Fall Fiesta fans learn how to Save Thousands 

This week on Saving Thousands! with Robert Palmer I took my money-saving tips on the road to WDBO’s Fall Fiesta at Lake Eola Park. I had so much fun doing my show live and taking questions from the crowd as part of the Ask the Experts series.

This show gave me a chance to reiterate some of my key message points.

My main goal to my listeners, customers and employees is to shop around. As consumers it’s our decision to stand up for our money.

Look what that did to the big banks trying to charge a $5 monthly fee for debit-card use! So many customers threatened to close their accounts that most of the big guys reconsidered. This wasn’t because of government intervention, but because of consumers saying we won’t pay - we will find other banks that won’t charge us. Now think of the thousands of dollars each customer will save over time.

I also think consumers need to find the right professional help when it comes to their financial situations. Jeff called into the show with a question on his FHA (Federal Housing Administration) home loan. He fell $6,000 behind in payments, but has been making them regularly for the past eight months. Since he racked up all that debt he continues to get charged late fees. My best advice to him was to get in contact with the local Orlando FHA office because they have forbearance options that will keep him from paying late fees and continuing to add to his debt.

From working with big companies I know it’s also important to not assume buying from a friend is the best option. You still need to shop around. The financial service industry has spent millions learning how to take advantage of consumers. The industry knows that when you buy because of a personal connection you aren’t going to shop around.

Take this for example; some of the bigger companies will hire financial planners right out of college with the thought process of “we’re going to be able to tap into this person’s friends and family, so we can sell a lower quality product for a higher price.”

Please join me in this consumer revolution – shop around! I promise taking the time to shop will put thousands back into your bank account.

If you’re looking for more tips “Like” the Saving Thousands! with Robert PalmerFacebook page.

Tune in Sunday at 11 am on FM 96.5/AM 580 - WDBO and learn how to Save Thousands! Our new FM signal means people as far north as Palm Coast, as far south as Vero Beach and as far west as Dade City and Ocala are now tuning in and Saving Thousands!