Peter Kinney articles

You’re settling into your new home, maybe doing a bit of exploring, and you stumble across something unexpected in the attic: valuable jewelry. At first, it feels like you just got incredibly lucky. Then the previous owner reaches out and says it was left behind by accident and wants it back. Now what felt like a great surprise suddenly turns into a stressful situation. Do you actually have to give it back, or is it yours now?

Spending an entire weekend on a project for a job interview sounds excessive; it's even worse if you don't end up getting hired.

You’ve spent decades working, saving, and building a comfortable life. Now, heading into retirement, you’re considering something different: selling your home and living full-time on cruise ships. No upkeep, no yard work, just constant travel. It sounds freeing, but your family sees it as risky and expensive. The truth is, both sides have a point. This lifestyle can work, as long as you don't underestimate some of the trade-offs.

Another family member sold items that you inherited in your father-in-law's will. We look at what you can do.

It’s easy to assume that if a deck has been standing for years without issue, it’s in the clear. That is, until the city flags it as unpermitted and demands action. Luckily, whether they can actually force you to remove it depends on a mix of local bylaws, safety concerns, and what steps you take next.

You thought the hardest part was over once the relationship ended. Then the calls start coming in. Creditors are reaching out about thousands of dollars in credit card debt that your ex racked up, and somehow your name is being dragged into it too. You didn’t make those purchases, so why are you being asked to pay?

The eviction process is so long and frustrating that it hardly seems fair. Here's how to approach the situation.

You thought everything was settled when your relative passed away, since their will clearly named you as the beneficiary of their property. Then out of nowhere, their former business partner shows up claiming there was a verbal agreement that gives him half of the property. That kind of situation feels confusing and stressful. Luckily, if you have a written legal document, you also have the upper hand.

If the previous owner of your house keeps coming by for unwanted visits, you need to take action quickly.