Money Management

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The U.S. housing market has been stuck in a weird state since the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020 and 2021, mortgage lenders lowered their rates, which led to a surge in buyer demand. Since then, housing inventory hasn’t been able to keep up with demand. Because of that, home prices have remained elevated.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. But now that the Federal Reserve has started to cut its benchmark interest rate, and it’s likely to continue on that path, home buyers could be in for serious relief in the new year. Here’s why.A favorable chain of eventsThe Federal Reserve’s rate cuts won’t directly lower home prices in 2025. But they could spur a chain reaction that leads to a drop in home prices.The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates or any other consumer borrowing rate. But as the central bank continues to lower its federal funds rate, mortgage rates are likely to trend in that same direction. And that could have a positive impact on buyers.As mortgage rates fall, more current homeowners may be willing to sell their properties, even if it means giving up the record-low rates they locked in during the days of the pandemic. And if housing inventory increases to a notable degree, it could narrow the current gap between supply and demand. Once that happens, home prices should start to fall, which would make securing a home more affordable.In fact, housing inventory had already started to increase in September 2024. The National Association of Realtors recorded a 4.3-month supply of homes that month (which is the last month the group has data for).It commonly takes a six-month supply of available homes to meet buyer demand in full and balance the housing market. But if the Fed’s rate cuts get us closer, it could lead to a serious drop in home prices come 2025.How to get ready to buy a home in the new yearWhile there’s no guarantee that home prices will fall in 2025, there’s a good chance that’ll happen. So now’s a good time to position yourself to buy.First, set a home-buying budget. Figure out what you can afford to spend on a home, keeping in mind that your housing costs should ideally be limited to 30% or less of your take-home pay. And those costs should include not just your monthly mortgage payments but also expected costs like property taxes and insurance.Next, work on boosting your credit score. The higher it is, the more competitive a rate on a mortgage you might lock in. You can raise your credit score by paying bills on time, reducing credit card balances, and checking your credit report for errors.Another way you can save money on a mortgage is by shopping around for options once you get closer to being ready to put a home loan in place. You can click here for a list of the best mortgage lenders today.All told, there’s reason to be hopeful that homes will be less expensive to buy in 2025. We may not get there by the start of the year. But at some point, you may find that you’re looking at spending a lot less for a place to call your own.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

The U.S. housing market has been stuck in a weird state since the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020 and 2021, mortgage lenders lowered their rates, which led to a surge in buyer demand. Since then, housing inventory hasn’t been able to keep up with demand. Because of that, home prices have remained elevated.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

But now that the Federal Reserve has started to cut its benchmark interest rate, and it’s likely to continue on that path, home buyers could be in for serious relief in the new year. Here’s why.

A favorable chain of events

The Federal Reserve’s rate cuts won’t directly lower home prices in 2025. But they could spur a chain reaction that leads to a drop in home prices.

The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates or any other consumer borrowing rate. But as the central bank continues to lower its federal funds rate, mortgage rates are likely to trend in that same direction. And that could have a positive impact on buyers.

As mortgage rates fall, more current homeowners may be willing to sell their properties, even if it means giving up the record-low rates they locked in during the days of the pandemic. And if housing inventory increases to a notable degree, it could narrow the current gap between supply and demand. Once that happens, home prices should start to fall, which would make securing a home more affordable.

In fact, housing inventory had already started to increase in September 2024. The National Association of Realtors recorded a 4.3-month supply of homes that month (which is the last month the group has data for).

It commonly takes a six-month supply of available homes to meet buyer demand in full and balance the housing market. But if the Fed’s rate cuts get us closer, it could lead to a serious drop in home prices come 2025.

How to get ready to buy a home in the new year

While there’s no guarantee that home prices will fall in 2025, there’s a good chance that’ll happen. So now’s a good time to position yourself to buy.

First, set a home-buying budget. Figure out what you can afford to spend on a home, keeping in mind that your housing costs should ideally be limited to 30% or less of your take-home pay. And those costs should include not just your monthly mortgage payments but also expected costs like property taxes and insurance.

Next, work on boosting your credit score. The higher it is, the more competitive a rate on a mortgage you might lock in. You can raise your credit score by paying bills on time, reducing credit card balances, and checking your credit report for errors.

Another way you can save money on a mortgage is by shopping around for options once you get closer to being ready to put a home loan in place. You can click here for a list of the best mortgage lenders today.

All told, there’s reason to be hopeful that homes will be less expensive to buy in 2025. We may not get there by the start of the year. But at some point, you may find that you’re looking at spending a lot less for a place to call your own.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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Kohl’s is a popular retailer that you can shop in-store and online. The store sells various goods including clothing for the whole family, home decor, shoes, toys, beauty products, and jewelry. If you’ve ever shopped at Kohl’s, you may already know about the Kohl’s Cash program.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. It’s a favorite among loyal customers. Kohl’s Cash is a rewards coupon that the retailer offers. For every $50 spent (after discounts and before sales tax), shoppers can receive $10 of Kohl’s Cash. They can redeem their Kohl’s Cash for a discount on a future purchase during a designated time period.But there are other perks of shopping at Kohl’s you may not know about. I’ll outline a few of the lesser-known benefits — you may just decide to become a regular Kohl’s shopper yourself.1. The coupons are plentifulUsing coupons when you shop can help you keep more money in your checking account. Some retailers are stingy with coupons, but Kohl’s has plentiful coupons to help you score an even better deal. Shoppers can use them in-store and online at Kohls.com.You can find active coupons at Kohls.com and the Kohl’s mobile app. You can also find them by using one of the best coupon apps. Make sure you maximize your discounts by using coupons at checkout. Otherwise, you may spend more than necessary for your Kohl’s haul.2. You can stack coupons to get a bigger discountAnother benefit of shopping at Kohl’s is that coupons are stackable. This isn’t always the case with other similar retailers. Kohl’s coupon policy is more forgiving. The company allows shoppers to apply up to four coupons per order.The following coupon restrictions apply:Only one sitewide $- or %-off coupon can be used per order.Multiple department-specific $-off or %-off coupons can be used per order.Up to six Kohl’s Cash or Kohl’s Rewards discounts can be applied per order.As an added note, coupons may not apply to all items — some brands are excluded. However, many items are eligible for discounts, and these coupons can help you avoid overspending. Don’t forget to verify whether you can save more on your next order by using multiple coupons.Want to maximize your savings? Swiping the right credit card at checkout could yield cash back rewards on your next Kohl’s purchase. Click here to review our best cash back credit cards list and learn more about our top card picks.3. You can earn Kohl’s Cash when you place store pickup ordersChoosing store pickup is a great way to avoid paying shipping costs. The retailer offers free shipping on eligible orders of $49 or more. But if you’re placing a less costly order, you may want to order online and pick it up at your local store so you don’t have to pay shipping fees.Here’s another benefit to opting for store pick up: You can earn $5 Kohl’s Cash after picking up your order. Customers are eligible to earn this incentive once every 24 hours. If you have a Kohl’s store nearby, this makes for an easy way to save on a future shopping trip.Maximize your savings when you shopNow you know some of the lesser-known perks you can enjoy as a Kohl’s shopper. This is a good reminder to pay attention to the savings and rewards opportunities that retailers like Kohl’s offer.By staying in the know, you can get a bigger discount and earn more rewards. Every dollar you save or earn in rewards is a win for your wallet.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Kohl’s is a popular retailer that you can shop in-store and online. The store sells various goods including clothing for the whole family, home decor, shoes, toys, beauty products, and jewelry. If you’ve ever shopped at Kohl’s, you may already know about the Kohl’s Cash program.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

It’s a favorite among loyal customers. Kohl’s Cash is a rewards coupon that the retailer offers. For every $50 spent (after discounts and before sales tax), shoppers can receive $10 of Kohl’s Cash. They can redeem their Kohl’s Cash for a discount on a future purchase during a designated time period.

But there are other perks of shopping at Kohl’s you may not know about. I’ll outline a few of the lesser-known benefits — you may just decide to become a regular Kohl’s shopper yourself.

1. The coupons are plentiful

Using coupons when you shop can help you keep more money in your checking account. Some retailers are stingy with coupons, but Kohl’s has plentiful coupons to help you score an even better deal. Shoppers can use them in-store and online at Kohls.com.

You can find active coupons at Kohls.com and the Kohl’s mobile app. You can also find them by using one of the best coupon apps. Make sure you maximize your discounts by using coupons at checkout. Otherwise, you may spend more than necessary for your Kohl’s haul.

2. You can stack coupons to get a bigger discount

Another benefit of shopping at Kohl’s is that coupons are stackable. This isn’t always the case with other similar retailers. Kohl’s coupon policy is more forgiving. The company allows shoppers to apply up to four coupons per order.

The following coupon restrictions apply:

Only one sitewide $- or %-off coupon can be used per order.Multiple department-specific $-off or %-off coupons can be used per order.Up to six Kohl’s Cash or Kohl’s Rewards discounts can be applied per order.

As an added note, coupons may not apply to all items — some brands are excluded. However, many items are eligible for discounts, and these coupons can help you avoid overspending. Don’t forget to verify whether you can save more on your next order by using multiple coupons.

Want to maximize your savings? Swiping the right credit card at checkout could yield cash back rewards on your next Kohl’s purchase. Click here to review our best cash back credit cards list and learn more about our top card picks.

3. You can earn Kohl’s Cash when you place store pickup orders

Choosing store pickup is a great way to avoid paying shipping costs. The retailer offers free shipping on eligible orders of $49 or more. But if you’re placing a less costly order, you may want to order online and pick it up at your local store so you don’t have to pay shipping fees.

Here’s another benefit to opting for store pick up: You can earn $5 Kohl’s Cash after picking up your order. Customers are eligible to earn this incentive once every 24 hours. If you have a Kohl’s store nearby, this makes for an easy way to save on a future shopping trip.

Maximize your savings when you shop

Now you know some of the lesser-known perks you can enjoy as a Kohl’s shopper. This is a good reminder to pay attention to the savings and rewards opportunities that retailers like Kohl’s offer.

By staying in the know, you can get a bigger discount and earn more rewards. Every dollar you save or earn in rewards is a win for your wallet.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

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If you’re getting increasingly psyched for Black Friday by the day, you’re not alone. At this point, the big event is only a couple of weeks away. So you may be finalizing your shopping list now in the hopes of taking advantage.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. A good 36% of Americans plan to shop this Black Friday, according to YouGov. And chances are, you’ll find a host of specials running that day both online and in stores.But shopping on Black Friday may not be the great idea you think it is. Here are a few traps you risk running into.1. Thinking you’ll get a great price no matter what you buyThere’s something about Black Friday that tends to trick our brains into thinking we’re getting a good deal no matter what. In reality, many retailers release a limited number of heavily discounted products on Black Friday, and then only mildly mark down additional inventory in the hopes of luring consumers into adding those items to their shopping carts.It’s one thing to snag a doorbuster kitchen gadget on Black Friday for $50 that you’ve seen listed for $100 many times over. But here’s the problem: If you get to the store and that product is sold out, you may be inclined to buy a similar gadget for $60.But if that gadget’s regular price is $65, you’re not getting much of a bargain there. And that second item may not have the same features as the one you originally wanted.If you’re going to shop on Black Friday, research prices before and during the big event. Don’t just assume that every markdown is a significant one. Also, if you go in hoping to buy a specific item, tell yourself that if it’s not available, you’ll just walk away empty-handed.2. Assuming you need to wait for Black Friday to snag an awesome dealA lot of people put off their holiday shopping until Black Friday because they assume that’s when the best deals will become available. In reality, you might get a much better deal in the weeks leading up to Black Friday. In fact, many retailers, from Target to Kohl’s to Costco, already have Black Friday specials running now.Black Friday is no longer a single-day event; it’s more like an almost month-long event. There’s no reason not to start looking around starting today.3. Financing a Black Friday purchase with a “buy now, pay later” planYou may not have enough money in your savings account to cover your Black Friday purchases in full. But be careful if you’re thinking of turning to a “buy now, pay later” plan.These plans might seem appealing at first because they don’t charge interest right away like a credit card might. But they also only give you a short time window to pay off your purchases — usually 12 weeks or fewer. And your credit score might take a serious dive if you find yourself unable to stick to one of these limited-time repayment plans. Plus, you can expect to be hit with fees if you’re late with your payments.It’s always best to pay for holiday purchases outright. But a personal loan could be a better way to finance holiday purchases if you feel you can’t just skip out this year. With a personal loan, you pay off your purchases over a longer period than with a “buy now, pay later” plan. This makes you less likely to fall behind. Click here for a list of the best personal loan lenders.Another option is to put your purchases on a 0% APR credit card. But here, you run the risk of racking up a huge amount of interest if you don’t shed your balance by the time your introductory period of 0% interest comes to an end. So all told, a personal loan may be your best option if you have to finance the purchases you’re making.There’s nothing wrong with checking out deals on Black Friday and seeing what’s available. But make every effort to avoid these specific traps so that day doesn’t end up hurting you financially.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has positions in Target. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

If you’re getting increasingly psyched for Black Friday by the day, you’re not alone. At this point, the big event is only a couple of weeks away. So you may be finalizing your shopping list now in the hopes of taking advantage.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

A good 36% of Americans plan to shop this Black Friday, according to YouGov. And chances are, you’ll find a host of specials running that day both online and in stores.

But shopping on Black Friday may not be the great idea you think it is. Here are a few traps you risk running into.

1. Thinking you’ll get a great price no matter what you buy

There’s something about Black Friday that tends to trick our brains into thinking we’re getting a good deal no matter what. In reality, many retailers release a limited number of heavily discounted products on Black Friday, and then only mildly mark down additional inventory in the hopes of luring consumers into adding those items to their shopping carts.

It’s one thing to snag a doorbuster kitchen gadget on Black Friday for $50 that you’ve seen listed for $100 many times over. But here’s the problem: If you get to the store and that product is sold out, you may be inclined to buy a similar gadget for $60.

But if that gadget’s regular price is $65, you’re not getting much of a bargain there. And that second item may not have the same features as the one you originally wanted.

If you’re going to shop on Black Friday, research prices before and during the big event. Don’t just assume that every markdown is a significant one. Also, if you go in hoping to buy a specific item, tell yourself that if it’s not available, you’ll just walk away empty-handed.

2. Assuming you need to wait for Black Friday to snag an awesome deal

A lot of people put off their holiday shopping until Black Friday because they assume that’s when the best deals will become available. In reality, you might get a much better deal in the weeks leading up to Black Friday. In fact, many retailers, from Target to Kohl’s to Costco, already have Black Friday specials running now.

Black Friday is no longer a single-day event; it’s more like an almost month-long event. There’s no reason not to start looking around starting today.

3. Financing a Black Friday purchase with a “buy now, pay later” plan

You may not have enough money in your savings account to cover your Black Friday purchases in full. But be careful if you’re thinking of turning to a “buy now, pay later” plan.

These plans might seem appealing at first because they don’t charge interest right away like a credit card might. But they also only give you a short time window to pay off your purchases — usually 12 weeks or fewer. And your credit score might take a serious dive if you find yourself unable to stick to one of these limited-time repayment plans. Plus, you can expect to be hit with fees if you’re late with your payments.

It’s always best to pay for holiday purchases outright. But a personal loan could be a better way to finance holiday purchases if you feel you can’t just skip out this year. With a personal loan, you pay off your purchases over a longer period than with a “buy now, pay later” plan. This makes you less likely to fall behind. Click here for a list of the best personal loan lenders.

Another option is to put your purchases on a 0% APR credit card. But here, you run the risk of racking up a huge amount of interest if you don’t shed your balance by the time your introductory period of 0% interest comes to an end. So all told, a personal loan may be your best option if you have to finance the purchases you’re making.

There’s nothing wrong with checking out deals on Black Friday and seeing what’s available. But make every effort to avoid these specific traps so that day doesn’t end up hurting you financially.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has positions in Target. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
If you join Costco, you’ll pay $65 to get access to all of the deals the warehouse club has to offer with a Gold Star membership. Or you can double that amount and pay $130 for an upgraded Executive Membership. In either case, it pays to maximize your Costco membership.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!Being an Executive member sounds a lot nicer than just being a Gold Star member. But there’s only one reason why you should choose the upgrade.Joining Costco’s Executive membership only makes sense in this situationBecoming an Executive member is a smart move if, and only if, you will earn enough money in cash back to pay off the extra membership costs.See, when you become a Costco Executive Member, you get 2% back on qualifying purchases. If you spend enough that the 2% you get back adds up to at least $65, then you’ll have paid for your upgrade; you break even.If you spend more than that amount, becoming a Costco Executive Member actually improves your financial situation since you’ll get more back than you paid for the upgrade.How much do you need to spend exactly? If you spend $3,250 a year at Costco, then you’ll earn $65 back, assuming you qualify for the 2% cash back on all of those purchases.If that happens, your Executive membership upgrade is essentially free. If you spend less than that on purchases that count for the 2% cash back, then you’ve paid too much for a membership that didn’t justify its value.The good news is that if the Costco Executive membership isn’t right for you, you can still earn cash back at Costco. You can do this by signing up for a credit card that provides it. Click here for the best credit cards for Costco, including those offering extra cash back bonuses on warehouse club purchases.You can sign up for one of these cards today to start getting back some of what you spent at Costco — without having to buy an upgraded membership. In fact, instead of shelling out cash to become eligible for cash back, you may even qualify for a new cardmember bonus that gives you extra money for signing up.What about other Costco executive membership features?Now, it is true that the Costco Executive membership comes with other perks besides just the 2% back.However, those other perks are pretty underwhelming and they simply aren’t going to provide the vast majority of people with enough value on their own to justify spending an extra $65 per year on an upgraded membership.Here are a few of Costco’s Executive Member benefits beyond the 2% back:Discounted auto, pet, and homeowners insuranceExtra savings on the Costco auto programCheaper bottled water deliveryJust ask yourself when was the last time you bought a car from a Costco partner, got bottled water delivery, or purchased insurance coverage from Costco. If the answer is never, and is likely to stay that way, these “benefits” won’t provide any real value. Whether the Executive membership makes sense comes down to whether you can earn at least $65 back.The good news is, if you signed up for an Executive Membership and you’re now realizing you made a mistake because you won’t spend enough to pay for it, you can downgrade at any time and get a refund when you do. Do this if you find your Costco Executive membership simply won’t pay off for youTop credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Christy Bieber has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

If you join Costco, you’ll pay $65 to get access to all of the deals the warehouse club has to offer with a Gold Star membership. Or you can double that amount and pay $130 for an upgraded Executive Membership. In either case, it pays to maximize your Costco membership.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

Being an Executive member sounds a lot nicer than just being a Gold Star member. But there’s only one reason why you should choose the upgrade.

Joining Costco’s Executive membership only makes sense in this situation

Becoming an Executive member is a smart move if, and only if, you will earn enough money in cash back to pay off the extra membership costs.

See, when you become a Costco Executive Member, you get 2% back on qualifying purchases. If you spend enough that the 2% you get back adds up to at least $65, then you’ll have paid for your upgrade; you break even.

If you spend more than that amount, becoming a Costco Executive Member actually improves your financial situation since you’ll get more back than you paid for the upgrade.

How much do you need to spend exactly? If you spend $3,250 a year at Costco, then you’ll earn $65 back, assuming you qualify for the 2% cash back on all of those purchases.

If that happens, your Executive membership upgrade is essentially free. If you spend less than that on purchases that count for the 2% cash back, then you’ve paid too much for a membership that didn’t justify its value.

The good news is that if the Costco Executive membership isn’t right for you, you can still earn cash back at Costco. You can do this by signing up for a credit card that provides it. Click here for the best credit cards for Costco, including those offering extra cash back bonuses on warehouse club purchases.

You can sign up for one of these cards today to start getting back some of what you spent at Costco — without having to buy an upgraded membership. In fact, instead of shelling out cash to become eligible for cash back, you may even qualify for a new cardmember bonus that gives you extra money for signing up.

What about other Costco executive membership features?

Now, it is true that the Costco Executive membership comes with other perks besides just the 2% back.

However, those other perks are pretty underwhelming and they simply aren’t going to provide the vast majority of people with enough value on their own to justify spending an extra $65 per year on an upgraded membership.

Here are a few of Costco’s Executive Member benefits beyond the 2% back:

Discounted auto, pet, and homeowners insuranceExtra savings on the Costco auto programCheaper bottled water delivery

Just ask yourself when was the last time you bought a car from a Costco partner, got bottled water delivery, or purchased insurance coverage from Costco. If the answer is never, and is likely to stay that way, these “benefits” won’t provide any real value. Whether the Executive membership makes sense comes down to whether you can earn at least $65 back.

The good news is, if you signed up for an Executive Membership and you’re now realizing you made a mistake because you won’t spend enough to pay for it, you can downgrade at any time and get a refund when you do. Do this if you find your Costco Executive membership simply won’t pay off for you

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Christy Bieber has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Leaving a job, whether planned or unexpected, certainly brings many changes — neither all good nor all bad. This is especially true when it comes to your finances. From health insurance to retirement savings, there are certain steps you ] should take to keep your financial life on track (as best you can, given the circumstances).Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. By handling these three key issues, you’ll avoid financial pitfalls and potentially a big hit to your bank account while also positioning yourself for long-term success.1. Make smart healthcare decisionsOne of the most pressing concerns when leaving a job is maintaining health insurance coverage. Without careful planning, you could find yourself uninsured. Fortunately, you have several options for coverage.COBRA: If your employer provided you with health coverage, you might be eligible for a government transition program called COBRA. Enacted during the Reagan administration, COBRA allows employees to continue with their employer-sponsored healthcare plan for a limited time, usually 18 to 36 months. However, COBRA can be expensive, as you will be responsible for the full premium.Healthcare.gov: Another option is enrolling in a plan through the Affordable Care Act via the online health insurance marketplace. These plans are typically far more affordable than COBRA, especially if you qualify for subsidies based on your income.Whatever you decide, enrolling in a health insurance plan as soon as possible is important so you avoid a lapse in coverage.2. Roll over your 401(k)Obviously, when you leave a job, there’s a lot to do and think about: unemployment, updating your resume, networking, finding a new position. It all can be a bit overwhelming. But even so, one critical thing you shouldn’t overlook is your retirement account.If you had a 401(k) with your previous employer, you couldCash it outLeave it in your old IRARoll it over into your new job’s planRoll it over into an IRAExperts say that one of the best moves you can make is to roll it over into an individual retirement account (IRA) or a new 401(k) with your next employer. Why do you want to do this? Rolling over your 401(k) allows you to maintain control of your retirement savings while avoiding penalties and taxes.One important tip: Be sure the rollover process is done properly, since failing to do so can trigger unwanted tax consequences. The smart move would be to speak with your financial advisor to see which move is best for you.Need a new IRA? Click here for our picks for the best IRA brokers and enjoy a tax break in the year you make contributions.3. Roll over your health savings accountNot all employees have health savings accounts (HSAs). In fact, only about 34% of eligible employees sign up for an HSA. But if you’re one of them, ensure you manage it in the wake of leaving your job. Since HSAs offer tax advantages for medical expenses, they shouldn’t be forgotten when you leave a job.The way to do it is to find a new HSA provider, then request of the old HSA provider that the funds be rolled over into the new account (they may be sent to the new account or to you directly). Follow up to make sure it happened, and then keep contributing.By rolling over your HSA, you can continue to use the funds for qualified medical expenses, or you can invest them for future growth. Since HSA funds never expire, you can even save them in retirement, definitely making this a valuable asset you’ll want to protect.Yes, leaving a job is a major life change. But during that potential tumult, thoughtful financial planning is still needed. Take the proper steps outlined above promptly to avoid unnecessary costs and stress during this important transition.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Leaving a job, whether planned or unexpected, certainly brings many changes — neither all good nor all bad. This is especially true when it comes to your finances. From health insurance to retirement savings, there are certain steps you ] should take to keep your financial life on track (as best you can, given the circumstances).

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

By handling these three key issues, you’ll avoid financial pitfalls and potentially a big hit to your bank account while also positioning yourself for long-term success.

1. Make smart healthcare decisions

One of the most pressing concerns when leaving a job is maintaining health insurance coverage. Without careful planning, you could find yourself uninsured. Fortunately, you have several options for coverage.

COBRA: If your employer provided you with health coverage, you might be eligible for a government transition program called COBRA. Enacted during the Reagan administration, COBRA allows employees to continue with their employer-sponsored healthcare plan for a limited time, usually 18 to 36 months. However, COBRA can be expensive, as you will be responsible for the full premium.Healthcare.gov: Another option is enrolling in a plan through the Affordable Care Act via the online health insurance marketplace. These plans are typically far more affordable than COBRA, especially if you qualify for subsidies based on your income.

Whatever you decide, enrolling in a health insurance plan as soon as possible is important so you avoid a lapse in coverage.

2. Roll over your 401(k)

Obviously, when you leave a job, there’s a lot to do and think about: unemployment, updating your resume, networking, finding a new position. It all can be a bit overwhelming. But even so, one critical thing you shouldn’t overlook is your retirement account.

If you had a 401(k) with your previous employer, you could

Cash it outLeave it in your old IRARoll it over into your new job’s planRoll it over into an IRA

Experts say that one of the best moves you can make is to roll it over into an individual retirement account (IRA) or a new 401(k) with your next employer. Why do you want to do this? Rolling over your 401(k) allows you to maintain control of your retirement savings while avoiding penalties and taxes.

One important tip: Be sure the rollover process is done properly, since failing to do so can trigger unwanted tax consequences. The smart move would be to speak with your financial advisor to see which move is best for you.

Need a new IRA? Click here for our picks for the best IRA brokers and enjoy a tax break in the year you make contributions.

3. Roll over your health savings account

Not all employees have health savings accounts (HSAs). In fact, only about 34% of eligible employees sign up for an HSA. But if you’re one of them, ensure you manage it in the wake of leaving your job. Since HSAs offer tax advantages for medical expenses, they shouldn’t be forgotten when you leave a job.

The way to do it is to find a new HSA provider, then request of the old HSA provider that the funds be rolled over into the new account (they may be sent to the new account or to you directly). Follow up to make sure it happened, and then keep contributing.

By rolling over your HSA, you can continue to use the funds for qualified medical expenses, or you can invest them for future growth. Since HSA funds never expire, you can even save them in retirement, definitely making this a valuable asset you’ll want to protect.

Yes, leaving a job is a major life change. But during that potential tumult, thoughtful financial planning is still needed. Take the proper steps outlined above promptly to avoid unnecessary costs and stress during this important transition.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
In her great book, You are a Badass at Making Money, author Jen Sincero shares a real-life story of her broke days when she lived in downtown Los Angeles and dreamed of living by the beach. Every weekend, she would drive west and put up flyers, schmooze landlords, and roam the streets in her quest. She says she was even willing to max out what few credit cards she had left to make her dream happen.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Finally, Jen found what was, at the time for her, a miracle: A converted, dinky garage near the ocean at a price she could afford. Everyone else apparently thought it was a miracle too, and half of L.A. showed up for the open house.But undeterred, Jen also showed up the next day, Reuben sandwich in hand for the landlord, whom she charmed. And charmed again the next day. And the next. And yes, of course, despite her self-proclaimed, “rickety relationship with money,” Jen got the apartment. (Note: Jen is now a multimillionaire. Great book by the way, unsolicited advice).So, yes, getting that great apartment with bad credit is indeed possible. Here are some tricks of the trade.1. Be upfront about your credit historyHonesty is the best policy when dealing with a potential landlord in a situation like this. If you are not going to blow them away with your 800 credit score (the average American credit score is 717, by the way), you need a different tack, and radical honesty just may be it.Acknowledge that your credit is not perfect, but explain the reasons behind it. Whether it was due to unforeseen medical bills or other circumstances, landlords may be more understanding if they know the context behind your predicament. Now, this is not true of course for all landlords, but you only need one landlord with a heart of gold for this process to work.2. Provide strong referencesIf your credit score is low, references are critical to establishing you as a solid, responsible, valuable, even desirable tenant. Gather letters of recommendation from previous landlords, employers, or even roommates.A strong reference can go a long way in showing a landlord that, despite your credit history, you really are trustworthy and responsible. These references should emphasize your promptness with rent, your respect for the property, and your general dependability.3. Offer a larger security depositThis one definitely also works because, well, money talks. Another way to make a landlord more comfortable with your less than stellar financial situation could be to offer a larger security deposit than what is being requested. This not only serves as insurance for the landlord if they are concerned about your credit history, but it shows you mean business and are willing to put your money where your mouth is.Offering two or three months’ worth of rent as a security deposit can make your application stand out and be much more appealing than it otherwise would be. It also gives the landlord peace of mind.4. Use your charmWhen your credit score is not your best friend, your personality can be one of your biggest assets. Charm and good interpersonal skills can help you build a connection with a landlord. Be polite, personable, and show genuine interest in maintaining the property.People like working with people they like, and as such, all other things being (almost) equal, landlords are more likely to take a chance on someone they like and feel they can trust than someone who is just “fine.”5. Find a cosignerIf your credit is preventing you from securing an apartment on your own, a cosigner can also go a long way toward making you less of a risk for the landlord. A cosigner with good credit can help reassure landlords that the rent will be paid, even if your own credit score is shaky. Just make sure that your cosigner is fully aware of their financial responsibilities if you fail to meet your obligations.6. Demonstrate steady incomeFinally, while your credit history is of course important, what is also important is demonstrating that you have a stable income and sufficient ability to pay the rent in full and on time. For this one to help, you will need to show proof of your income with pay stubs, tax returns, or checking account statements. Landlords want to know that you have the financial means to pay rent, and proof of regular, steady income can sometimes compensate for bad credit.Moving forwardWhile it is possible to get an apartment with bad credit, it’s not a skill you want to master. Instead, it’s better to improve your credit. The good news is that with a little diligence, you can improve your credit fairly quickly.Here’s how:Pay down your credit cards. High revolving credit card balances are just about the single worst thing you can have on a credit report. Pay them down and see your credit score rise.If you don’t have any credit cards, get a secured one. You simply would deposit say, $300 into an account and you would get a card for $300 credit. The deposit secures the card. Click here for a list of our top recommended secured credit cards.Check your credit report for errors. Errors are common on credit reports. Check yours, and if you find mistakes, (debts listed as delinquent that have been paid off, for example), demand they be removed. By law, they must be.Look, if rickety Jen Sincero can score a beach house with crappy credit, just think what you can do. Yes, securing an apartment with poor credit will take extra effort, but by being honest, leveraging references and financial resources (cosigners or higher security deposits), and using your charm, you can do it, too.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

In her great book, You are a Badass at Making Money, author Jen Sincero shares a real-life story of her broke days when she lived in downtown Los Angeles and dreamed of living by the beach. Every weekend, she would drive west and put up flyers, schmooze landlords, and roam the streets in her quest. She says she was even willing to max out what few credit cards she had left to make her dream happen.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Finally, Jen found what was, at the time for her, a miracle: A converted, dinky garage near the ocean at a price she could afford. Everyone else apparently thought it was a miracle too, and half of L.A. showed up for the open house.

But undeterred, Jen also showed up the next day, Reuben sandwich in hand for the landlord, whom she charmed. And charmed again the next day. And the next. And yes, of course, despite her self-proclaimed, “rickety relationship with money,” Jen got the apartment. (Note: Jen is now a multimillionaire. Great book by the way, unsolicited advice).

So, yes, getting that great apartment with bad credit is indeed possible. Here are some tricks of the trade.

1. Be upfront about your credit history

Honesty is the best policy when dealing with a potential landlord in a situation like this. If you are not going to blow them away with your 800 credit score (the average American credit score is 717, by the way), you need a different tack, and radical honesty just may be it.

Acknowledge that your credit is not perfect, but explain the reasons behind it. Whether it was due to unforeseen medical bills or other circumstances, landlords may be more understanding if they know the context behind your predicament. Now, this is not true of course for all landlords, but you only need one landlord with a heart of gold for this process to work.

2. Provide strong references

If your credit score is low, references are critical to establishing you as a solid, responsible, valuable, even desirable tenant. Gather letters of recommendation from previous landlords, employers, or even roommates.

A strong reference can go a long way in showing a landlord that, despite your credit history, you really are trustworthy and responsible. These references should emphasize your promptness with rent, your respect for the property, and your general dependability.

3. Offer a larger security deposit

This one definitely also works because, well, money talks. Another way to make a landlord more comfortable with your less than stellar financial situation could be to offer a larger security deposit than what is being requested. This not only serves as insurance for the landlord if they are concerned about your credit history, but it shows you mean business and are willing to put your money where your mouth is.

Offering two or three months’ worth of rent as a security deposit can make your application stand out and be much more appealing than it otherwise would be. It also gives the landlord peace of mind.

4. Use your charm

When your credit score is not your best friend, your personality can be one of your biggest assets. Charm and good interpersonal skills can help you build a connection with a landlord. Be polite, personable, and show genuine interest in maintaining the property.

People like working with people they like, and as such, all other things being (almost) equal, landlords are more likely to take a chance on someone they like and feel they can trust than someone who is just “fine.”

5. Find a cosigner

If your credit is preventing you from securing an apartment on your own, a cosigner can also go a long way toward making you less of a risk for the landlord. A cosigner with good credit can help reassure landlords that the rent will be paid, even if your own credit score is shaky. Just make sure that your cosigner is fully aware of their financial responsibilities if you fail to meet your obligations.

6. Demonstrate steady income

Finally, while your credit history is of course important, what is also important is demonstrating that you have a stable income and sufficient ability to pay the rent in full and on time. For this one to help, you will need to show proof of your income with pay stubs, tax returns, or checking account statements. Landlords want to know that you have the financial means to pay rent, and proof of regular, steady income can sometimes compensate for bad credit.

Moving forward

While it is possible to get an apartment with bad credit, it’s not a skill you want to master. Instead, it’s better to improve your credit. The good news is that with a little diligence, you can improve your credit fairly quickly.

Here’s how:

Pay down your credit cards. High revolving credit card balances are just about the single worst thing you can have on a credit report. Pay them down and see your credit score rise.If you don’t have any credit cards, get a secured one. You simply would deposit say, $300 into an account and you would get a card for $300 credit. The deposit secures the card. Click here for a list of our top recommended secured credit cards.Check your credit report for errors. Errors are common on credit reports. Check yours, and if you find mistakes, (debts listed as delinquent that have been paid off, for example), demand they be removed. By law, they must be.

Look, if rickety Jen Sincero can score a beach house with crappy credit, just think what you can do. Yes, securing an apartment with poor credit will take extra effort, but by being honest, leveraging references and financial resources (cosigners or higher security deposits), and using your charm, you can do it, too.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More