The gyrations in this economy are having an effect on us.  I never knew that my car would save how well I could eat, but here’s my story.

We hit a low point in July when we were basically broke, barely making enough money to subsist, with bad credit and a refrigerator that just up and died in the Arlington condo we bought in 2006.  To replace it would cost $900. Both my wife and I were too embarrassed to ask for help from friends or family.

So I Googled to see what I might find used.  In about a minute I found a demolition project in McClean, where they had a model we had looked at earlier this year, priced at $1100.  With a demolition, you bargain with the developer and haul it away yourself. I figured I’d shoot for $300 to $500.

You can’t say I don’t have cajones.  But that still doesn’t create cash.

So back to the Internet, that fount of all things necessary.  I learned I could get a loan through Car Title Loans in Arlington. They offered me $4000 in a title loan on my VW Passat, but all I needed was the $500, plus another $100 for a truck rental.   From there it was easy: I completed the online application and the money came by electronic funds transfer to my checking account in 24 hours.  I rented the truck, started dickering at $300 and settled at $400.  Sweet.

My wife made fun of me, but using an auto title loan store for house improvements is generally a good investment.  This one saves us more on food and electricity costs.  Now, if only we could fix Wall Street. 

- Sam T.