Quotes of the Day

Passions are the best topics of conversation, particularly if you have a few in common. [2013] - Laurie Davis

When you want to invest in precious metals as a hedge against inflation, your best option is to do so through mutual funds or ETFs. Don't purchase precious-metal futures (they are short-term gambles). We also recommend staying away from firms and shops that sell coins and bullion (bars of gold or silver). Even if you can find a legitimate firm (not an easy task), the cost of storing and insuring gold and silver is quite costly. You won't get good value for your money - markups can be substantial. [2019] - Eric Tyson

Seller financing has a few key benefits over a regular sale: 1. Possibly higher sale price (buyer is more concerned about the terms). 2. Lower tax bill (you pay only on the income received in a given year). 3. Ongoing passive income. If you plan to use seller financing, just be sure to hire a lawyer and do your homework, because there are numerous laws that must be followed, as well as some general best practices. Also, the person you sell to matters, so screen them carefully and require a sizable down payment. [2015] - Brandon Turner

Your photo: Eye contact with the camera signals trust and openness; a genuine smile signals approachability, confidence, and happiness, and open body language signals you're open as a person. A lifestyle portrait generally looks more intimate when the subject is leaning (slightly) forward or sideways with one elbow on something, and when his or her shoulders are not as symmetrical as they would be in a passport photo. Look at a few fashion magazine covers and you'll see what I mean. [2004] - Nicholas Boothman

A home equity loan and a home equity line of credit are similar but have a few major differences. The loan is typically taken out all at one time and paid back in installments until it is paid off, much like a typical mortgage or car loan. The interest rate and payment are generally fixed for the life of the loan (but they don't have to be). A home equity line of credit is a revolving account that works much like a credit card. You can borrow as much as you want, up to the limit, pay it back, and then borrow again These lines of credit generally have lower interest rates than home equity loans, but those rates are generally variable and so can rise or fall. [2015] - Brandon Turner