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Senior Writer

Paul Michael

An adman with inside knowledge, I'll steer you to wiser choices.

Latest articles by Paul Michael

The Top 10 DIY Jobs Homeowners Should Avoid

If you're thinking about tackling a big DIY project, you may want to think again. Screw one of these projects up, and it could ruin your home's value — or worse.

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in May

From Mother's Day to Memorial Day, here's what to buy — and what to avoid — in May.

10 Crazy Frugality Schemes That Just Might Work

Ready to take your frugal living beyond the everyday? Try one of these cost cutting strategies that push the boundaries of normalcy.

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in April

Spring is here, and so are the deals...and plenty of items to avoid. Here is your buying guide for April.

8 Vile Craigslist Scams to Watch Out For

Although 99% of the ads on Craigslist are legit, some are designed to scam you. Recognize these eight common Craigslist scams and avoid becoming a mark.

17 Things Car Salesmen Don't Want You to Know

Car salesmen have a lot of tricks up their sleeves to help separate you from your money. Learn what to watch out for.

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in March

From video game systems to clothing to candy, discover what you should buy this month (and what to avoid).

10 Surprising Marketing Tricks You Should Be Aware Of

From unhealthy "health" products to designer diamonds and more, discover 10 sneaky marketing tricks to avoid.

25 Products You Think You Need, but Really Don’t

Marketers spend a lot of effort convincing us that our wants are needs. From aftershave to baby walkers, here are 25 things you can easily do without.

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in February

It’s February, and that means there are deals to be had and pricing landmines to avoid. Check out this list, and shop with savvy.

7 Secrets About Life and Career From "Office Space"

The comedy that captured the frustrations of cubicle-farm workers everywhere has more to offer than laughs — it also has some serious life lessons.

7 Ways to Ace Your Next Performance Review

Turn your next one-on-one with your boss into a promotion or raise with some common-sense preparation and a willingness to shine.

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in January

Stores are filled with post-holiday clearance, but there are things you should avoid this month. Get the scoop on what to buy and what to leave on the shelf.

Seen Something for 70% Off or More? Buy It.

if you want to put some extra bucks in your pocket before, during, and after the holidays, here are some tips on finding deals and reselling for a tidy profit.

5 Free Handy Coupon Apps — Don’t Leave Home Without One

With so many free coupon apps to choose from, which are worth downloading? Check out these five that can save — or even make — you money.

White On! 9 Alternative Uses for Bleach

Bleach is more versatile than you think. When you use your imagination, it can be downright amazing. Here are nine cool uses for that bottle under the sink.

When to Buy Brand Names: Sometimes, the Splurge Is Worth It

As important as it is to save money, it’s just as important to spend it wisely. And that means that sometimes, it makes sense to pay more for a brand-name item.

“Avoid These Fast Food Items,” Say Fast Food Employees

A collection of former and current fast food employees recently shared their "do not eats" — here are some of the highlights.

Frugal Red Herrings: Money-Savers That Cost You in Other Ways

Are your money-saving ways just an illusion? Find out if you're falling prey to these frugal red herrings.

10 Things I Just Won’t Do to Save Money

Turn down money-saving opportunities? Yup! One very frugal writer shares the questionable and straight-up dumb ways he won't save money.