Buying something brand-spanking new certainly has an appeal. There’s no previous owner, so you know where the item has been. It’s pretty and shiny, and you get to enjoy that. But buying used usually comes with one big perk: saving money. We want to knowwhen is it better to buy used vs. new? For example, we’ve discussedbuying a new vs. used car before. There were some pretty strong opinions on both sides of the coin....

How can I separate useful reviews from crappy ones? Sincerely,Concerned Consumer Dear Concerned Consumer,You’re right, online reviews can be tricky to navigate. However, there’s a lot you’re free to learn from the general tone of online reviews. Scanning for commonalities across time or complaints is key. You usually have dozens to read through, so if any particular one seems fishy, toss it out. One thing to remember: Ignore outliers. You’re better off reading more metered and even-handed replies....

Here are four instances where you might be better off saying no thanks. This post originally appeared onThe Muse. I took on three new projects, and now I’m not getting any sleep. This woman’smentor had given her good advice, but it has to be applied within reason. The key is to be highly selective. Ultimately, he declined to participate. Don’t ignore the possibility of unexpected emotional costs, either. Will saying yes to this assignment meanworking with a leader who is known for burning people out?...

Find out how much is left on the prepaid card by following the instructions on the gift card. Usually you have to go to a web site and throw in in the card’s number. Google says they’ll charge you a 2.9% fee to do this with a minimum of 30 cents. Until July 16th, 2014 they are waiving that fee for the first $250 transferred. That fee waiver or the deadline may not apply to your account, so be sure to check....

Shopping for glasses used to mean dealing with salesmen and the meager selection at a store in the mall. Now you’re able to order better frames online, for less money, with better customer service. Earlier in the weekwe asked you to nominate your favorite online stores to buy glasses. You replied with tons of contenders, from simple frame manufacturers to high-end sports glasses companies. Box up the trial frames, and send them backreturn shipping is prepaid....

We’ve seen those poorly produced commercials about family members who have fallen and can’t get up. Consumer Reports reviewed these systems and compared the features you better know before deciding on a plan. Similar to mobile phones, these products have activation and cancellation fees along with monthly service fees. The systems vary greatly in how they handle alerts. Some will detect a fall while others won’t. Before you make your decision, check with the leasing office if your parent lives in a retirement community....

You might reconsider that strategy and use your HSA for additional retirement savings. At that point, the IRS will tax your HSA withdrawals like a traditional IRA.

Instead, try automatically saving them to your Google Drive. Amit Agarwal over at Digital Inspiration shares a handy script that wil automate the process for you. you’ve got the option to either use the code yourself or install his app. Check out the link for the details on how to install it. keep your Google Voicemail to Google Drive as MP3 Files| Digital Inspiration

This won’t replace bleach, but they’re an easy laundry boost that’s all natural and free. Don’t just throw the egg shells into the wash directly, though. I tried this tip and I did notice an improvement in my whites. Check out some other uses for egg shells by following the link. 10 uses for eggshells| MotherNatureNetwork Photo byPeter Lindberg.

These are called “out of order” or dirty rate rooms. The defect they disclose may be incorrect. it’s possible for you to’t book these rooms in advance-they are a “walk-in” rate. They are only available that day and not for a multi-night stay. They’d much rather sell you a fully functional room at a full price. The later on in the evening you call, the more likely you’ll get the room....

You probably know you shouldcheck your credit report periodically, but do you know what your C.L.U.E. It helps determine your insurance costs and like a credit report, you should check it for errors. This database includes claims made against your home and your automobiles. CLUE and You:How Insurers Size You Up| Privacy Rights Clearinghouse

When tempers flare at the office, we often say things we regret later. Talk about your shared interests in solving the conflict and potentially prevent the conflict from escalating. The Harvard Business Review advises keeping emotions out of a discussion. So you had better know how to break it. You might say something like: “Help me understand why this is such a problem.” In a work environment, you have a shared interest in doing your job well....

These cards can also be used to helpcurb impulse spending. The rate, however, usually applies to balances under $5,000. Once you hit that limit, the account starts paying around 1% interest on the remaining balance. Check out the link to compare rates and find other places to get the best rates on your savings. The Best Places to Stash Your Cash| Wall Street Journal Image bynobeastsofierce(Shutterstock).