Buying a car is a big decision for many reasons. Not only is this the vehicle that will get you around, but it will have some sort of impact on your finances. For this reason, you never want to make a decision until you are 100 percent comfortable with exactly what you are getting.

Unfortunately, this is easier said than done because some car sales people don’t have your best interest in mind. Instead, they want nothing more than to make a deal, even if it means you are unhappy in the end.

Here are five common lies that you need to be aware of:

1. The car is waiting for you. There is nothing worse than hearing this over the phone or via email, just to arrive at the dealer and find that the vehicle is missing. The old “bait and switch” has been around for many years, and if you fall prey it could end up costing you a lot of money.

2. We will give you more than any other dealer for your trade. This is a common tactic to get you into the dealership. Furthermore, some sales people will try to lump together the price of the vehicle and what you are getting for your trade. Fight against this, making sure you are fully aware of both sides of the transaction.

3. There is no room to negotiate. Even if you are told that a price is as low as it goes, don’t fall for this. No car dealer wants you to leave the lot, unless it is in one of their vehicles, of course. The opportunity to negotiate is very real. As long as both sides are reasonable and respectful, there is a good chance of reaching a mutually agreeable number.

4. We can secure the lowest interest rate for you. If you are financing and you believe this to be true, it could cost you thousands of dollars over the term of your loan. It is important to remember that dealerships will receive a commission from the bank for pushing you into a higher rate than what is offered.

5. The car will sell by the time you make your way back. This is a ploy to keep you on the lot until you make a purchase. You should never believe this trick. If a car does happen to sell after you walk away, you can always find another deal at another dealer. Don’t let this type of pressure wear you down.

Now that you are aware of these common car salesman lies, you have a better chance of securing a deal that is perfect for both you and your finances.

With the popularity of online banking, a growing number of people are turning away from community banks and setting their sights on national institutions. While there is nothing wrong with considering this idea, you don’t want to make a change until you thoroughly compare the pros and cons of both options.

Here are three of the top reasons to shun national banks for one in your local community:

1. Higher level of customer service. This may not always be the case, but most people agree that they get better service from a local bank than one that is doing business from one side of the country to the next.

Here is something else to consider: you can visit a local branch if you want to speak with somebody in person. This is not always an option when you bank with a national brand.

2. Support the local economy. There is nothing more important than putting your money to work to grow your local economy, especially with the way things have gone over the past decade.

Small businesses, such as community banks, are in position to create many local jobs. Along with this, local companies can turn to these financial institutions for financing. As a result, those companies are also able to boost the local economy through new hires and increased profits.

Big banks don’t typically care about local communities. Big banks spend a small amount of time and money on small businesses.

If you want to support your local economy, choose a community bank.

3. Community banks share your goals. Think about it this way: when the economy thrives in a particular area so do the banks. For this reason, it is safe to assume that they share many of your same goals for your community. Can the same be said about bigger, national banks that focus most their time and attention on Wall Street and multi-billion dollar corporations?

Regardless of why you are in search of a bank, consider all your options. Even though it is important to do what is best for you and your money, make sure you consider the benefits of choosing a community bank.

Once the holiday season comes and goes, you may feel empty inside for a few days. After all, you put a lot of time into preparing for a week (or more) of fun.

For many, spending during the holiday season can get out of control. Even if you try to keep yourself in check, you may find that you have gone too far. Preventing this scenario will keep you from desperate situations, including obtaining financing, or worse – considering loan sharks to juggle your finances.

Once the holiday season is over and January is here, it is time to review your balance sheet. When doing so, it is important to focus on the following details:

1. Credit card debt. Did you spend any money on your credit card during the holidays? If so, it is your hopes that you can pay off the balance, in full, the next time a statement arrives. This allows you to put your holiday spending in the past, while also avoiding an interest charge.
2. Focus on your budget. Let’s face it: you may have blown past your budget in December. From gifts to food to travel, you had a lot on your plate. Now, however, it is time to get back on track. Review your budget, make any necessary changes, and be sure that you are 100 percent comfortable with every last category.
3. Have a plan for saving more. A budget is more than something that shows you how much you are spending. It is also something that helps you save more. What changes can you make to save more money in the new year?

The way you review your finances after the holiday season is dependent on many personal factors. Even so, most people find it helpful to focus on the three details above.

With the right approach, you will feel better about your financial situation as the calendar turns and you are faced with another 12 months.

There are people who love to negotiate, as well as those who would rather avoid this at all costs.

Even if you aren’t the type who looks forward to this, there are a few times when opening your mouth can save you quite a bit of money – and a loan or debt.

Here are three things you absolutely need to negotiate:

1. Cell phone bill. Negotiating your phone bill is easier than ever before, due in large part to growing competition throughout the industry.

As the end of your contract closes in, reach out to your cell phone provider to discuss your options. Even if you only save a few dollars per month, this has a way of adding up over the course of a year.

2. Furniture. When was the last time you visited a furniture store? As you probably recall, the prices often seem much higher than what they should be.

You should never hesitate to ask for a discount when shopping for furniture, which includes mattresses.

Some stores are more willing than others to negotiate, but you should always do your best to save. Sometimes all it takes is the suggestion of a lower price in order to keep some money in your pocket.

3. Medical bill. There is nothing worse than receiving a bill from a medical facility or doctor that is higher than expected.

If it’s a small bill, such as $100 or less, it’s probably best to make the payment and move on. However, in the event of a larger bill, don’t wait to contact the appropriate party to discuss your options. For example, you may qualify for a discount if you pay the amount in full.

There are those who negotiate everything they want to purchase, as well as those who typically shy away from this. Negotiating price helps to keep things fair when you know that you can get a better deal elsewhere, or you are being treated unfairly. This ultimately will help your financial situation and help you to avoid another loan.

Regardless of where you fit in, the three situations above call for a negotiation. If you’re lucky, you’ll find yourself saving money soon enough.