www.motortrend.com/news/acura-n ... 2022-leak/
It's been recommended about a 1/2 dozen times in this thread.
The OP has stated he intends to check it out.
by researcher
Sat Jun 06, 2020 8:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?
Replies: 499
Views: 40829

Re: What fun car should I get in the $150k - $200k range?

I would watch these videos from VINwiki for ideas.
There are many videos covering a wide variety of price points.
Here are a few...
Best Car for $100K...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhcgLkCUFmg
Best Car for $250K...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDaI2t3lfDo


For those with lighter pockets...
Best Sports Car for $60K...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvLQeWNtPQ0
Best Car for $35K...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQ5weOzL5Ic
Best Sports Car for $25K...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2nqKD7woMc
by researcher
Thu Jun 04, 2020 11:28 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Selling wife's 1-year old car?
Replies: 86
Views: 7173

Re: Selling wife's 1-year old car?

totallynotsure wrote: Thu Jun 04, 2020 7:47 am a lot of assumptions are being made with the purchase of my wife's car.
we mutually decided to purchase something. it was both of our decisions. i don't regret it
As others have asked, then why did you say..."i did try to convince to get a used or cheaper car"

In addition, another poster asked whether you’re thinking about suggesting to your *pregnant* wife that you sell her car and replace it with something cheaper?
And your response was..."nailed it, yes."
by researcher
Wed Jun 03, 2020 3:45 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Wife's expectations of subsidizing her friends' lives
Replies: 82
Views: 5920

Re: Wife's expectations of subsidizing her friends' lives

We have talked about creating a family together (I have a child from a previous marriage) Her preference is to spend a lot of money doing nice things for her friends. she takes pride in funding her friends' vacations and helping them with "a little bit for retirement". But multiple times a year, she's taking different persons or groups on trips and picking up the entire tab. The therapist has suggested that we seek couples counseling, but to this point, my wife has declined, because I am the one who has the problem. Under no circumstances should you have any children with this woman! Don't do it! What you are describing is extremely unhealthy behaviors and mindsets. The likelihood of your wife changing in any meaningful way is li...
by researcher
Wed Jun 03, 2020 3:24 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Selling wife's 1-year old car?
Replies: 86
Views: 7173

Re: Selling wife's 1-year old car?

wilked wrote: Wed Jun 03, 2020 3:12 pm I think it's interesting the note after the OPs wife's car on a recent post

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=305362
Debt
2017 Subaru Forester 8,200.00
2019 Mazda CX-5 27,000.00 (i know...)
I don't get this either.

The OP's Forester is in the exact same vehicle class as his wife's CX-5.
Pricing is similar too, ranging from $25K - $35K.

So why does the OP consider the purchase of his NEW Forester to be a prudent/appropriate decision.
Yet when his wife wants the exact same class of car, he "tried to convince her to get a used or cheaper car."
by researcher
Wed Jun 03, 2020 10:30 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Refinance for 0.25% rate reduction
Replies: 14
Views: 1089

Re: Refinance for 0.25% rate reduction

Fatusr wrote: Wed Jun 03, 2020 9:29 am I was offered 3% for 30 years on new loan amount of 650k with $400 in closing costs and $2500 Amex credit.

if I continue to pay same monthly as before, I will save ~40k over 30 years and have flexibility to pay lower monthly if I want to.
Does it make sense to refinance?
Why are you even asking this question???

Is there a reason you would NOT want to spend $400 now to save $40K over the term of the loan?
by researcher
Wed Jun 03, 2020 9:25 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Would you be motivated to refinance this loan?
Replies: 25
Views: 1786

Re: Would you be motivated to refinance this loan?

Buddy0329 wrote: Tue Jun 02, 2020 11:16 am assume out of pocket costs could include upwards of $1,000 in out of pocket expenses.
~$20K is the total interest saved in the above scenario over the loan term on a new loan.
Wold you refinance or just stand pat?
Why are you even asking this question?

Why wouldn't you want to save $20K+?
by researcher
Wed Jun 03, 2020 8:37 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Got toddler, good time to sell rental Duplex?
Replies: 19
Views: 1862

Re: Got toddler, good time to sell rental Duplex?

Cycle wrote: Tue Jun 02, 2020 9:09 pm its a bit of a burden on top of parenting.
I should also add we are high net worth ~2M for our age, mid 30s, so don't need the income by any means.
Why would you even need to ask this question???

Just sell the thing this week and get on with your life.
by researcher
Wed Jun 03, 2020 6:55 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Selling wife's 1-year old car?
Replies: 86
Views: 7173

Re: Selling wife's 1-year old car?

wife, whom i did try to convince to get a used or cheaper car, drives a 2019 Mazda CX-5 . purchase price was $32,960 and she pays $592/mo. with 2.99% APR. would it be a totally ridiculous notion to consider selling the Mazda, paying off the lien (hopefully owing little to nothing additional) and getting my wife in a low-mileage, $0 down lease for $299/mo. or less? this halves our monthly outflow right off the bat. This makes absolutely ZERO sense. The Mazda will easily last your wife 12+ years (and still be under 100K miles). She could keep it for another several years or sell it for $5K+. But you want to dump this vehicle and lease? Over the next 12 years, those monthly payments add up to $43K, not including all of the other costs associa...
by researcher
Sat May 30, 2020 7:44 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Fold Flat Seats in a 2019/2020 car
Replies: 41
Views: 10291

Re: Fold Flat Seats in a 2019/2020 car

sad2 wrote: Fri May 29, 2020 10:55 pm 1. some ground clearance to get to trailheads with washboard roads in CO
2. decent gas mileage - high 20s?
5. should not use premium fuel
6. lower insurance costs
7. low maintenance cost
8. actually able to sleep in the back - fold completely flat seats.

I'd like to stay with Honda or Toyota
I'm going to add one vehicle to your list that ticks off virtually all the boxes...
Honda Ridgeline with a truck cap.

I think this would be the most versatile option overall, and you can pick up a new 2019 Ridgeline RTL AWD for $30K after negotiation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grHaLZDKlCg
by researcher
Fri May 29, 2020 1:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Carolina/Virginia Summer Vacation
Replies: 56
Views: 4274

Re: Carolina/Virginia Summer Vacation

Johnny Thinwallet wrote: Fri May 29, 2020 12:37 pm Things have evolved a bit since my original post last night as my wife is really pushing for a more "resort style" place on a beach with a nice pool.
I know you said it's out because you've already been there, but given all the circumstances, I would go back to Charleston.
Rent an oceanfront condo with a nice pool on Isle of Palms.
Away from the crowded touristy spots, generally uncrowded beautiful beaches, but close to lots of food/entertainment/ect.
by researcher
Fri May 29, 2020 10:42 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car Issues - No Oil
Replies: 89
Views: 7976

Re: Car Issues - No Oil

If #1, the motor is likely on borrowed time. If #2, it probably wouldn't have gone so long. Neither worth fixing on a 2004 Volvo. If #3, that's likely a repairable problem that should be addressed. A lot of burning oil will show up in the exhaust as bluish smoke. It will foul a catalytic converter pretty quick, which will cause a check engine light/emissions test failure. I agree - FWIW I have seen a couple of these engines that had large oil issues due to valve seals. [/quote] Good point on valve seals as another possibility for leaking. They may be relatively easy to replace or may be an engine-out job depending on the car. [/quote] The OP has been dealing with this "oil drinking issue" for at least 10 years. The vehicle is a 1...
by researcher
Fri May 29, 2020 9:04 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Carolina/Virginia Summer Vacation
Replies: 56
Views: 4274

Re: Carolina/Virginia Summer Vacation

Finally, given we'll have a 3-year-old with us we're also looking for options to stop and have some fun on the drive, both on the way toward the Atlantic coast and on the way back home to Ohio. The idea is to find something fun that we'd all enjoy to get us (and our 3-year-old) out of the car, whether it's for a few hours or even staying a night or two. We'll be driving through southwestern WV on the way from Ohio to Shenandoah, and I know there are a few state parks in that area in WV (Babock, Hawks Nest, Pipestem). Greenbrier Resort is also in that area. Any of these options worthwhile? Anything else in this region worth considering? The advice you've gotten about NC beaches is spot on, so I'll add some thoughts to the stops in between. ...
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 2:51 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car won't start
Replies: 31
Views: 1894

Re: Car won't start

sport wrote: Thu May 28, 2020 2:41 pm Well, you are entitled to your opinion. I worked as an auto battery engineer and hold 3 patents related to auto batteries. I will just let our readers decide whose opinion they think has more validity, yours or mine.
Judging by the number of posters agreeing with my commentary, it appears the readers feel my opinion has more validity.

Do you carefully consult with raccoon and spider bite experts every time you walk outside?
Because they pose a MUCH greater threat to you than modern car batteries.
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 2:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car won't start
Replies: 31
Views: 1894

Re: Car won't start

Would you care to identify the "ridiculous responses"? Sure... - core4portfolio - Watty - sport (your last 2 posts) This is the most basic of automotive problems, experienced everyday by millions of people. Any response to the OP's question over about 2 lines is an excessive over-thinking of the issue. But every once in a while, BOOM!!! When I worked in the battery business my employer had about a dozen battery explosion liability claims to defend each year. So, it happens. Yes, and every year hundreds of people are struck by lightning, mauled by raccoons, hospitalized by spider bites, ect. But you don't warn people of these dangers every time they mow the lawn or take a walk in the park. "flying acid is a real hazard"....
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 2:04 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hiring a handyman
Replies: 23
Views: 2030

Re: Hiring a handyman

Triple digit golfer wrote: Thu May 28, 2020 1:07 pm Sounds like somewhere close to $1,000 is probably more realistic.
My Dad did side jobs like this 30 YEARS AGO (I tagged along on many)...he wouldn't take any project for less than $1000.

As others have said, there has been extreme lack of skilled labor in this country for many years.
The stay-at-home orders and stimulus checks have exasperated the problem.
A few hundred dollar job simply isn't worth a skilled tradesperson's time.

You can find Craigslist hacks all day long that will come out and do a crappy job, many of which are likely to rummage through your house looking for prescription drugs and other valuables.

This is why I do 99% of household/automotive tasks myself.
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 1:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car won't start
Replies: 31
Views: 1894

Re: Car won't start

Many of these responses are ridiculous.
This is a common/simple problem.
This isn't rocket science. You don't need to overthink it.

No need to ask for over-the-top advice on the internet.
Spend 2 minutes watching a youtube video, another 2 minutes to jump start the car, then drive to the nearest auto parts store.
They will test the battery and replace it in less time than it took to create this post.
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 1:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Update current laptop or buy new one?
Replies: 58
Views: 5332

Re: Update current laptop or buy new one?

rockstar wrote: Sun May 24, 2020 8:34 pm Typical time to refresh a laptop is every 3-5 years.
This rule of thumb must have been created by the same people who buy new $1000 cell phones every year or two.
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 12:56 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hiring a handyman
Replies: 23
Views: 2030

Re: Hiring a handyman

Triple digit golfer wrote: Thu May 28, 2020 10:02 am Maybe it'll be a few hundred more, who knows. Isn't "driving all over town to pick up the needed materials" part of what they do?
Yes, it is part of what they do.
But you are looking for someone who will complete all of those jobs, including running around picking up materials, in a day for $400.

I'm saying I don't think this is realistic.
You might find an unemployed Craigslist "handyman" for that price, but I doubt any serious tradesperson would take this job for that kind of money.
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 9:59 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hiring a handyman
Replies: 23
Views: 2030

Re: Hiring a handyman

Triple digit golfer wrote: Thu May 28, 2020 9:41 am -New front screen door
-Replace weatherstripping on two other doors
-Replace a few kitchen tiles on backsplash
-Remove grout around bathtub and add caulk
-Add shelf to pantry
-Repair botched drywall job on a small ceiling area, about 2x2 feet.

In my head, I am thinking all of this should be able to be done in a day or day and a half by someone who is skilled. So I'm thinking at $50 an hour for 8-12 hours, $400-600 plus materials. Am I even in the ballpark?
I'll be surprised if you find a quality worker to do all of this, including driving all over town to pick up the needed materials, for that price.
by researcher
Thu May 28, 2020 9:09 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: $5k - $7k to replace engine, or get something else? (loan on car)
Replies: 109
Views: 8651

Re: $5k - $7k to replace engine, or get something else? (loan on car)

bogler52 wrote: Thu May 28, 2020 8:29 am I've been without my car for 2 months already and this is just exhausting.
You've let this saga drag on for 2 months???

You should have paid an independent mechanic $4K to fix it 8 weeks ago!
That is a small price to pay to move on with your life.
by researcher
Tue May 26, 2020 6:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP
Replies: 45
Views: 3036

Re: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP

OnTrack2020 wrote: Tue May 26, 2020 5:35 pm As to those who are saying to rent an RV, I can't even imagine driving at some of those altitudes in Yellowstone in an RV. I'd assume you'd be going up over passes at 5 mph.?? :D Don't know.
As smart as the people are on this forum, the naivete about very basic things amazes me.

Do you realize there are a dozen campgrounds, with literally THOUSANDS of campsites, within Yellowstone?
And THOUSANDS more campsites outside the park?

They are not all occupied by just tent campers.
Tens of thousands of people, from all over the country, that take RVs to Yellowstone every year.
by researcher
Tue May 26, 2020 3:59 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP
Replies: 45
Views: 3036

Re: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP

TravelGeek wrote: Tue May 26, 2020 3:11 pm I would personally not want to spend two weeks in such an RV with four people.
But you would be OK spending 6000 miles with four people in a small vehicle and in the same hotel room?
by researcher
Tue May 26, 2020 2:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP
Replies: 45
Views: 3036

Re: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP

I looked into renting an RV I was surprised by the limited number of miles per day before surcharges kicked in. I didn’t pursue this any further for other reasons, but I wondered what it would cost to drive a rental RV from Boston to YNP/GNP and back. So I checked CruiseAmerica and they seem to want around $2100 for 6000 miles. Plus the actual rental. First off, I wouldn't rent from CruiseAmerica. I would pick a smaller chain with RV's that aren't covered in a rolling billboard. Second, how much was the actual rental? $2100 doesn't sound all that bad. Especially when you consider all of the benefits the RV provides, and not having to check in/out of 10+ different dirty hotel rooms, using 50+ different dirty bathrooms, eating out 3 meals/da...
by researcher
Tue May 26, 2020 2:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Suggestions for Extended Winter Getaway
Replies: 4
Views: 538

Re: Suggestions for Extended Winter Getaway

Ragman wrote: Tue May 26, 2020 7:33 am Our first thought was to stay at an extended stay, Marriott property in Orlando, FL.
What attracts us is the beauty of the property and having a nice pool.

Our budget for housing/rental is somewhat flexible. I’d like to keep it to under $10,000 a month.
I’m reaching out to the board as others may have had unique experiences in a similar circumstance. Where did you stay? What properties? What made the location special?
What property in particular are you considering?

I like your idea of taking such a trip, but staying at some Residence Inn in Orlando for a month or two sounds miserable.
For $10K/mo, you could rent one hell of a house on Airbnb/VRBO with it's own pool, private parking, private entrance, more space & privacy, ect.
by researcher
Tue May 26, 2020 2:15 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP
Replies: 45
Views: 3036

Re: Cross country road trip from MA to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP

We're planning a road trip with two kids (10-13) driving from MA to Glacier NP & Yellowstone NP. For 2 weeks. Are we crazy to do this? With stopping on the way, it'd easily be 3 days to reach and 3 days back. Any tips/suggestions to pull this off? I would take this trip. However, I would do so in a rented RV . And I would not cram Glacier and Yellowstone into two short weeks. Pick one and make it a true road trip. Stop frequently along the way at various state/national parks or other places of interest. The kids would have a blast. It will be a trip they will remember for the rest of their lives. I did similar trips with my dad at that age and they are some of the best times I've ever had. The great thing about an RV is that you won't ...
by researcher
Tue May 26, 2020 2:01 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: If Jeep has such poor reliability, how come they are everywhere?
Replies: 174
Views: 18198

Re: If Jeep has such poor reliability, how come they are everywhere?

I would look at the Toyota 4Runner. I second that. I will admit I favor Toyota products. It's something I learned from working on vehicles for over 20 years. Out of 22 Midsize SUV's, the Toyota 4Runner is ranked 21... https://www.caranddriver.com/features/g8525152/best-midsize-suv/?slide=3 This body-on-frame off-roader features control feel that's better suited to rock-crawling than mall-crawling. So if you care at all about how your daily driver goes around a freeway entrance ramp and Moab isn't in your vacation plans, look elsewhere. If you're not buying a 4Runner for its off-road strengths, then you should probably be buying something else that's better suited to domestic duty. 4Runner failed to meet its meager 20-mpg EPA ratings during...
by researcher
Wed May 20, 2020 7:09 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Care for outdoor patio set?
Replies: 10
Views: 917

Re: Care for outdoor patio set?

It is a nice one with a stone/tile table and wicker chairs. I am wondering how to care for it. Should I cover it when not in use with the enclosed cover? Should I keep the chairs in the garage so they don't sunfade? Covering before winter (I'm in Florida so winters are mild) makes sense... Would prefer for this to be as minimal maintenance as possible, but it was spendy, so we want to take care of it. If you're looking for minimal maintenance, then you definitely should not have purchased a set with wicker chairs. I would definitely not drag the chairs in & out of the garage every time you want to use them. That sounds like a PIA. What you should do is buy a Duck Covers 'Ultimate' cover for your patio set and keep it covered year round...
by researcher
Tue May 19, 2020 1:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What is your most luxury/expensive hobby.
Replies: 264
Views: 27556

Re: What is your most luxury/expensive hobby.

rm wrote: Tue May 19, 2020 12:26 pm What can you spend money on during covid lockdowns?
Any sports activities are out because they require close contact.
Huh?

Road/mountain biking, canoeing/kayaking, fishing, hiking, power boating, ect, ect.
by researcher
Tue May 19, 2020 12:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Some possible luxury SUV choices to buy: Opinions?
Replies: 211
Views: 22933

Re: Some possible luxury SUV choices to buy: Opinions?

Ok, here's the skinny on Infiniti and invariably somebody is going to get hurt by this, but it's the general truth and not fanboyism.... 1. Generally nobody is buying an Infiniti because they actually want an Infiniti 2. People are buying Infiniti because it's the cheapest out there... and they have to mark them down to get people in the door 3. The people managing the Infiniti brand.... are frankly terrible... 4. In the early-2000s, people wanted Infiniti, it was a brand that had potential to surpass Lexus... 5. Infiniti recently pulled out of the European market. 6. There's a chance Infiniti could pull out of America As a car person on here that should have his new SUV within a few weeks.... I don't even know what Infiniti has to offer, ...
by researcher
Mon May 18, 2020 2:17 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Jeep Cherokee drive-train service
Replies: 9
Views: 709

Re: Jeep Cherokee drive-train service

My 2016 Cherokee Limited 4x4 (six-cylinder) has nearly 40,000 miles on it. The dealer has recommended front differential service ($150), rear differential service ($150) and transfer case fluid service ($150), all based on time and mileage rather than as a result of inspection. I'm trying to figure out whether the dealer is trying to take me for a ride as the manual has no such recommendations . Online searches seem to suggest such service at 60,000 at the earliest. The vehicle has not been subject to off-road or other hard use. You've answered your own question. I don't know why people make vehicle maintenance more complicated than it needs to be...JUST FOLLOW THE OWNER'S MANUAL. The stealership is not your friend. Their service recommend...
by researcher
Mon May 11, 2020 9:29 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: $5k - $7k to replace engine, or get something else? (loan on car)
Replies: 109
Views: 8651

Re: $5k - $7k to replace engine, or get something else? (loan on car)

I purchased a 2013 Acura TL with 70k miles (now 80k miles) in September '19. The purchase price of the car was $13k and I did some proactive work (for ~$2k) early because I planned to keep the car for a long time. I took out a $10k loan on the car so I could keep cash to invest vs. paying for the car outright. I owe $8k on the loan at a 4% interest rate . The plan was to buy a car I could pay for in cash and to pay off the loan in <3 years. I'm concerned about what else may go wrong and being a slightly older vehicle it will need more work in the future. If I replace the Acura I am looking to purchase a used car with some warranty or possibly lease for the luxury of it. You've expressed some rather odd and contradictory rationale in your p...
by researcher
Mon May 11, 2020 9:03 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Thoughts on tree removal
Replies: 62
Views: 5644

Re: Thoughts on tree removal

TomatoTomahto wrote: Mon May 11, 2020 8:38 am We lived for years with the garage space taken up by things less valuable than our cars. It wasn’t until we moved (to a house with space for all of our vehicles) that we realized how bass ackwards we had it. How dumb were we??? 6 digit car in the driveway because we were too lazy to organize.
Exactly. That is the point I was trying to get across to the OP.
His garage is filled with a few hundred dollars worth of garbage cans and lawn furniture, while his vehicles sit outside in the driveway getting destroyed. I just don't get it.