TrustDALE Blog

Insights on Companies and Trust

Sketchy of the Week: Credit Karma
Scam Prevention

Laura Lovejoy

Sketchy of the Week: Credit Karma

Personal finance company Credit Karma is accused of deceiving the very people it tries to help. Dale explains what you need to do if Credit Karma's deceit took a bite out of your credit score.

Why You Should Start Planning Now for Your Spring Landscape Project
Exterior & Landscaping Home Services

Laura Lovejoy

Why You Should Start Planning Now for Your Spring Landscape Project

As winter blankets the landscape with snow and cold temperatures, it might seem counterintuitive to start thinking about your spring landscape project. However, seasoned homeowners and landscaping enthusiasts know that planning ahead is the key to a

Three for Thursday 01.18.2024
Finance & Tips Scam Prevention

Three for Thursday 01.18.2024

When was the last time you were stunned to learn something, you did not expect to learn? It happened for me when I discovered many Americans do not insist on validation before they accept a news report as fact. I realized that my four-year degree in journ

Make the right choice for your moving insurance BEFORE you need it!
Finance & Tips

Laura Lovejoy

Make the right choice for your moving insurance BEFORE you need it!

Moving to a new home can be an exciting but stressful experience. It involves a lot of planning, packing, and coordination. One crucial aspect of the moving process that often gets overlooked is insurance. While professional moving companies take gre

Three for Thursday 01.11.2024
Finance & Tips Scam Prevention

Three for Thursday 01.11.2024

I recently received a free package of greeting cards from a charity to which I do not regularly contribute. I instantly considered whether I should use them, even though I had no intention of donating. The items are called “donor premiums” and are a time-

Ask Dale: The mechanic damaged my car. What can I do?
Finance & Tips Automotive

Laura Lovejoy

Ask Dale: The mechanic damaged my car. What can I do?

The mechanic damaged my car. What can I do?

Make use of your basement space to add value to your home!
Home Services

Laura Lovejoy

Make use of your basement space to add value to your home!

When it comes to expanding your living space and increasing the value of your home, basement renovations are a fantastic investment. Basements are often underutilized, dark, and dingy spaces that can be transformed into vibrant, functional areas that

Dale's Do's and Don'ts January 2024
Finance & Tips

Dale's Do's and Don'ts January 2024

Today’s helpful hint focuses on my third step I call DEFINE. Before you purchase a product or service, I want you to define what you need it to do for you by comparing or testing products, then entertaining offers, and choosing the appropriate price.

Three for Thursday 12.28.2023
Finance & Tips Scam Prevention

Three for Thursday 12.28.2023

A few weeks ago, I received a help request from a consumer who wanted to know how to be certain they are paying a fair price. I told him to pursue three quotes and let the vendors know they are competing, (unless the amount of $ is negligible).

Ask Dale: Do I need homeowners' insurance if my HOA insures my property?
Finance & Tips

Don Dodds

Ask Dale: Do I need homeowners' insurance if my HOA insures my property?

Hi everyone! Today, we have a real consumer question from Laura regarding homeowners insurance for townhomes.

Three for Thursday 12.21.2023
Finance & Tips Scam Prevention

Three for Thursday 12.21.2023

TrustDALE's Three For Thursday Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.

Understanding the Importance of Color and Style in Siding Choice
Home Services

Don Dodds

Understanding the Importance of Color and Style in Siding Choice

Choosing the right color and style of siding for your home is a critical decision that can significantly impact its curb appeal and overall value.

Get your septic system pumped on a regular basis!
Repair & Maintenance Home Services

Don Dodds

Get your septic system pumped on a regular basis!

Understanding the purpose and functioning of septic systems is crucial for homeowners relying on these wastewater disposal systems.

Assessing Your Auto Insurance Coverage Needs
Finance & Tips Automotive

Don Dodds

Assessing Your Auto Insurance Coverage Needs

In the complex world of auto insurance, it is essential to begin by determining the minimum coverage requirements dictated by your state's legal obligations.