Laura Leavitt Laura Leavitt is a personal finance writer specializing in tax optimization, freelance work, homeownership/real estate, and savings strategies. She's been writing for 15 years and has focused primarily on personal finance for the past six. About Real Simple Real Simple, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is an award-winning, trusted online resource for smart, authentic solutions to simplify your life. We reach 11 million readers a month. Our content is written by experienced journalists and fact-checked for accuracy. Learn more about us and our editorial guidelines.