Tell my audience about yourself. What made you want to start your website affordanything.com?

In 2008, I quit my job, sold all my possessions and traveled the world for more than 2 years. Many friends said, “I’d love to do that but I can’t afford it,” and that statement drove me crazy. They COULD afford it, they just choose to spend their money mindlessly rather than focus on a critical goal.

I started Afford Anything to show people how to channel money into living their dreams. Over the past few years, AA has evolved into discussing financial freedom, wealth-building, money myths and real estate investing.

Please name some quick and easy ways for a person to improve their credit even if they’ve recently been through a divorce or some type of financial calamity?

Pay all your bills on time — a single late payment can devastate your credit. Keep your current charge accounts open, but don’t open any new ones. Use less than 20 percent of your total revolving credit limit, even if you pay the bill in full each month. Check your credit score regularly to make sure there are no inaccuracies.

When a person walks into a car dealership what are some credit questions you recommend that consumer ask the salesman or finance manager?

Honestly, I have no idea. I’ve never bought a car from a dealer! I do, however, know that many credit unions and local banks offer auto-financing, often at lower rates than what a dealer offers. Get a quote from your local credit union, and ask the dealer if he can beat it.

How long does the credit restoration process take?

Tarnishes stay on your report for up to 7-10 years, but the longer ago something happened, the less of a negative effect it will have.

If a person can’t purchase a vehicle in cash, what’s the ideal down payment you recommend they have? Does a larger down payment mean a shorter loan and APR?

APR is going to be based on current market rates and your personal credit score. The loan size won’t affect it too much.

A larger down payment will mean a shorter loan, though, since you’re borrowing less money in total. Or you could opt for a longer loan and smaller monthly payments.

In your a first time car buyer and you’ve never shopped for insurance before, what are some tips to get the lowest payment possible? What are some questions you should ask your insurance agent?

Ask for discounts for having a good driving record. Some auto insurers will let you put a tracking device in your car and they’ll detect your driving habits for a month. If you’re a safe driver, they give a discount.

Also, if you’re a student, ask for “good grade” discounts. Sounds crazy, but it’s true — some insurers offer it!

Besides affordanything.com what are some of websites/blogs you would recommend our visitors visit while trying to improve their credit?

I write a lot about credit and debt at About Budgeting, so I’d recommend some of those articles.

Afford Anything
Twitter
Facebook

This is our eleventh interview in our “1000 Interview Challenge” If your interested in an interview, please contact me.

This interview was conducted by Shane McC. Shane currently is attending RISD studying computer programming. He enjoys traveling and plays hockey. He played for the Boston Junior Bruins of the EJHL during the 01-02 season. You can follow him on Google+