I think it is a great time to buy the right house at the right price. Just like you said earlier about stocks!
We lived in Oklahoma City for 6 years in the early 70's. During that time we bought and sold 3 houses. Lived in all of them and made a lot of money. I remember trying to explain what I was doing to an older co worker. (I was only about 30 at the time). He told me I was crazy and would lose my butt, but I knew better. I was making about $20 thousand a year at my job and we ended up making over $40,000. on those 3 houses. All tax free because we always reinvested.
We needed all of it when I got promoted to the Home Office in San Francisco in 1978. Talk about sticker shock. We bought a new house about 50 miles north of San Francisco up in Sonoma County. We were only there one year before they sent me to Kansas City. Made $15,000. on that house.
I remember trying to explain what I was doing to an older co worker. (I was only about 30 at the time). He told me I was crazy and would lose my butt, but I knew better.
So much depends on the condition of the market. In times of rising house prices you'd have to try really hard not to make a profit. However, were're not in a rising market at the moment, and in many places it still has a long way further to go as more and more repossessed properties get released onto the marketplace.
In a rising market you can buy a house and realize a profit by doing nothing more than sitting on it for a couple of years. In current times you not only need to be able to buy at a very advantageous price, you also need to add significant value to it to get ahead of the competition.
It sure is and at times like this I feel guilty, very guilty.
Maybe I shouldn’t say this but since I don’t believe in jinxes, I will. I’ve never had it so good. I thought I was retired once and for all in early ’06 after working for my old employer on and off as a consultant, after I was offered a full early retirement package at the end of ’96. Wrong. They talked me into coming back again, coincidentally, at this time in May 2007.
I don’t remember how many times I said no but they were relentless. I thank our maker every night that I still have my health and I’m having the best time of my life doing something I really enjoy for more compensation than I ever thought possible. Even have more respect now than when I was a regular 40 hour a week grunt. It’s amazing what happens when they keep calling you after hearing a few, “thanks, but I’m not interested”.
As for the down-turn of the market in the Summer of ’08, I was lucky there too. I got out around April/May, all fixed income until about 7 months ago.
I better stop now before something bad does happen.
I hope this didn’t come across as chest-thumping because I’m not nearly as good as I am lucky.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
but when the tax laws changed, leasing wasn’t beneficial for him anymore.
This is the only point you slightly disagreed with. When I started my business it was easier to lease to get the car tax deduction. I just took 90% business expense and wrote that off. Now that the business is larger and accountants are looking after taxes, they can write it down as depreciating. But, I think it is easier to write down a leased car, if you are doing your own taxes.
The other points made the case that leasing is suitable for some people in some situations. Even the last guy really got what he wanted.....not the smartest move from a financial standpoint, but, it worked for him.
I hope this didn’t come across as chest-thumping because I’m not nearly as good as I am lucky.
It isn't chest thumping...........and though you think it was luck it was also your doing too. You worked hard and the company wanted you to stay on. As for getting out of fixed incomes...you thought it through and believed it was time to get into equities. Few things happen because of dumb luck...you were thinking it all through, took the risk, and won.
I would add to that list the number one rule of real estate---location, location, location. I realize that many older homes and fixer uppers aren't in the best neighborhoods, but you still need to be careful. Our 14 houses were our homes. We were very particular about location. I think that factor contributed to our large profits on each. In addition, the house sells better if it is furnished. We are pretty good at staging a house and it does help. Staging is time consuming and must stay in that condition day after day. Many people don't have the patience to do that each morning for several weeks or months. It can be a pain to have a spotless bath, kitchen, fresh flowers, every newspaper and magazine put away, etc. for days on end. One thing that helps a little is to have a 24 hour showing notice in your contract. Still, there are those sudden prospective buyers who are only in town for one day. You hate to miss an opportunity. You just have to be organized, flexible, and patient to carry off this kind of thing.
"...for more compensation than I ever thought possible."
I felt the same exact way. I was amazed at what they were willing to pay after I retired. My former superintendent asked me to come out of retirement. When I shared what I was making as a consultant, he admitted that he couldn't pay that amount. Still, it was nice to know that I was still wanted by the board of education. It's funny how they didn't show it very often when I was on board full time. There is a lot to be said about showing your employees appreciation. That's one thing that I really tried to do for my teachers---praise and plenty of thank-you's.
I disagree. You lost your job, picked yourself up, and went into business for yourself. That takes courage, imagination, and stamina. Losing a job can mess with your head---low self-esteem, depression, hopelessness, etc. I admire you for not allowing other people to rain on your parade. Fezo is a lot like that from a medical point of view. He's like the Energizer Bunny---just keeps on keeping on. That's the quality and character of the people on this thread---good people who work hard, love their country, and take care of their families. I wish that I could put each one of you in a classroom to teach our young people these vital lessons. Our parents were the Great Generation, but I like to feel that we kept most of that going during our lives.
That's the quality and character of the people on this thread---good people who work hard, love their country, and take care of their families.
I am amazed at the quality of the people on this thread. I didn't expect to find people who are so industrious, knowledgeable, sensible and so well informed on a variety of topics.
Buying and selling houses, taking risks, still working after being retired, helping children get a university or college education - and not one anarchist or truthy in the group....I am very impressed.
Do I get to post about buying every time I break out an AMEX card and get a car at the airport? I can upgrade into a Caddy with the best of them.
Watch out for the "upgrade," especially depending on what company you rent with. My S.O. travels most weeks, and his company uses Enterprise (about to switch, thankfully). He landed in Norfolk last week to pick up his company-mandated midsize car. It was a Mazda2 (I originally thought it was a Venza). Really?? I guess if he'd gone with economy or compact he'd have been looking at a SmartCar or a bicycle.
He complained to the manager, and they gave him a bunch of free upgrade cards, but I'd love your secret to getting into a Caddy, because I'm anticipating the best he'll do is a Charger.
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It is like getting a different type of car (like a Genny when you are an Avalon person), because it seemed OK on a test drive.
Does that happen? :P
Hopefully, you worked out the TV situation with the adjustments. Also, some TVs have different presets you can program. You could have one for say, Sports and then a different one for regular TV.
As for new sets, I stopped in HH Gregg the other day and really wouldn't mind a new LED/LCD set for the living room. Its just hard to justify getting rid of a perfectly good set.
Isell, great point on the investing. It was hard to watch the money in my 401K go down a few years back, but, I didn't panic and it has completely recovered. There are some people that moved into safer investments and aren't even close to getting their money back.
Driver, leasing just works for some people. It really is just planned depreciation. I know that I want a new car every three years. I am going to have a car payment regardless and leasing just makes the whole process easier. Does it cost more? Probably, but not as much as everyone makes it out to be. Maintenance costs are mucn less and if resale on a particular model takes a hit, you are removed from that risk. Think of all the people who wanted to dump their Tahoes, and Expeditions. If they were leased they just walk away.
The way you really save in buying cars is to just buy a two year old one and drive it until the wheels fall off.
Many people don't have the patience to do that each morning for several weeks or months. It can be a pain to have a spotless bath, kitchen, fresh flowers, every newspaper and magazine put away, etc. for days on end.
I don't know how you lived through that 14 times. We have moved 4 times in 16 years and the worst part is keeping the house clean when perspective buyers are coming to look.
The worst house was one that had a living room that was formerly a 150 year old log cabin. In the spring fly eggs hatch and there are 1000 flies all over the windows on the inside...they come in during the fall and lay their eggs. (log cabins sound like a good idea in theory, but this is one of the biggest problems with them).
When someone came to see the house we would rush around with the vacuum cleaner and gather up all the flies...then hope the people weren't late or all the flies would be back.
Eventually the right person came along and they have lived there for 15 years now, so I guess they didn't mind the flies.
I know that I want a new car every three years. I am going to have a car payment regardless and leasing just makes the whole process easier.
Perfect example of how a lease can work for some people. If you are going to trade in your car in 3 years it might actually cost less to lease, especially as you say, the car you drive is out of favor when you are ready for a new car.
I am not saying leasing is better, but, it is the best solution for some people in some situations.....It isn't right to say, "It is always better to buy than to lease a car".
Masonic rings, NRA patches and HAM radio call signs are helpful.
Get a remark on one of those and agree with the car assigner 100%.
I got a Deville out of Norfolk in July and when we hit a 1 hour delay on the DC beltway it was a lifesaver. Outside temp was 100. My temp was 69 in the Caddy as others were getting out of their cars that began to overheat.
k last week to pick up his company-mandated midsize car. It was a Mazda2
The car sizes car rental companies just are not operating in the real world. I checked Budget for a one week rental in Chicago...it isn't cheap. An economy car - Accent was $440. Move up to a compact - Focus $450 (they say just $1 a day more but with taxes.....) Intermediate - Dodge Avenger $468 Standard is a Fusion for $477 Full size Impala $495 SUV Escape $586 Premium Grand Marque $605 Premium SUV Ford Edge 2 wheel drive $608. Not sure why an Avenger is an intermediate and a Fusion is a standard. They seem to be the same to me and I thought a Fusion was a compact Ford. A Grand Marque is a full size and an Impala is standard.
Guess some marketing genius figured that one out.
I also wonder why an Escape is a lot more to rent than a Fusion when the cost of the car isn't much more. Maybe the depreciation is a factor.
If you are a frequent renter, IMHO no-one has a better deal than National. If you are a base member of "Emerald Aisle" you pay for a mid-size and then get to pick whatever they have on the aisle. This is usually small SUVs, Impalas, Chargers, Minivans, etc. Once in a while if stock is low you get lucky and they have premium cara such as a Caddy, or a Maxima.
If you are a road warrior and have the credits for Executive Selection or whatever they call it now you always end up in something nice , while paying mid-size price (Caddies, Town Cars, Convertibles)
One fellow at the tennis club likes to buy used cars and he keeps them until they fall apart. He wanted to buy a Toyota Matrix but he said he tested it on a windy day and it was blowing all over the road...said it felt unsafe. So he tried a Mazda 6...6 cylinder and it wasn't a problem at all. He said if you are buying a car he suggests taking it for a test drive on a really windy day.
I once had to drive an Aerostar van on a windy day and it also blew all over the place. It also had "zero" traction on ice. The wind test might be worthwhile if considering a smaller car....as the rental car companies classify them, an economy or compact car.
Note: Just to be clear, the tennis club costs $500 a year - no extra fees for court time, it is a city court, volunteers all help....it isn't a fancy club.
They used to be with Hertz, and that was his fave because you didn't have to wait in line - EVER - or talk to anyone. Walk into the rental area, your last name was on a board, with the space number of your rental vehicle. Walk to the space, keys are in the car, drive away. Cars weren't incredible or anything, but you could pretty reliably predict what you were going to get in the class you reserved.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
One fellow at the tennis club likes to buy used cars and he keeps them until they fall apart. He wanted to buy a Toyota Matrix but he said he tested it on a windy day and it was blowing all over the road...said it felt unsafe. So he tried a Mazda 6...6 cylinder and it wasn't a problem at all. He said if you are buying a car he suggests taking it for a test drive on a really windy day.
That's actually a good idea. Or if you're properly located, get at least a little bit of exposure to highway driving, i.e. higher speeds and big trucks.
Something about those Corollas... you might think it would be small cars in general, but for some reason the Toyotas are worse... they dance around a LOT in a crosswind.
I wish that I could put each one of you in a classroom to teach our young people these vital lessons.
I want one of those deals where they will highly compensate me for this. It would be so different from what I'm used to.
The accomplishment of plugging along despite medical maladies is its own reward but I'd rather have one that would reward me with, say, enough to take the family to the Caribbean....
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
The Dow is down 154 right now. You have to look at it as a buying opportunity. One day it will go higher than where it was. Seems Italy and Greece are in debt once again...so every one panics. The world didn't end when it was supposed to on Saturday. It might take a few days to get over this one, but one day this too shall pass. (I think I used "too" correctly).
>an expensive Buick with a stick and no roof. Hope he doesn't want to trade out of this any time soon!
That would be exactly what myself and many people want. I dislike the packaging some cars have that additional options are only available in packages with sunroofs (moonroofs, whatever) and Nav.
Me too. For example, when I bought my car you pretty much had no choice on getting a moonroof (unless you wanted absolute base model). I really wanted HID headlights and they were unavailable without getting NAV and parking sensors.
I know that the manufacturers can't be profitable making a thousand different configurations like years ago, but $4000 option packages suck.
>I don't know how you lived through that 14 times.
I've moved enough times, but fewer than a whole lot of people, so that whenever I see the UHaul trucks with the "Adventure in Moving" slogan across them, I have a profane response to their motto--I certainly wouldn't call it "adventure."
"...just buy a two year old one and drive it until the wheels fall off."
I agree. Though I have bought plenty of new cars, I have had good success with those that were one or two years old---and saved quite a bit of money. My Town Car, Explorer, Tahoe, and Sebring convertible were all one year old cars. They were all beautiful and proved extremely realiable. My SRX is the same way. I could have had a new SRX but I didn't like the new body style, remember? I bought a new Jeep Cherokee, a new Ford Granada, and that Cadillac DeVille---all duds. IMHO, new doesn't always mean better. I bought three new Buicks years ago, and they were great cars. I do think that buying a one or two year old car makes sense, especially from a money stand point. Whether new or old, it's all a risk. You just have to do the homework and call your best shot.
We passed a UHaul yesterday that invited people to visit emove.com. Wow! What a great idea! Move using modern technology. Of course I presume that means you can just take all of your stuff, put it in a WinZip file, and ftp it to your new location.
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I would add to that list the number one rule of real estate---location, location, location. ...........In addition, the house sells better if it is furnished.
Absolutely, on both counts. I also agree that it can be very tiring keeping a house in 'show' condition 24/7, although there are a few people to whom it comes naturally, or pehaps it's just OCD? :surprise:
I disagree. You lost your job, picked yourself up, and went into business for yourself. That takes courage, imagination, and stamina. ..................... I admire you for not allowing other people to rain on your parade.
While I wish that warm approbation was really for me, I think it was actually meant for someone more deserving, maybe jmonroe?
"...you were going to get in the class you reserved..."
I read somewhere that you should always reserve the cheapest class car possible because they are the ones the rental place runs out of first and you get a free upgrade.
Never happened to me but I don't rent very often.
I always give my rentals a good looking over before driving away. Once I rented a little Kia and found a big dent in the bumper. I made the reservation agent write an acknowledgment on the contract so they couldn't blame me for it. The dirty look I got from her told me that was just what she was planning on doing.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I agree. Though I have bought plenty of new cars, I have had good success with those that were one or two years old---and saved quite a bit of money.
That's been the case with my wife's 2004 X3; we bought it when it was a year old and had 16K miles on it. It now has 114K and it looks and drives like a new car. We paid off the loan @14 months after we bought it. I LOVE not having car payments. For now, anyway... :P
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
While I wish that warm approbation was really for me, I think it was actually meant for someone more deserving, maybe jmonroe?
Don't try to pin that one on me. I'm the lucky one, remember.
The only one in here that I know of who got canned and started his own successful businees is 'driver'. You'd think with all the books he's been involved with he'd have read a couple of the words in few of them at least. Then his spelling would be better but nooo he only looks at the pictures. :confuse:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I read somewhere that you should always reserve the cheapest class car possible because they are the ones the rental place runs out of first and you get a free upgrade.
I can attest to that. In fact it happened to me at least a handful of times when I was a working stiff and had to travel.
However, the very best one I ran into was when my middle brother and I went to Florida in July of ’07. I was picking up the tab for the rental but he made the reservations so he’s the one that went to the counter to get the car. The guy at the counter said, “how bout a nice upgrade to a full size today sir?” My brother and I talked about this and if the price was right I would spring for that too since he invited us for a free stay via his time share thingy. Well, the upgrade price was ridiculous so he said, “nah, I’ll stay with the mid size”. The guy then made a lower offer but he still refused. He has the paperwork put in front of him for his signature but he noticed that the car is a full size (Grand Marquis, that I talked about back then) so he said, “hey, I just said I didn’t want the upgrade” as he gives the paper back to the guy. The guy said, “that’s all we have ready to go so you get it for the mid size price”. :surprise:
As I’ve mentioned a few posts back, I’m going to Florida again with this same brother next week (same free offer, nice brother, huh?) and he booked the car again but we’re onto this rental car ploy thing this time at Ft. Lauderdale. :shades:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I have had the exact same scenario happen to me before. It must be common practice. Imagine how many people just pay for the upgrade, when you don't really have to.
Comments
We lived in Oklahoma City for 6 years in the early 70's. During that time we bought and sold 3 houses. Lived in all of them and made a lot of money. I remember trying to explain what I was doing to an older co worker. (I was only about 30 at the time). He told me I was crazy and would lose my butt, but I knew better. I was making about $20 thousand a year at my job and we ended up making over $40,000. on those 3 houses. All tax free because we always reinvested.
We needed all of it when I got promoted to the Home Office in San Francisco in 1978. Talk about sticker shock. We bought a new house about 50 miles north of San Francisco up in Sonoma County. We were only there one year before they sent me to Kansas City. Made $15,000. on that house.
Is this a great country or what ??
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
So much depends on the condition of the market. In times of rising house prices you'd have to try really hard not to make a profit.
However, were're not in a rising market at the moment, and in many places it still has a long way further to go as more and more repossessed properties get released onto the marketplace.
In a rising market you can buy a house and realize a profit by doing nothing more than sitting on it for a couple of years.
In current times you not only need to be able to buy at a very advantageous price, you also need to add significant value to it to get ahead of the competition.
It sure is and at times like this I feel guilty, very guilty.
Maybe I shouldn’t say this but since I don’t believe in jinxes, I will. I’ve never had it so good. I thought I was retired once and for all in early ’06 after working for my old employer on and off as a consultant, after I was offered a full early retirement package at the end of ’96. Wrong. They talked me into coming back again, coincidentally, at this time in May 2007.
I don’t remember how many times I said no but they were relentless. I thank our maker every night that I still have my health and I’m having the best time of my life doing something I really enjoy for more compensation than I ever thought possible. Even have more respect now than when I was a regular 40 hour a week grunt. It’s amazing what happens when they keep calling you after hearing a few, “thanks, but I’m not interested”.
As for the down-turn of the market in the Summer of ’08, I was lucky there too. I got out around April/May, all fixed income until about 7 months ago.
I better stop now before something bad does happen.
I hope this didn’t come across as chest-thumping because I’m not nearly as good as I am lucky.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I know what you mean completely.
I've had a great life so far, but I know it wasn't through any great skill, or even hard work, on my part.
This is the only point you slightly disagreed with. When I started my business it was easier to lease to get the car tax deduction. I just took 90% business expense and wrote that off. Now that the business is larger and accountants are looking after taxes, they can write it down as depreciating. But, I think it is easier to write down a leased car, if you are doing your own taxes.
The other points made the case that leasing is suitable for some people in some situations. Even the last guy really got what he wanted.....not the smartest move from a financial standpoint, but, it worked for him.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
If it helps...you make me laugh too!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You have a great country....but it certainly wasn't luck that got you there.
You played it smart and took the right risks. Every time property rose, people thought it wouldn't happen again. But, you bought again and it worked.
I have a friend who always lost in real estate...he moved to areas where prices had just gone up, and moved from places that went up after he moved.
I think most people that have done well do it with smart thinking, taking a risk when the opportunity comes up, and have a bit of luck on their side.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
It isn't chest thumping...........and though you think it was luck it was also your doing too. You worked hard and the company wanted you to stay on. As for getting out of fixed incomes...you thought it through and believed it was time to get into equities. Few things happen because of dumb luck...you were thinking it all through, took the risk, and won.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
LMAO!!! Amen to that one!
Richard
Richard
Look at this way. You're providing a wonderful servcie to your fellow man. :P
Richard
Richard
I felt the same exact way. I was amazed at what they were willing to pay after I retired. My former superintendent asked me to come out of retirement. When I shared what I was making as a consultant, he admitted that he couldn't pay that amount. Still, it was nice to know that I was still wanted by the board of education. It's funny how they didn't show it very often when I was on board full time. There is a lot to be said about showing your employees appreciation. That's one thing that I really tried to do for my teachers---praise and plenty of thank-you's.
Richard
I disagree. You lost your job, picked yourself up, and went into business for yourself. That takes courage, imagination, and stamina. Losing a job can mess with your head---low self-esteem, depression, hopelessness, etc. I admire you for not allowing other people to rain on your parade. Fezo is a lot like that from a medical point of view. He's like the Energizer Bunny---just keeps on keeping on. That's the quality and character of the people on this thread---good people who work hard, love their country, and take care of their families. I wish that I could put each one of you in a classroom to teach our young people these vital lessons. Our parents were the Great Generation, but I like to feel that we kept most of that going during our lives.
Richard
Look at this way. You're providing a wonderful servcie to your fellow man.
Yes, you have been blessed with a wonderful talent.......unfortunately, it isn't a money making talent.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I am amazed at the quality of the people on this thread. I didn't expect to find people who are so industrious, knowledgeable, sensible and so well informed on a variety of topics.
Buying and selling houses, taking risks, still working after being retired, helping children get a university or college education - and not one anarchist or truthy in the group....I am very impressed.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
get a car at the airport? I can upgrade into a Caddy with the best of them.
Watch out for the "upgrade," especially depending on what company you rent with. My S.O. travels most weeks, and his company uses Enterprise (about to switch, thankfully). He landed in Norfolk last week to pick up his company-mandated midsize car. It was a Mazda2 (I originally thought it was a Venza). Really?? I guess if he'd gone with economy or compact he'd have been looking at a SmartCar or a bicycle.
He complained to the manager, and they gave him a bunch of free upgrade cards, but I'd love your secret to getting into a Caddy, because I'm anticipating the best he'll do is a Charger.
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Review your vehicle
Does that happen? :P
Hopefully, you worked out the TV situation with the adjustments. Also, some TVs have different presets you can program. You could have one for say, Sports and then a different one for regular TV.
As for new sets, I stopped in HH Gregg the other day and really wouldn't mind a new LED/LCD set for the living room. Its just hard to justify getting rid of a perfectly good set.
Isell, great point on the investing. It was hard to watch the money in my 401K go down a few years back, but, I didn't panic and it has completely recovered. There are some people that moved into safer investments and aren't even close to getting their money back.
Driver, leasing just works for some people. It really is just planned depreciation. I know that I want a new car every three years. I am going to have a car payment regardless and leasing just makes the whole process easier. Does it cost more? Probably, but not as much as everyone makes it out to be. Maintenance costs are mucn less and if resale on a particular model takes a hit, you are removed from that risk. Think of all the people who wanted to dump their Tahoes, and Expeditions. If they were leased they just walk away.
The way you really save in buying cars is to just buy a two year old one and drive it until the wheels fall off.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart
I don't know how you lived through that 14 times. We have moved 4 times in 16 years and the worst part is keeping the house clean when perspective buyers are coming to look.
The worst house was one that had a living room that was formerly a 150 year old log cabin. In the spring fly eggs hatch and there are 1000 flies all over the windows on the inside...they come in during the fall and lay their eggs. (log cabins sound like a good idea in theory, but this is one of the biggest problems with them).
When someone came to see the house we would rush around with the vacuum cleaner and gather up all the flies...then hope the people weren't late or all the flies would be back.
Eventually the right person came along and they have lived there for 15 years now, so I guess they didn't mind the flies.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Perfect example of how a lease can work for some people. If you are going to trade in your car in 3 years it might actually cost less to lease, especially as you say, the car you drive is out of favor when you are ready for a new car.
I am not saying leasing is better, but, it is the best solution for some people in some situations.....It isn't right to say, "It is always better to buy than to lease a car".
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Get a remark on one of those and agree with the car assigner 100%.
I got a Deville out of Norfolk in July and when we hit a 1 hour delay on the DC beltway it was a lifesaver. Outside temp was 100. My temp was 69 in the Caddy as others were getting out of their cars that began to overheat.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
The car sizes car rental companies just are not operating in the real world. I checked Budget for a one week rental in Chicago...it isn't cheap.
An economy car - Accent was $440.
Move up to a compact - Focus $450 (they say just $1 a day more but with taxes.....)
Intermediate - Dodge Avenger $468
Standard is a Fusion for $477
Full size Impala $495
SUV Escape $586
Premium Grand Marque $605
Premium SUV Ford Edge 2 wheel drive $608.
Not sure why an Avenger is an intermediate and a Fusion is a standard. They seem to be the same to me and I thought a Fusion was a compact Ford. A Grand Marque is a full size and an Impala is standard.
Guess some marketing genius figured that one out.
I also wonder why an Escape is a lot more to rent than a Fusion when the cost of the car isn't much more. Maybe the depreciation is a factor.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
If you are a frequent renter, IMHO no-one has a better deal than National. If you are a base member of "Emerald Aisle" you pay for a mid-size and then get to pick whatever they have on the aisle. This is usually small SUVs, Impalas, Chargers, Minivans, etc. Once in a while if stock is low you get lucky and they have premium cara such as a Caddy, or a Maxima.
If you are a road warrior and have the credits for Executive Selection or whatever they call it now you always end up in something nice , while paying mid-size price (Caddies, Town Cars, Convertibles)
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart
I once had to drive an Aerostar van on a windy day and it also blew all over the place. It also had "zero" traction on ice. The wind test might be worthwhile if considering a smaller car....as the rental car companies classify them, an economy or compact car.
Note: Just to be clear, the tennis club costs $500 a year - no extra fees for court time, it is a city court, volunteers all help....it isn't a fancy club.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
That's actually a good idea. Or if you're properly located, get at least a little bit of exposure to highway driving, i.e. higher speeds and big trucks.
Something about those Corollas... you might think it would be small cars in general, but for some reason the Toyotas are worse... they dance around a LOT in a crosswind.
I want one of those deals where they will highly compensate me for this. It would be so different from what I'm used to.
The accomplishment of plugging along despite medical maladies is its own reward but I'd rather have one that would reward me with, say, enough to take the family to the Caribbean....
I think you are actually replying to Richard from Post 68219. Kirstie was talking about rental cars.
Maybe you should go back to bed and get up again later.
I want one of those deals where they will highly compensate me for this.
Your comments are great, just don't know if you can make a living from them.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I know I was responding to Richard and you figured it out. I'm betting he figures it out as well.
I have to get me a copy of the Writers Market and submit whole pieces. Might get a buck.
That would be exactly what myself and many people want. I dislike the packaging some cars have that additional options are only available in packages with sunroofs (moonroofs, whatever) and Nav.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
I know that the manufacturers can't be profitable making a thousand different configurations like years ago, but $4000 option packages suck.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart
I've moved enough times, but fewer than a whole lot of people, so that whenever I see the UHaul trucks with the "Adventure in Moving" slogan across them, I have a profane response to their motto--I certainly wouldn't call it "adventure."
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Very good; you did.
Richard
I agree. Though I have bought plenty of new cars, I have had good success with those that were one or two years old---and saved quite a bit of money. My Town Car, Explorer, Tahoe, and Sebring convertible were all one year old cars. They were all beautiful and proved extremely realiable. My SRX is the same way. I could have had a new SRX but I didn't like the new body style, remember? I bought a new Jeep Cherokee, a new Ford Granada, and that Cadillac DeVille---all duds. IMHO, new doesn't always mean better. I bought three new Buicks years ago, and they were great cars. I do think that buying a one or two year old car makes sense, especially from a money stand point. Whether new or old, it's all a risk. You just have to do the homework and call your best shot.
Richard
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
Absolutely, on both counts. I also agree that it can be very tiring keeping a house in 'show' condition 24/7, although there are a few people to whom it comes naturally, or pehaps it's just OCD? :surprise:
While I wish that warm approbation was really for me, I think it was actually meant for someone more deserving, maybe jmonroe?
The 'replying to's can get mixed sometimes.
Driver, what's a 'truthy'? I haven't heard that one before.
I read somewhere that you should always reserve the cheapest class car possible because they are the ones the rental place runs out of first and you get a free upgrade.
Never happened to me but I don't rent very often.
I always give my rentals a good looking over before driving away. Once I rented a little Kia and found a big dent in the bumper. I made the reservation agent write an acknowledgment on the contract so they couldn't blame me for it. The dirty look I got from her told me that was just what she was planning on doing.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
ROFLMAO.
That's my funny comment for the day! You win the award!
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
GG and I keep telling you...
PLASMA
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
That's been the case with my wife's 2004 X3; we bought it when it was a year old and had 16K miles on it. It now has 114K and it looks and drives like a new car. We paid off the loan @14 months after we bought it. I LOVE not having car payments.
For now, anyway... :P
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Don't try to pin that one on me. I'm the lucky one, remember.
The only one in here that I know of who got canned and started his own successful businees is 'driver'. You'd think with all the books he's been involved with he'd have read a couple of the words in few of them at least. Then his spelling would be better but nooo he only looks at the pictures. :confuse:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I can attest to that. In fact it happened to me at least a handful of times when I was a working stiff and had to travel.
However, the very best one I ran into was when my middle brother and I went to Florida in July of ’07. I was picking up the tab for the rental but he made the reservations so he’s the one that went to the counter to get the car. The guy at the counter said, “how bout a nice upgrade to a full size today sir?” My brother and I talked about this and if the price was right I would spring for that too since he invited us for a free stay via his time share thingy. Well, the upgrade price was ridiculous so he said, “nah, I’ll stay with the mid size”. The guy then made a lower offer but he still refused. He has the paperwork put in front of him for his signature but he noticed that the car is a full size (Grand Marquis, that I talked about back then) so he said, “hey, I just said I didn’t want the upgrade” as he gives the paper back to the guy. The guy said, “that’s all we have ready to go so you get it for the mid size price”. :surprise:
As I’ve mentioned a few posts back, I’m going to Florida again with this same brother next week (same free offer, nice brother, huh?) and he booked the car again but we’re onto this rental car ploy thing this time at Ft. Lauderdale. :shades:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I have had the exact same scenario happen to me before. It must be common practice. Imagine how many people just pay for the upgrade, when you don't really have to.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart