08.24.26 The U.S. Savings Rate / Home Buyer Warning
Summary
Clark Howard warns that the U.S. savings rate has plummeted to 2%, urging listeners to automate saving habits for financial security. He also highlights a major consumer trap in real estate, where "buyer's agent" agreements often include hidden clauses that obligate buyers to pay commissions even if they use a different agent. Additionally, the episode covers listener questions on investing in real estate via ETFs, the value of postal insurance, and strategies for navigating the high costs and risks of continuing care retirement communities.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Indeed and Visible
Intro: Savings rate update and home buying rules
US savings rate drops to 2% and the psychology of saving
Listener tips on Schwab and Vanguard account security
Investing in real estate: Active ownership vs. REITs
Is it worth insuring valuable items sent via mail?
Sponsors: Indeed, Visible, Tidy Cats, Uber Eats, United
New real estate commission rules and dangerous buyer agreements
Evaluating continuing care retirement community fees
Long-term care insurance options for childless couples
Listener finds $93 in unclaimed property via MissingMoney
Outro and Verizon NFL Sunday Ticket promotion
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