-
4 Ways I Saved (or tried) in College
4 Ways I Saved (or tried) in College When I was 17 my dad's motto seemed to be “stop spending your money.” But to me, spending was easy. “Saving” was hardly a word. The first time I considered cost – another new word! – was the moment my dad said, “You know, you'll end up with a…
-
Preparing for Baby Costs
Preparing for Baby Costs Oh, baby. I found out in February. I came home to a scavenger hunt – clues scattered by my wife throughout the house. At the end, I discovered a drawer filled with tiny booties, a Captain America onesie, and a board book about dads and babies. And there…
-
One Budget, Two Weddings
Our original outline and budget for the wedding put us at $15k-$18k. We decided to elope first. We assumed it would remove pressure off the bigger event and encourage us to keep it affordable. Twice the love, twice the party, twice the bliss! But at what cost?
-
How Reward Points Became My Mini-Emergency Fund
Has something ever happened out of nowhere that made you think, "How am I supposed to pay for this?!" Savings accounts or lines of credit are potential options for a bailout if you happen to have ample funds, and in this case my credit card came in handy. But not the way you'd expect!
-
First Car Loan? Here Are Some Things to Know
First Car Loan? Here Are Some Things to Know Whether you're 18 or 48, at some point you're likely to buy a new car – even if it's just new to you. Unfortunately, cars aren't cheap. That's why many people go for an auto loan. The issue? Auto loans are confusing, especially if you…
-
Yes, You Should Probably Get a Home Inspection
Yes, You Should Probably Get a Home Inspection Look at that – I answered your Google search right up front. And I mean it: a home inspection is a valuable part of the home buying process, even if it's not always a requirement to get a mortgage. Here's why. If these walls could…
-
What the Health? Covering Unexpected Healthcare Costs
Healthcare: we need it, it's important, and it's expensive. And as I found out at age 27 with what should have been a routine procedure, it doesn't cover everything. For me, it was a little over $1,500 after insurance. Which, wouldn't you know, was a completely surprise bill...
-
Lessons from an 11-Year Old
The year was 2001. Toys “R” Us was still a thing. And I walked into that fluorescent-filled toy palace on a chilly November day, my mom begrudgingly in tow. My excitement was palpable, because today was the day. I was going to buy my PlayStation 2...
-
What I Wish I Knew About My First Credit Card
What I Wish I Knew About My First Credit Card I was probably eighteen when I got my first credit card. Well, not exactly. You see, my mom listed me as an authorized signer on hers and gave me a card, noting it was “strictly for emergencies”. But it wasn't until I was 21, working…
-
Brewing Beer and Budgeting for the Fun Stuff
I started homebrewing about five years ago. I had just gotten a real job and apartment, so as far as new hobbies go, it was the perfect time. And it was awesome! I loved it! Well, until the time came to bottle it, that is...
-
Can You Refinance an Auto Loan?
Can I refinance my auto loan? The short answer is, "yes." Refinancing is generally an available option, and Visions can help you. Whether it's right for you or your vehicle is another question…
-
Can I Get Pre-Approved for an Auto Loan?
It's pretty common for people to buy a car or truck using an auto loan. So, it makes sense that people are interested in getting the right auto financing. That's why people look to get pre-approved for their auto loans. When seeking an auto loan, people want to: Know that they…