ArcaMax

Q: I am closing on a home purchase next week, and I just received an email from my title company with instructions for wiring my down payment. It says their bank account has changed and asks me to send the funds right away. It looks real and uses the correct names and numbers, but something about it feels off. Is this normal? — Marcus

A: ...Read more

My vacuum sealing machine is one of my favorite kitchen appliances. I vacuum seal fresh fruit to extend the use by at least two weeks, often much longer. I vacuum seal meat before I freeze it to stave off freezer burn, which keeps it perfect for a year or longer. I could go on and on about how my FoodSaver (www.everydaycheapskate.com/...Read more

I like an organized home. When things get all chaotic and messy, I find that my mind kind of gets that way too. But when everything has a place -- and everything is in its place -- I feel a sense of peace. I can think straight, relax and enjoy.

I like an organized garage too. At least I've enjoyed the pictures I've seen of garages that function...Read more

I'm one lucky gal. My husband's favorite menu item is pasta -- any shape or recipe. He would opt for a pasta dish every meal of the day if that were an option. And that's great because he is as tall and slim as the day we married. While he has no desire to actually prepare pasta, I love to cook. Add these things together and it's pretty much a ...Read more

It's hard to believe we're already halfway through the year, but July has arrived -- and with it comes a handful of opportunities to save money, plan ahead and make the most of the season.

When people think about stocking up, they often focus only on sales. That's certainly part of the equation. But timing matters too. Some products are at ...Read more

Q: I am buying my first home, and before showing me anything, my agent had me sign an agreement to pay her 3%. The house I want is not offering to cover my agent, and I am already stretched thin with the down payment and closing costs. Do I really have to pay my agent that 3% out of my own pocket? — Danielle

A: Buying your first home is ...Read more

A number of years ago, I met Kathryn and Galen. They'd won a contest sponsored by Woman's Day magazine. The prize? A money makeover and financial coaching with ... me! From our first meeting, we became fast friends. Not only were they drowning in debt but Galen was also dealing with a protracted season of unemployment. Their financial situation ...Read more

CREDIT UNIONS VERSUS BANKS

Dear Mary: What is the difference between a bank and a credit union? -- Justina

Dear Justina: Great question! A bank is a for-profit financial business run by paid board members that's primary purpose is to make profits for the shareholders.

A credit union is a nonprofit financial business that's owned by its ...Read more

It's amazing how saving a little here and a little there can add up to big savings. Each of these great reader tips doesn't really save much on its own. But added up over time? In a way that changes your attitude and keeps you focused? That can really make a difference.

Don't believe me? Think about the amount of cosmetics you've tossed because...Read more

There comes a point every summer evening when the house starts behaving like it's hosting a chili cookoff.

The sun goes down. The birds settle in. The neighborhood quiets. Yet somehow your living room still feels like it's stuck on HOT and a stale sigh that says "Good luck sleeping tonight."

That's when most people march straight to the ...Read more