News & Consumer Advice

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).

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

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

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.

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

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.

Dale's Consumer Do's and Don'ts December 2023

Proper insulation and preventive measures against frozen pipes are vital during the winter season. Understanding the science behind why pipes freeze and burst is key to implementing effective preventive strategies.

Zillow, the prominent real estate website, offers consumers an intriguing feature called Zestimates. These proprietary estimates provide an indication of a home's market value, based on a mix of public and private data sources.

Home security is of paramount importance, and it begins with understanding and evaluating potential risks and vulnerabilities specific to your property and lifestyle. By conducting a thorough assessment, you can determine the level of security requir

Strange noises emanating from your appliances could be the first indication of an underlying problem. Uncommon hums, buzzes, or rattling sounds may signify loose components or worn-out bearings.

Trees are more than mere adornments to our landscapes; they play a vital role in property maintenance. They offer numerous environmental benefits, such as oxygen production, air purification, stormwater management, and erosion control.

Dale's Consumer Do's and Don'ts Welcome to my monthly newsletter, Dale’s Do’s and Don’ts providing suggestions for your home and family, along with cautionary tales of how to be a safe and smart consumer. Eac

Replacing old and worn-out windows with new, efficient ones can transform the insulation capabilities of your home, eliminating pesky drafts and dampening temperature fluctuations throughout the seasons.

Let’s talk about a very boring subject, the US Federal debt, which is now 33 trillion dollars. Why should you care? If you think of the US economy as a household that earns $50,000 per year, we spend $65,000 per year, and we have a debt of $300,000. The r