Manual or automatic? The debate has raged for many years, ever since automatic transmission technology became good enough to popularize these easy-driving vehicles. Once upon a time, almost every car on the road used a manual transmission, and learning to expertly release the clutch and shift gears was an immutable fact of growing up. Now,...
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It’s no secret that gas prices have soared over the last year. In fact, we’ve seen gasoline prices skyrocket by almost 50% since September of 2020 across the country. The reasons behind this increase in gas prices vary, ranging from disparities in refining and retail costs to disruption in oil distribution and fluctuations in taxes...
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Where once it felt like a far off promise of modern technology, nowadays owning an electric vehicle is a very real option. From environmental benefits to comparative costs of fuel, there are many factors to consider when deciding if your next car will be an EV or not. “There’s a lot to consider,” says Lauren...
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Learning how to live on your own can be an exciting time in your life, but it’s also a big and costly transition. One of the first and most important decisions you’ll need to make involves finding a place to live that fits your budget. Because this is typically your largest expense, it raises the...
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Are you renovating your home? Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, make sure you do it right the first time. Home projects can take a big bite out of your budget and your time if they’re not done properly. Here are some of the most common home renovations mistakes to avoid: 1....
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Going from renting an apartment to owning a home is a big step that can impact your finances and your lifestyle. It’s important to understand the pros and cons before making a decision, and you’ll also have to weigh your needs. You may want more room and autonomy over your living space. Or you may...
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Paying attention to detail during a test drive can save you a headache later, even if you’re only test driving new cars. Still, nearly 50% of Americans say they spent 30 minutes or less test driving a car before they buy. Whether you’re buying new or used, test driving a car is an important part...
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You’re ready to hit the high seas for your cruise, but is your suitcase? Packing for a cruise, unlike a land-based getaway, means a different set of rules. If you’re wondering what to bring on a cruise, here are the essentials you need to enjoy your vacation: Appropriate Attire and Accessories 1. Sneakers Just because...
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Among car enthusiasts, the debate over big block vs. small block engines is one that can ignite lively discussions and strong opinions. Many drivers prefer one over the other, but the fact is that both big blocks and small blocks have their own advantages. What is a small block engine? While the term doesn’t always...
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You’ve reached the final phase of your motorcycle preparation journey: Buying your bike. An exciting step, but with so many types of motorcycles to choose from, a confusing one, too. Review this motorcycle-buying guide to become a confident, informed shopper and rider. Find out what motorcycle type is right for you and what to consider...
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A second house might be an investment, a vacation property or a combination of the two. Regardless of its intended use, a rising number of people are purchasing residential real estate. They see real estate as a safer investment than other investments that might come with increased risks. A National Association of Realtors survey showed...
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For Millennials, figuring out how and where to save money and invest it is a little trickier than for previous generations. In many ways this group has the same financial concerns of previous generations. They might be paying off student debt, saving for a house, putting money into retirement accounts, building an emergency fund and...
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VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number, a string of characters that identifies a car. Every passenger vehicle manufactured for U.S. sale since 1981 has a standardized VIN, while the VINs on older cars may vary in length and character type depending on the manufacturer. How many numbers are in a VIN? Each VIN consists of...
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One of the best ways to travel around the country is in a recreational vehicle. RVs are spacious, save you money on hotels, and many come with all the amenities and comforts you need in your day-to-day life. To ensure that you, your loved ones, your belongings and your RV are protected, you should purchase...
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There can be many factors that influence how much someone spends on an engagement ring. Though traditional standards suggest spending two to three months’ salary on a ring, many couples are now challenging the old rules and taking more personalized approaches. A recent study estimates the average price of an engagement ring is $5,855. Still,...
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