Kentin Waits's picture
Senior Writer

Kentin Waits

Exploring and embracing the freedom of debt-free living, the high-art of personal craft, the value of working mind and body, and the enduring luxury of minimalism. 

Latest articles by Kentin Waits

Essential Money Lessons for Recent Grads

Learning the ins and out of managing money can be daunting, especially for young adults. Master these financial fundamentals to get off to a good start.

From Fine to Fabulous: 7 Ways to Improve Your eBay Business

Online auction site eBay has matured, but it's still a great way for savvy sellers to earn extra income. Take advantage of the site with these seven tips.

Why I Love Lists

Need to get something done, feel productive, or just get focused? Make a list!

12 DIY Ideas for Creating Inexpensive Art

Art doesn't have to be high-brow -- or expensive -- to wow. Channel your inner creative, keep your home decor budget, and fill your rooms with art.

Evolve Your Money Management Beyond the Budget

Budgeting can be complicated, tedious, and inflexible. But for some, there's a simpler, more reliable way to accomplish the same thing.

Big Lessons From the Tiny House Movement

Imagine life without a mortgage or an overstuffed attic. Even if we don't live in one, tiny houses can teach us a lot about consumption, debt, and simplicity.

How to Negotiate With Confidence and Strike the Best Deal

Intimated by the thought of negotiating? Frazzled by haggling? Here are some tips to help you relax, enjoy the process, and score better deals.

5 Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Used Car

If you're in the market for good used car, here are five essential questions to ask yourself before you step on the lot or respond to the ad.

Frugal Factors: What Traits Do Most Savers Share?

We're all individuals, each with our own reasons for living frugally — but we're alike in some very important ways.

10 Inexpensive Spring Spruce-Up Ideas for Your Home

Are you ready for some spring redecorating...but your wallet isn't? Don't worry! You can spruce up your space with these 10 budget-friendly DIY ideas.

Is Building an Emergency Fund Always a Good Idea?

We often hear the same advice — everyone needs to have an emergency fund. But, in some situations, it might be OK to skip it.

The 5 Best Deals in Every Thrift Store

Not all thrift stores are created equal — but if you look for these five things, you'll almost always find a good deal.

Your Saving Habits Make You a Revolutionary

Feeling like saving money puts you at odds with most of society? These statistics suggest you may be correct — and better off.

25 Painless Ways to Save $50 This Year

Little changes can add up to huge savings. From dating to driving, here are 25 painless ways to save $50 in the coming year.

Freelancing: A Beginner’s Guide to Doing It Right

If you're considering freelancing as a way to supplement your income or have more career freedom, here are the essential steps you need to take to get started.

What Helped You Become Financially Aware?

Our histories shape who we are, including how we manage money. What early experiences helped you become the financial person you are today?

5 Frugal Ways to Go Green in 2013

Make 2013 your year to help the environment...and your wallet. Here a five simple ways to turn over a new leaf and save a little money, too.

Money Resolutions: 6 Ways to Take Control in 2013

The start of the new year is a great time to give your saving and investment strategy a makeover. Here's how to get started.

How to Make Money Like the Guys on "American Pickers"

Fascinated by Mike and Frank's adventures finding and reselling items? Amazed at their profits? Learn a few rules of the picking road, and give it a try.

5 Steps to Stress-Free Holiday Gift Giving

Is the holiday season already straining your last festive nerve? Maybe it's time to rethink gift-giving and adopt a saner strategy.