Jeff Somers is a freelancer who has been writing about writing, books, personal finance, and home maintenance since 2012.
Jeff has published nine novels and more than 70 short stories; his story Ringing the Changes was selected for inclusion in The Best American Mystery Stories 2006. In 2018, Jeff published the book Writing Without Rules: How to Write & Sell a Novel Without Guidelines, Experts, or (Occasionally) Pants. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English and previously worked in medical publishing as a production editor.
When not writing, Jeff spends his free time fixing up his old house. He has tackled a wide range of DIY projects, including remodeling a bathroom entirely on his own in two weeks, and building a roof deck that hasn't fallen down yet. You can find him on Bluesky.
MORE BY Jeff
Four Safer Alternatives to Payday Loans and Early Wage Apps
Payday loans are predatory and always a bad idea, and programs that advance you a portion of paycheck aren’t much better.
You Have a 'Work Number' on This Site, and You Should Freeze It
"The Work Number" is like a credit report but for your employment history, and it can cause you problems if you’re juggling two jobs or negotiating your salary.
Eight Home Maintenance Inspections You Should Be Doing Annually
Spot a small problem before it becomes a big one.
Seven Signs Your House Might Be Beyond Repair
When it comes to home repair and maintenance, there is stuff you can deal with—and stuff you can’t. Here are seven signs that your house might be totally, completely beyond salvaging.
How to Tell If a Real Estate Listing Is Based on Reality
Real estate listings are supposed to give you accurate information. But sometimes the agents behind the listing are just guessing—or being deceptive.
Five Ways You Can Lose Your Social Security Benefits
Your retirement payouts aren't guaranteed.
Find a Nearby ‘Gleaning Market’ to Save Money on Groceries
If you’re struggling to afford groceries, these markets can be an incredible resource.
Three Retirement Backup Plans You Need to Have
Anything can change, from your income, to your health, to the town you choose to settle in.
Four 'Funeral Scams' That Could Target You After a Family Member Dies
You're already in mourning. The last thing you need is to get ripped off too.
Three Services People Don't Know They Can Get From Their Bank for Free
Eventually, everyone needs a notary.
10 Ways Your House Can Make You Sick
It’s not just mold—there are a lot of ways your house could be the reason you’ve been sick recently.
What to Do When You’re Halfway Through a DIY Renovation Project You Regret
You started your DIY renovation with a fire in your belly and a song in your heart. Now you’re halfway through and you hate your life.
How to Get a Free Car If You Really Can’t Afford One
If you’re struggling and need a vehicle to get to work, job interviews, or other necessary appointments, there are ways to get a free car. But it isn’t easy—or guaranteed.
How to Make Your Car (Virtually) Unstealable
If you’re the lucky owner of an easy-to-steal car, there are some ways to make it a lot less stealable.
Five Signs That a Great Offer on Your House Is a Scam
If you just got an over-ask offer on a property you’re trying to sell, watch out for these scams.
Why You Should Consider a Retirement Coach
If you’re not sure you’re doing retirement right, this is a real, actual thing you can do: Hire someone to guide you through the planning, transition, and implementation of your retirement.
Seven Ways Technology Can Get You Arrested for Something You Didn't Do
The technology that increasingly runs our lives can get you arrested, even if you did nothing wrong.
Here’s When You Should Walk Away From Your Mortgage
Under certain conditions, walking away from your house can be your best move.
Five Times You Should Actually Turn Down a Raise
Getting a raise is usually a time for celebration—but there are specific reasons why you might actually want to turn one down.
Seven Tiny Travel Mistakes That Can Cost You Big
A stain on your passport might not seem like a big deal—until you’re denied boarding as a result.