Laurie Blank
Laurie Blank is a freelance writer and licensed Realtor practicing in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
She has been writing about personal finance topics for over six years.
Laurie works her writing and real estate businesses while being a (largely) stay-at-home mom to her four children.
In her spare time she keeps active hiking, biking, cooking and hanging out with family and friends.
12 Ways to Build Up Your Savings Account
Saving money can seem overwhelming. But if you're determined to do it, there are some things you can do to smooth the way. It helps to have a goal. Maybe you want to save to buy a house. Or you know you need to sock away money for retirement. Or you still...
33 Simple Ways to Save Money
Do you ever think about how nice it would be to save more money? Or to spend less money? Or both? Think about how your life would be if you had thousands — or even millions — of dollars in savings. What kind of freedom would that offer you? How would...
The Difference Between Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
There is a lot to know in the vast world that encompasses college student loans. Perkins, FFEL, public, private; all of these terms and more will become your friends (or enemies) as you begin accruing student loan debt balances. One thing you should know...
Where to Sell Your Antiques
Vintage and antique goods can often bring you money if you’re selling the right items. But where should you sell your antiques for the most cash? In my experience, selling at local antique shops will bring you fast money, but not necessarily the most...
7 Best 800 Number Services for Small Businesses in 2019
Have you thought about getting an 800 number for your business? Perhaps you just started a business, and you want the credibility and trust factor of having an 800 number. Or maybe you are an established business, and you want to appeal to a broader client...
14 Best Alternatives to Quicken in 2019
Back in the day, Quicken was “the bomb” when it came to money management. When Quicken first launched in 1983, personal finance nerds everywhere were overjoyed. The personal finance software program allowed people to manage their money on a computer...
What is Student Loan Forbearance and is it Worth it?
If you’ve got student loans you’re repaying, you may have heard people talk about student loan forbearance. But what does it mean to put your student loans into forbearance? And, is it worth it? According to the Federal Student Aid department, the...
6 Best Baby Registry Sites (Amazon, Target and More)
Having a baby is one of the most exciting things to happen in the life of an adult. It can also be very overwhelming. Parenting is hard work, and if you’re heading into parenthood for the first time it’s common to be unsure about everything from...
24 Places to Easily Sell Your Used Electronics (Including Near You)
Life for most of us includes some type of electronic item, whether it’s your phone, your tablet or your laptop. The electronic age isn’t going anywhere. However, it does come with one caveat; a growing pile of no-longer-used electronic items sitting...
5 You Need a Budget (YNAB) Alternatives in 2019
Have you ever heard of You Need a Budget (YNAB)? YNAB is a budgeting tool created to help you have better control over your finances. Depending on your budgeting style, you might not find YNAB a good fit. We’ll show you some similar software programs...