Porch pirates are waiting to steal Christmas.In New York City alone, 90,000 packages disappeared from doorsteps in 2019. Nationwide, 1.7 million packages are stolen daily. But you have some options. The first option is safe storage.The Amazon Key system allows you to install a device that the delivery person can use to open and close your garage door, dramatically … [Read more...] about ‘Tis the season: Defeating porch pirates
Considering cash deposits amid high-interest rates and inflation
For many years, Certificates of Deposit (CDs) offered low interest rates, thus limiting their investment potential. Now, however, CD rates are on the rise, and in many cases, are exceeding 3 percent. So are they good investments? As is often the case, that depends. CDs are similar to bonds: You fork over a lump sum of cash, and in exchange, you're paid interest. With CDs, … [Read more...] about Considering cash deposits amid high-interest rates and inflation
Do solar panels add value to your home? Sometimes yes, sometimes no
Asphalt shingles are so 20th century. Take a peek at roofs these days and there's a good chance you'll spot solar panels. By the end of 2020, roughly 2.7 million solar panel systems had been installed on American homes, and the White House believes that 7.5 million systems will be installed by 2034. Many homeowners install solar panels to lower utility bills and perhaps raise … [Read more...] about Do solar panels add value to your home? Sometimes yes, sometimes no
What to do when a relative asks for money
Someone you love needs money and they are asking you. Don't reach into your wallet before you take a moment to think. * Consider the problem. Money isn't the solution if the problem is that the relative spends too much, saves nothing, or doesn't work. Your money only puts off the consequences for bad decisions.* Ask yourself what you can afford. You can't impoverish … [Read more...] about What to do when a relative asks for money
Bike without pedals lets you walk with wheels
You want to walk the dog. You might like to browse at a flea market or go to the local fair.Simple pursuits, yet painful, and maybe impossible. When mobility decreases with age or disease, the world gets smaller. Dutch designer Barbara Alink thought about all of these issues when her mother needed a mobility device and refused to use walkers or rolling chairs. So Alink … [Read more...] about Bike without pedals lets you walk with wheels