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Illinois man's five dollar Goodwill purchase confirmed by Sothebys to be rare 18th-century Chinese porcelain.

In early 2025, an Illinois resident purchased a plate at a Goodwill in Evanston for $4.99. A pretty good price for porcelain—but he thought this plate looked particularly good for five dollars. With just his phone's camera and Google Lens, he quickly realized he had something much more valuable on his hands.
November 14, 2025 Carl Wyndham

I bought a home sight unseen and it needs a new roof, wiring, and plumbing. Do I cut my losses?

Bought a home sight unseen only to find major issues like a bad roof, wiring, or plumbing? Learn what to do next—from assessing repair costs to deciding whether to fix, flip, or sell. This guide breaks down your options, how to minimize losses, and how to turn a housing nightmare into a smart financial move.
November 14, 2025 Jack Hawkins

Without China’s Economic Engine, This Is What The World Would Look Like

Imagine waking up tomorrow to news that China's economy has imploded overnight—the second-largest economic engine on earth suddenly stalls. According to experts and verified data, the possibility isn't as remote as we might think.
November 13, 2025 Jane O'Shea

My dad bought an annuity he didn’t understand, and now he’s stuck with high fees and no way to access his savings without massive penalties. What now?

Your dad is learning that that the annuity he signed up for is filled with hidden fees, confusing terms, and exorbitant withdrawal penalties. Here’s how you can help him escape this financial sinkhole.
November 14, 2025 Jane O'Shea

Ranking The States With The Most Affordable Housing, According To Data

Finding an affordable home in America has become harder than ever. Comparing median home prices with household incomes determine where homeownership is still within reach. The results reveal a clear winner—the Midwest—while several once-affordable states have slipped out of range.
November 14, 2025 J. Clarke
Facing Assessment Shock

I'm stuck in my condo, but special assessments won't stop rising. Do I sell at a loss or wait it out?

You can walk away now or hang on a little longer and see where the market goes. Both paths have trade-offs—no promise of calm or cash. Take your time and pick what feels right for you. Consult if you must!
November 14, 2025 Marlon Wright
Antique book

A worn old book found in a Michigan State University donation bin turned out to be an incredibly rare 17th-century text worth tens of thousands.

A worn old book found in a Michigan State University donation bin turned out to be an incredibly rare 17th-century text worth tens of thousands.
November 14, 2025 Allison Robertson
The Hobbit

A thrift store manager in Scotland discovered a rare 1937 first edition copy of The Hobbit in the back room—then sold it for $13,000.

A thrift-store manager in Scotland discovered a rare 1937 first-edition copy of The Hobbit while sorting donations. It sold for $13,000.
November 13, 2025 Allison Robertson
Rare Books

Rare Books That Sell For Over Six Figures

Whether it's a first edition, an author’s signature, or a famously banned text, some rare books can sell for $100,000 or more at auction.
November 14, 2025 Allison Robertson
Slide projector

Vintage Slide Projectors That Collectors Can’t Resist

Before streaming took over, families once gathered around humming projectors and spinning reels of color. Though some of these machines aren’t worth much today, their ingenious design and nostalgic glow keep collectors excited.
November 12, 2025 Peter Kinney

My parents took out a reverse mortgage to buy an RV and “see America,” but now they’re stranded in Arizona with no gas money. What can I do?

Your parents’ dream of touring America in retirement has turned into an expensive lesson in the risks of reverse mortgages.
November 13, 2025 Sammy Tran

When I got my inheritance, it really seemed like it could never run out. I have maybe six months left. Where did I go wrong?

An inheritance can feel like a reward and a riddle. One (or 44) wrong move (s), and that comfort cushion turns into a countdown clock you didn’t see coming.
November 12, 2025 Peter Kinney