Household Math™: Mortgage Math
by Scott Bilker
The interest rate on my mortgage is 7% APR with monthly payments of $623.00. The balance this morning is $59,200.00. My payment of $623 will arrive this afternoon and be credited to my account today. What will the balance be on the mortgage next month immediately after the monthly payment is applied to the balance?
Message from the publisher 1/12/05 (cable)
by Scott Bilker
Hi. First off, I want to wish you a Happy New Year! And I hope you enjoy this first 2005 issue of the DebtSmart Email Newsletter! In the "Letter from the publisher" section, I have, in the past, created a video message instead of a written letter. However, the majority of readers prefer the text as well so, I'm trying to combine the text and video to deliver as much information as possible in a manner that everyone likes.
Stealing from people of faith
by Scott Bilker
Click-click-clicking through the channels...hmmm, what's on TV tonight? Look at this, B.E.T. is running a show about God with Pastor Robert Tilton. He is a fairly convincing speaker like many of his televangelist cohorts, but what's his message? You may think it is the same message as the majority of these charismatic "shepherds" however, this guy caught my attention when he said to call for his free booklet titled, "How to Pay Your Bills Supernaturally."
How are you buying a car with credit cards?
by Scott Bilker
Scott, Mechanically, how are you completing the transaction? I've heard some dealerships don't accept credit card purchases (because of the CC discount?).
Credit card company insulted me and made me wait
by Scott Bilker
Dear Scott, I can't figure it out, my car broke down and I had to shell out 1300 in cash. I applied for a card with auto service place and was declined! My credit score is 736!
Debtsmart Presidential Survey Results
by Scott Bilker
Most people responded that Kerry is more on the side of consumers, and most said that Kerry would be better at protecting us from the banks. However, most feel that they have a better chance of getting out of debt under a Bush presidency.
Chronic Debtor Help!
by Scott Bilker
Scott, If one is an alcoholic there are so many places to turn for help. If there were a hospital for debtors I would check myself in immediately. I tried going to Spenders and Debtors support groups however, I was very discouraged by the fact that many people who were there had multiple addictions (mainly drug and alcohol). It didn't seem like an environment that would benefit me. Please help!--Michelle
How I Made an Easy $1,800 Profit with My Credit Cards
by Scott Bilker
Hi Scott, I recently heard you on NPR radio 90.9 FM WBUR from Boston. I was interested in how you borrowed from your credit card at a low interest rate and then invested it in a CD and earned about $1800. Which of your books covers that interesting topic? I'd like to know more! Thanks, Leo
Low-rate money for life--what do I do?
by Scott Bilker
Dear Scott, I constantly call my credit card companies to find out about special deals. My question is with interest rates going up, is it safe to wait until September, or should I make the transfer right away?--Jesse
Household Math™: Fast Mortgage Payoff
by Scott Bilker
Dear Scott, My question is, I want to pay my $138,000, 5.125% APR, 15-year mortgage, off early. We just refinanced. My first payment is July 7th. We plan on making one extra mortgage payment a year but I would like to add an extra $100.00 monthly to principal only. By doing these two extras, how early will I pay my mortgage off?--Leah
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