Going Green: Doesn't Have to Be Expensive

Everybody wants to save the planet… and most of us also want to save some money for ourselves. Is it possible to do both at the same time?

In this short (1:39) video, Money Talks correspondent Stacy Johnson shows some ways you can go green AND save money while you're doing it.

Be honest, how many of the ways to save in this video do you overlook each day?  We'd love to get your feedback.  Just use the comment link below.

Renter's Insurance: Why You Need It

So you're renting a house or condominium, and think the owner of the property has insurance, why would you need any?

The homeowner's property insurance policy that covers the physical dwelling you live in does not cover your possessions inside of the building.  A renter's insurance policy (also known as a tenant's policy) provides protection for your personal property, such as furniture or electronic equipment, in case of perils like fire, theft or wind damage from a hurricane.

Renter's insurance provides liability protection.  Unintentional bodily injury or property damage that you cause to others could be as financially damaging to you as a fire in your apartment.  Liability protection against accidental occurrences (such as a visitor slipping on your wet kitchen floor and breaking an arm) comes standard with renter's insurance policies.  Some renter's insurance policies will even include legal defense costs, should you need legal representation to defend you due to a liability claim.

Renter's insurance will also cover medical payments, including medical expenses for non-residents.

Compared to what you could stand to lose in the event of a serious loss, renter's insurance is cheap.  Check online, or check your Yellow Pages.  Most insurance companies offer renter's insurance, and you'd be playing Russian Roulette with your finances by NOT having it.

Reverse Mortgages: Pros and Cons

One of the most confusing mortgages to much of the general public is the reverse mortgage.  Lots of folks aren't sure what a reverse mortgage is, who qualifies, how to apply, and where to go to get information.

These are all great questions, and here is a great article that sums it up and explains it in simple terms.

Leave us any comment or question you might have about Reverse Mortgages by clicking on the comment link below.

Sub Prime Mortgages: Not So Easy Anymore

If your credit isn't the best, you might be familiar with sub-prime loans: they're the kind with a high rate for people with low credit…

With the mortgage industry suffering it's worst setback in decades in the past 12 months, the landscape is changing.  Money editor Stacy Johnson explains in this 1:33 video.

Leave us your comments or thoughts on the mortgage industry and the current real estate market.  We'd love to get your feedback.  Just click the comment link below and give us your feedback.

Consumer Sentiment: Plunges to a 26-Year Low

Consumer sentiment plunged to its lowest level in 26 years in early April, according to a report released recently by the University of Michigan/Reuters, as worries about the economy, unemployment and inflation deflated hopes for the future.

The U.S. consumer sentiment index fell to 63.2 in early April from 69.5 in March.  Sentiment is at its lowest level since March 1982.  Economists surveyed by MarketWatch were looking for an April result of 68.8.

Where is your "consumer sentiment" right now?  We'd love to hear from you on this topic.  Just click the comment link below and give us your feedback.