MoneyWatch with Jill Schlesinger New Year, New Car?
6 snips
Feb 1, 2026 A couple must decide how to replace a totaled car and whether to tap investments or take a low-rate new-car loan. Tax season organization and upcoming webinars get a quick primer. Rental property strategy and which real estate to keep or sell are debated. Planning steps include 529s, estate documents after a pregnancy, and insurance checkups.
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Crash, $10K Payout, And Pregnancy Surprise
- Matthew and his wife were in a crash that totaled her vehicle and will receive about $10,000 from insurance.
- They just found out they're pregnant and now need a family vehicle like a minivan.
Take A Very Low-Rate Loan For A Practical Family Car
- If you can get a very low-rate new-car loan, take it and use the insurance check as a down payment to secure favorable terms.
- Prioritize a safe, practical family vehicle (minivan or similar) even if it feels unsexy.
Used Versus New Trade-Off Has Narrowed
- The new-versus-used trade-off has narrowed; used-car discounts shrank so buying new can make more sense with low financing.
- Current market and financing can flip typical advice to 'buy used with cash.'