Why does the value of things in dollars not make sense? - eviltoast

This is difficult to explain. I can’t figure out a rule of thumb for spending, the prices of things fluctuate so quickly it’s confusing. Here are some examples

  1. A house, prices are out of control, inventory is low, sellers are greedy. I’m feeling not only unable to afford it but finding lack of value in inflated prices

  2. Computer parts. Relatively cheap compared to pandemic but more expensive than before but also much cheaper than 90s/00s, but still could be cheaper

  3. TWS earbuds, completely different ball game from regular earbuds, disposable electronics.

  4. Food. Nights out with drinks now sometimes cost me more than 2 & 3, but seem like just keeping up with inflation

The prices range from 100,000s to 100s, but some are fleeting, some semi permanent, some last a long time. I also spend hours researching prices of parts and waiting for sales, but spending the same amount on social events in an instant

      • Muddybulldog@lemmy.worldEnglish
        11·
        1 year ago

        No, it’s not.

        You’re rationale that 8% of 300,000 = 24,000 therefore $2,000/mo., by dumb luck, comes close at 8%.

        • 12% of 300,00 = 36,000/12 = 3,000; actual is $3085/mo
        • 8% of 300,000 = 24,000/12 = 2,000; actual is $2200/mo (not $2025)
        • 4% of 300,000 = 12,000/12= 1,000; actual is $1432/mo
        • 2% of 300,000 = 6,000/12 = 500; actual is $1108/mo
        • 0% of 300,000 = 0/12 = 0; actual is $833/mo

        It’s algebra, not arithmetic.

        P = (r * A) / (1 - (1 + r)^(-n))

        where:

        • P is the monthly payment
        • A is the loan amount
        • r is the monthly interest rate (APR/12)
        • n is the total number of payments
        • foggy@lemmy.world
          1·
          1 year ago

          Do you live in some world where PEMDAS/order of operations isn’t basic arithmetic?!

          Jfc…

          Even we Americans are taught this shit by age 12.

          Seriously.

          PS., it is $2025. Source: qualified. Decided to wait until $2025/Mo gets me something worthwhile. Your basic arithmetic failed to include the handful of factors that mitigate these numbers slightly zip code/taxes, hoa fees, etc. still, basic fucking arithmetic.

          Stay in school.