Living on a Budget, Saving Money/Expert Profile


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Expertise

I can answer questions that anyone that has never been taught about finance might be afraid to ask an expert. For instance, I can answer credit questions (how to get it and keep it), how to buy/sell your first home (I've bought 3), finance a car, invest in your 401K, and live a debt-free life. I can't answer complex questions that involve legal issues. I am here for "the little guy" who doesn't know how to buy something properly using credit, or needs a good system to remember to pay the bills.

Experience in the area

I am fortunate enough to have a lawyer as a step-parent and a penny-pincher for a mother! I was taught from a very early age how to get credit, keep it, and buy things for myself. Young people today just aren't taught this at all and they don't want to ask "experts" for fear they will be talked down to or thought stupid. I'd like to be a sort of "Establish your Finances" expert that caters to the young crowd or those who would like to learn about finances, down to how to balance your checkbook and why you should.

Organizations

None.

Publications

None.

Education/Credentials

I have a BS in Recording Industry Business Management, which means I was taught how to run an effective studio or record label. My minor was Business Administration, where I learned accounting and finance.

Awards and Honors

None.

Past/Present Clients

None.

What do you like about this subject?

I've helped many of my friends get on the road to better credit. I enjoy knowing that I can answer a question and help someone lead a better and more productive life! When your money is all sorted out, let's face it, you feel better!

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I'd like to learn more than just the basics, but I fear that may be a long way off.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

Of the 535 members of The United States Congress, 7 have been arrested for fraud, 19 have been accused of writing bad checks, 117 have directly or indirectly bankrupted at least 2 businesses, and 71, repeat 71 cannot get a credit card due to bad credit. And you thought you didn't know anything about finances?! p.s. 8 have been convicted of shoplifting, too!

Average Ratings

Recent Reviews from Users

Read More Comments

    K = Knowledgeability    C = Clarity of Response    P = Politeness
UserDateKCPComments
CIndy09/20/11101010Thanks...feeling better!
Barbara09/14/11101010Answered very quickly. Thank you! :)
Barbara09/14/11101010 
albert06/16/10101010 
TJ05/03/10101010 

Recent Answers from Kat

2011-09-14 Buying home/use credit card for down?:

It goes back on the credit card. You can never buy an item with a credit card and get cash in return from any company. If you have a good credit history, you should call your credit card company. They

2011-09-14 Buying home/use credit card for down?:

Hi Barbara,     I can certainly understand the impulse to want to own your own home. However, this is simply not the way to go about it. Let's say you do take out the cash and can only pay $100 a month

2011-09-12 Saving money to move out:

Hi Jon,    Emergencies come and go with everyone. The key to financial success is being prepared for those emergencies, so that they don't disrupt your plans. You need to go out - today - and get a savings

2011-05-26 Waiting too long to buy a home?:

Hi Scott,    While I understand your reluctance to buy based on the taxes in NJ, the time to buy is now.  With low interest rates and crazy deals on brand new homes, I think you should go for it. If you

2011-03-31 Cars: New, Used, or Beater?:

Hi Evan,    It took me literally YEARS to figure out the answer to this question, so I'm glad to help! We'll break it down one at a time. Congratulations on both the baby and being financially stable at

 

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