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
How to Tell If That Class Action Settlement Notice Is Actually a Scam
Hey, it’s free money—if it’s not a scam.
Nine Things Every Adult With Roommates Needs
If you find yourself living with roommates for any reason at any stage of life, go buy these sanity-saving items.
Three Things You Should Never Let a Contractor Talk You Into
Whether it’s upselling you an unnecessary upgrade or cutting corners, contractors don’t always have your best interests in mind.
Conduct Your Own Annual 'Home Inspection' to Check for These Hidden Problems
Now’s the perfect time to do some pre-winter DIY inspecting to head off home maintenance headaches.
The Four Signs You're Dealing With a Garage Sale Vulture
Some folks will come to your garage sale to find treasure you didn’t know you had—and maybe rip you off.
Six Warning Signs That an HOA Is Poorly Run
The neighborhood or building is great, and the people seem friendly—but here’s how to tell if you’re buying into a mismanaged community.
Don't Rely on a 'Monte Carlo' Retirement Analysis
A Monte Carlo analysis can be a useful tool—but it has its limitations.
How to Uncover 'Hidden Liens' Before Your Next Car or Home Purchase
A lien on your house or car title is a bad thing. A lien you didn’t even know was there is even worse.
How to Ensure Your Neighbor’s Contractors Don’t Damage Your House
Renovation projects can be chaotic and messy—if your next-door neighbor is going to have some work done, here are the steps to take to protect your own home.
Five Signs That a Political Donation Request Is a Scam
Here's how to tell whether those texts and emails asking for political donations are real—or from an opportunistic scammer.
Beware of These Red Flags at a ‘Buy Here, Pay Here’ Car Dealership
If you have bad credit a Buy Here, Pay Here car dealership will still sell you a car—but watch out for these scammy tactics.
Seven Things to Do If Your House Value Suddenly Changes
If the value of your home’s property value changes dramatically—up or down—you should take action to benefit or protect yourself.
10 Signs Your Neighborhood Is Going Downhill
From changing grocery chains to rising property taxes, if you see these signs in your neighborhood, it might be time to call a Realtor.
Inheriting a House Is More Expensive Than People Think
Inheriting a house can cause you serious financial harm if you’re not careful.
The Two Best Times of Year to Look for a New Job
If you’re looking to make a career change and you have the luxury of choosing your moment, timing your job search can really pay off.
If You Got a Package You Didn't Order, It Might Be a Scam
Pay attention to free Amazon stuff that just shows up—and take action.
Five Red Flags to Look for in Any Restaurant
If you see any of these warning signs, you should spend your money elsewhere.
The Best Apps, Sites, and Places Where You Can Trade Instead of Buy
To keep expenses down, try going back in time and barter your skills and possessions away.
Five Space-Saving Alternatives to a Murphy Bed
Murphy beds are cool, but they're not always the best choice.
Eight Unexpected Ways a Restaurant Can Mislead You
Restaurants have tight margins and wait staff are hard-working people—but sometimes things can get shady.