How Spaces Make Us Spend

Architectural detail of a building’s corner, showcasing the curve of its arch design

I have a question for the experts about architecture and businesses. I’ve been thinking lately about how big box stores are all laid out the same way, and how certain types of businesses have distinctive buildings with specific architectural features. What can the experts tell me about how commercial spaces draw us in and make … Read more

Making Ends Meet

A tip jar with coins

I’m not a wealthy person, and given my college major and career plans, I don’t think I’m going to be super wealthy in the future. That’s okay with me, and I plan to live pretty frugally and carefully to ensure that I can be comfortable and as financially secure as possible for as long as … Read more

Debating New Versus Used Car

Tower-shaped cylindrical showroom with hundreds of cars neatly stacked across multiple floors

I could use some guidance. I’m a college senior who’s graduating at the end of May, with a degree in sociology. I already have a job lined up in Sacramento, which means I’m planning to move there and start my life as a full-fledged adult. I was lucky enough not to need a car during … Read more

Big Purchases, Small Bank Accounts

Coins spilling out from a jar

I’m graduating soon, and I’m already worried about my finances. One thing that I keep thinking about is the fact that I have some big expenses coming up that are going to be unavoidable. If I go where I expect to for work, I need to rent a place to live, buy a car, and … Read more

The Power of Water

A damp basement with water leakage

My childhood home is in rough shape. While I’ve been away at college, my parents have been dealing with flooding problems in the basement. It’s not a burst pipe or anything; the water comes in from outside, somehow. It apparently ruined a bunch of our stuff, and could even cause structural issues in our house, … Read more

Understanding Economies of Scale

A shopkeeper enthusiastically selling beans

I saw something on the news about Amazon’s deal with the United States Postal Service recently. I’m not sure I understand everything that’s going on with it, but I have to say that I find it kind of fishy that Amazon can afford to deliver stuff to me so cheaply. My parents have Amazon Prime, … Read more

Hawking An Australian Abode

Several pins placed on various points across a map of Australia

I am a dual citizen of the US and Australia, going to college in the United States. My siblings (all older) and I recently lost our mother, and with it we have decided to sell her house. We are going to split the costs and profits of selling it. My brother and sister are in … Read more

Investing in Assets

A person counting coins

I’m a college senior this year, and graduation is getting closer for me. It’s starting to feel very real! I’m excited to get out there into the “real  world,” but I’m also really scared about some things. A big thing for me is saving for retirement. I expect to have a decent job, but I … Read more

How Much Are Motorcycle Batteries? A Buyer’s Guide

A sleek black motorbike

Motorcycles are incredibly popular in the U.S. Out of every 36 people you meet, one has a bike of their own. Given the landscape of America, it’s easy to understand why. With over 3.7 million square miles to explore in this expansive country—from the coasts of California to the Everglades in Florida—the lure of hopping on a … Read more

Should You Buy or Rent?

Apartment building

It’s a question that’s existed for as long as there have been homes to buy and rent: What should you do, buy or rent? The debate rages on all around the world, and it’s easy to see why. Both buying and renting have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages, and there is simply no one right … Read more