SplitGenius Blog
Practical guides on splitting costs fairly, rent affordability, roommate finances, and making smarter money decisions.
Rent Affordability Rules Explained: 30% Rule vs 50/30/20 vs 28/36
Which rent affordability rule should you follow? We compare the 30% rule, 50/30/20 budget, and 28/36 DTI method with real examples and free calculators.
Read articleHow to Split Vacation Costs Fairly Without Ruining Friendships
Group trips are fun until the bill arrives. Learn 5 proven methods for splitting travel expenses fairly, from shared houses to restaurant tabs.
Read articleRent vs Buy in 2026: The Real Math Behind the Decision
Should you keep renting or buy a home in 2026? We break down the true costs, hidden expenses, and the breakeven timeline with real numbers.
Read articleBreaking a Lease: True Costs and How to Minimize Financial Damage
Thinking about breaking your lease early? Here is every cost involved, your legal options, and strategies to reduce the financial hit.
Read articleHow to Save $500+/Month with a Roommate: Complete Financial Breakdown
A roommate can save you thousands per year. See the exact savings breakdown for rent, utilities, groceries, and subscriptions with real data.
Read articleHow Much Should You Spend on Rent? The Real Numbers by Salary
The 30% rule is a starting point, not gospel. See exactly how much rent you can afford at every salary from $30K to $150K with real budget math.
Read articleHow to Split Rent with a Couple: 3 Fair Methods Compared
Split rent by bedroom, not by person. See the math for per-bedroom, per-person, and income-based splits with real dollar examples.
Read articleWhat Percentage of Income Should Go to Rent? Rules vs Reality
The 30% rule says spend 30% on rent. Reality says it depends on your city, salary, and debt. See the real percentages that work at every income level.
Read articleHow Does Compound Interest Work? The Math That Builds Wealth
$10,000 at 7% becomes $81,165 in 30 years without adding a cent. See year-by-year growth tables, the latte factor, and why starting early matters.
Read articleWhat Is a Good Debt-to-Income Ratio? Lender Thresholds Explained
A good DTI is 36% or lower. See the exact thresholds for conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans plus 7 ways to lower yours fast.
Read articleTipping Etiquette in 2026: How Much to Tip for Every Service
Complete 2026 tipping guide with exact percentages for 16 services. Plus how to handle tip screens, group bills, and when not to tip.
Read articleRoommate Agreement Template: What to Include Before You Move In
A roommate agreement prevents 90% of conflicts. Use this section-by-section template covering rent, utilities, guests, chores, and exit terms.
Read articleFirst Apartment Budget Breakdown: Every Cost Before and After Move-In
Your first apartment costs $2,625 to $7,575 upfront plus $1,750 to $2,760/month. See the full breakdown with move-in, setup, and monthly costs.
Read articleFree Weekly Money Tips
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