As an addendum to today's earlier 40-second video on unlearning the idea that free isn't always free. I'd like to offer a few more examples:
1. A "free" checking account may not be so free after all the hidden costs and fees are considered.
2. A mortage with no (or"free") closing costs may not be so free after you consider the higher-interest rate.
3. "Free"-shipping might not be so free if it requires you to buy an additional items or places a certain monetary threshold on the "free" shipping.
4. Beware of being enticed by small "freebie's" on larger purchases. For example, last summer when gas prices were high, a few innovative car companies were offering free gas for a year. If the overall price of the car is high or if the quality is such that you will end up paying more in repair costs, you'll find that free isn't always so free."
Finally, in a more light-hearted manner, it is worth recalling Woody Allen's famous quote: "The most expensive sex is free sex."
The bottom-line: There is usually a cost associated with "free."
