Smart Spending

A compilation of Bankrate.com’s stories about saving money and frugal living.

Archive

Does a commercial range belong in a home?

Article: A supersize restaurant stove seems pleasing, but it's a beast and too much for most homes.

4 tips to protect your Social Security number

Article: Keep your Social Security number secure. When you're asked for it, try saying "no."

May 2013 Financial Security Index charts

Article: These charts point out the most interesting factors in May's Financial Security Index.

Financial Security Index riding positive waves

Article: Bankrate's index set a record by staying in positive territory for three months straight.

Americans' spending guarded but optimistic

Article: Consumers are still cautious when it comes to their spending habits, despite lower gas prices.

Americans' feelings on financial security

Article: Have fallen gas prices given Americans a reason to increase their discretionary income?

5 dollar-store deals

Article: Not all items at dollar stores are good deals. But here are five finds that can be bargains.

Good manners can bring financial success

Article: Beyond knowing which fork to use, proper behavior can help you gain financial success.

7 money moves for living abroad

Article: Moving to a foreign country? Going without a financial plan could prove disastrous.

Save on organic food

Article: Here are some ways to get organic foods you want without breaking your budget.

List of all archives

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Overnight Averages

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
30 yr fixed mtg	3.77%		3.60%
15 yr fixed mtg	2.88%		2.74%
5/1 ARM	2.66%		2.54%

View rates in your area:

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
$30K HELOC	4.98%		4.99%
$30K home equity loan	6.17%		6.19%
$50K HELOC	4.56%		4.56%

View rates in your area:

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
48 month used car loan	2.92%		2.93%
48 month new car loan	2.45%		2.45%
36 month used car loan	2.88%		2.88%

View rates in your area:

Product	Yield	+/-	Last week
6 month CD	0.45%		0.41%
1 yr CD	0.67%		0.62%
5 yr CD	1.24%		1.22%

Compare rates:

Product	Rate
Balance Transfer Cards	15.92%
Cash Back Cards	16.34%
Low Interest Cards	11.01%

Compare rates:

By Judy Martel

Mortgages »

Realtors get a boost in pay

Another indicator of an improving housing market: Realtor income is up.

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