Carlos Portocarrero's blog

Five Tips for a Smooth Nanny Share

Nanny sharing is a great way to save money on child care...if you do it right. Here's how to make sure you get the most of out your nanny share.

Learn New Skills for Free: The Power of Forums

When it comes to learning a new skill or getting help with a problem, these online communities are some of the best resources you can find.

5 Ways Google Wallet Can Save You Money

Not only does Google Wallet allow you to quickly pay with a tap of your phone, it can also help you automatically access coupons and much more.

How Investing Drives Us Crazy: Lessons From a Trade

Even when you do everything "right," you can still lose money on a trade. Get some good investing advice (even if it's not a guaranteed path to wealth).

Cable TV Is Here to Stay...for Now

Thinking about cutting cable? You might be surprised by little you could save. Follow these steps to find out if it's actually cost effective for you.

My Number One Tip for College Students

College is a time of learning, experimenting...and wasting time. Stop doing that last one, and discover how much more fun (and success) you can have.

How to Buy a Desktop Computer

Shopping for a desktop computer is all about buying what's right for you.

How to Buy a Laptop Computer

If you're shopping for a new laptop, pay attention to these features.

6 Sites Every Car Owner Needs to Bookmark Now

If you own a car, you know you have to stay up on your maintenance and have a trustworthy mechanic. These six sites will help you with both.

Excel: The Most Underrated Software You Already Own

Want to save yourself hours of mindless work and look really smart at your job? Then you need to learn how to use Excel.

The Upside of Mass Layoffs

Being a part of a huge layoff isn't fun, but it's a lot better than getting fired by yourself. Here are four positives that can come out of the experience.

6 Ways to Save Money on iPads, iPhones, and Macs

Want to buy a sleek Mac laptop or a cool iPad but don't want to pay full price? Fear not — there are actually ways to save money on Apple products.

Nanny Sharing: Lowering the Cost of Personal Childcare

With nanny sharing, you can save money while giving your baby both the individualized attention of a nanny and the social benefits of a day care.

Buying a New Smartphone Without Extending Your Contract

Buying a new smartphone can be inexpensive if you're willing to extend your contract, but getting a cheap smartphone with no contract extension? That's an art.

How to Buy Stocks, Priceline-Style

Setting your own price for stocks is easy if you know what strategy to use. And you don't even need William Shatner to negotiate for you.

Why You Should Follow Google's 20% Rule

This simple idea can make you happier, wealthier, and more valuable at work.

Save Money Shopping Online With Google

Want to save some money on every single online purchase you ever make? Next time you're about to buy something online, make sure to try this handy little tip that takes advantage o

How to Stop a Baby From Crying

When a baby is crying and nothing seems to calm her down, try to trigger the "calming reflex." Developed by a Dr. Karp, it can turn off a baby's cries in a few seconds.

Getting the Most Out of Salary Comparison Sites

Asking for a raise isn't as simple as strutting into your boss' office and demanding more money. You have to make your case with objective data, and that's where salary-comparison

Selling Your Groupon Coupons

If you've bought a Groupon or Living Social coupon but can't (or don't want to) use it, these sites will help you sell it to someone who wants it.