Your roof is one of the most important protective systems in your home. It shields the structure from rain, wind, heat, snow, debris, and changing seasonal conditions. Because roofing problems can affect insulation, ventilation, interior comfort, and water protection, investing in the right improvements can help preserve your home’s condition. Whether you are planning a major upgrade or looking for practical maintenance priorities, these four roofing system improvements are worth considering.

Upgrade to a Longer-Lasting Roofing Material

One of the most significant roofing improvements is upgrading the main roofing material. Asphalt shingles remain common, but some homeowners choose materials such as metal, tile, slate, or premium synthetic products for added durability and visual appeal. The right option depends on your climate, roof structure, design preferences, and budget. A material upgrade can also change the home’s exterior appearance, making it feel newer and better maintained.

Metal roofing is one option known for its long service life. According to This Old House, a metal roof may last 40 to 80 years or even longer. This makes it appealing for homeowners who want a roofing system designed for long-term performance. While the upfront investment may be higher than some traditional materials, the potential lifespan can make it a practical choice for those who plan to stay in their homes for many years.

Repair Damage Before It Spreads

Timely roof repair is another smart investment. Missing shingles, cracked flashing, damaged vents, loose fasteners, and small leaks can lead to larger problems if they are ignored. Water intrusion can affect decking, insulation, ceilings, walls, and even electrical systems. By addressing visible damage early, homeowners can reduce the risk of expensive interior repairs and help extend the useful life of the roof.

The scale of roofing work nationwide shows how important repairs and replacements are for property owners. According to Fixr.com, roof repair and replacement expenses reached nearly $31 billion in 2024. That figure reflects how common roofing needs are and why homeowners should not wait until a minor issue becomes an emergency. A professional inspection after major storms or visible wear can help identify problems before they worsen.

Improve the Gutter System

Gutters are a key part of the roofing system because they direct water away from the roofline, siding, foundation, and landscaping. When gutters are clogged, sagging, undersized, or improperly pitched, water can overflow and cause damage. Poor drainage may lead to fascia rot, basement moisture, soil erosion, and staining on exterior surfaces. Upgrading gutters can improve water management and support the long-term health of the home.

Many homeowners choose common gutter materials that balance durability and cost. According to Forbes, most homeowners select aluminum, steel, or vinyl gutters and can expect to pay an average of about $1,600 for a standard-sized roof. When planning this improvement, homeowners should also consider downspout placement, gutter guards, and routine cleaning. A properly installed gutter system helps the roof perform as part of a complete drainage strategy.

Enhance Roof Ventilation and Insulation

Roof ventilation and insulation often receive less attention than shingles or gutters, but they can strongly affect system performance. Proper ventilation helps move warm, moist air out of the attic, which can reduce heat buildup and moisture-related problems. Inadequate airflow may contribute to premature shingle wear, mold growth, and uneven indoor temperatures. A roofing professional can evaluate whether ridge vents, soffit vents, or other ventilation improvements are needed.

Insulation also supports the roofing system by helping regulate temperature transfer between the attic and living areas. When insulation is insufficient or uneven, the home may lose conditioned air more easily, placing extra strain on heating and cooling equipment. In colder climates, poor attic performance can also contribute to ice dam formation. Improving ventilation and insulation together can make the home more comfortable while helping protect roofing materials from unnecessary stress.

Schedule Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is one of the simplest ways to protect your roofing investment. Homeowners should schedule periodic inspections, especially after severe weather, high winds, hail, or heavy snowfall. Maintenance may include clearing debris, checking flashing, sealing minor gaps, replacing damaged shingles, and confirming that gutters and downspouts are working properly. These smaller steps can help prevent avoidable wear and preserve the roof’s protective function.

The best roofing improvements are chosen based on the age of the roof, the home’s design, and the problems that need attention most urgently. Some homes may benefit from a full material upgrade, while others need repairs, better gutters, or improved attic performance. By investing strategically, homeowners can strengthen their roofing system, reduce future risks, and keep their property better protected throughout the year.

Photo Credit: stock photo

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Owning a vehicle is one of the biggest financial commitments most people make outside of housing. And yet many drivers still treat maintenance as an afterthought. Oil changes get pushed back, strange noises get ignored, and warning lights get dismissed until something breaks down entirely. The truth is that consistent vehicle maintenance is not just about avoiding breakdowns. It is a smart financial strategy that protects your investment, keeps you safer on the road. It also often saves you significant money over the life of your car. Understanding why maintenance pays off can help you shift your mindset from reactive repairs to proactive care.

Transportation Costs Are Already a Major Household Expense

Before diving into the benefits of maintenance, it helps to understand just how much vehicles already cost households on a regular basis. Transportation is rarely a small line item in a family budget. And that reality makes protecting your vehicle even more important. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Detroit-area households spent 19.4% of their budget on transportation in 2024. When transportation already takes up such a large share of household spending, avoiding unnecessary repair costs becomes even more critical. Regular maintenance helps control this expense by preventing small issues from snowballing into major, budget-breaking repairs. A well-maintained vehicle is simply more predictable, and predictability is exactly what a household budget needs.

The Auto Repair Industry Reflects a Massive, Ongoing Need

Vehicle repair is not a niche concern. It is a massive, constant demand across the country, and that scale says a lot about how essential proper upkeep really is. Annually, the auto repair industry is valued at $880 billion, according to Gitnux. This figure illustrates just how much money flows into keeping vehicles on the road, whether through routine maintenance or emergency repairs. This reflects a simple truth: Vehicles require ongoing attention no matter how well they’re built. The real difference lies in whether that attention comes in the form of affordable, scheduled maintenance or expensive, unplanned repairs. Choosing the former consistently leads to lower long-term costs and fewer surprises.

Most Repairs Are Tied to Long-Term Durability, Not Random Failures

A common misconception is that vehicle breakdowns are random or unpredictable. In reality, most repairs stem from wear and tear that could have been caught earlier. According to Brandon Gaille, 80% of auto repairs performed in the US on cars are related to the durability of the vehicle. This means the vast majority of issues mechanics see are connected to components wearing down over time, such as belts, brakes, fluids, and filters. These are exactly the kinds of issues that routine maintenance is designed to catch before they become serious problems. Skipping oil changes, ignoring brake wear, or ignoring fluid levels accelerates this wear and tear, often turning a small, inexpensive fix into a major repair. Staying on top of manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules directly addresses the root cause of most vehicle problems.

How Preventive Maintenance Saves Money Over Time

The financial logic behind vehicle maintenance is straightforward. A small, scheduled expense today prevents a much larger, unexpected expense down the road. Routine oil changes protect the engine from long-term damage. Regular brake inspections catch worn pads before they damage rotors. Tire rotations and alignments extend tire life and improve fuel efficiency. Even simple tasks like checking fluid levels or replacing air filters can prevent bigger mechanical failures. When you consistently invest in these smaller maintenance tasks, you reduce the likelihood of costly repairs, extend the lifespan of your vehicle, and maintain a higher resale value if you ever decide to sell or trade it in.

Maintenance Also Protects Your Safety on the Road

Beyond the financial benefits, maintenance plays a direct role in your safety and the safety of others on the road. Worn brakes, bald tires, and faulty steering components are common contributors to accidents, many of which are entirely preventable with routine care. A vehicle that is properly maintained responds better in emergency situations, handles more predictably in poor weather, and is less likely to experience sudden mechanical failure while driving. Prioritizing maintenance is not just a financial decision. It is a safety decision that protects you, your passengers, and everyone else sharing the road with you.

Vehicle maintenance may feel like an added expense in the moment, but it consistently proves to be one of the smartest investments a driver can make. From reducing the financial burden of transportation costs to preventing the wear-and-tear issues responsible for the majority of repairs, staying proactive pays off in both the short and long term. Rather than waiting for a warning light or a strange noise to force your hand, consider scheduling regular maintenance checkups as a standard part of vehicle ownership. Your car, your wallet, and your safety will all benefit from the effort.

Photo Credit: stock photo

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In reality, the only thing these fees do is mislead the consumer by adding a hidden mark-up to the advertised price. Sometimes the fees are small; but sometimes they can be quite severe.

Unfortunately for all of us, it’s a practice that has spread like the plague over time.

Here are a few of the most annoying consumer fees — from both the past and present — that still make me shake my head:

Unlisted Phone Number Fees

Yes, I’m dating myself, but back in the day, this was arguably the granddaddy fee of them all. As recently as ten years ago, I was still being charged $1.75 per month to keep my landline telephone number unlisted. Then I woke up and realized nobody under 90 years-old even uses phone books anymore.

Administrative Fees

For many years, my same phone company also had the audacity to add an additional 99 cents every month for something called “administrative fees.” In other words: normal business expenses. Yes, I have a new carrier now.

Convenience Fees

I bought four tickets from Ticketmaster so I could take my family to see the Harlem Globetrotters — yes, this was before the COVID pandemic. Anyway, I paid $300 for the set. Too bad that was before they tacked on a “convenience charge” of $5. Per ticket. Uh huh. That stupid fee added $20 to my bill. And now you know why I hate Ticketmaster. Frankly, I’d like to know why Ticketmaster isn’t charging that fee to the acts whose tickets are being sold, rather than us consumers who took time out of our busy schedules to buy the tickets in the first place. Think about it. If the Globetrotters had to sell their tickets on their own time, they’d never get to practice. Eventually, their skills would suffer and then the Washington Generals might actually start beating them.

Fees for Printing Tickets

I’m not done with Ticketmaster. Before smart phones became ubiquitous, Ticketmaster actually had the gall to charge $2.50 to anyone who wanted to print tickets from their home printer. Ironically, the alternative at the time — having Ticketmaster deliver the tickets to your home via the postal service — was free. Go figure.

Hotel Safe Fees

There are more than a few hotels out there that like to charge you a dollar or two per day just for the privilege of using their in-room safes — whether you use it or not. That’s ridiculous! Which is why I always ask to have it waived if I see it on my bill.

Tax Refund Fees

After spending four hours doing my taxes using TurboTax, I was asked how I intended to pay for their service. Fair enough. Lucky for me I had a refund coming to me. I thought, Perfect! I’ll tell TurboTax to deduct what I owe them directly from my refund! Then I discovered TurboTax currently charges an additional $39.99 if you choose to go that route. Of course, there is another option: pay by credit card. Ironically, going that route is free — which is why I went with the plastic. So much for cash discounts.

Mortgage Junk Fees

There are dozens of mortgage junk fees out there — some more dubious than others — that make you scratch your head and ask what the heck is that for? Reconveyance verification fees, electronic document delivery fees, and commitment fees, are just a few of the most egregious examples.

And then there’s this…

It’s bad enough that most airlines still impose fees on people who have the audacity to travel with luggage. But several years ago, at least one airline was making their “valued” customers who chose to pay those niggling baggage charges at the airport ticket counter — rather than online — an additional $3 per bag.

That’s right, folks … a fee for paying a fee.

Photo Credit: compujeramey

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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 hope everybody had a wonderful week. And with that, let’s get right to this week’s commentary, shall we?

I know this is war, but everyone is still trying to pretend it’s a party.

– Kristin Cashore

Credits and Debits

Debit: Did you see this? If you thought this year’s Independence Day cookout was more expensive than last year, you weren’t going crazy. It turns out that the average Fourth of July cookout for 10 people this year cost $73.82. For those of you who are really crummy at math, that’s $7.38 a person. It’s also a 4% increase over 2025. As for the main culprit? Well… it was largely driven by higher costs for ground beef and hamburger buns. It’s enough to make many people consider veganism. Or not…

Debit: Meanwhile, a new Fed study estimates that the federal government’s decision to tacitly promote illegal immigrant worker flows between 2021 and 2024 accounted for roughly 30% of US employment growth. More to the point: That growth also translated to a 2.2% increase in US home prices and a 1.4% rise in rents. Oh, and to nobody’s surprise, those researchers also found that homebuilding was unable to meet that additional demand. Instead, the influx acted as a housing demand shock in markets where supply was already constrained. Talk about a major policy error. Oh, and speaking of big mistakes…

Debit: On a related note, the latest jobs report was released last week and it shows that the US labor force participation rate dropped to 61.5% in June – that just happens to be the lowest level since March 2021. At least this isn’t a concern for the gainfully-employed. Well… at least for now, anyway. In the meantime…

Debit: Unfortunately, the situation gets even worse when one looks under the hood of the latest jobs report. This is because while the number of part-time jobs declined by 53,000, workers holding full-time positions collapsed by a whopping 514,000. Yes, more than a half-million people! So by any measure, it’s obvious that the composition of the US labor market remains absolutely abysmal. Although we suspect that this guy hasn’t heard the bad news yet…

Debit: Of course, to almost nobody’s surprise, the government also stealthily reduced the number of previously-claimed new jobs created in the April and May labor reports by 74,000, proving yet again that the data being pumped out by our highly-compensated government bureaucrats is all a sham designed to keep Americans in the dark.

Credit: As for the retired crowd, independent estimates for Social Security’s 2027 cost-of-living (COLA) are forecasting a raise for the upcoming year between 3.8% and 4.7%. If that high-end prognostication proves accurate, a 4.7% boost to SS payouts would be the fourth largest since 1991, surpassed only by increases of 5.8% in 2009, 5.9% in 2022, and 8.7% in 2023. Wow! Not surprisingly, those kind of numbers have clearly got the Baby Boomer generation in the mood to party, much to Gen Z’s chagrin…

Credit: In other news, macro analyst Peter Schiff believes the Fed is bluffing about raising interest rates soon. Why? He says that, “Even if the Fed is serious about bringing inflation down to 2% with aggressive rate hikes and quantitative tightening (QT), once the stock market accepts that and crashes, the Fed will (reverse course). A stock market crash, plus a real estate crash, threatens not only a recession but another financial crisis.” Yep. In the meantime, all the economy has no choice but to continue plowing ahead, regardless of the potential (and real) obstacles before it…

Credit: The trouble, as macro analyst David Jensen reminds us, is that “the central banker’s illusion that currency (printing) and rising debt levels increase real growth only works for a little while. But in reality, they drive consumption that’s unsupported by productive economic output. Instead, loose monetary policy – as we’ve witnessed for decades – actually drives speculation (“the Dow is at 53,000!”), price inflation, and misallocation of resources and capital.” By the way, Japan is finally beginning to suffer the consequences of this, with interest rates there at a 30-year high – and the piper clearly pounding at the door…

Gary Larson – The Far Side

Credit: Needless to say, we’re in the waning stages of an irreversible monetary system metamorphosis that’s been underway since the Great Financial Crisis in 2008. And as macro analyst Marc Jeftovic points out, the underlying “architecture is completely different now, as the measuring stick known as fiat money is ill-equipped for the task of describing it. (And) until we change that measuring stick – any (major market downturn) will be papered over with incessant ‘big prints’ until the system … completes its metamorphosis.” Uh huh. Sadly, it’s a monetary tale that has been repeating itself since time immemorial, to the ruin of otherwise fiscally disciplined people around the world.

Credit: We’ll close the week with this final observation from Mr. Jensen: “The end of the fiat currency illusion occurs over a very short period of time as central banker abuse vests in visible terms with sharply rising prices of goods and services and also of safe havens such as gold and silver as the currency ultimately fails.” Indeed. Got gold?

By the Numbers

With the number of delinquent credit card accounts falling by as much as over 41% in some American cities over the past year, a new study has determined where people are struggling the least based on the US cities where credit card delinquency rates are improving at the fastest pace. Here are the top 10:

10 Fort Wayne, IN

9 Jersey City, NJ

8 Omaha, NE

7 Anchorage, AK

6 Minneapolis, MN

5 Boston, MA

4 Cincinnati, OH

3 Madison WI

2 San Bernardino, CA

1 St. Louis, MO

Source: WalletHub

Last Week’s Poll Results

How many US states have you lived in?

• 4 or more    44%
• Three    21%
• One   19%
• Two    12%
• None    4%

More than 2600 Len Penzo dot Com readers responded to last week’s question and it turns out that 2 in 3 of you have lived in at least three US states – and nearly half have lived in at least four! Wow. Outside of a temporary four-month residency in North Carolina to support a job assignment, I’ve lived my entire life in California.

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.

The Question of the Week

Useless News: A Day in the Life

At the end of a very long day, a man came home from work and found his children outside, still in their pajamas, playing in the mud, with empty food boxes and wrappers strewn around the yard.

His wife’s van door was also open — as was the front door to the house — and there was no sign of the family dog.

Walking in the front door, the man found … an even bigger mess. A lamp had been knocked over and the throw rug was against one wall. In the family room, the TV was loudly blaring the Cartoon Network; and the den was strewn with toys and various items of clothing.

In the kitchen, dishes filled the sink, breakfast food was spilled on the counter, the fridge door was wide open, dog food was strewn across the floor, a broken glass lay under the table and, inexplicably, a rather large sand pile was blocking the door to the backyard.

Thinking something terrible had happened, the man quickly headed upstairs, stepping over toys and more piles of clothes, looking for his wife.

At the top of the stairs, he was met with a small trickle of water as it made its way out the bathroom door. As he peered inside he found soaking wet towels, a scummy bar of soap, and a rubber duck laying on the floor. But that’s not all: Miles of toilet paper were also laid in a heap and toothpaste had been smeared over the bathroom mirror and walls.

Now completely frantic, the worried man rushed to the bedroom, where he found his wife still curled up in bed — in her pajamas and reading a novel. She immediately looked up at him.

“How was your day, Honey?” his wife said with a beaming smile.

Bewildered, the man looked at her and asked, “What on Earth happened here today?”

She again smiled and answered, “You know how you always come home from work and then you ask me what in the world I do all day?”

“Yes,” was his incredulous reply.

“Well,” she answered, “Today I didn’t do it.”

(h/t: Charlotte)

Squirrel Cam (After Dark)

Looks like we found a critter who is just a little bit camera shy….

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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

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

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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

Frank G. sent a message to me this week that opened up with this eye-opener:

At first I couldn’t figure out if you were shoveling bullshit or fertilizer, but you finally won me over.

Wait … so I guess you’re telling me that my blog is intended for, er, manure audiences only.

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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In today’s world, where energy conservation and sustainable living hold utmost importance, homeowners are finding innovative ways to reduce their utility bills. This article explores various alterations around the home that not only contribute to energy efficiency but also promote significant savings on utility costs. By implementing these changes, households can benefit from economic relief while also playing a part in preserving the environment.

Embracing Clean Energy and Efficiency Upgrades

Providing incentives for clean energy, the U.S. Department of Treasury reported in 2023 that over 3.4 million American families received $8.4 billion in tax credits. These incentives were specifically designed to assist families in managing the costs associated with installing clean energy systems and enhancing their home’s energy efficiency. By adopting such upgrades, families can not only reduce the initial expenses but also enjoy long-term savings with lowered energy bills.

Tax credits have been instrumental in encouraging homeowners to shift towards more sustainable energy sources, such as solar panels and energy-efficient home appliances. The financial support reduces the burden of upfront costs, making it feasible for more families to invest in energy-efficient technology. Over time, as these systems become part of standard home infrastructure, their contribution to reducing utility expenses becomes evident.

Furthermore, using energy-efficient appliances and clean energy sources ensures a significant decrease in reliance on non-renewable energy, which is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The strategic implementation of these systems represents not only a monetary saving but also a commitment to lowering carbon footprints, which is a key advantage in the global pursuit of environmental sustainability.

Water Conservation through High-Efficiency Installations

ServiceTitan highlights a strikingly effective measure to manage utility bills—installing high-efficiency toilets, which can result in saving approximately 13,000 gallons of water per household annually. These toilets utilize advanced technology to minimize water usage without sacrificing performance, making them a smart choice for families seeking economical benefits.

Besides reducing water consumption, high-efficiency toilets prove to be cost-effective due to decreased water bills. Homeowners who install these toilets find a noticeable reduction in their monthly water expenses, making it a valuable long-term investment. With water becoming an increasingly precious resource, adopting water-saving technologies supports both financial savings and water conservation.

The decision to invest in high-efficiency plumbing fixtures also reflects an understanding of ecological responsibility. By conserving water, households contribute to a significant global effort to sustain freshwater resources, ensuring that both current and future generations can maintain their water needs without excessive strain on natural sources.

Improving Air Conditioner Efficiency Nationwide

In a global endeavor to enhance energy efficiency, Consumer Affairs reported that the U.S. was one of 60 nations that pledged in December 2023 to boost the efficiency of new air conditioners by 50%. This commitment demonstrates a proactive effort to address climate change by reducing energy consumption related to cooling systems, which account for a considerable portion of household energy use.

The initiative pushes for innovation in air conditioning technology, encouraging manufacturers to produce units that offer superior cooling with minimal energy use. This leads to a reduction in electricity bills, allowing consumers to save significantly on their utility costs over the lifespan of the air conditioner. Upgrading to more efficient units is not only practical for savings but also crucial for reducing household carbon emissions.

As air conditioners become more efficient, their potential to contribute positively to household finances grows. The global agreement illustrates the significance of collective action in addressing energy usage, setting a precedent for other household technologies. The resulting benefits from such energy commitments extend beyond immediate financial savings; they encompass well-being and environmental health.

Navigating the financial landscape of utility bills can be challenging, but by adopting these energy-saving practices, homeowners can achieve considerable economic relief. From implementing clean energy and energy-efficient appliances to enhancing water conservation and improving air conditioning efficiency, these changes are within reach and impactful. Saving money on utilities not only aids in balancing household finances but also promotes an environmentally conscious lifestyle.

Photo Credit: stock photo

The post Changes Around the Home That Can Help Lower Your Utility Bills appeared first on Len Penzo dot Com.

I wish everybody could have an Aunt Doris in their family.

When you buy a refrigerator, or a car, or even a teakettle, you get a booklet that tells you what to expect, how it works, and basically what to do in the case it doesn’t work. We humans don’t have that luxury, we simply go along thinking: Oh, I’m going to live forever!

But then — bam! — it starts. For me, getting old started with an innocent little twinge.

Then, one day, I looked in the mirror and discovered that I had broken out in wrinkles. And now I not only look like my mother, but my grandmother too.

Each passing year has brought me a new twinge.

Eventually I found myself grunting every time I got up or sat down.

Remember the old television show Sanford & Son starring the late Redd Foxx? His venerable character, Fred Sanford, used to clutch his heart and look to the sky as he’d cry to his late wife, “I’m coming, Elizabeth!” I feel the same way now, not that “Elizabeth” would ever know me.

I used to go all day in the mall. Now sometimes it takes me that long just to go to the restroom — but that’s another story.

I used to run like the wind, but now I get winded getting out of a chair.

My hair is falling out.

The thing is, although I’m almost 91, my brain still works as well today as it did when I was 21.

Life’s funny that way.

The post My Nonagenarian Aunt Doris Shares Her Thoughts On Growing Old appeared first on Len Penzo dot Com.

Fear not, though. It turns out there are many good jobs that don’t require a lot of experience — some of which even offer the potential of a six-figure income!

You may be wondering if encore careers are even possible. They are! More than 4.5 million people aged 50 to 70 have entered second careers that are fulfilling and contribute to their income. Another 1 million are planning encore careers.

Read on to find new careers that don’t require a ton of experience.

Delivery Driver

If you notice an increase in delivery trucks in your neighborhood, you’re not alone. The rise of online shopping leads to many people getting home deliveries of common items they once would have purchased at the mall. As a result, delivery companies need drivers more than ever before.

The position can be ideal for someone who wants a flexible schedule. You may need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in addition to a good driving record.

Salaries for delivery drivers range from $40,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience and the number of hours worked.

School Bus Driver

Many school districts need bus drivers. You need a CDL and a clean driving record for this job as well. You also need to pass a security check and have no criminal record.

Many school districts offer benefits to school bus drivers. The job pays from $40,000 to $60,000 per year. Drivers receive school holidays and vacations off, of course.

Security Guard

While some security guards have backgrounds in law enforcement or the military, it’s not required. Many retail stores and schools need security guards. Security guards also work in businesses and at travel sites, such as the airport.

You need to be observant and reliable to work as a security guard. You may be required to take a drug test and show a clear criminal record. Some security guards may be required to acquire a license to carry a concealed weapon.

Security guards make from $40,000 to roughly $60,000 per year.

Real Estate Broker

Okay … real estate brokers likely need some sales experience, but if you have any at all, you can definitely work as a real estate broker. While some real estate brokers have a license, it’s not necessary. If you do want a license, you can earn one by completing a 60-hour course.

The most successful real estate brokers know their community and are people-oriented. It helps to have a good head for figures. It’s also helpful to be familiar with the industry to be able to give prospective sellers advice on how to maximum the sales potential of their home.

Real estate brokers work on commission. As a result, salaries can range widely depending on how many houses you sell and home prices; it is not uncommon for real estate brokers to earn a six figure income.

Tradesman Apprentice

Trade apprenticeships for plumbers, electricians, carpenters and masons are a great way to get your foot in the door on a great career with no experience. The average starting wage for an apprentice is currently $20 an hour, with increases over time. Licensed tradesmen typically earn from $60,000 annually to six figures. Depending on the trade, journeyman status can be attained after approximately 2000 hours of on-the-job training, and an additional 200 hours of technical training.

Financial Planner

Being a financial planner requires no specific experience, although it helps to have a license. Licensure to become a financial planner takes roughly 60 hours.

Financial planners give people advice on personal finance strategies, retirement, tax planning, real estate and more. You need to be trustworthy and knowledgeable about optimal strategies for people at all stages of life.

Financial planners usually work on commission. The annual salaries can range from $50,000 to six figures.

Fundraiser

Many nonprofit charitable organizations need professional fundraisers or development specialists to approach both people and organizations to give to their cause. To be a fundraiser, it helps to have sales experience, but that’s not a show-stopper. You need to be able to explain clearly and persuasively what the organization provides and why its cause is important.

Many fundraisers also oversee the work of volunteers and manage the movement of contributions through the organization.

Fundraiser salaries vary depending on the size of the organization. The middle range for large organizations is approximately $75,000 for full-time work.

So there you have it: six jobs that require minimal experience and are excellent for those starting out, changing jobs or seeking additional income in retirement. In fact, there’s no reason one of these can’t become your new career almost immediately.

Photo Credit: Innovate Impact Media

The post 7 Great Careers That Require No Experience to Start appeared first on Len Penzo dot Com.

Thanks to the longtime custom of tipping, restaurants are one of the most common places where this skill routinely comes into practice.

That being said, let’s assume for a moment that I am a waiter. And let’s say that I seat four adults for dinner at the same table who wish to pay for their meals with separate checks. Let’s also assume that all four diners order the exact same thing to eat and drink, and that they experience the exact same quality of food and service. I then give each of them their bills (with identical totals).

Okay, Len, what’s your point?

I strongly suspect that, even though the service, food, and orders were identical for everyone, I’d stand a better chance of being declared People‘s Sexiest Man Alive than getting the exact same tip from everybody.

Don’t believe me?

Here’s a Tipping Experiment…

What follows is a different hypothetical scenario. After reading it, can you tell me how much the gratuity should be?

The Scenario:

• You’ve just had dinner at a neighborhood restaurant you go to several times a year. For the purposes of this experiment, let’s assume it’s similar to a Chili’s or Applebee’s.
• The service was average; there were no major flubs by your waiter, but it wasn’t excellent service.
• The food was good, except for the side salad which was terribly wilted. So it was graciously taken off the bill by the manager.
• At the end of your meal, you are presented with the following itemized bill:

Coke $2.95
Potato Skins $7.95
Side Salad $4.95
Side Salad -$4.95 (Comp.)
Cheeseburger $11.95
Chocolate Lava Cake $4.95
Subtotal: $27.80
Tax: $2.22
Total: $30.02

• After agreeing with the bill’s total, you choose to pay with your credit card.

So, Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?

Again, I want to know what the tip should be. Obviously, there is no right answer here; everybody is different when it comes to tipping. However, I’m really curious to see just how varied the tip amounts would be for this experiment.

Of course, this experiment will be a major flop if I don’t get at least four readers to participate (but the more the merrier) — so I’m counting on you to not leave me hanging!

Leave your answer in the comment section below — and remember, you’re on your honor to not look at any other reader answers until after you’ve submitted your own. Besides, the last thing you need is to see my ugly mug one day soon on the cover of People.

Photo Credit: OakleyOriginals

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The Thomas Crown Affair

It offers a rare glimpse into the life of someone who literally had too much money. We see how he acquired it, how he kept it, and how he became bored by it.

Of course, no one ever promised vast wealth would bring happiness.

Indeed, Thomas Crown is a Wall Street paragon so bored with his success and wealth he’s taken to stealing and other risky activities just to feel alive.

As implausible as that may seem, there are some pragmatic personal finance lessons that we can pull from The Thomas Crown Affair. Here are five of them:

Trust Is Important in the Pursuit of Wealth

Although The Thomas Crown Affair is a love story, it’s complicated by money, loyalty, and ethics. Catherine stood to get a handsome bounty if she could apprehend Thomas for stealing a valuable Monet painting. During the pursuit, she had a brief encounter with him which revealed a strong mutual chemistry between them — but their relationship didn’t prosper until they started trusting one another.

Over 100 years ago, Russell H. Conwell wrote on the importance of trust in our pursuit of wealth in his brilliant work Acres of Diamonds. This contradicts those who lament that the wealthy are dishonest.

Consider how unlikely we are to do business with the untrustworthy. The implication is that if we’re rich, there’s a good chance that many people have trusted us as we acquired our wealth.

Most Wealthy People Enjoy What They Do For a Living

Thomas treated earning money like a game. This is a common characteristic among the wealthy. Thomas built, acquired and occasionally sold businesses. He relished in his triumphs. His boredom surfaced only after he mastered business.

President Donald Trump says he often works on vacation because he enjoys working.

Gene Simmons, Oprah, and Ryan Seacrest are additional prominent examples of people who are constantly working. Each of these people could have retired to live the good life long ago, but they’re arguably already living the good life because they inherently enjoy what they do. It’s no coincidence that most millionaires typically work 55-hour weeks — or more.

Wealth-Building Is a Team Sport

Thomas Crown also hired the best advisers that interfaced with every facet of his personal and professional life. Employees would be with him while he got his suits tailored, and he even prepared dinner with one of his personal attorneys. I’m convinced that getting wealthy is often a team sport. No one possesses expertise in all areas. Thus, it’s important to make sure we’re getting the best advice.

The more we have, the more time we should allocate to making sure that our insurance, investment, tax, and legal needs are taken care of properly. By acknowledging others expertise, we can accelerate our wealth-building by making fewer mistakes.

Knowing How to Negotiate is Important

Serious negotiations can be very important to our financial health. Poor negotiators needlessly waste time negotiating trivial details. Thomas Crown was a fierce negotiator — but only when it mattered.

One particular acquisition during the movie stands out. Thomas was selling one of his businesses, and the negotiations were intense. After Crown signed the final paperwork, the buyers’ agents began gloating about how he was finally “forced to sell something,” and asked him if he had any regrets in how he played the negotiation.

His response was classic: “Regret is typically a waste of time, as is gloating. Have you figured out what you are going tell your board of directors once they realize that you paid $30 million more than anyone else was offering?”

Negotiate the things that matter very meticulously. Donald Trump’s classic The Art of The Deal is a great instruction manual on how to do this.

You’re More Likely to Become Wealthy if You’re Self-Employed

Lastly, Thomas controlled his financial destiny because he owned several businesses. According to The Millionaire Next Door, self-employed people are four times more likely to be millionaires than those who work for others.

As our own bosses, we can control our income capacity, taxes, and expenses. Of course, there are risks associated with going into business for yourself; nine out of ten businesses fail.

And while there is nothing wrong with working for someone else, there’s risk in depending on an employer for your financial security. True security only comes from doing your job well and staying marketable.

So the next time you see a movie with a somewhat preposterous storyline, don’t dismiss it as irrelevant. The fiction doesn’t diminish the value of the lessons, financial and beyond.

Photo Credit: United Artists

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Service Your Vehicle

First things first: your car must be able to handle the trip. At a minimum, that may require taking a trip to the service shop for a break inspection, tune-up, oil change, and topping-off critical fluids.

“To avoid the hassle and cost of auto repair expenses mid-trip, service your car before you leave,” advises money-saving expert, Kendal Perez. “I’m clueless about car repair, so I have professionals replace the oil and filter, top off fluids, and make sure my tire pressure is at optimal levels. It also gives me peace of mind that my car is in good shape ahead of a long drive.”

Before you head to the shop, do yourself a favor a do a quick search online or through your stack of coupons for the best deals. There are plenty of them out there this time of year, and you may be able to double up on discounts if you have built-in savings through memberships like AAA, cash-back deals from your bank or an app, or your credit card provider.

Pack Light

Overloading your car with heavy bags reduces your fuel efficiency and makes your road trip less comfortable. Instead, pack light and leave room for a few inexpensive and lightweight tchotchkes from your travels. And if you really want to save, then use photographs of your road trip your as inexpensive framed souvenirs.

Stock Up

Convenience stores are the worst place to buy food and drink; you pay exorbitant markups for subpar cuisine. You can save money and physical discomfort — all those Hot Cheetos and Kit Kats will do a number on your stomach — by purchasing your favorite snacks ahead of time from a supermarket or bulk goods store like Costco.

Adds Perez, “Buy a pack of bottled water from the store to bring as well, or bring a couple reusable water bottles to fill up at gas stations. This alone will save you $2 to $4 per bottle!”

Time Your Departure

I was married once to someone who always wanted to leave for a road trip at peak rush hour — and it was the most GD frustrating thing in the world. Unless you enjoy screaming at each other in the car, then sitting in silence ignoring each other for hours, it’s better to plan your departure smartly. You’ll get out of town quicker by leaving early in the morning or late at night, thereby also saving yourself extra money on gas wasted from sitting in traffic. Before you leave, check Google Maps or Waze to find out how long the trip will take.

Use Cruise Control

“Frequent acceleration and deceleration reduces your fuel efficiency, so take advantage of your vehicle’s cruise control. Cruise control can also maintain your speed near the speed limit and help you avoid pricey speeding tickets,” says Perez.

Don’t Wait to Refuel

If you’re an I-just-want-to-get-there kind of road tripper, you probably wait until the last minute to refuel. However, being more strategic about where you fill up can help you save money. If you put it off, you may have to fuel up at a gas station in the middle of nowhere that charges a premium. Instead, use an app like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel, wherever you are.

Prepare For the Worst

Life happens, but nobody wants hiccups when they’re on a road trip, far from home with the children. Hedge your bets, says car expert, Scott Chesrown. “Before you leave, download the Honk app or the AAA app. It’s unlikely you’ll need roadside assistance but planning ahead can downgrade a travel nightmare to a minor snafu.”

Photo Credit: iainmerchant

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