Xin Lu's blog

What I Miss About the Recession

A look at the recent Great Recession through a glass half full reveals a few positive effects of the economic malaise.

Why You Should Allow Yourself Splurges

Do you sacrifice things you enjoy to save as much as possible? An occasional splurge is not such a bad thing, and it might even make you a better saver.

What to Look for in a Fixer-Upper

If you are willing to put in some time and work, you may be able to save money on your next home purchase by buying a fixer-upper. Here's what to look for.

How Much Should You Invest?

Knowing how much you should invest can be a very difficult (and very personal) question. Read this overview of your options to help you decide.

What Happens at a Foreclosure Auction?

Property buyers with cash can save as much as 30% off the market price at a foreclosure auction. Here's what to expect on the courthouse steps.

10 Fun Toys and Games You Can Make at Home

Tired of spending $30 on a single toy? Here are 10 super-fun toys and games you can make at home with common items.

8 Fun and Cheap Things to Do During the Weekday

It can be hard to find off-time entertainment when you don't work a regular 9 to 5, but this list proves that there are great frugal things to do at any time of day.

3 Reasons Not to Save for Your Child's College Fund

It goes against common advice, but you might be better off not saving for your child's college education. Here's why.

What Do the Chinese Spend Money On?

Chinese people generally save 30% to 50% of their take home pay. So where do they spend their savings — and what can we all learn from them?

Forgiven Mortgage Debt May Lead to Huge Tax Bills

The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act is expiring at the end 2012. Find out what it could mean for you in the coming year.

Get Help With Your Underwater Bank of America Mortgage

Bank of America is forgiving up to $100,000 in mortgage principal for select borrowers. Find out if you qualify for this new program.

Are You Getting Charged by a Text Message Scam?

One writer shares her story about being charged for a cellphone text message service she never signed up for — and how you can avoid the same scam.

The Process for Purchasing a House With Cash

Last year, one Wise Bread writer and her husband purchased a property with cash. That's right — cash. Here's the process they went through.

Tips for Thriving in Long-Term Unemployment

What's more discouraging that unemployment? Long-term unemployment. Follow these steps to make your time productive and get back to work.

When Being Frugal Isn't the Solution

Simply living frugally doesn't always lead to financial greatness or happiness. Discover when it's better to bend the rules of frugality, and why.

Should Conforming Loan Limits Be Increased?

The conforming loan limit for home loans in the U.S. fell back to pre-2008 levels recently. Now lawmakers want to raise it again. Learn how it could affect you.

The Worst Investments You Can Make

If your idea of investing is ensuring that you'll never see your money again, then we have some great investment suggestions for you.

What if the Mortgage Interest Deduction Went Away?

What would happen if the mortgage interest deduction were eliminated?

U.S. Government Offers "Free" $50,000 to Troubled Homeowners

Are you struggling to pay for your mortgage? Uncle Sam is gearing up to pass out up to $50,000 to troubled homeowners, and it doesn't have to be repaid.

How to Get Into a Good School District for Less

You don't have to buy an extremely expensive house to get your child into a good school. Here are some other approaches to consider.