There’s a growing list of ways to make money with your car, from food delivery, rideshare, delivering packages, and more.

The post 8 Ways to Make Money With Your Car in 2024 appeared first on Millennial Money Man.

If you are thinking about some of the things you need to do in order to renovate a property effectively, there are a few that are going to be especially important for you to consider, and it’s vital to make sure that you are thinking about these throughout the process, but especially at the start. That way, you can ensure that you are going to do all you can to keep the process going strong, which is of course a really important thing to be able to do.

Renovating a Property: Things To Consider

One of those things is the money. There is always a financial side to renovating a property, and you’ll need to make sure that you are doing all you can to get this intact and as ready as possible for the project. Otherwise, you might struggle to make it come to fruition, and you might find that you end up in a situation where it doesn’t really happen. So here are some of the financial considerations to renovating a property that you may want to think about.

Think To The End Result

If you are ever feeling despondent about how much a renovation is costing you, make sure to give yourself a moment to look ahead. The truth is that there are all sorts of reasons you should push on with it, and one of the main ones is that the end result is usually going to make it worthwhile. Whatever you spend on a renovation you are likely to get back many times over, so it’s something that you can really think of as an investment above all. It’s useful to remember that when you are feeling that it’s not really worth it.

Of course, in order to make sure of that, you’ll want to make the renovation as successful as possible, and that means putting some real effort into the process along the way. As long as you have done that, you should find that you are going to effectively renovate your property in no time, but with a view to actually doing it as well as possible – so that your finances can improve.

Initial Funding

That being said, you will still need to find a way to initially fund the renovation, and it’s important that you are aware of your options when it comes to this. The truth is that there are a number of different ways in which you might be able to do this, so you do have options that you can consider. One of the most effective, and most popular, is to take out a renovation mortgage. As you might imagine, this is a mortgage that is specifically centered around trying to fund a renovation, and it can be a hugely helpful way of funding the renovation from the outset.

Other options include taking out a normal bank loan, or using your own savings. And you might be able to use a combination of all of these too. It all depends on what you have found, and you’re going to find that you are so much more likely to get it done if you have a number of options to choose from.

Planning For The Unknown

You can always expect something like a renovation to take longer and to cost more than you had initially thought, and that is something that you should just try to be as prepared for as possible. As long as you plan for the unknown in this way, you should find that you are going to have a much better sense of how you are going to succeed, and that is the kind of thing that you are going to want to think about here. A good plan for when things start to cost more means that the whole project is going to be so much better and more effectively thought through.

So make sure you have some backup funds, and that you have an idea of which part of the project you might be able to forget about if you are in a situation where you are not able to do it all. That might be a decision you have to make at some point anyway, so it’s a good idea to think about it at the outset. That way you are going to be much less caught out when it does happen, which it commonly does.

Those are just some of the things you should think about when it comes to the financial side to renovating a property.

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I’ve managed to make a leap and start a new job within the same company this week. The signs (so far) are that this is a lucky escape, and more importantly, a better path to be on.

I’ve always been lucky, but even cats only have 9 lives, and the major downside of FIRE is that you have to keep yourself gainfully employed, or it doesn’t work.

Without doxxing myself, I’ve managed to have a thoroughly underwhelming career in engineering and I’ve been solidly working from home for the last 4 years. Not full-time, 9-5 – but pulling in enough hours to keep the bills paid (and ISAs filled) and with enough flexibility to drop-off the kids, pick them up, have some long holidays.

The upshot of this is that I think the kids have had a much better time of it – if you don’t have kids, look away now – but having working parents who are too stressed to properly play with them is probably a very bad thing for kids.

But for all this to continue, there’s a need for me to work from home – because otherwise the commute and the working day take up all my energy. It might possibly kill me – driving in the dark, when tired.

The Call to the Office

The company I’m working for put out a general decree to have all personnel back in the office 3 days a week. Doesn’t need to be the same days, and they don’t care if it’s even the same office as other people.

The team I worked with had three of us in Scotland (me 70 miles from the other two), one in England and one in the Philippines.

How are we supposed to all meet-up?

Anyway – that sent shivers down my spine. I do have the bravery to say “I’m not going back to the office”, but bluff and brave aren’t spelt too differently.

And whilst I am comfortable without working for some period of time – I feel vulnerable living where I do and knowing that there might not be a next job.

Slowdown in Work

Since the end of the Summer, the end-client I’d been working for was approving less and less work. I don’t want to get involved in politics (I’m a pawn, not a player) but the histogram was looking dire.

Then again, it always looked bad – work planned committed/possible would always tail-off after a couple of months, and new work would come in just in the nick of time.

But This Time It’s Different

My boss did a good thing for me and essentially punted me out to another arm of the company. He didn’t need to do it, and I wasn’t even all that aware that it was going to happen. There were discussions of”you can work for this client/project for a few weeks until things
pick-up. “

As it turns out, I had to formally apply, have a technical interview and all that jazz – to join the new team.

New team means new people, new ways of working, and unspoken rules. But more importantly, I’m solidly WfH – which is what I wanted.

There may be some occasional office/client visits – but only so many as to keep things interesting. I’ll not be a TWaT – and I’ll still be able to do the drop-off/pick-up with the kids.

GFF’s theory of Optimising Working/Company Value

I’ve grown up with a poverty mindset – so excuse me if you think that I’m sick in the head.
In any job you do, you either bring more value to the company than you get paid in return – and in this case you are a “good employee”, or you get paid more money than the value you bring to the company – you are a bad employee.

All too often, great employees make their employers rich and not get rewarded sufficiently.
Be a bad employee too often and you’ll lose your job.
The sweet spot is to get a well-paid job that you are terrible at – but requires minimal effort and low stress (remember, stress is a killer). Anything else, and you are just plain stupid.

“But, but, but” I hear you cry, “what about being well paid and good at your job? Well, value to the company is hard to measure – take a job like safety or compliance – do it right and nothing happens, do it wrong and the costs are fatal. And when it comes to running successful projects , so much of what is considered success is political. If you fail the political test (and you won’t be told you failed), your career will have a dead-end.

So, the best course of action is to take more than you receive – chances are the company you work for is evil anyway.

The GFF Workaround

I’m only half joking. My own solution is to work as a contractor. If have time to do my work in and I bill for that time. If I do it faster, I get money + freedom. If I don’t do all the work, it’s not really my problem (except I get less pay).

I don’t have to give 110%, go the extra yard and if you
want me to attend a bullshit seminar on HR gobbledegook, you’ll have to pay me (generally, they realise it’s not worth it and exempt contractors from the BS fest).
There are downsides of being a contractor – but it ) works for me.

Back to the Story

So, the new job seems alright. I’ve got what looks like a year or two of steady work in an allied-field that should have value as experience. Experience is what is missing from the theory – if you aren’t gaining experience or enough money, you should consider
quitting.

My hope is that I can continue to WfH, keep myself busy, enjoy long holidays and days-off when I feel like it. And (subject to editing) the chance to type a blog post on a Friday afternoon.

I’ve got this new job by luck, or chance or goodwill and contacts. I may be hanging by a thread, but I’m still hanging in there.

Thanks, GFF.

Developing Good Self-Discipline In 10 Easy Steps Staying self-disciplined and on track can feel impossible in a world filled with constant distractions. Social media scrolling, addictive streaming shows, and the pressure to keep up with everyone else is endless. It’s no wonder many of us struggle to get things done. Trust me, I know the …

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Shein has become a go-to for fashion lovers looking for trendy styles without spending a fortune. You may wonder, “why is Shein cheap compared to other brands?” The answer isn’t as simple as a sale rack or discount code. Here are six secrets behind Shein’s pricing that might surprise you—and explain how they keep those price tags so low.

Fast Fashion Production

Shein is a master of fast fashion, producing new styles at lightning speed. They take cues from runway trends and influencers, quickly turning them into affordable designs. By operating with high-speed production, they can bring styles to customers before trends fade. This rapid turnover keeps costs down and shelves full of fresh, trendy items.

Direct-to-Consumer Model

Unlike traditional retailers, Shein operates as a direct-to-consumer brand, cutting out the middleman. They sell directly to customers through their online platform, avoiding the costs of physical stores and distributors. This allows them to keep prices lower than other brands with retail markups. When you shop with Shein, you’re buying directly from the source, which helps explain why Shein is cheap.

Overseas Manufacturing

A significant part of Shein’s pricing strategy comes from manufacturing overseas, primarily in China. Labor and production costs are considerably lower in these regions, which enables Shein to produce clothes affordably. By sourcing materials and manufacturing close to suppliers, they reduce shipping costs and turnaround times. While overseas production has its critics, it remains a core factor in Shein’s ability to offer low prices.

Mass Production for Lower Costs

Shein produces many of its items in bulk, driving down the cost per item. Mass production allows them to negotiate better prices on materials and supplies. This approach is common in fast fashion, where trends are replicated in large quantities to meet high demand. It’s an efficient way to offer a wide range of styles at a fraction of the cost.

Minimal Advertising Costs

Shein relies heavily on social media influencers and word-of-mouth marketing rather than traditional advertising. By partnering with influencers and encouraging customers to post on social media, they get high visibility without massive ad budgets. This strategy cuts down on costs that other brands might spend on commercials or billboards. It’s another reason why Shein is cheap while still managing to be widely recognized.

Streamlined Inventory and Shipping

Shein uses data analytics to predict which styles will sell, allowing them to manage inventory efficiently. Instead of overproducing, they produce limited runs and replenish only high-demand items. This minimizes unsold inventory and waste, keeping costs down and prices low. Streamlined shipping from centralized warehouses also contributes to their affordability, allowing them to pass savings on to customers.

Shein’s Formula for Affordable Fashion

Shein’s unique approach combines fast fashion, direct-to-consumer sales, and data-driven production to deliver trendy styles at unbeatable prices. By understanding the secrets behind why Shein is cheap, shoppers can see how this brand manages to offer budget-friendly options without sacrificing style. Next time you fill your cart, you’ll know exactly how those prices stay so low.

The post The 6 Hidden Secrets of Shein: How They Make Clothes So Cheap appeared first on Grocery Coupon Guide.

Retiring early sounds like a dream come true until you realize you’ll need a reliable health insurance plan to bridge the gap until Medicare kicks in. Without an employer covering your health insurance, finding affordable options can feel like navigating a maze. But don’t worry—there are solid options for securing early retirement health insurance, and you don’t have to break the bank to stay covered. Here are your best bets for staying healthy without sacrificing your financial freedom.

COBRA Coverage: Short-Term Security

COBRA lets you stay on your employer’s health plan for up to 18 months after leaving, which is a huge relief for many early retirees. While it can be pricier since you’re covering the full premium yourself, it provides the comfort of keeping the same benefits you’ve had for years. If you’re only a year or two away from Medicare eligibility, COBRA can serve as a reliable, short-term solution. This option can help bridge the gap without disrupting your existing healthcare routine.

Health Insurance Marketplace Plans

The Health Insurance Marketplace, created under the Affordable Care Act, is a popular choice for early retirement health insurance. These plans offer a range of options from bronze to platinum, covering basic to comprehensive needs. Depending on your retirement income, you may qualify for subsidies, which can bring your costs down significantly. The Marketplace lets you customize a plan that suits your new lifestyle without weighing down your wallet.

Short-Term Health Insurance: A Temporary Fix

If you’re looking for a cheaper, temporary solution, short-term health insurance could be worth exploring. These plans generally cover emergencies and catastrophic events, but they may lack the depth of standard health plans. While it’s not the most comprehensive option, it’s better than nothing for early retirees who are in good health and need to stay covered on a budget. Keep in mind, though, that short-term plans are limited in benefits and may not cover pre-existing conditions.

Health Sharing Plans: An Alternative Approach

Health sharing plans, offered by organizations often rooted in faith communities, pool resources among members to cover medical costs. While these aren’t technically health insurance, they can provide support for routine and emergency healthcare needs. This is a unique option that appeals to those who don’t mind a non-traditional approach to covering healthcare expenses. Just be aware that health sharing plans may come with specific requirements or restrictions.

High-Deductible Health Plans with an HSA

High-deductible health plans (HDHPs) paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA) are another viable option for early retirement health insurance. With an HSA, you can save pre-tax dollars for healthcare expenses, which can be a lifesaver when you’re managing costs on your own. The beauty of an HSA is that the funds roll over year after year, so anything you don’t use grows tax-free. This approach allows you to save and spend wisely while ensuring coverage in case of emergencies.

Find the Best Fit for Your Health and Wallet

Finding the right health insurance in early retirement doesn’t have to be a headache. From traditional options like COBRA to flexible choices like health sharing plans, there’s a solution for every budget and lifestyle. Explore your options and select a plan that keeps you healthy and secure, so you can enjoy retirement to the fullest.

The post Retiring Early? Here Are Your Best Health Insurance Options Explained appeared first on The Free Financial Advisor.

A weekend getaway with the guys doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, with a little planning, you can all enjoy a memorable adventure without watching your wallets drain. From road trips to budget-friendly accommodations, there are plenty of cheap ways to keep the fun high and the costs low. Here’s how to make the most of your weekend without spending a fortune.

Road Trips for Easy Adventures

When it comes to cheap ways to travel, you can’t beat a classic road trip. Just grab a reliable car, fill up the tank, and let the open road lead you to new adventures. Everyone can chip in for gas, and you’ll save big compared to airfare or other pricey transportation. Road trips also give you the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you like, adding flexibility to your travel plans.

Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Forget fancy hotels — budget-friendly accommodations are the way to go for a guys’ weekend. Look into renting an Airbnb or a cabin, which can often be cheaper than multiple hotel rooms and provide more space to hang out. Hostels are also a great option if you’re okay with a bit of a communal vibe. These affordable stays let you focus on the experience instead of worrying about high costs.

Explore Free Outdoor Activities

Nature is a treasure trove of free entertainment, and it doesn’t cost a thing to explore it. Hiking trails, lakes, and parks offer cheap ways to have a blast with the guys without opening your wallets. Plan a day of hiking, fishing, or even just hanging out by a scenic spot. These outdoor activities are perfect for bonding and require little more than snacks and good vibes.

Pack Your Own Food and Drinks

Eating out for every meal can add up quickly, so packing your own food and drinks is a smart move. Plan a grocery run before you leave, and stock up on snacks, sandwich supplies, and your favorite beverages. Not only will this save you cash, but it also gives you the flexibility to eat whenever hunger strikes. Plus, there’s nothing like a good tailgate or cookout with the guys to make the trip feel complete.

Take Advantage of Group Discounts

Many attractions and activities offer group discounts, which is one of the cheapest ways to enjoy weekend travel. Whether you’re hitting up a museum, a concert, or a sports game, buying tickets as a group can save you a nice chunk of change. Keep an eye out for these discounts when planning your itinerary. Saving a few bucks per person adds up fast and leaves more cash for other fun activities.

Consider Off-Peak Travel Times

Traveling during off-peak hours or seasons can drastically reduce your costs. Avoiding the usual rush of weekend travelers means cheaper prices on everything from accommodations to activities. If you can start your weekend early or go in the off-season, you’re likely to score better deals. This strategy stretches your budget and gives you access to places that might otherwise be out of reach.

Making the Most of the Weekend Without the Stress

Planning a memorable weekend with the guys doesn’t require a big budget—just a little creativity. With these cheap ways to travel, you can make the most of every dollar while having an unforgettable experience. So pack up, hit the road, and get ready for a weekend of laughs, adventure, and memories that won’t hurt your wallet.

The post Cheap Ways For Weekend Travel For You and The Guys appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.

Planning for retirement can be one of the most exciting yet challenging phases for couples. With so many retirement planning tools and resources available, finding the right guidance can feel overwhelming. Books can be a fantastic way for couples to dive into financial strategies together, learn from experts, and get on the same page about their retirement goals. Here’s a list of seven insightful books that are packed with practical advice and tailored to help couples plan for a fulfilling retirement.

1. The 5 Years Before You Retire by Emily Guy Birken

Emily Guy Birken’s The 5 Years Before You Retire is a must-read for couples approaching retirement. This book focuses on the critical five years leading up to retirement, a time when making the right decisions is crucial. Birken offers clear and practical advice on how to maximize savings, manage debt, and make informed decisions about Social Security. Couples will find tools and actionable steps to align their goals and ensure they’re financially prepared for retirement. Whether you’re nearing retirement or simply want to start early, this book offers valuable insights for any couple.

2. How Much Money Do I Need to Retire? by Todd R. Tresidder

How Much Money Do I Need to Retire? by Todd Tresidder tackles one of the most common questions in retirement planning: “How much money is enough?” Tresidder takes a deep dive into retirement planning tools and helps couples understand how to calculate their ideal savings goal. He offers easy-to-follow calculations, focusing on realistic spending and future income projections. Couples can use this book to evaluate their retirement budget and create a savings plan that fits their lifestyle. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense guide to knowing your retirement number.

3. Smart Couples Finish Rich by David Bach

David Bach’s Smart Couples Finish Rich is a classic in financial planning for couples, covering everything from saving to investment strategies. Bach’s unique approach centers on the idea that couples can grow wealth together while aligning their values and goals. With practical exercises, this book guides couples through budgeting, retirement accounts, and smart investment choices. Couples will find a step-by-step plan to improve their finances while building a strong partnership. This book is ideal for those looking to make retirement planning a team effort.

4. Retire Inspired: It’s Not an Age, It’s a Financial Number by Chris Hogan

Chris Hogan’s Retire Inspired shifts the focus from retirement age to a financial goal, emphasizing that retirement should be about reaching a specific financial number. The book provides a variety of retirement planning tools and strategies for budgeting, debt management, and saving. Hogan’s advice is practical, straightforward, and perfect for couples wanting to retire on their own terms. He also includes inspiring stories and real-life examples that encourage readers to take charge of their retirement journey. It’s a motivational and strategic guide to achieving financial independence as a couple.

5. The New Retirementality by Mitch Anthony

Mitch Anthony’s The New Retirementality redefines retirement planning, moving away from traditional views of aging and financial dependence. This book encourages readers to think of retirement as a time for purposeful living and explores ways to integrate meaningful work into retirement. It offers practical retirement planning tools that help couples align their financial resources with their desired lifestyle. With a focus on flexibility and planning for longer lives, Anthony’s approach is refreshing for couples wanting an unconventional retirement. It’s an excellent read for those looking to balance finance and life purpose in retirement.

6. Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez

Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez is a financial classic that provides a holistic approach to money and life. This book encourages couples to assess their spending habits, think deeply about their values, and design a life that doesn’t revolve around consumerism. It covers essential retirement planning tools, including budgeting, debt reduction, and investment advice. The authors’ philosophy on financial independence is especially appealing to couples looking to live simply and sustainably in retirement. This book can help couples set realistic, meaningful retirement goals together.

7. The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey’s The Total Money Makeover is a straightforward, step-by-step guide to achieving financial freedom. Ramsey offers a series of baby steps that cover everything from paying off debt to building an emergency fund and saving for retirement. This book is ideal for couples who need help building a strong financial foundation and want to eliminate debt before focusing on retirement. Ramsey’s no-nonsense advice provides retirement planning tools that couples can follow together to achieve financial peace. With a clear and motivational tone, this book is a great choice for couples wanting to transform their financial lives.

Planning for a Happy, Financially Secure Retirement Together

Exploring retirement planning books as a couple can bring you closer while setting a strong financial foundation for your future. These seven books offer a variety of retirement planning tools, from calculating how much you need to redefine what retirement can look like. With insights from leading financial experts, couples can tackle everything from debt reduction to creating a purposeful retirement lifestyle. By approaching retirement as a team, you can make the journey to financial security smoother and more enjoyable. Grab a book, start the conversation, and look forward to a fulfilling retirement together!

Mama June, born June Shannon, rose to fame as the matriarch of the hit reality TV series Here Comes Honey Boo Boo. Her larger-than-life personality captivated audiences, and the show gave fans an inside look at the family’s everyday life and Southern charm. As her fame grew, so did her financial ups and downs. Over the years, Mama June’s net worth has fluctuated significantly due to her personal struggles, career choices, and reality TV earnings. In this article, we’ll explore Mama June’s net worth journey and how reality TV fame has both helped and hindered her financial life.

Early Fame and the Launch of Here Comes Honey Boo Boo

Mama June became a household name in 2012 with the debut of Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, a spin-off of Toddlers & Tiaras featuring her daughter, Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson. The show was a success, with audiences drawn to the family’s humor and unconventional lifestyle. This newfound fame opened doors to endorsement deals and lucrative contracts, significantly boosting her income. The show ran for four seasons, with Mama June earning an estimated $50,000 per episode at its peak. Her early success on reality TV quickly increased her wealth and public visibility.

Mama June’s Net Worth: Financial Struggles and Personal Challenges

Despite her rise in earnings, Mama June faced significant personal and financial challenges that impacted her net worth. After Here Comes Honey Boo Boo was canceled in 2014 due to family controversies, her income decreased dramatically. Legal troubles, substance abuse issues, and personal setbacks further drained her finances. In 2019, Mama June and her boyfriend were arrested on drug charges, which led to rehab expenses and legal fees. These personal challenges not only affected her life but also put a substantial dent in her finances, causing her net worth to decline.

A Fresh Start: Mama June: From Not to Hot

In 2017, Mama June made a comeback with her show Mama June: From Not to Hot, which documented her weight loss journey and health transformation. The show was a hit, helping her regain fame and a steady income. Mama June: From Not to Hot reportedly paid her up to $25,000 per episode, bringing a fresh stream of revenue. Her transformation also led to endorsement deals related to health and wellness products, which further boosted her earnings. The show’s success marked a financial turnaround for Mama June and showed her resilience in the face of adversity.

Reality TV Earnings and Endorsement Deals

Beyond the income from her TV shows, Mama June leveraged her reality TV fame into various endorsement deals. She promoted weight loss products and lifestyle brands and even appeared in sponsored content on social media. These deals offered her an additional income source, though it’s estimated they were less lucrative than her TV contracts. As a reality TV personality, social media became an important platform for her to connect with fans and earn money through sponsored posts. These endorsements have been essential in supplementing her income, particularly when her television appearances slowed down.

Mama June’s Net Worth

As of 2023, Mama June’s net worth is estimated to be around $50,000 to $100,000, a modest figure compared to her peak earnings during her early TV years. Her financial journey has been marked by highs and lows, largely influenced by her personal life and reality TV income. Legal fees, rehab costs, and family issues significantly impacted her wealth, making it challenging to maintain long-term financial stability. Despite her struggles, she continues to earn from occasional media appearances and endorsement deals. Mama June’s current net worth reflects both the opportunities and pitfalls of a reality TV career.

The post Mama June’s Financial Turnaround: How Reality TV Fame Impacted Her Net Worth appeared first on Plunged in Debt.