It’s hard to believe and sad news for homeowners who held mortgage loans financed through Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo has been in the news repeatedly over the last few years and has paid millions of dollars in penalties for fraudulent consumer practices. Now, hundreds of customers lost homes after a computer glitch. The report states that Wells Fargo unknowingly foreclosed on hundred of customers based on a computer glitch. At this writing, 8 million has been set aside to compensate homeowners. Stay tuned for more consumer updates…

https://money.cnn.com/2018/8/04/news/companies/wells-fargo-mortgage-modification/index.html

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Did you know there is a marketing strategy to make you spend more at the market or retail store? There are ways to avoid the pitfalls that cost you more at the cash register. The psychology of shopping affects virtually everything you buy. Be aware they exist and work to be a smarter shopper. Here are a few tips:

1. Prices ending in “9”,”99″ or “95”.
2. Dollars without cents
3. Prices without dollar signs
4. 10 for $10 trick
5. Per-customer limits
6. “Free” promotion
7. Simple prices

https://www.moneytalksnews.com/7-pricing-tricks-that-make-you-spend-more/

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Making money decisions in college is often a learning experience. Decisions about college life has it’s challenges that can benefit us for a lifetime. When to go to college, where to go to college, live at home while attending college, or whether to work part-time while attending college. All are options for the new high school graduate. Here are a few ideas about what to consider about college.

1. It’s OK to delay college life
2. Staying home can fatten your wallet
3. Spending judiciously helps you save money
4. It’s smart to look past fancy and expensive colleges
5. Always pursue free money first
6. A little effort can turn ups a steal of a deal on textbooks
7. It’s smart to learn from the wisdom of others

https://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/7-money-lessons-i-learned-putting-myself-through-college/

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There are 4 things to discuss prior to marriage, which can define your decisions about your finances in the future. Although it may seen like the most inconvenient time, it is actually the best time to share with one another. There are more details to discuss in the future. Starting here is a great place to begin. Ask these 4 questions:

1. Should you get a joint checking account or keep accounts separate?
2. When should you share the details of your finances?
3. How will you handle paying bills and saving?
4. How will beneficiaries be treated after the wedding?

https://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/personal-finance-questions-before-marriage-1.aspx/amp

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The engaged couple has many decisions to make, such as wedding expenses, the costs for the honeymoon, and where they plan to live. Money is a great discussion to have before they walk down the aisle. Everything must be laid out on the table about their past finances, debt, student loans, child support (if this applies) and of course salary and bonuses. We marry our spouses financial habits. If one has a poor credit history, credit card debt, these areas must be addressed and rectified. Avoid arguments about past mistakes and realize the past is the past. Setting new patterns and new habits together will be the best approach to setting new goals for the future. Agree to be transparent moving forward with a joint house account, and separate personal account for each mate. Each pay period should be a time to discuss the plans for the month and remember to set aside savings for emergencies. Most important, living below your means are words to live by to reduce debt and begin to save for the future. Newlyweds need to know marriage is hard word and money is a crucial area for agreement and understanding.

https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/getting-married-time-to-talk-about-money/

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One of the most difficult costs to control, is what you pay at the auto repair shop – especially for women. Do your research and get recommendations from family and friends who are satisfied by the service they’ve received. Before you enter the auto shop get estimates from several auto shops to get an idea of your approximate costs for the service you are requesting. Be aware additional services may be offered, but agree to stick with the one repair you need at the time. Avoid additional services that can run you hundreds of dollars more than you anticipated. Also, remember regular oil and filter changes, tire replacements and wheel alignment are part of your regular car maintenance.

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When you are preparing to borrow money, it is worth your time to do you homework. Borrow with a strategy in mind seeking the lowest interest rate possible for the shortest period of time to save money. The type of loan you select can determine how much money you will spend in the long run. Here’s what to void:

1. Payday loans
2. Auto title loans
3. ‘Buy Here – Pay Here’ – car dealerships
4. Credit Card cash advances
5. Pawn shops
6. Friends and Family
7. Tax refund loans

https://www.moneytalksnews.com/9-dumb-ways-borrow-money-and-4-better-choices/

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Most of us spend money on things we can get for free and may not realize it. This is especially important if you are on a tight budget. Here are ways to avoid throwing money away by purchasing these things we can get for free:

1. Bottled water
2. Books
3. Brand names
4. Credit reports
5. Pets
6. Bank fees
7. Low insurance deductibles
8. Credit Card Interest
9. Basic tax preparation
10. Shipping
11. Life insurance for children

https://www.moneytalksnewscom/12-dumb-things-we-pay-for-but-dont-need-to/

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DIY or Do-It-Yourself is the best way to save money and to complete cost saving upgrades in a short time. Here are a few ideas for your DIY project that will give your home a new look:

1. Paint the front door
2. Add a bird feeder
3. Add path lighting
4. Get a pressure washer
5. Paint the front porch
6. Paint the garage door
7. Add mulch
8. Update a light fixture
9. Replace a porch light and more…

https://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/xx-home-improvements-that-cost-less-than-100

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Nonbank lenders have been making a big push for consumers to take out personal loans. The average loan interest rate is 10.22 percent. Consumers are holding $3.9 trillion in total debt, a 25 percent jump in the past five years. Consumers who don’t have a lot of excess income are squeezed. Buyer’s beware of taking on debt – be mindful of the interest and how the payments will affect your savings, and the ability to repay.

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