Archive for » September, 2008 «

29
Sep
Save for a Rainy Day Today Because Tomorrow it May Storm
Rebecca

Are you caught in the “eye” of a financial storm? If you watched Suze Orman on Oprah’s September 23rd show then you know she is fired up. She gave no sympathy to a couple who is $90,000 in credit card debt. The wife did not want to hear that the right move to make was to sell the house. God forbid the couple move into an apartment. They must enjoy yard work, routine and not so routine maintenance, and the typical house work. Then again, maybe they hire people to do this for them which is why they are $90,000 in debt. For “5 priceless money saving tips by Suze Orman, please visit MSNBC.com.

Clipping coupons is a great way to save money on groceries and personal items. The dollars you save will add up over time. Take the extra cash and put it into a savings account. When you are ready, take some of the money and put it into Treasury Bills and Bonds and Treasury Money Market accounts.

Give up the Starbucks Coffee for awhile. It may seem cruel and unusual, but it will be worth it in the long run. Think of all of the extra money to be deposited into the savings account. Not only will you save money, but reduce time and gas consumption. Plus, cutting down on your drive time will decrease the amount of emissions being released into the air.

Money Saving Links

  1. The Dollar Stretcher. Find out how to live better for less.
  2. Bank Rate. “Original and objective personal finance stories to help consumers make informed financial decisions.”
  3. Money.CNN. Gerri Willis gives you personal finance and savings tips.
  4. Woman’s Day. Has money savings tips from finding a cheap flight to how to do-it-yourself household cleaners.

Most Americans are in credit card debt beyond what their eyes can see. Too much indulgence and not enough self-discipline equals a financial disaster. Unfortunately, this can all be avoided with a little frugality.

Now is the time to face the truth of the situation. It will not be easy at first, but once you stop lying to yourself and others it will get better. Do what you have to do for a brighter future. If you have children then you better sit down and face the facts. Is it fair to make your children suffer for your mistakes? This is something to think about now and going forward on your financial quest. A little honesty goes a long way. Get real, get out of debt, and start saving for those rainy days and not so rainy days.

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28
Sep
Does Renting Makes More Financial Sense Than Buying a House?
Rebecca

Many renters think about buying a house, a place to call their own. They save a “nest egg” hoping to buy the home of their dreams. But, does buying a home make sense from a financial perspective? Is it a sound financial investment? Can renting help you to acquire wealth? These are some questions that “weigh” on peoples minds when it comes to considering purchasing a home.

According to an article by Jack Hough from SmartMoney.com “Rent is the cost of owning shares with money you would otherwise spend on a house. Houses have ownership costs, too: taxes, insurance and maintenance. Rent costs about 5% of house prices each year if we apply the price/rent ratio of 19. House incidentals often cost around 2%. If you have $300,000 and a choice between spending it on a house or shares, you’ll pay $6,000 a year in incidentals if you buy the house or about $15,000 a year ($1,250 a month) in rent if you buy the shares. But the shares will return $21,000 a year after inflation while the house will return zero. (My numbers work out even better than these. I pay a smidgen less than $1,250 a month for rent, while house prices in my neighborhood are far higher than $300,000.”)

Renting does not have as much responsibility as buying a home does. When you rent, it’s the property management’s job to fix repairs and maintain the property’s landscape. Renting gives you lease flexibility and a opportunity to check out different areas of the city. Once you a buy a home and decide you do not like the area, then you must put the home up for sale and pray to God that it sells straight-away!

Buying vs. Renting Links

  1. New Buyer.com. “Learn the tradeoffs, potential money savings and which option makes sense.”
  2. Ms. Money. A great site for financial planning.
  3. ABC News. Find out the pros and cons of renting and buying.

The bottom line is only you can decide if renting or buying is the best option. Do you want the flexibility of a lease or the commitment of a home? What is your financial situation? Ask yourself these questions before signing your name on the bottom line of either a lease or mortgage loan.

If you desire to make more money or spend a little more, renting may make sense for you. Many financial calculators are available online and can help you decide if renting or buying is the right move. Start crunching the numbers and plan for your future today!

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25
Sep
What’s in Your Wallet? Pay Cash and Leave Credit Cards at Home
Rebecca

Since key members of Congress are working to reach an agreement to bail out Wall Street, it looks like Americans could be headed back to their roots by becoming a cash society.

Many, many years ago, Americans paid cash for their purchases. Has anyone heard of lay-away? Whatever happened to that concept? It must have vanished along with the values and scruples of the American people.

Americans got themselves into trouble by purchasing homes, cars, jewelry, electronics, clothes, and other items they could not afford. Remember when mom used to say “if you cannot afford it, do not buy it!” Apparently, those words of wisdom went into one ear and out the other.

America is known for being a nation of consumers. People are not happy with a car that is 5 to 10 years old. They want a brand new one that is loaded with the latest technologies. That’s great if you can afford to pay cash for it. But, most people take out loans and fall deeper into debt.

The SEC, Wall Street, and the housing industry are not innocent. The people who made loans to home owners knowing that these people would not be able to pay the loans back ought to be held accountable for their actions. Chances are they will receive a “slap on the wrist.” Unfortunately, they will have to deal with “instant karma.” You get back what you give out. Ouch!

Perhaps this bailout is a good thing for the United States of America. It will force people to take a step back and reevaluate their lives. Maybe now people will realize what is really important such as family, friendships, community, and the health of planet Earth. Americans, it’s time to look inside of yourselves and discover why your “outside” is such a mess!

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23
Sep
Lose Weight, Keep it Off, and Feel Great!
Rebecca

The Biggest Loser started again. The gym was modified to accommodate this year’s teams because this years “theme” is family. The family that gains weight together can take it off together! Husbands and wives are with trainer Bob and Jillian has parents and children. For photos of past contestants of The Biggest Loser, please visit tv.Yahoo!

Why are people overweight?

Some people are overweight because on a subconscious level their weight acts as a protective barrier for them. It’s a “cushion” for their feelings and a way to avoid getting hurt. Others are overweight because food is a comfort to them.

Before losing weight, it would behoove you to go within yourself to discover the deeper issues as to why you are overweight. Then and only then will you be able to lose weight and keep it off.

What does it take to lose and keep weight off?

Losing weight and keeping it off takes discipline. You must make up your mind to lose the weight once and for all. Losing weight is one challenge, keeping the weight off is another. Most people see their weight go up and down like a yo-yo. The bottom line is that diets do not work. If you deprive yourself of your favorite foods, you are setting yourself up for failure. You are bound to gain the weight back. However, if you know that you would not be able to control yourself when it comes to dessert, look for alternatives that are lower in calories.

Tips to Lose Weight!

  1. Cut out the junk! If you know that you cannot, beyond a shadow of a doubt, have one or two cookies and be satisfied, give them up. Do you know how much sugar is in that soft drink? Diet soft drinks are not any better. Some people incorporate “cheat days,” but if you are not 100 percent sure you will be able to do this then bid dessert farewell. As Shakespeare wrote, “parting is such sweet sorrow.”
  2. Work out, work out, work out! It cannot be stressed enough that exercise is imperative to losing weight. It also strengthens your bones and keeps them healthy. Work out at least three to five times a week.
  3. Drink water, plain water. Stay away from flavored waters. For example, Vitamin Water, has 50 calories, 13 carbs, and 13 sugars! How will this help you lose weight?
  4. Stay away from fast foods. Subway is a great alternative. It’s fresh and you can have it your way!
  5. Portion control your foods. Eat lean meat in 3 -4 ounces. Instead of using ground beef, try give ground turkey or chicken.
  6. Before you purchase food, read the labels. Low fat, fat free, and non-fat are not necessarily good for you. If the manufacturer takes out the fat it will be replaced with other ingredients that are probably not healthy for you.
  7. Eat when you are hungry. Most people eat because they are bored or emotional. Get to the bottom of why, when, and what you eat.
  8. Visualize yourself at your ideal, healthy self! Think it, know it, and believe it.

These are some ways to lose weight, keep it off, and feel great! Remember, every body is different. A low carb, high protein diet may work for you, but it will not work for someone else. As always, consult your doctor before starting a weight loss program. For more tips on losing weight, please visit Everyday Health.

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22
Sep
Relationship Rules That Rule!
Rebecca

Human beings are social creatures. We need intimacy, to be loved, and to love. Yet, many people have trouble with relationships. Most people have no idea of what a healthy relationship is because of their past. God only knows what happened in their childhood or in their young adult life that made them wary of connecting with others.

According to Hara Estroff Marano’s article on Psychology Today, there are “some basic rules of relationships.” For example, “choose a partner wisely and well. We are attracted to people for all kinds of reasons. They remind us of someone from our past. They shower us with gifts and make us feel important. Evaluate a potential partner as you would a friend; look at their character, personality, values, their generosity of spirit, the relationship between their words and actions, their relationships with others.”

Tips on Relationships

  1. Do not confuse sex with love! Many people do this in their relationships which is why they do not work out. While you are at it, do not confuse lust with love! You may think that you love that man or woman, but in reality it’s only lust.
  2. Do you respect yourself? If you do not respect yourself, your partner will not respect you. Mutual respect and understanding of another is important in a relationship.
  3. Open and honest communication is key! Honesty and trust can do wonders for a relationship. Without these two components, your relationship may not last that long. If something is bothering you, speak up because your partner is not a mind reader. Unless, of course, you are dating or married to a psychic then it will not matter if you speak up because they will already know what is wrong.
  4. Apologize if you make a mistake! Many people have trouble admitting when they are wrong. It’s not that difficult to do. You are human, so you will make mistakes. Remember, the world will not end because you made a mistake! Just admit that you were wrong and ask for forgiveness. It will be a great learning experience for you.

Relationships do not have to be difficult. Be sure that open and honest communication is present in your relationship. Do not be totally dependent on your partner. It’s not their job to make you happy. That’s your responsibility. Remember, to love yourself first. If you cannot love yourself, how can you love someone else?

Your time on planet Earth may be short. Would you rather enjoy it in a fun-loving relationship or one that brings you drama? The choice is yours.

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19
Sep
Why Do Married Men Cheat?
Rebecca

Oprah had two shows on “Why Do Men Cheat?” The first show caused such a ruckus that she decided to do a follow up show. Apparently, Oprah received many angry emails and voice mails from women.

So, why do men cheat? According to M. Gary Neumann men cheat for a variety of reasons. The main reason is they do not feel appreciated. M. Gary Neumann says that sex is not the reason why men cheat. Is this true?

Some women were appalled to hear that men cheat because they did not feel appreciated. Women called men who cheated “big babies” because they did not feel appreciated. Most of the men cheated because they felt their wives did not appreciate them for going to work or picking up the kids; the daily responsibilities. Some men felt their wives may have lost interest in them. They found other women who appreciated them and made them feel good about themselves. By the way, the women that the men cheated with were not prettier than their wives!

What are some of the signs that your man is cheating? Signs include always on the cell phone, extensive use of the internet, going out after work, and or a change in appearance. If you suspect your man is cheating, ask him. It’s that simple.

Marriage seems to change the relationship between men and women. When you’re dating it’s exciting! Once you receive that piece of paper the relationship goes in a different direction. Communication seems to go out the window faster than a speeding bullet! Why?

Here’s a tip for all of you married couples: make sure honesty, trust, and loyalty are present in your relationship before you get married. When you get married, reiterate that honesty, trust, and loyalty are important to your relationship. Open and honest communication is key!

According to M. Gary Neumann, married couples speak on average 12 minutes each day. Now wonder the U.S. has a high divorce rate. Apparently, the topics married people speak about are work, finances, sex, and the kids (if they have them). Boring! You mean to tell me that is all you have to talk about. Think back to when you were dating. Were you passionate about the environment and conservation? What happened to that passion?

The bottom line is that men and women have a strong desire to be appreciated. Is there anyone that does not want to be appreciated? And yes, this includes being appreciated for daily responsibilities such as going to work.

Women, thank God you have men who earn a steady income. Men, thank God you have wives who earn a good salary. The 3-week Jamaican vacation you are taking next year will be much sweeter since it is paid for! And for heavens sake, find other topics to discuss other than the “same old, same old.” Contact me if you need a list of topics!

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13
Sep
You Rented an Apartment, Now What?
Rebecca

Whether you are renting your first apartment or moving for the fifth time, know what you are getting into before you sign a lease. Breaking a leasing agreement can be expensive. If the apartment complex is unbearable it may be worth it to break the lease. If you can “stick it out” to the end, be prepared before you start searching for a new home.

Most complexes will show you a model apartment. Ask if there is an apartment available that you can see versus the model. The models are usually nicer than the actual apartment you will be renting. If an apartment is not available, thank the leasing manager and keep searching. If you really like the apartment complex, make sure to take a “sales package,” and ask for the leasing manager’s business card.

Find out when the property was built. If it is an older apartment complex, ask if renovations will be done in the near future. They may not do total renovations. But, if you are lucky you can get a new stove or refrigerator or both.

After an extensive search, you decided on an apartment complex and are ready to sign on the bottom line. Wait a minute before you do. Did you ask all of the appropriate questions? If not, you may want to read these 10 tips before renting an apartment.

Inspection Checklist

  1. Look at the apartment carefully, this includes every “nook and cranny.” Ensure that molding is complete and not coming off of the wall. If there is caulking, make sure it is neat and clean.
  2. Check out the kitchen. Does the garbage disposal and dishwasher work? Are the cabinets straight and level? How old is the stove and refrigerator? Make sure the cabinetry is finished underneath. Some contractors will cut corners where possible. If you have children or pets, it’s important to make sure there are no gaps or opening because they could get stuck!
  3. Make sure the electrical outlets work. As a test, plug in a radio to make sure each outlet works.
  4. Check out the bathrooms. Are the toilets in good shape? Does the shower drip? How is the floor?
  5. Look at the hot water tank. How old is it?
  6. If there are vertical blinds, make sure they work. Are the patio and screen door secure?
  7. Open and close the windows. Do they open and close with ease? Do the locks work?
  8. If you are lucky enough to have a washer/dryer in the apartment, test them.

Additional Advice

  1. Essortment. Renting advice on what to look for in an apartment.
  2. eHow. How to rent an apartment.
  3. Met Life. Offers great advice on renting an apartment.

When you rent an apartment, make sure it’s the right one for you! Look at the area, visit during the day and night, and ask questions!

Bonus!
Practical Money Skills. Renting an apartment is the choice for many people for different reasons. Learn more about the financial and legal aspects of renting an apartment.

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10
Sep
Read These 10 Tips Before You Rent an Apartment
Rebecca

Today, most people are renting. When it’s time to renew the lease you may or may not stay at your apartment. Why are you moving? Is the complex noisy? Do the maintenance people ignore your “fix it” list? Are the leasing people clueless?

Before you move to a new place, make sure you know what to look for and what questions to ask the leasing manager and assistant manger.

For those who are in the market for a new place, make sure you do research. Visit a property during the day and night. Just because the property is nice and quiet during the day does not mean it will be at night. What types of people live in the complex? Are they young professionals? Are they mostly college students, let’s say from ASU who like to party and blare the radio 7 days a week? Are there young children? If there are children, do the parents discipline them? Do the parents allow their children to “scream” their heads off at 8 am on a Saturday morning?

If you have a pet, make sure the complex will allow your pet. Find out if there is a weight limit and what types and breeds of pets are allowed. Ask if there is a monthly pet fee and deposit.

10 Tips for Renting

  1. Visit the property during the day and night.
  2. Ask if the property allows pets, what kind, and if there is a weight limit.
  3. Is the complex non-smoking?
  4. Walk around the complex and observe the people.
  5. Make sure the grounds are well kept.
  6. Is parking ample? Will your friends and family be able to find a parking space?
  7. Ensure that the trash is not overflowing from the dumpster.
  8. Is the property well lit and secure?
  9. How old is the property? Are appliances and apartments updated?
  10. Stop residents and ask how long they have been at the complex? Are they renewing their lease year after year? Are the residents mostly transients?

Whether you are moving to your first or third apartment, now you know what to look for and what questions to ask. This will be your home for the next 12 or 14 months. Make sure the complex is the right fit for you. You do not want to be in a situation where you are paying a fee to break your lease. The fee can range from $800 – $1,600 depending on the property. Be prepared before signing your name on the dotted line!

Bonus!

  1. Ask if there are smoke detectors and a sprinkler system in the apartment.
  2. Inquire about dead bolt locks!

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03
Sep
Top 5 Unconventional Beauty Tips Revealed
Rebecca

Personal care products is a multi-billion dollar industry. Women around the world are always on the prowl for the latest and greatest beauty secrets. Whether it’s a cream to combat cellulite or a pill to take off the extra pounds, women will try anything to improve their looks. Not that there is anything wrong with wanting to improve your appearance. When vanity and arrogance become part of you, then you may have a problem.

Before you run out and get the plastic surgery, you may want to peruse this list. Perhaps there are some techniques that will work for you.

Top 5 Not So Conventional Beauty Tips

  1. Put toothpaste on a pimple to make it disappear.
  2. Use super glue to fix a broken nail.
  3. Put nail polish in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
  4. Use mayonaisse on your hair to make it silky and shiny.
  5. Put cucumber slices on your eyes to decrease the puffiness.

For even more zany beauty tips, please read the article “Wacky Beauty Tips That Work.”

Links to Beauty

  1. Home and Family Network. Find out what’s hot in beauty tips!
  2. OK! Magazine. Reveals their top 10 beauty secrets.
  3. Women’s Health. Fantastic magazine that offers more than beauty tips. Check it out today!

Ladies, what are you waiting for? Try some of these tips today, tomorrow you will be even more beautiful. Just remember the saying “beauty is only skin deep.” Some women may be beautiful on the outside, but the inside is another story. When you feel beautiful on the inside it will transfer to the outside!

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02
Sep
Nation of Millionaires: How Do They Do It?
Rebecca

Many people dream of being a millionaire. It usually goes something like this, “if I could only win the lottery!” Being a millionaire is not as difficult as people make it out to be. In fact, most millionaires work for themselves. These people are considered to be self-made millionaires. They did not wait for someone to hand over the family business or fortune to them. Whether they did it by themselves or with a team of people, the point is they did it!

According to the article “10 Things Millionaires Won’t Tell You” on Smart Money.com most millionaires shop at Wal Mart. Many people will be shocked by this revelation. Millionaires know how to be frugal. They shop for items on sale, look for the bargains, and clip coupons!

People can become millionaires by investing in the stock market, opening a savings account, purchasing a franchise, opening an IRA or Roth IRA, and buying and selling property. Do not be fooled by the latter. In the real estate business, there is a buyer for everything. What you need is a good understanding of the real estate market. Do not let talk of economic woes get into your head. Find a “real estate guru” and learn the tricks of the trade. People make money with real estate no matter the economic situation of the U.S. For real estate tips and tricks, please visit real estate investors life.

Now is the time to become a millionaire. Even people working 9 to 5 jobs can become millionaires. All it takes is dedication and time. The main requirement to being a millionaire is that you must want to be one. Another tip is to live within your means. Today, many people are luxaholics. Most of these people have a Target budget but spend like they have a Rodeo Drive one. Visit MSN Money to learn more on how to become a millionaire.

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