KNS Financial

Personal Finance From a Biblical Perspective

How to Save Money on Car Repairs

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One of the most underestimated expenses in a household budget is car repairs. A typical car repair can run anywhere from $30 for an oil change to $2000 for a major repair, such as the replacement of a transmission. Car repair expense is one of the major reasons why people need to have an emergency fund. A major car repair bill can easily put a person or a family into a short-term financial emergency.

{Khaleef here: We just spent $1,600 in car repairs, so this is a very important topic!}

There are however ways to lower your car repair bills substantially, maybe even by 50% or more.

Save Money on Car Repairs

Learn To Perform Basic Repairs Yourself

One of the most basic ways to save money on car repairs is by performing at least some of the repair work yourself. You may not know how to change a transmission or to do a valve job, but there are basic functions you can handle on your own. Changing the oil, rotating the tires, and performing a basic tune-up are some of the possibilities.

Even if you’ve never performed repairs on a car in the past there ways that you can learn how to do this. One way is to take a course in basic auto repair. Those courses are often offered through local community colleges. For the price of a few hundred dollars you could save at least that much money on car repairs each and every year from now on.

Another way is by watching YouTube videos. All you need to do is go to YouTube and enter “how to change the oil in my car” or “how to rotate the tires on my car” in the search box. If you do this, just be sure to watch three or four videos and not to rely on the instruction of just one. That will prevent your getting the wrong information from someone who doesn’t really know what they’re doing.

Follow The Maintenance Schedule That Came With The Car

This point should be obvious but it’s worth emphasizing because not everyone does it. By maintaining the vehicle according to manufacturer’s specifications you can prevent future repairs that may result from deferred maintenance.

It’s often said that when money’s tight the first thing to go is maintenance, but when it comes to cars, putting off maintenance can leave you with even less money in the long run. Ignoring small jobs early on can easily lead to bigger jobs needing to be done later. And we all know that big car repair bills are budget busters.

Shop For A Less Expensive Mechanic

Many people will choose a mechanic based primarily on location. That does make sense – after all, if your car breaks down you’ll really want to be able to bring it to someone who’s local. Unfortunately, local doesn’t usually mean the least expensive.

A different and often less expensive way to choose a mechanic is by using a mobile mechanic. I’ve only become aware of mobile mechanics in the last few years, and in fact I have one myself. Maybe they’ve been around for a long time, but it’s probably not until you’re seriously looking to cut costs that you start investigating all options.

You can find a mobile mechanic either by a personal referral or through an advertising source like Craigslist. They may appear either in the automotive section or under the ETC section (where people post looking for work or business).

I have a mobile mechanic who, as the name implies, will come to my house particularly in emergency situations. He has a fully stocked van complete with all the tools a mechanic would need, and even a fair amount of spare parts. And he charges less than half what shop mechanics charge on an hourly basis. With no shops to maintain or salaries to pay, he can afford to charge a lot less than full-service shops.

That’s a lot of savings right there but there’s even more that you can do.

Buy Your Own Parts Or Use Second Hand Parts Wherever Possible

One of the advantages that I’ve found in using a mobile mechanic is that I can usually buy my own parts. Some mobile mechanics will allow you to do that because it avoids them having to stock the parts or having to make a parts run during a repair job. If you’re willing to make a run to a local AutoZone or Advanced Auto Parts store you can save at least 50% on the purchase of replacement parts compared to what a full service auto shop will charge.

The combination of the reduced hourly labor charges from the mobile mechanic, and the much lower prices that you get from buying parts yourself will cut your car repair bills substantially.

Another way to save even more money is by buying used car parts. You can easily buy used car parts through a website called Car-Part.com. They have a network of used car part sources across the United States, and the chances are very good that they’ll have multiple suppliers in your area.

You can buy used car parts for a fraction of what you would pay even for new parts that you by your self the parts dealer. This makes abundant sense especially if your car is at least five years old. There’s often little percentage to putting brand-new parts into an older car.

By using the methods above you can cut your car repair bills in half or even more. And if you can save that much money on car repairs you’ll probably also be able to hold on to your cars a lot longer. And the longer you can keep your cars, the more money you’ll save as a result of not having to buy a new one.

Have you ever tried any of these methods to help you save money on car repairs?

5 Tips to Prepare for an Impending Move

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I have been known to come down with fits of paranoia over one thing or another. I’ve  been called an alarmist, worrier, nag – you get the picture. On this occasion, though, it led me to a post idea!

Last year we moved into our lovely condo, opting to rent from a private owner. Our landlord mentioned that her and her husband were planning on retiring in Florida, but that she would not put the condo on the market as long as we were interested in staying here.

That sounded really good, and she has varied from her expected move date, which led me to consider what other plans may be subject to change. The condo has been on the market before, and it is possible that they may decide it would be easier in the long run to sell rather than keeping this as an investment property.

I have seen situations before (thank you HGTV) where renters had to move suddenly because the owners decided to sell, and although I am definitely putting the cart before the horse in my own case, I wanted to think through some things we could do to be prepared in case this is our last few months here.

Prepare for a Move

5 Tips To Prepare For A Move

Make Necessary Repairs

As far as I can see, all we need to do is cover up some nail holes in the walls and paint. Whatever you can do to return your rental to a condition worthy of receiving back your full security deposit should be done.

Taking care of those things now or slowly as the lease term comes up, will help you have less stress in case a move is imminent.

Save! Save! Save!

There are so many costs that arise with moving that if you know a move is coming, you might as well start saving right away. Consider the cost of the security deposit and first month’s rent, packing materials, rental truck or cost of movers, and purchases needed to accommodate your new rental (e.g. curtains, furniture, etc.).

Although all these may not apply to your situation, make sure you save what you can for the ones necessary to you.

Sell Your Extra Stuff

If you’re like us, and lived somewhere for an extended period of time, chances are you have accumulated a lot of ‘stuff’ you don’t necessarily need. With a few months to go before a move, it is the perfect time to start selling things on EBay or Craigslist that you don’t want to take with you to a new home.

This is helpful so you’re not just carrying things from place to place that you will never use again. Also, this is a good way to make extra money toward your move.

Start Packing the Non-Essentials

You know you don’t need EVERYTHING that’s hanging around the house right now! If you know a move is imminent, start packing up those items you don’t need on a day, or even a weekly basis. Things like out-of-season clothes, books, bed linens, curtains, and decorative items can be given a bit of time every week.

This will relieve the stress of packing all at once.

Use a Real Estate Agent

While we were looking for a new home I decided to contact an agent to help me find rentals. It was a really good experience, and one that I will employ again.The benefits were that he was able to take me to multiple listings on the same day instead of my having to contact each agent individually and  set up appointments based on their schedules.

Also, on many listings the landlord paid the full agent fee, so I didn’t have to worry about paying for the agent’s services. Since planning ahead, an agent can be looking out for upcoming listings that suit your needs, doing leg work so that your time can be used elsewhere.

Moving can be such a strenuous experience that it’s best to get ahead of the game if you can. If the situation is unexpected, it is best to organize and priorities to the best of your ability. Giving these tips your time before you’re in a crunch will definitely help to take the edge of the experience.

photo credit: Freedigitalphotos.net

7 Simple Ways To Save Money

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The following is a guest post about simple ways to save money…

It’s important for everyone to save his or her money. In the current recession, millions of Americans have devised clever ways to spend less while doing the things they love.

Saving money is one the best ways to get ahead in your finances. By stashing away cash, you’ll be able to achieve more of your financial goals.

Here are seven painless ways to save money while living better.

Make Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

Completing energy-efficient home upgrades is a fast, easy and affordable way to save money on utilities. Install attic insulation, and caulk cracks around windows that cause year-long energy drains. Put up insulating window coverings that block out the summer sun and also prevent heat from escaping in the winter.

Install a programmable thermostat to save money on utility bills, and keep the air conditioner at 78 degrees to avoid unnecessary energy use.

Saving Money

Check Your Auto Insurance Coverage

Insurance is one of those unavoidable expenses that can really impact the household budget. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to earn big discounts. Make sure that you aren’t paying for coverage that you don’t need. Bundle coverage for multiple vehicles or insurance policies.

A multiple-line discount is a great way to save on annual premiums. Try combining auto, life or home insurance. This also works with renter’s insurance policies that are purchased through your auto insurance provider. Complete a defensive driving course to remove points or to earn a sizeable annual discount. Remember to check your auto insurance quote online regularly.

Pay Off High-Interest Debt

Paying down high-interest debt isn’t a quick way to save money, but it will save you quite a bit down the road. Lowering the amount owed on credit card balances and personal loans will improve your credit score and help you get better interest rates in the future.

Instead of making the minimum payment and spending hundreds in interest every year, get proactive. Make larger or more frequent payments to slash debt faster. After your debt is gone, make payments to yourself that you can put in a savings account and use to achieve financial goals.

Cut Down on Nonessential Services

Every month, the average American pays a considerable amount to maintain their phone service and cable TV access. Check your coverage to find out exactly what you’re getting. If you’re paying for TV channels or telecommunication services that you don’t use, switch to a different plan.

Compare online streaming services that allow you to watch your favorite shows for little or no cost. Current shows are often available on demand the day after the episode airs on TV. If there’s an option that is free or costs less than the services you currently have, it’s time to switch providers.

Find Discounts on Essential Purchases

Whether you need to fill up the gas tank or decorate your home, there are plenty of ways to save money. Always buy items when they’re on sale. Look for discounts, two-for-one deals and rebates on sheets, curtains, blinds, towels, socks and personal items.

Everything will go on sale sometime. If you need to make a big purchase, wait until you find a sale. When shopping for school clothes or work apparel, look for seasonal specials, introductory offers and used items.

Find Free Events

Saving money doesn’t mean that you have to stay home. Look for takeout deals and specials that restaurants might have on slow days. Check the local newspaper for free cultural activities and events that are open to the public.

Instead of paying to exercise in a gym, go to a local park, or find nearby bike trails where you can exercise for free.

Do It Yourself

Creating gifts for friends and family and doing things yourself are great ways to save. If you need to paint your guest room or upgrade your kitchen, simple DIY projects will save you a lot of money. However, even frugal homeowners need to know when to call a professional for help.

Attempting to complete critical repairs can cost more if they aren’t done right the first time.

Saving money on day-to-day expenses is easier than you think. Once you start saving, you’ll be inspired to find more ways to stash your cash and to reduce the cost of everyday services.

photo credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Re-Purpose Your Used CDs And DVDs And Save Money

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[The following is a guest post brought to you by Music Magpie]

Reusing and re-purposing are the new watchwords of the season. Throwing something in the trash is passé. Re-purposing something into a new something is a great way to save some money. Recycling, re-purposing and up-cycling all have similar yet different meanings.

Re-Purpose Your Used CDs and DVDs

Re-purposing your used CDs and DVDs into something new again can save you a little money and create great personalized gifts and craft projects. Damaged or scratched CDs aren’t worth much if you can’t listen to them. Creating fun crafts and party favors are a great way to add interest to a dinner table or themed event.

Re-Purposing Used CDs and DVDs – For the Crafty Person

Place Cards

Create stylized and entertaining place card holders for a musically themed or movie themed party. Choose among your damaged or duplicate CDs with artists and titles that suit your guests’ personalities. Create CD labels using free software and purchased CD labels. Label each one with a guest’s name, affixing it to the damaged media side of the CD. Place the CDs with artist side up at each place setting.

As the guests arrive and through the cocktail hour leading up to the dinner, have them review the potential seating arrangements. As dinnertime approaches, have each guest pick a first and second choice as to who they think the artist is that most represents them.

When it is time to sit, enhance the game by having each guest stand or sit at their selected artist location. If they are right, they stay seated and if they are wrong, they change places with the correct person identified on the back. Continue until all guests are seated correctly. This activity should take approximately five to ten minutes depending on the quantity of guests and their level of participation!

This is great fun and interesting dinner conversation.

Trivia Napkin Holders

CDs and DVDs have holes in the center, not large enough for a napkin but certainly large enough to slip a ribbon through and tie a pretty bow. Fold napkins in a fan shape, secure with a ribbon in a simple knot and slip the tails of the knot through the center of the CD from the back.

Tie a pretty double bow to secure the CD to the napkin and place at each place setting. Prior to attaching to the napkin, do a little homework on each artist, such as living or dead, DOB, birth place, most famous song, number of hit singles and other interesting facts. Put all these facts together on a CD label and affix to the media side of the CD. During dinner, guests share their artist trivia.

It makes for wonderful dinner conversation, especially when some of the dinner guests are new acquaintances.

For the Not so Crafty Person

CDs can add life to simple place settings or dessert plates. Use damaged CDs at each place setting as an interesting music themed coaster for wine glasses (you can try this with damaged money, but it probably won’t go over so well). For more formal dinners with sorbet or a chilled first course, use CDs as doilies for serving plates.

Used CDs and DVDs can also double as mini place-mats for ice cream or other frozen desserts served in stemmed goblets. No crafting is required, but your guests will be impressed with your ingenuity.

If you are looking for a few extra dollars to help flush out your holiday party budget, gather all your CDs and sell them. There is definitely no crafting involved here. Check online for buyers, pack them up and ship them off.

The newest way to thin your collection and make a few bucks, selling CDs online, can be a very profitable venture if you have the time to create the ads or develop a website. You will be a musicmagpie CD selling success in no time.

photo by Giovanni Sades

Business Energy Management: Become Efficient And Save Money Fast!

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[The following is a guest post brought to you by uSwitch For Business]

Businesses are facing a great deal of pressure in these days of recession. As well as simply trying to stay afloat they need to consider their environmental impact. The good news for businesses is that in many cases financial and environmental savings can go hand in hand and there are resources available such as uswitchforbusiness to help companies do a better job of business energy management.

Business Energy Management: A Way To Improve Your Bottom Line

Business energy consumption can be one of the major costs faced and can be a difficult cost to tackle. When staff are employed in an office or building to run a business, electricity and gas are needed to keep the work environment lit and heated as well as keeping equipment such as computers and machinery working – another benefit of using “work from home” days as a method of showing employee appreciation.

One way of saving money is to compare business electricity and gas costs. Comparison websites will allow businesses to compare the costs of business electricity and gas amongst all the major UK suppliers. Inputting details into these companies will give your business access to the many deals and offers available to business users from these suppliers to find ways of saving money.

Depending on the amount of energy your business consumes, shopping around for a cheaper supplier could save your business hundreds or thousands of pounds a year.

As well as finding a better energy deal online, there are many other ways of saving energy costs and improving the environmental profile of your company. You may need to get your employees on board to implement some of the changes necessary to save money such as encouraging them to switch off office equipment when not in use rather than leaving it on standby.

Business Energy Management: Simple Things Make A Huge Difference

Your business could save up to £35 on each computer and monitor each year by ensuring that it is properly switched off when not in use overnight or on weekends and bank holidays.

Using energy saving light bulbs and encouraging staff to switch off lights when they leave the room could cut your business’s lighting bill by up to 15 per cent and up to £400 could be saved annually by making sure taps are fully turned off and any dripping taps are fixed as soon as possible.

Turning the heating thermostat down by one degree could reduce your business’s heating bill by as much as eight per cent. It is likely that your staff will not even notice the slight drop in temperature.

Getting Grants To Help You Save

As well as encouraging staff to have some responsibility for cutting energy costs it may be worth your business investing in energy efficient equipment. Grants that are available from the Carbon Trust to help towards the cost and the overall savings on energy bills are likely to make the initial investment worthwhile.

There is plenty of information and advice available for businesses from the Energy Saving Trust on ways to reduce energy costs and become more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. The Trust can help to evaluate your energy consumption and offer advice on ways of making savings.

photo by jannoon028

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