‘I think me and risk just don’t go together’

Are you a saver or a spender?
I would most definitely be a spender but, as I get older, I like to think ahead. I like saving, too, although maybe not as often as I should. Also, now that I'm running my own business, I need to continuously have my sensible financial hat on these days.

Do you shop around for better value?
This is not my strong point. If I see something I love, I would just go for it – I'm a bit of an impulse buyer.

What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
I bought my dream car this year – a Range Rover Sport. I've always dreamed of driving one.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
This is a tough one. I recently renovated my home and I think that was the best value, not so much in terms of price but in how much time I spent on it and how much I love being at home. To me, that's the best value for money.

Stocktake: Pockets of madness in US market

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How much income will banks look for when considering my mortgage?

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Stocktake: Active funds underperform – again

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How do you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions – online or local?
I like to do both, but I love buying from people and their passion. I know from setting up my own business, Imperfection by Erin, how important it is to support small businesses. I love to see people succeed both locally and online.

Do you haggle over prices?
Oh, no, that's my worst nightmare!

How has the Covid-19 crisis changed your spending habits?
I can't really say there has been anything that stands out to me, but I definitely spend more time in the house and any major purchases I buy would be towards me in my home. I also invest a lot into self-care and have done a lot of self-development courses.

Do you invest in shares?
I wouldn't even know where to begin. I'm actually not great at taking risks, and when I hear shares, I think it's risky.

Cash or card?
I used to be a cash gal, not a card. Now I never have cash, so it's a card all the time.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
I just bought myself some new bedclothes. I'll sleep in them every night, so to me, that's great value. Bedclothes, PJs and housecoats are my guilty pleasure.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes, a few times, I love setting goals and actually achieving them. If I'm saving, I love adding to my 'Tin Box' weekly. I'm so old school with a tin box. I get excited to see it build and get close to something I want.

Have you ever lost money?
Oh, God yes, but not huge amounts.

Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
I'm definitely not a gambler, and the more I answer these questions the more I think I'm a safe person. Don't get me wrong ... I love treating myself to expensive clothes, but I think me and risk just don't go together.

Is money important to you?
Of course, it's important because we can't meet our most basic needs without it.

How much money do you have on you now?
I haven't any because it's all on my card. I just tap my way through life.

in conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea

Erin McGregor appears in the panto Olly, Polly and the Beanstalk, at the 3Olympia Theatre, in Dublin between December 22nd and January 9th