House Calls: The Home and Food Blog at iVillage.com

If you've received a mysterious letter from a collection agency stating outstanding debt from years ago, it could be a scam. Don't pay until you hear what our expert has to say.

Carmen weighs in on disputing outstanding debt. Watch her answer:
















Have a question for Carmen? Post it on our message board.

For more advice watch Carmen Wong Ulrich on ' On The Money', weeknights at 8 pm ET.

More tips for Bailing Yourself Out

It seems like a last resort, but when is bankruptcy the best option? If you're considering this solution to your financial woes, first see what our expert has to say.

Carmen weighs in on bankruptcy. Watch her answer:
















Have a question for Carmen? Post it on our message board.

For more advice watch Carmen Wong Ulrich on ' On The Money', weeknights at 8 pm ET.

It is unseasonably chilly right now in the Northeast, and if the icy winds and flurries of snow haven't hit your hometown, they're probably on the way.  The time to put off winterizing home improvements has ended--and so has the hassle of it. In just a couple days--one weekend sacrificed--you can get your home warmer and more energy efficient for the upcoming months. Simply discovering the sources of drafts and preventing them with heavy drapes, or sealing cracks and gaps, can make a huge difference in your comfort and utility bills. Want the easy way out of winterizing?  Put these single-serving caulking packets on your shopping list and get your to-do list done faster.  You don't even need tools--the nifty packaging lets you create a neat, even bead with one arm tied behind your back.

 

Rachel

 

You know you need to build up your savings, but where does that extra money come from? If you're like this iVillager, and wondering if your mortgage or your savings should be first priority, see what our expert advises.

Carmen weighs in. Watch her answer:
















Have a question for Carmen? Post it on our message board.

For more advice watch Carmen Wong Ulrich on ' On The Money', weeknights at 8 pm ET.

The housing crisis has focused mainly on homeowners, but what about the millions of renters suffering in this economy? One iVillager asks, "Is there any recourse for renters in the foreclosure crisis?"

Carmen weighs in. Watch her answer:
















Have a question for Carmen? Post it on our message board.

For more advice watch Carmen Wong Ulrich on ' On The Money', weeknights at 8 pm ET.