Shopping for new windows can feel like a major decision because the right choice affects more than appearance alone. Windows influence energy efficiency, indoor comfort, natural light, noise control, and even how secure a home feels. Since they are such a visible and functional part of the house, it is worth taking time to understand what matters most before making a purchase. A careful approach can help homeowners choose windows that fit both their needs and their budget.

New windows are also a long-term investment, which is why it helps to think beyond current style trends. According to Medium, windows typically last between 15 and 30 years. That kind of lifespan means a purchase made today may shape the home’s performance and appearance for many years to come. Rather than focusing only on price, homeowners should think about durability, maintenance needs, and how well the windows will serve the household over time.

Start With Your Home’s Practical Needs

Before comparing materials or styles, it helps to define what you want your new windows to accomplish. Some homeowners are most concerned about lowering energy costs, while others want to improve ventilation, reduce outdoor noise, or update the look of the exterior. Older windows may also have issues such as drafts, sticking frames, or condensation that signal it is time for a replacement. Identifying these concerns early makes it easier to narrow your options.

The location of the windows also matters. A room that gets strong afternoon sun may benefit from different features than a shaded bedroom or a bathroom that needs privacy. Homes in storm-prone regions may call for stronger construction, while busy urban areas may make sound control more important. When homeowners begin with function instead of appearance alone, they are more likely to choose windows that support everyday comfort.

Understand The Importance Of Glass Selection

The glass in a window plays a major role in safety, efficiency, and overall performance. Many people focus first on the frame, but the glass itself affects how the window handles impact, heat, and daily wear. According to Today’s Homeowner, tempered glass is the most commonly used type of window glass. That widespread use reflects its practical value, especially since it is designed to break into smaller, less dangerous pieces than ordinary glass.

Glass options can also include features such as coatings that reduce heat transfer or designs that improve insulation. Depending on the climate and the part of the home, these details may help maintain a steadier indoor temperature and support lower heating or cooling demands. Homeowners do not need to choose the most advanced option in every case, but understanding the role of the glass can make shopping decisions much more informed.

Compare Window Styles And Materials Carefully

Once you know your priorities, it becomes easier to compare styles such as double-hung, casement, sliding, picture, or awning windows. Each style has different strengths depending on the space. Some are better for ventilation, while others are better for wide views or easier operation. The right style should fit the layout of the room and work well with how the space is actually used.

Frame materials deserve close attention as well. Vinyl, wood, fiberglass, and aluminum all have different advantages in terms of maintenance, insulation, and appearance. Some homeowners prefer a traditional look, while others want a lower-maintenance option that still offers solid performance. The best choice is usually the one that balances upkeep, climate suitability, and long-term value rather than simply following a trend.

Think About Weather Protection And Durability

Durability should always be part of the decision, especially in regions that experience extreme weather. Homeowners in coastal or storm-prone areas may need windows designed to handle stronger environmental stress than standard products. According to Forbes, hurricane-proof windows are made to withstand wind speeds of up to 200 miles per hour. That level of protection shows how specialized some window options can be when safety is a major priority.

Even in areas without hurricanes, weather resistance still matters. Windows should be able to handle seasonal temperature changes, moisture exposure, and regular wear without losing performance. Strong seals, quality installation, and dependable materials all contribute to how well the windows hold up over time. Choosing durable products at the start can help reduce future repair and replacement concerns.

Focus On Long-Term Value, Not Just Purchase Price

It is natural to compare prices when shopping for new windows, but the lowest upfront cost is not always the best long-term value. Better materials, stronger glass, and more efficient construction may cost more initially while offering improved comfort and durability over the years. Homeowners should think about how the windows will perform season after season, not just what they cost on installation day.

A thoughtful window purchase comes down to matching the product to the home’s real needs. By considering lifespan, glass type, style, material, and weather protection, homeowners can approach the process with more confidence. When the decision is based on both function and value, new windows are more likely to improve the home in ways that last.

Photo Credit: stock photo

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With that in mind, I thought it would be a kick to relive the worst vacation of my entire life. It’s certainly a vacation I’ll never forget.

In fact, even though it was 35 long years ago, I still remember it like it was yesterday. As a surprise, my girlfriend, B.H. — before Honeybee — had purchased one of those ridiculously-priced travel package deals to the Bahamas.

And, boy, was she ever proud of the bargain she got. And who could blame her? The package included a romantic “cruise” to our destination in Freeport, and seven days and six nights of lodging at a local “resort” that had a very exotic-sounding name like “Palm Gardens” — or something to that effect — all for the low price of $199.

That’s roughly the equivalent of just $500 today.

Of course, the airfare wasn’t included, and neither was our food, but we didn’t care because it seemed like we got the deal of a lifetime. And being young and naive, I never bothered to consider how anyone could ever offer such a “fabulous” vacation for two at such a bargain-basement price.

In retrospect, I should have.

The Vacation from Hell

Our romantic “cruise” was a basically a five-hour ride on a glorified fishing boat owned by some two-bit operation trying to pass itself off as a cruise ship; a Royal Caribbean luxury liner it wasn’t.

Still, my excitement level rose as we rolled into port. Then, as we were walking off the boat, the sun went behind the clouds. And the rain began to fall. Actually, it poured so hard that the drops stung as they hit my skin.

When our cab driver stopped at our “resort hotel” I thought he had made a mistake because he parked in front of a dilapidated old apartment building in a run-down part of town. Unfortunately for us, he was at the right address.

And that’s when the cold reality of what we got ourselves into hit us both square in the face: The real mistake was my girlfriend’s dubious decision to buy such an incredibly cheap vacation package in the first place.

Once we got out of the taxi, things went from bad to worse.

Our room was sparsely furnished with an old lumpy couch in the front room, a small table and several chairs in the small kitchen, and a very uncomfortable — and squeaky — double bed and chest of drawers in the bedroom. The place was filthy too.

Not only that, but we were at least a couple miles from the beach, which was very inconvenient to say the least.

On the second day we looked into staying at the only real resort in the vicinity that we could afford, but it was booked.

Meanwhile, the rain continued to come and go in waves. The sun never came out.

On the third day, completely dejected and with the rain still falling, we decided to cut our trip short and head home.

Four Big Lessons Learned

Looking back, I learned some really valuable lessons from that trip from hell. The biggest lesson, of course, is to always do your research before embarking on a vacation to a new destination. In particular, you should be sure to focus on these four key points:

Be weather-wise

We went to the Bahamas in late September, which just so happens to be the heart of the rainy season there. If we had known that ahead of time, we could have at least mentally prepared ourselves accordingly – if not canceled the trip outright.

Carefully vet your lodging location

If we had at least been staying at a legitimate resort in a nicer part of the Bahamas, it would have a lot easier to make lemonade out of lemons, so to speak.

Don’t under-budget

Being just out of college at the time, my girlfriend and I were on a tight budget. The thing is, it was so tight that it prevented us from rectifying the unfortunate lodging situation we found ourselves in once we got there.

Be especially wary of incredible deals

Yes, it’s cliche; but it’s true just the same. If you see an incredible vacation package that seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you don’t believe me, ask my ex-girlfriend.

Photo Credit: Nigel Morris

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While these costs can seem overwhelming, you do have options to finance your remodel without damaging your financial health. Here are some of the more common methods that homeowners can use to fund their projects.

Your Savings

This is the ideal solution for homeowners looking to fund a remodel. If you happen to have the cash in your savings account, then it might be time to spend it. Investing in your home can not only improve your quality of life, but also the value of your home.

Home-Equity Loans

These loans take about 15 to 30 years to pay off, according to This Old House. They generally have fixed interest rates, but the rates can be higher than traditional mortgages.

Home-Equity Lines Of Credit

This can be a wise option for long term projects. Home-equity lines of credit work like a credit card, in that the lender will give you a cap and you pay off the money in about 10 years. Interest rates do vary by lender, so it’s important to find a reputable company.

Construction Loans

These loans are generally short term and are intended to convert into a mortgage loan after the renovation. They can be useful for specific large projects, but lenders can be picky about who they actually accept. They are also often released once the work is underway, which can be risky.

Mortgage Refinancing

Especially if you were considering this option anyway, now may be the best time to refinance. But if you are looking to lower your interest rate, make sure you are not spreading the loan too thin and paying more in the long run.

So, how do you know which method is best for you? With so many options out there, how can you decide which is best for you? To start, consider the following factors:

Think about how long the remodel will take

You don’t want to take out a loan that lasts longer than the actual renovation

Be realistic about how much you can borrow

Is your credit score high enough to take out a large load? Also consider interest rates, as your financial situation will need to support those.

Decide if this will be a long-term remodel

This will determine how much you spend on materials. For example, copper gutters may be more pricey, but they can last 50 years, while galvanized steel lasts about 20.

If you still aren’t sure which factors to consider, and which financing option is best for you, consider working with a financial professional. They will take an unbiased look at your bank account, credit score, and remodeling plans to advise you on your decisions. And once you decide, happy remodeling.

Photo Credit: stock photo

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There are three basic types of homeowners policies: HO1, HO2 and HO3.

For example, an HO1 policy is the most basic way to manage financial risk. In fact, some states have outlawed these bare minimum policies. This policy covers you in case of theft, vandalism, fire, windstorms and seven other situations.

An HO2 policy includes seven additional situations such as damage from frozen pipes or heavy ice and snow. They also cover damage from electricity.

Last but not least, is the HO3 policy. The HO3 policy is the most comprehensive and covers virtually all situations except floods, earthquakes and several others. Depending on where an individual lives, additional flood protection can be added.

Additional Coverage Considerations

Homeowners insurance policies can include a variety of other additions for an increased monthly premium. One of the most common add-ons is valuables coverage. This is particularly important for those with costly antiques, jewelry or furs. However, it should also be considered for those with expensive audio recording, musical or sports equipment.

Others who should consider additional coverage include gun owners, people with stamp and coin collections, and even owners of pedigreed dogs.

Depending on the amount of possessions to be covered, the additional insurance coverage may only cost a few extra dollars each month.

Insurance agents have knowledge of the most up-to-date laws and can advise homeowners on the policy that is best for them. New homeowners should speak to a local insurance agent for the most in-depth information. Insurance agents will also be able to make recommendations regarding additional coverage for valuables and deductibles based on a family’s belongings and financial status.

Photo Credit: US Fish and Wildlife Service

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The engineering graduate asks, “How will it work?”

The physics grad wants to know, “Why does it work?”

And the liberal arts graduate asks, “Do you want fries with that?”

Colleges with the Best Return On Investment

I know you liberal arts majors out there bristle every time you hear a quip like that — but you shouldn’t. Especially after a survey conducted by BestColleges.com found that the ten US colleges and universities with the best return on investment are:

1. SUNY Maritime College
2. Colorado School of Mines
3. Georgia Tech
4. Massachusetts Maritime Academy
5. South Dakota School of Mines
6. New Jersey Institute of Technology
7. Missouri University of Science & Technology
8. University of California – Berkeley
9. California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
10. University of Massachusetts – Lowell

Notice that there are exactly zero pure liberal arts colleges on the list. However, there are eight institutions that specialize in engineering, science and/or technology degrees, including my alma mater, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

The reason for that is simple: Fewer people get technical degrees, which keeps demand for engineers and scientists high, which in turn keeps their salaries high in relation to most other professions.

Useless College Courses

Obviously, the trick for you folks in college who aren’t interested in pursuing a technical degree — or becoming a lawyer or doctor — is to make sure you don’t get caught spending $100,000 or more on a personal student loan (PSL) for a degree that ends up being a complete waste of money. After all, 1.4 million students use PSLs each year!

Okay, Len. So how do I do that?

Well … consider the following list of 22 real-life college courses that have been offered by many supposedly-serious universities:

1. The Joy of Garbage (UC Berkeley)
2. Oprah Winfrey: The Tycoon (University of Illinois)
3. The Beatles (UC Los Angeles)
4. Surfing (The University of Plymouth)
5. Arguing with Judge Judy (UC Berkeley)
6. David Beckham Studies (Staffordshire University)
7. Circus Stunts (Triton College)
8. UFOs In American Society (Temple University)
9. Philosophy and Star Trek (Georgetown University)
10. Invented Languages: Klingon and Beyond (UC Santa Cruz)
11. Stupidity (Occidental College)
12. Bob Dylan and America (Alfred University)
13. How to Watch Television (Montclair State University)
14. Whitewater Skills (West Virginia University)
15. The Art of Walking (Centre College)
16. Animal Cognition (UC Berkeley)
17. Underwater Basket Weaving (Rutgers University)
18. Learning from YouTube (Pitzer College)
19. Cyberporn and Society (SUNY Buffalo)
20. Ghostbusting (Coventry University)
21. The Simpsons and Philosophy (UC Berkeley)
22. The Phallus (Occidental College)

Avoid Math at Your Own Peril

There is a common characteristic among those 22 courses that stands out: none of them require any math skills.

Even more importantly, unless you plan on making a career out of teaching people how to walk properly, speak Klingon, argue with Judge Judy, or identify phallic images from random cloud formations, all of these courses add very little toward making you more competitive in the marketplace.

Think about it. Are there really employers looking for graduates who can juggle five balls in the air, moonlight as a second-rate dog whisperer, or know that the Walrus was Paul?

Of course. But not many.

It’s true; there aren’t many bosses out there pounding on their desks and demanding their high-paid headhunters find them a guy that knows — I mean really, really knows — how to watch the boob tube. But you can bet your bottom dollar that they’re absolutely begging for people who have taken numerous courses in mathematics, engineering, chemistry and physics.

The Bottom Line

So before you go off and spend $100,000 or more on an expensive college education, you’d be wise to select a degree that requires you to take courses that are always in high demand by employers — at least if you plan on getting a reasonably quick and decent return on your college investment worthy of an Ivy League portfolio.

And if your college degree of choice requires you to take any of the aforementioned 22 real-life classes, you may want to think about finding yourself a new major. Stat.

Then again, if your dream job is asking customers if they’d like to super-size their value meal — then knock yourself out.

Photo Credit: brosner

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Welcome to another rousing edition of Black Coffee, your off-beat weekly round-up of what’s been going on in the world of money and personal finance.

I’ve got another busy weekend ahead of me, so let’s get right to this week’s commentary …

Opportunity does not waste time with those who are unprepared.

― Idowu Koyenikan

Credits and Debits

Credit: Did you see this? The parents of more than four million children have claimed those new Trump Accounts – tax-deferred investment accounts for children that were instituted in last year’s  One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Those accounts include a $1000 contribution from the federal government for all children born to US citizens between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028. Keep in mind that if those parents contribute $1000 per year for the child’s first 18 years, the account would be worth approximately $1.5 million by the time the child turns 65 (assuming an ROI of 8% annually) – even if the account never saw an additional contribution. Or you can just take the “easier” alternative …

Debit: The odds are good that those Trump Accounts kids are going to need every dime they earn by the time they retire – especially if they become homeowners. That’s because a new study is projecting that homeowner insurance rates in the US will see more jaw-dropping increases after a string of natural disasters rocked the nation in 2025, with the largest projected rate hikes in California (16%), Nebraska (13%), New Mexico (11%) and Georgia (10%). Last year, some states saw their rates rise even higher, including: Minnesota (34%), Colorado (33%), Iowa (28%), Nebraska (25%), Oklahoma (24%) and South Carolina (20%). Thankfully, there’s a silver lining…

Credit: In other news, 72% of sports fans and 60% of those who say they’re not sports fans feel that sporting events should be required to remain on free broadcast television – not locked behind streaming service pay walls. In fact, the paywall issue has sports fans so incensed  that nearly 6 in 10 of them say they’re skipping games rather than subscribing to a streaming service. We don’t blame them. Not that there really bigger potential things to worry about out there…

The Far Side – Gary Larson

Debit: Meanwhile, the private credit fiasco has yet to be fixed, with BlackRock, Morgan Stanley, Apollo Global, and Blue Owl Capital still imposing gating restrictions. Or, as James Howard Kunstler puts it: “investors can’t get all or part of their money out of plays that are folding on collateral rot.” We suspect those restrictions will only be getting tighter in the coming months. Then again, we’re not the only ones with this uneasy sense of foreboding…

Debit: For his part, Fed Chair Jerome Powell has stated several times in the last two weeks that he sees no risk of contagion in private credit markets that could spread to the wider financial system. Translation: Contagion eventually escaping the private credit markets to the wider economy is all but assured. After all, we all know the Fed is as useless as a parrot with a cell phone. Oh, wait …

Credit: Meanwhile, sagacious macro analyst Franklin Sanders did a little research and was “disturbed” to discover that nearly half of all Americans are receiving income from the federal government at some level. “In Texas it was 48%, in South Carolina 65%, and I’m sure that the income source doesn’t differ much from 50% in other states. Roughly 30% earn their income from the federal government whether it’s pensions, social security, or government contracts and another 20% get theirs from state or local government.” Disturbing indeed. On the other hand, things can definitely be worse…

Debit: On a somewhat related note, the US Treasury also released its latest financial statement last week as well. On the credit side of the ledger are $6 trillion in assets. On the debit side are $48 trillion in liabilities, for a negative net worth of $42 trillion. Of course, that doesn’t include unfunded obligations like social security and medicare. That also means that the US government has eight times more debt than the value of everything it owns. If the federal government was an American household, it would be considered insolvent. But since it has the power to print your own currency, very few people bat an eyelash. At least initially…

Debit: Unfortunately, when excess currency is created in excess of the issuing nation’s economic production value, it results in price inflation (and declining purchasing power) for the citizenry. All governments use inflation as their preferred escape hatch from untenable debt because it quietly eats away at the real value of that debt. In other words: Debts remain the same in nominal terms, but the money used to repay them loses purchasing power, transferring wealth from creditors to debtors in the process. Not that any politician would ever admit it. And if you don’t believe us, just ask this kid …

Credit: Last week, Mr. Kunstler pointed out latest real-life example of intentional inflation: Iran, where life “has gotten super-impossible. The government just issued banknotes in the denomination of ten million rials, worth seven US dollars (USD). Everybody there has plenty of money. Everyone is a millionaire, but they won’t be swanning around Fereshteh Street in top hats and monocles, shopping for Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Rolex (because) nothing can function normally when the currency is absolutely worthless, including the regular distribution of food and fuel.” Not that there won’t be futile attempts at clever work-arounds…

Debit: Unfortunately, financial assets such as bonds and bank accounts, are merely claims denominated in USDs. As a result, for those who invest and save, rising inflation creates a challenge because if the value of the USD erodes, so does the purchasing power of those claims. The good news is that real assets like gold and silver behave differently because they’re tangible stores of value, rather than a promise to pay later – so their value doesn’t depend on the solvency of a debtor or the credibility of a central bank. Got gold?

By the Numbers

With March behind us, here is the year-to-date performance scorecard for select assets through the end of the first quarter of 2026:

-23% bitcoin

-8.1% Nasdaq 100

-5.1% S&P 500

-3.7% Dow Industrials

-0.1% Russell 2000

3.2% TNX (10-year US Treasury proxy)

5.2% SIL (silver miners proxy)

5.3% GDX (gold miners proxy)

5.6%  silver

5.7%   gold

Source: Yahoo!Finance

The Question of the Week

Last Week’s Poll Results

At what age do you plan on taking (or took) your first Social Security check?

• 62 or 63     31%
• 70                  30%
• 66 or 67        23%
• 64 or 65        10%
• 68 or 69        6%

More than 3100 Len Penzo dot Com readers responded to last week’s question and it turns out that 2 in 5 of you plan on taking (or took) your first Social Security check no later than age 65. As for yours truly, I plan on waiting until I’m 70. Yes… I realize it may not be there by the time I draw that first check, but the good news for me is that my retirement planning was always based on never receiving any SS checks – so any payments will be retirement gravy for me.

If you have a question you’d like me to ask the readers here, send it to me at Len@LenPenzo.com and be sure to put “Question of the Week” in the subject line.

Useless News: The Dummy

A young boy entered a barber shop and the barber whispered to his customer, “This is the dumbest kid in the world. Watch; I’ll prove it.”

So the barber put a dollar bill in one hand and two quarters in the other. Then he called the boy over and asked, “Which one do you want, son?”

The boy immediately took the two quarters and left.

“What did I tell you?” asked the barber. “Happens every time! That kid never learns!”

Some time later, after the customer left, the barber noticed the same young boy coming out of the ice cream shop across the street. “Hey, son!” he shouted. “Hold on a second! I need to talk to you.”

The barber waited for traffic to clear and then met the boy in front of the ice cream shop. “May I ask you a question?”

“Sure, mister!” said the boy, licking his cone.

“Why do you always take the quarters instead of the dollar bill?”

The boy looked at the barber and took another lick off his ice cream cone. Then he replied, “Because the day I take that dollar, the game is over!”

(h/t: Sam I Am)

Squirrel Cam

Spring has sprung, which means Hooded orioles have returned to Southern California from the Cabo San Lucas area to raise their young before returning to their winter homes in late August. This male oriole is among several that come back with their mates every year to nest in one of our nearby trees. (The other bird in this shot is a finch who, along with our oriole friend, is also enjoying the grape jelly, oranges and nectar that reside on our oriole feeder.)

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Buy Me a Coffee? Thank You!

For the best reading experience, I present all of my fresh Black Coffee posts without ads. If you enjoyed this week’s column, buy me a coffee! (Dunkin’ Donuts; not Starbucks.) Thank you so much!

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More Useless News

Hey, while you’re here, please don’t forget to:

1. Subscribe to my weekly Len Penzo dot Com Newsletter!

2. Make sure you follow me on follow me on X. And last, but not least…

3. Please support this website by purchasing my book! Thank you!!!!

Letters, I Get Letters

Every week I feature the most interesting question or comment — assuming I get one, that is. And folks who are lucky enough to have the only question in the mailbag get their letter highlighted here whether it’s interesting or not! You can reach out to me at: Len@LenPenzo.com

After reading the note that Chas dropped into the Len Penzo dot Com Complaint Box last weekend, I can only assume that he decided to visit my About page:

My fat sister looks better than you.

I’m sure she does. Then again, it could be worse… I could be you!

If you enjoyed this edition of Black Coffee and found it to be informative, please forward it to your friends and family. Thank you!

I’m Len Penzo and I approved this message.

Photo Credit: public domain

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A Few Writings About Music

As a composer, I had a slump for the first year of the war (WW I), feeling that writing music was a most futile occupation. What got me out of the slump was getting letters from men in the armed forces who said they hoped I was still composing because that was one of the things they were out there for.

– Walter Piston

Rings on her fingers and bells on her toes
And so she makes music wherever she goes

– 17th century nursery rhyme

Music must never offend the ear; it must please the hearer, in other words, it must never cease to be music.

– Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, 1775, in a letter to his father

What a humiliation when one stood beside me and heard a flute in the distance and I heard nothing, or someone heard the shepherd singing and again I heard nothing! Such incidents brought me to the verge of despair, and little more. I would have put an end to my life, but it seemed impossible to leave the world until I produced all that I felt called upon to produce. And so I endured this wretched existence.

– Ludwig van Beethoven, 1800

Beethoven was totally deaf, and the music he wrote he could only hear inside his head. He wrote symphonies, chamber music, church music, cantatas, preludes and fugues, organ music, huge choral works, Masses and many other forms of music. But he never actually heard it, except in the world of music that existed in his mind.

I must study politics and war so that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy, in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry and music.

–  John Adams, 1780

My quote: “After my family, who are number one, music is my life.” Elaine Blakeslee, 2001.

To my children: I’m ending my story now, with the most recent celebrations in Dave’s and my personal life. We went to the Greenbrier Hotel a year ago for a special lunch on January 2, 2001 to celebrate our 47th wedding anniversary, and today it’s New Year’s Eve, and on our anniversary in just a couple days, January 2, 2002, Dad and I are going to celebrate our 48th by going to the General Lewis Inn in Lewisburg, one of our favorite “special” places.

I’ll see you all soon. I love you all very much, and I wrote this story of my life for you.

Grandma Elaine (Herivel) Blakeslee

***

About the Author: RD Blakeslee (1931 – 2024) built his net worth by only investing in that which can be enjoyed during acquisition and throughout life, as opposed to papers in a drawer, like stocks and bonds. You can read more about him here.

Photos: Courtesy of the Blakeslee Family

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Getting a car loan can seem a straightforward process but there are a few things you should consider. It’s very easy to fall in a trap and take a larger commitment than you can actually afford.

The majority of car loan calculators found on the web are very optimistic. They will ask you to enter your monthly or yearly income to estimate how much you can afford to borrow.

A Real-Life Example

It all seems cut and dried, but there is a catch. For example, let’s assume your yearly income is $40,000 and your spouse’s is $25,000. Many calculators will estimate that you can afford a monthly repayment of $830 (which comes to approximately $10,000 per year). However, many experts recommend that you keep your auto loan spending under 10% of your household income. So, if your total household income is $65,000 per year, it is more sensible to spend less than $6500 on finance. That’s $540 in monthly repayments.

By staying under that 10% threshold, you’ll find living more comfortable and less stressful. Once armed with this simple information, you can then proceed with looking for a deal that offers you the best APR and repayment rates.

There are a number of different sources that you can look to in order to finance a car; each have their pros and cons. Here is a brief summary of the four most common car loan alternatives:

Bank Loans

Getting a car loan from your bank is probably one of the most common ways to finance a car. Banks traditionally offer personal loans so that cars can be purchased, and these have a fairly reasonable APR. The procedure isn’t very complicated. Bank loans are usually secured, which means you’ll have to use your home or the car as a security. You also typically need to have a very good credit rating.

Car Dealership Loans

Dealers are often associated with a particular loan company, and they can help to negotiate a better rate — although that’s not guaranteed as some dealers are quite greedy. As such, these types of car loans often have a very high annual percentage rate (APR).

Brokers

You don’t actually get financing from a broker; instead the broker compares offers from different lenders and then he presents you with a contract. Using a middleman may sound intimidating. However, in many cases this option can be rewarding, as brokers can sometimes help you to get a better deal on your car loan than either banks or dealerships. On the downside, you’ll have to pay the broker a fee in order to find you a loan, and this can be costly.

Online Loans

Online lenders can supply you with a low-cost car loan, which you can then use to purchase the car and obtain the necessary insurance. There are so many of these companies operating through the Internet that it’s likely you’ll find some company to take you on — no matter how bad your credit, or how much you need. On the downside, some online lenders aren’t legal, and they may be trying to con you. There is also a greater risk of these companies going bust, and then your debt will be sold to collectors. To avoid scams, it is essential that you research the company’s background, check online reviews, and make sure the online lender is registered with a relevant registry that governs lending companies.

When you do finally commit to a car loan, be prepared to make regular repayments for three to five years. This is not something you’ll want to do on a whim. After all, proper planning and budgeting is always the first step when planning to buy a new car.

Photo Credit: jonrawlinson

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There are arguments for and against both scenarios. So sit down, read this with your boo, and then have a conversation about what best suits your relationship — because this could make it or break it.

Joint Accounts

Pro: You both contribute funds to the account. If you have a savings goal as a couple, you’ll reach it faster if you’re both depositing money into shared account. Simple math: Two incomes are better than one.

Pro: You’re both aware of what’s coming and going. You each have access to the account so you can check in regularly to make sure everything is on the up-and-up. This also will keep both of you honest in terms of deposits and withdrawals.

Pro: It’s easier to hold each other accountable. If, say, you’re planning to buy a house, a joint account ensures both partners have a skin in the game. Saving large amounts of money becomes easier when you’re working toward a common goal and holding each other accountable.

Pro: You can avoid probate to access the money if your partner dies. If your partner dies, and all his cash is in a separate account, then you’re at the mercy of your partner’s will.

Con: You lose financial independence. Financial independence should be one of our proudest accomplishments. Joe Gladstone, an assistant professor at University College London, says that “the decision to hold a joint account with your partner may have unintended consequences. Joint account holders spend less on purchases that are fun, enjoyable or excite the senses and more on utilitarian goods and functional purchases. Then again, someone who was prone to overspending might benefit from the reduced discretionary spending associated with a joint account.”

Con: It requires unwavering trust. If your relationship hits a rocky patch, your partner can withdraw every last penny from the account — and you can’t do anything about it.

Con: Your vulnerable to your partner’s legal problems. If collectors seize the bank account, they won’t be concerned that you’re also an owner. All they care about is that the money is owned by the person in debt.

Con: Your partner can use the funds to pay old debts. If the joint account was established to pay for your life together but your partner is using the money to pay old debts, it could leave a sour taste in your mouth.

Separate Accounts

Pro: You maintain your financial independence. As long as the bills are getting paid on time, you won’t have anyone breathing down your neck about what you’re doing with your money.

Pro: You don’t need permission to splurge. I don’t have many vices, but one of them is clothing. I like new threads, and I don’t want to feel guilty about buying them with money I’ve earned. Family man Jim Jacobs agrees. “My wife is a pretty independent person, and we both insisted on separate bank accounts,” he says. “The reason? I didn’t want fights about money. If she wants a pair of $300 shoes and the money is coming from her account, then go ahead! It’s a marriage saver when you don’t need permission from your partner for every discretionary purchase.”

Pro: You’re less vulnerable to your partner’s legal problems. Keeping separate accounts protects your cash from your partner’s debt if collectors come a-knockin’. Although thatt’s not quite so cut-and-dried for married couples.

Con: There’s a lack of financial transparency. Some partners really want to know what’s going on with their significant other, and not being able to see what you’re spending your money on can lead to trust issues — especially if they suspect that you’re spending money on things like poker games and dancing ladies.

Con: They can foster resentment. You shouldn’t be ashamed of your income if you make more than your partner, but it’s also not nice to flaunt it by treating yourself to whatever you want. That causes problems.

Con: They’re hard to access by others in an emergency. If you’re in an accident — or faced with an emergency that leaves you unable to access your account — your partner can’t do anything about it unless you previously designated a Power of Attorney to make decisions while you’re incapacitated.

Con: It’s harder to keep financial goals on track. Savings goals are tougher to maintain when neither partner knows exactly how much is being put toward them. Are you saving twice as fast as your partner? Is your partner spending what they could be saving on frivolous things? You have no way of knowing, and if there’s a discrepancy that may lead to defensiveness and a few lies. Neither of which is good for a relationship.

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Don’t be fooled by real estate agents who try to tell you that a corner lot is highly desirable. They’re not.

Oh sure, you’ve got a bigger lot and neighbors on only two sides, but as a former corner lot owner, trust me when I say the cons far outweigh the pros.

In fact, besides often being more expensive to buy, here are 21 additional reasons why corner lots just aren’t worth it:

Noise, noise, noise

Double street and sidewalk frontage means double the noise from pedestrian and car traffic. Pull up a chair and crack open a cold one; I’m just gettin’ started.

Unconventional configurations

For example, the front yard of a home on a corner lot is usually bigger than the back, and the garage may be located around the corner.

Yard – lots of it

Larger lots mean more to mow. It’s even worse when the lawn is big but not so large that it justifies buying a riding mower. And if you hire a professional instead, keep in mind that corner lot lawns generally cost an average of 20% more to mow.

Yard – lots of it (Part II)

All things being equal, larger lawns have higher landscape costs.

More trash to pick up

Cars stopping at a stop sign are more likely to dump their trash on your big front yard. You’re also liable to get more trash because…

Corners make great school bus stop locations

Hey, I have kids too. I’m just sayin.’

Less privacy

Yes, you have one less neighbor, but in exchange for that you get foot traffic on two sides of the house instead of only one. Trust me, if you’re worried about privacy you’d be better off with the extra neighbor. Speaking of foot traffic…

They’re great pedestrian shortcuts

When given the choice, most people will save 16 seconds of their life by cutting across the front lawn of a corner home. But before you get any bright ideas, just remember this…

Less privacy (Part II)

Many jurisdictions severely restrict privacy fence heights or prohibit them all together for traffic safety. Even if there are no privacy fence restrictions, corner lot owners have to deal with…

Higher fence costs

Having one less neighbor to deal with is terrific! Well, unless you need to borrow a cup of sugar. Or you’re trying to get your neighbors to share the cost of a new fence.

Double tax assessments

Because corner lots border streets on two sides, you may get hit for twice as many sidewalk and street assessments.

Double set-back requirements

Owners of corner lots may be subject to city or other jurisdictional easements or set-back requirements on two sides of their property, rather than just one.

More dog poo

Although I haven’t taken the time to do a definitive scientific study, I’m quite certain the probability of an off-leash neighborhood dog pooping on a corner-lot front lawn is 100 percent. Prove me wrong.

Greater risk of a car crashing into your house

Okay, I admit it; the probability of this happening is about as likely as Ariana Grande hiring Taylor Swift as a vocal coach. But it’s hard to argue that it ain’t true.

Bigger snow jobs

For those of you who live in colder climes, more sidewalk means more snow to shovel.

Less privacy (Part III)

Corner lot backyards are exposed to the public. That can be a nuisance if you’re trying to have a private family barbecue — or sunbathe in the nude. (Not that I do that, but to each his own, right?)

More light pollution

Increased street lighting and headlights from cars turning corners can be a nuisance.

Yard – lots of it (Part III)

Folks on corner lots have more leaves to rake — especially those who live downwind from adjacent parks.

More vulnerable to burglary

Because there are fewer neighbors surrounding the home and more escape routes – courtesy of streets on two sides – homes on corner lots are bigger burglary targets.

Increased neighbor & association pressure

Because corner homes are often considered gateways to streets or cul de sacs and neighborhoods, the appearance of these homes are often held to a higher standard by the community and neighborhood associations.

They’re harder to sell

Most realtors will tell you that corner lots are tougher to sell. Gee, I wonder why.

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