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§ Guides
33 guides, organized by where you are in life.
Clear, jargon-free explanations of the financial topics that matter most. Written like a smart friend who happens to know money.
Housing
10 housing guides
Plain-English walkthroughs for the housing decisions on your plate.
Housing · 8 min
Auto Loans Explained: How to Get the Best Rate
Everything you need to know about auto loans -- how rates are set, ideal loan terms, and strategies to lower your monthly payment.
Housing · 8 min
How to Buy a Car Without Overspending
A practical guide to car affordability, including the 10-15% rule, new vs used math, and how to negotiate the best deal.
Housing · 7 min
Understanding Compound Interest: Your Money's Best Friend
How compound interest works, why starting early matters more than investing more, and how to make it work for you.
Housing · 5 min
Your First Apartment: A Financial Checklist
Everything you need to budget for when getting your first apartment -- beyond just the rent.
Housing · 7 min
How Much House Can You Afford? A Complete Guide
A deep dive into home affordability -- DTI ratios, down payment strategies, PMI costs, hidden expenses, and the gap between what lenders approve and what you can comfortably spend.
Housing · 8 min
How Much House Can You Actually Afford?
A realistic guide to home affordability -- beyond the bank's pre-approval number, using the 28/36 rule and real math.
Housing · 6 min
Insurance 101: What You Actually Need (and What You Don't)
A practical guide to understanding insurance types, what's essential at each life stage, and how to avoid overpaying.
Housing · 7 min
How Mortgage Payments Actually Work
A clear breakdown of principal, interest, taxes, and insurance -- and how to lower your monthly payment.
Housing · 7 min
How Much Rent Can You Really Afford?
The real math behind rent affordability -- beyond the 30% rule. Factor in your actual expenses and lifestyle.
Housing · 6 min
Rent vs Buy: The Real Math Behind the Decision
A comprehensive analysis of renting versus buying -- beyond the cliches. Factor in opportunity cost, transaction costs, and your actual timeline.