Q: The other day I was trying to book an airline ticket online but there were so many sites to choose from. What sites do you recommend and how do I go about getting the best deal?
A: With so many travel sites out there, planning a trip can be very confusing. Some of the best values can be found on websites that specialize in finding low fares, but it pays to do your homework.

Consumer Reports recently did a study on the six largest independently owned travel web sites: Expedia.com, Orbitz.com, Travelocity.com, CheapTickets.com, TravelNow.com, and OneTravel.com. Rankings were based on the ability to provide the lowest fares, viable flight itineraries, privacy and security, customer service, disclosure, usability and content. Overall they ranked Expedia and Travelocity as the two top sites, with Orbitz close behind.

Also check out online auction sites such as eBay.com and Skyauction.com. If you just want to get away and aren't picky about the destination, you can find great deals on airfares, resorts and lodging, cruises and travel packages.
Be sure to compare prices at several sites every time and read the fine print for hidden fees. Finding the best deal will take some research but it is well worth your time.

Q: I'm going into the dealership to talk about financing a new car that I've been looking at. What information should I arm myself with to get a better financing deal?
A: First of all, you should check with your credit union about financing options before you go to the dealer. If you still want to finance your car through the dealer make sure you do your research. You can use online sites to find your credit score, which can be a good bargaining tool if the dealer tries to alter your score on the loan application. It is also important to thoroughly research the car you are planning to buy and know what monthly payments you can afford. Lastly, bring your own calculator so you are less dependent on the dealer to figure all the numbers.

Editor's Note: When answering your questions, brass consults with experienced professionals from a wide spectrum of industries. We utilize their expertise to give you the answers you need, but it's always wise to seek additional opinions from other professionals.