So you’ve decided that a new home is for you. Make sure you follow some guidelines to make sure you’re happy with the home building process.
Select a reliable builder with a strong reputation in the area that you desire to live in. Try talking to people in the neighborhood about their home building experience. Were they happy with how the process went? Do they feel good about the end result? When you’ve narrowed down which builder you think you’d like to work with, then begin working out the details.
Think through in great detail, exactly what features you would like in your new home. You will prepare a detailed agreement before building, usually referred to as “plans and specifications.” It is easy to have misunderstandings if you are not very specific in this agreement.
Make sure if interest rates are low when the building process begins, that you “lock in” an interest rate. Do not allow any arrangement where the lender may increase the interest rate later if they go up before your home is finished. Also, make sure there is a definite completion date stipulated in your contract.
If there are any improvements or street repairs to be made in the neighborhood, find out in advance whether you or the builder will be responsible.
Keep an eye on how your new home is progressing during the building process. If things don’t seem to be going according to schedule, don’t be afraid to inquire with the builder. If changes are called for that deviate from the original agreement, get a written change order agreement drawn up. This will ensure no surprises at the closing.
If all of this seems like a lot for you to keep track of, call on me first, for help. I can help make sure you are being represented and protected properly. An investment this large deserves special attention to detail.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Flowers that Last
A flower that lasts for two to four weeks, even inside in the winter, has got to be popular. The amaryllis, a bulb that produces large, attractive, trump like flowers, is deserving of its reputation for being the easiest to grow of all the bulbs that bloom indoors.
If you visit Holland during the Christmas holidays, you’ll find the amaryllis standing in for the poinsettia as the Christmas flower. The indoor color and ease of growing make it a favorite.
It’s possible to have flowers last two to four weeks, and some growers have even planted multiple bulbs in order to enjoy consecutive flowers. The plants will produce three to five blooms on two stalks, one to two feet tall. The second stalk shoots up just as the first stalk’s flowers fade.
Unusual varieties are available, including miniatures like Scarlet Baby, with small flowers. Miniatures are especially suited for small sitting areas or anywhere space is limited.
Visit your local garden center and you’ll find amaryllis pre-potted or in planting kits. If you choose to purchase the bare-root bulb, follow these instructions: Before planting, place bulb and dangling roots in lukewarm water for several hours. Then place in a pot at least an inch wider than the bulb, leaving room for watering. Allow about a third to half of the top of the bulb to show.
Water sparingly until part of the stem and bud have developed. Water more liberally through the blooming stage, keeping the soil moist.
Amaryllis like a bright, warm room, about 70 degrees. Direct sunlight and a warmer room speed flowering. A cooler room will prolong the blooms.
If you enjoy flowers, keep the bulb growing outdoors, in the shade. Follow instructions for moving back indoors, and with luck, you’ll have blooms again in 4-12 weeks.
If you visit Holland during the Christmas holidays, you’ll find the amaryllis standing in for the poinsettia as the Christmas flower. The indoor color and ease of growing make it a favorite.
It’s possible to have flowers last two to four weeks, and some growers have even planted multiple bulbs in order to enjoy consecutive flowers. The plants will produce three to five blooms on two stalks, one to two feet tall. The second stalk shoots up just as the first stalk’s flowers fade.
Unusual varieties are available, including miniatures like Scarlet Baby, with small flowers. Miniatures are especially suited for small sitting areas or anywhere space is limited.
Visit your local garden center and you’ll find amaryllis pre-potted or in planting kits. If you choose to purchase the bare-root bulb, follow these instructions: Before planting, place bulb and dangling roots in lukewarm water for several hours. Then place in a pot at least an inch wider than the bulb, leaving room for watering. Allow about a third to half of the top of the bulb to show.
Water sparingly until part of the stem and bud have developed. Water more liberally through the blooming stage, keeping the soil moist.
Amaryllis like a bright, warm room, about 70 degrees. Direct sunlight and a warmer room speed flowering. A cooler room will prolong the blooms.
If you enjoy flowers, keep the bulb growing outdoors, in the shade. Follow instructions for moving back indoors, and with luck, you’ll have blooms again in 4-12 weeks.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Tips to Share with Your Kids to Keep Them Safe
Many parents think their kids have learned safety rules in the classroom at school. In most cases this is true, but just to make sure they know what to do, take a few minutes to go over these safety tips.
1) Settle disputes with words, not fists or weapons.
2) Turn off the violence (on TV, in movies, etc.)
3) Do not stand around watching when others are arguing; a group makes a good target for violence.
4) Trust your feelings; if you sense danger, get away fast.
5) Stay well out of reach if approached by someone you don’t know.
6) Never go anywhere with someone you don’t know and trust.
7) Have a family “password” for emergency situations.
8) If someone tries to abuse you, say “NO!,” get away, and tell a trusted adult.
9) Run, Yell, and Tell.
1) Settle disputes with words, not fists or weapons.
2) Turn off the violence (on TV, in movies, etc.)
3) Do not stand around watching when others are arguing; a group makes a good target for violence.
4) Trust your feelings; if you sense danger, get away fast.
5) Stay well out of reach if approached by someone you don’t know.
6) Never go anywhere with someone you don’t know and trust.
7) Have a family “password” for emergency situations.
8) If someone tries to abuse you, say “NO!,” get away, and tell a trusted adult.
9) Run, Yell, and Tell.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Controling Your Finances with a Plan
For most of us the first step to a bright future is to get control of our finances, and to use a plan to achieve our key objectives. As we get busier, and more transactions are electronic, by mail, by phone, or by ATM, we can lose track of where we are on the financial road map.
This list of suggested activities can help you get back in the seat on the way to your financial destination.
Like a diet requires you keep track of what you eat, in order to cut the fat, you must also track your spending for a month to see where it all goes. This will highlight areas to be targeted for savings.
Create a plan to save 10% off the top of your earnings. “Pay yourself first,” and “part of all I earn is mine to keep,” are key phrases to remind you that you’re entitled to save now for your future.
Put together all your insurance statements and policies and offer them to one or two reputable agents in order to either update coverage, or reduce your costs. Many of us carry too much insurance, in some areas, while we’re dangerously underinsured in others.
Driving a car that is getting older and less valuable, without adjusting your coverage could be an expensive mistake.
This list of suggested activities can help you get back in the seat on the way to your financial destination.
Like a diet requires you keep track of what you eat, in order to cut the fat, you must also track your spending for a month to see where it all goes. This will highlight areas to be targeted for savings.
Create a plan to save 10% off the top of your earnings. “Pay yourself first,” and “part of all I earn is mine to keep,” are key phrases to remind you that you’re entitled to save now for your future.
Put together all your insurance statements and policies and offer them to one or two reputable agents in order to either update coverage, or reduce your costs. Many of us carry too much insurance, in some areas, while we’re dangerously underinsured in others.
Driving a car that is getting older and less valuable, without adjusting your coverage could be an expensive mistake.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Nothing Succeeds Like Success
Whether you’re in business, a student, or employed by a business, you need to know what it takes to
be a success. Once you have “arrived” you’ll get kudos from others, get a feeling of pride and
enthusiasm, and you will likely enjoy financial rewards, too.
What does it take to be a success? Thinking of Superman, Truth, Justice, and the American Way
come to mind. Or, ask a Boy Scout and you’ll likely hear a quote from the oath “Be honest,
brave, trustworthy, etc.” If you were asked by a youth, a friend, or a neighbor to give advice on
how to really become a success, what would be your advice?
Top minds have offered suggestions that include what to wear, how to speak, how to overcome
failure and shortcomings, and how to survive in a workplace, public environment, or in a family.
Here are some tips from a father upon dropping his son at college. Here is information we should
all have as a part of our operating manual and life instructions.
1. Be patient with everyone, especially those older than you. When driving, talking, or making
decisions, your elders deserve an extra minute or two. Avoid showing disrespect to your
parents, other people’s parents, and anyone’s grandparents.
2. Know your own shortcomings. Before criticizing anyone’s memory, handwriting,punctuality, or sense of humor, be sure yours are nearly perfect. It’s easy to point our otherpeople’s foibles, but tougher to cure our own. The time you spend improving yourself willreduce the time you’ll spend listening to criticism about you.
3. Never burn the bridges of a relationship or friendship. A disagreement about a few dollars loaned, a birthday forgotten, or a partyinvitation that was lost in the mail should not cause a permanent rift. Forgive now, because you’ll probably forget about it later, anyway. Unhappy families are sometimes more concerned with who was “in the right” than in getting along.
4. Know that you are not a bank. Loaning substantial amounts of money to a friend can result in an unpaid loan, and a lost friend, too.A wise man once suggested that you might loan a friend a small amount that you would be willing to forgive. Otherwise, be prepared to forgive the repayment of a larger amount. Keep your friend, and let them ask someone else for a loan. If you lose your friend because you won’t loan them money, then how good a friend can they be?
5. Be willing to do the things that most important people are not willing to do. Many a business owner in a fine suit has been seen picking up candy wrappers or soda cans in the parking lot of their office or shop. Why? Because no one else did.
6. Be personal and real, even if you don’t have to. Remembering names, birthdays, and taking time to care about people are keys to great men and women. Dale Carnegie said “The sweetest sound in any language is a person’s own name.”
7. Be accepting of other people’s success. Get used to the fact that many people will get promoted, awarded, or complimented. Some of these people may not be as deserving as you are. Support their success, and they’ll be more likely to support yours. Be careful how you handle the people you meet on the way up the ladder, because you’ll meet them again on the way down.
8. Be benevolent. If you have a chance to be nice, do it. If you can be generous, do it. If you have to be tough, give the other person’s
pride a way out. Winners will notice your grace, and everyone will admire your style.
9. Dress for success and to impress. Whatever your customers or co-workers expect, give them that, and a pinch more. Pay attention to your haircut, your shoes and shoeshine, and keep your glasses sparkling clean. Carry a fine quality briefcase, purse, or portfolio and you’ll be glad you did. Your pride and posture will be enhanced by attention to these details. Charles Revson, founder of REVLON cosmetics was known to have dozens of suits in his closet. All navy blue. Why? Because he looked his best in navy.
10. Do as much business by phone or email as you can, and save your meeting time for important issues, or emergencies. Wasting time over coffee, needless meals, or distracted meetings will cut your productivity and your fun factor. Ask if there is a way you can handle an item or decision over the phone or by mail. If you do meet, bring a pen, pad, and your calendar to any meeting so you’re ready to write, schedule, and move on.
11. The more success you have, the more decisions you’ll make. In the process, you’ll make some bad decisions. Accept responsibility for your mistakes, bad decisions, and failures. Boldly admitting your mistakes is the easiest way to be respected. Accept praise, when due. Be appreciative of the recognition. “Thank you” is a good way to acknowledge compliments or praise.
12. When the going gets tough, don’t get going. Stay put. Your resume of work or school experience will be a predictor of future performance. If you jump around at the first obstacle or delay, you will appear to be unstable. Stick it out as long as you can, and give yourself a chance to succeed. Michael Dell made $18,000 selling newspaper subscriptions while a high school senior. If he had failed at that, perhaps there would not be a Dell Computer.
13. Expect to work hard for everything you get. Television and our over-communicated society make it impossible to understand the effort required to earn a living, maintain good credit, and to save or invest for the future. Your impatience with the present has been created by advertising and marketing geniuses. Learn to put in long hours and to get very few easy wins along the way. When you’re given a bonus, a gift, or a promotion you earned, celebrate it! Tiger Woods may be the best golfer in history. However, he’s been playing golf well for over twenty years already. He had talent to start, but discipline, focus and an amazing work ethic are keys for him, and for you.
14. Breathe. Take big breaths when you find yourself stressed, tired, or dealing with a headache. Or take a walk. Whatever is bothering
you will pass. Remember, there are billions of people in the world who don’t even know you exist! Lighten up!
15. Have fun! Success is a journey, not an event! Hopefully your journey won’t be uphill both ways. Keep smiling as you build your career, your family, your hobby, whatever you do!
be a success. Once you have “arrived” you’ll get kudos from others, get a feeling of pride and
enthusiasm, and you will likely enjoy financial rewards, too.
What does it take to be a success? Thinking of Superman, Truth, Justice, and the American Way
come to mind. Or, ask a Boy Scout and you’ll likely hear a quote from the oath “Be honest,
brave, trustworthy, etc.” If you were asked by a youth, a friend, or a neighbor to give advice on
how to really become a success, what would be your advice?
Top minds have offered suggestions that include what to wear, how to speak, how to overcome
failure and shortcomings, and how to survive in a workplace, public environment, or in a family.
Here are some tips from a father upon dropping his son at college. Here is information we should
all have as a part of our operating manual and life instructions.
1. Be patient with everyone, especially those older than you. When driving, talking, or making
decisions, your elders deserve an extra minute or two. Avoid showing disrespect to your
parents, other people’s parents, and anyone’s grandparents.
2. Know your own shortcomings. Before criticizing anyone’s memory, handwriting,punctuality, or sense of humor, be sure yours are nearly perfect. It’s easy to point our otherpeople’s foibles, but tougher to cure our own. The time you spend improving yourself willreduce the time you’ll spend listening to criticism about you.
3. Never burn the bridges of a relationship or friendship. A disagreement about a few dollars loaned, a birthday forgotten, or a partyinvitation that was lost in the mail should not cause a permanent rift. Forgive now, because you’ll probably forget about it later, anyway. Unhappy families are sometimes more concerned with who was “in the right” than in getting along.
4. Know that you are not a bank. Loaning substantial amounts of money to a friend can result in an unpaid loan, and a lost friend, too.A wise man once suggested that you might loan a friend a small amount that you would be willing to forgive. Otherwise, be prepared to forgive the repayment of a larger amount. Keep your friend, and let them ask someone else for a loan. If you lose your friend because you won’t loan them money, then how good a friend can they be?
5. Be willing to do the things that most important people are not willing to do. Many a business owner in a fine suit has been seen picking up candy wrappers or soda cans in the parking lot of their office or shop. Why? Because no one else did.
6. Be personal and real, even if you don’t have to. Remembering names, birthdays, and taking time to care about people are keys to great men and women. Dale Carnegie said “The sweetest sound in any language is a person’s own name.”
7. Be accepting of other people’s success. Get used to the fact that many people will get promoted, awarded, or complimented. Some of these people may not be as deserving as you are. Support their success, and they’ll be more likely to support yours. Be careful how you handle the people you meet on the way up the ladder, because you’ll meet them again on the way down.
8. Be benevolent. If you have a chance to be nice, do it. If you can be generous, do it. If you have to be tough, give the other person’s
pride a way out. Winners will notice your grace, and everyone will admire your style.
9. Dress for success and to impress. Whatever your customers or co-workers expect, give them that, and a pinch more. Pay attention to your haircut, your shoes and shoeshine, and keep your glasses sparkling clean. Carry a fine quality briefcase, purse, or portfolio and you’ll be glad you did. Your pride and posture will be enhanced by attention to these details. Charles Revson, founder of REVLON cosmetics was known to have dozens of suits in his closet. All navy blue. Why? Because he looked his best in navy.
10. Do as much business by phone or email as you can, and save your meeting time for important issues, or emergencies. Wasting time over coffee, needless meals, or distracted meetings will cut your productivity and your fun factor. Ask if there is a way you can handle an item or decision over the phone or by mail. If you do meet, bring a pen, pad, and your calendar to any meeting so you’re ready to write, schedule, and move on.
11. The more success you have, the more decisions you’ll make. In the process, you’ll make some bad decisions. Accept responsibility for your mistakes, bad decisions, and failures. Boldly admitting your mistakes is the easiest way to be respected. Accept praise, when due. Be appreciative of the recognition. “Thank you” is a good way to acknowledge compliments or praise.
12. When the going gets tough, don’t get going. Stay put. Your resume of work or school experience will be a predictor of future performance. If you jump around at the first obstacle or delay, you will appear to be unstable. Stick it out as long as you can, and give yourself a chance to succeed. Michael Dell made $18,000 selling newspaper subscriptions while a high school senior. If he had failed at that, perhaps there would not be a Dell Computer.
13. Expect to work hard for everything you get. Television and our over-communicated society make it impossible to understand the effort required to earn a living, maintain good credit, and to save or invest for the future. Your impatience with the present has been created by advertising and marketing geniuses. Learn to put in long hours and to get very few easy wins along the way. When you’re given a bonus, a gift, or a promotion you earned, celebrate it! Tiger Woods may be the best golfer in history. However, he’s been playing golf well for over twenty years already. He had talent to start, but discipline, focus and an amazing work ethic are keys for him, and for you.
14. Breathe. Take big breaths when you find yourself stressed, tired, or dealing with a headache. Or take a walk. Whatever is bothering
you will pass. Remember, there are billions of people in the world who don’t even know you exist! Lighten up!
15. Have fun! Success is a journey, not an event! Hopefully your journey won’t be uphill both ways. Keep smiling as you build your career, your family, your hobby, whatever you do!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Top Fixes Recomended By Home Inspectors
Buyers today are more educated and demanding than they were in the past. It should not be surprising to a seller that a buyer would ask for a home inspection before signing a hefty purchase agreement. Therefore, it would be wise for homeowners to look at the areas where most home inspections fail. Start by fixing those areas up in advance, before you’re ready to place your house on the market.
The most frequently found problem area is water in the crawl space or basement. Poor drainage can result in water damage that will be more than apparent to an inspector. This can be an expensive problem to fix.
Start by re-grading the soil around the foundation of the home where water seems to be entering, or invest in waterproofing. It’s also a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier to remove moisture on an ongoing basis.
There are some areas that are more prone to water in the basement than others. Most buyers know if a little water is to be expected or not. If you’re unsure how prevalent the problem is in your area, feel free to call me anytime for advice.
The second most common problem found by inspectors is poor wiring. The wiring in your home needs to be up to code, and has to have sufficient overload protection.
Sometimes the best way to be sure the wiring in your home is in good shape is to hire a home inspector, or electrical contractor to check it out for you. Even if you’re not selling your home right now, you would want to make sure your family is living in a house that is safe from fire hazards.
Another major problem found in certain areas, is termite damage. If you begin to suspect at any time that your home may have termites, it’s urgent that you call a pest control service right away. This particular problem needs to be taken care of quickly.
More Important Home Fixes
Other areas that should be looked at as potential problems are the heating systems of your home, structural damage, such as extensive cracks in the walls or ceiling, or leaky roofs.
When deciding what is important to fix, put yourself in the place of the buyer. If you were considering buying the home you live in now, what would you consider important that the seller fix?
Handle problems in condition or construction with estimates and repair by a reputable contractor. Sooner is better than later, especially when the demands of moving and evaluation of the buyer run high. Do it now!
Anything you can do to make your home more saleable in advance may mean more money and less hassle when you’re actually ready to sell.
The most frequently found problem area is water in the crawl space or basement. Poor drainage can result in water damage that will be more than apparent to an inspector. This can be an expensive problem to fix.
Start by re-grading the soil around the foundation of the home where water seems to be entering, or invest in waterproofing. It’s also a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier to remove moisture on an ongoing basis.
There are some areas that are more prone to water in the basement than others. Most buyers know if a little water is to be expected or not. If you’re unsure how prevalent the problem is in your area, feel free to call me anytime for advice.
The second most common problem found by inspectors is poor wiring. The wiring in your home needs to be up to code, and has to have sufficient overload protection.
Sometimes the best way to be sure the wiring in your home is in good shape is to hire a home inspector, or electrical contractor to check it out for you. Even if you’re not selling your home right now, you would want to make sure your family is living in a house that is safe from fire hazards.
Another major problem found in certain areas, is termite damage. If you begin to suspect at any time that your home may have termites, it’s urgent that you call a pest control service right away. This particular problem needs to be taken care of quickly.
More Important Home Fixes
Other areas that should be looked at as potential problems are the heating systems of your home, structural damage, such as extensive cracks in the walls or ceiling, or leaky roofs.
When deciding what is important to fix, put yourself in the place of the buyer. If you were considering buying the home you live in now, what would you consider important that the seller fix?
Handle problems in condition or construction with estimates and repair by a reputable contractor. Sooner is better than later, especially when the demands of moving and evaluation of the buyer run high. Do it now!
Anything you can do to make your home more saleable in advance may mean more money and less hassle when you’re actually ready to sell.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Rewards of a Rose Garden
Roses have the reputation of being difficult, fussy plants that require a great deal of attention and time. Although it takes some effort on your part to maintain the beauty and health of a rose garden, the reward of numerous blossoms in wonderful vibrant colors is sufficient reward for most gardeners. A little water, fertilizer, and spray, on a weekly basis, can be a pleasant excuse to spend time in your fragrant garden.
Your rose bed should be planted where it receives full or partial sunshine at least six hours a day. There are varieties of roses that thrive in more shade but they will not be as fragrant as the others. Good drainage is also critical for roses. They like a lot of water, but do not like wet feet, so a raised bed of at least ten to fifteen inches high is a solution. It also makes gardening chores easier. Roses do best in loamy soil with high humus content. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost, peat moss or cow manure and be sure to test the soil to determine the acidity.
Check with a nursery in your area for tips on when to transplant roses, but generally, any time from spring to fall, or when the plant is dormant and the ground is workable. Water every 3 or 4 days, soaking the soil to 8 inches; and fertilize depending on your type of soil, but usually about once every 4-6 weeks.
Lots of varieties of roses are available. The choices include climbing roses, tree roses, miniature roses, hybrid perpetual roses, grandiflora roses, and antique roses to name a few. Look at your space and the view from the house to determine how you want to define the space for planting. The rose can serve many functions including becoming a fragrant hedge, which provides bouquets of fresh cut flowers to decorate the inside of your home.
Give roses a try. The rewards are many and the satisfaction of seeing a perfect rose that you have grown makes it well worth the effort.
Your rose bed should be planted where it receives full or partial sunshine at least six hours a day. There are varieties of roses that thrive in more shade but they will not be as fragrant as the others. Good drainage is also critical for roses. They like a lot of water, but do not like wet feet, so a raised bed of at least ten to fifteen inches high is a solution. It also makes gardening chores easier. Roses do best in loamy soil with high humus content. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost, peat moss or cow manure and be sure to test the soil to determine the acidity.
Check with a nursery in your area for tips on when to transplant roses, but generally, any time from spring to fall, or when the plant is dormant and the ground is workable. Water every 3 or 4 days, soaking the soil to 8 inches; and fertilize depending on your type of soil, but usually about once every 4-6 weeks.
Lots of varieties of roses are available. The choices include climbing roses, tree roses, miniature roses, hybrid perpetual roses, grandiflora roses, and antique roses to name a few. Look at your space and the view from the house to determine how you want to define the space for planting. The rose can serve many functions including becoming a fragrant hedge, which provides bouquets of fresh cut flowers to decorate the inside of your home.
Give roses a try. The rewards are many and the satisfaction of seeing a perfect rose that you have grown makes it well worth the effort.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Travel Games for the Road
Alphabet Objects: While riding in a car, look out the windows in search of items beginning with the letters a-z, in alphabetical order, starting with a. These can be actual letters on signs, or license plates, or objects that begin with the letter. The first person to finish the alphabet is the winner.
Find All 10 Provinces and all 3 Territories: A good way to start this game is to make a list of all 10 provinces and all 3 territories. See who can spot all 13 of the license plates first, or who can come up with the most.
Going on a Picnic: One player begins by reciting the phrase, “I’m going on a picnic and bringing _____.” The first player fills in the blank with an item that begins with A. The second player must recite this sentence in it’s entirety and add an item that begins with B. Each turn requires that the previous items be repeated. The winner is the person who is able to complete the longest string of items without making a mistake.
Find All 10 Provinces and all 3 Territories: A good way to start this game is to make a list of all 10 provinces and all 3 territories. See who can spot all 13 of the license plates first, or who can come up with the most.
Going on a Picnic: One player begins by reciting the phrase, “I’m going on a picnic and bringing _____.” The first player fills in the blank with an item that begins with A. The second player must recite this sentence in it’s entirety and add an item that begins with B. Each turn requires that the previous items be repeated. The winner is the person who is able to complete the longest string of items without making a mistake.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Record Keeping Responsibilities
Here are a few ideas for accounting for the items inside your home, as well as the home itself:
Make a video or photo record and retain receipts for any specific items that are valuable or unique. Remember to add those items, especially jewelry, computer equipment, stereos, etc. to your insurance policy as specifically scheduled items. The additional cost of the insurance is low, and the peace of mind is worth every penny.
You may wish to organize the information about personal property onto a form. This form and the video or photo record will be a perfect partner, if needed, to answer questions in the event of a loss. Organize this information before you experience a loss.
It is important to keep lease or mortgage documents, as well as receipts for all home improvements in a secure place. Improvements are defined as those things which add value, extend the useful life, or adapt to a new use. Replacing a roof, building a fence or deck, or adding a garage are all examples of improvements. By retaining this information you will be able to show future buyers a history of your home.
If you are thinking of adding on to your home, moving up, or moving down, please call us A.S.A.P. Our experience can help you save time and money.
Keeping your important papers, documents and insurance policies in a convenient location, which is known to you, your spouse, and your loved ones, will save time and frustration. You could save thousands of dollars in the event of an emergency, death, or illness.
Here’s a list of the items the organized homeowner should keep together, in a fireproof file cabinet, safe, or strongbox.
· Bank information: Your account numbers, loan documents, statements, and deposits, as well as your most recent canceled checks.
· Car Documents: License, registration, insurance policy, extended warranty, repairs, and other key information.
· Education Records: Official transcripts, report cards, test scores for each student.
· Insurance Policies: Life, homeowners, health, disability, and any others.
· Tax Returns: Revenue Canada suggests you keep your tax returns for three to five years, just in case.
· Official Documents: Birth Certificates, passports, legal papers, deeds, and wills should probably be kept in a safe deposit box.
However, you may wish to keep copies on file at home, with instructions as to their location attached to the file.
Make a video or photo record and retain receipts for any specific items that are valuable or unique. Remember to add those items, especially jewelry, computer equipment, stereos, etc. to your insurance policy as specifically scheduled items. The additional cost of the insurance is low, and the peace of mind is worth every penny.
You may wish to organize the information about personal property onto a form. This form and the video or photo record will be a perfect partner, if needed, to answer questions in the event of a loss. Organize this information before you experience a loss.
It is important to keep lease or mortgage documents, as well as receipts for all home improvements in a secure place. Improvements are defined as those things which add value, extend the useful life, or adapt to a new use. Replacing a roof, building a fence or deck, or adding a garage are all examples of improvements. By retaining this information you will be able to show future buyers a history of your home.
If you are thinking of adding on to your home, moving up, or moving down, please call us A.S.A.P. Our experience can help you save time and money.
Keeping your important papers, documents and insurance policies in a convenient location, which is known to you, your spouse, and your loved ones, will save time and frustration. You could save thousands of dollars in the event of an emergency, death, or illness.
Here’s a list of the items the organized homeowner should keep together, in a fireproof file cabinet, safe, or strongbox.
· Bank information: Your account numbers, loan documents, statements, and deposits, as well as your most recent canceled checks.
· Car Documents: License, registration, insurance policy, extended warranty, repairs, and other key information.
· Education Records: Official transcripts, report cards, test scores for each student.
· Insurance Policies: Life, homeowners, health, disability, and any others.
· Tax Returns: Revenue Canada suggests you keep your tax returns for three to five years, just in case.
· Official Documents: Birth Certificates, passports, legal papers, deeds, and wills should probably be kept in a safe deposit box.
However, you may wish to keep copies on file at home, with instructions as to their location attached to the file.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Tips From Good Housekeeping on Staying Healthy
Too Much of A Good Thing: Weight Loss Gains Popularity
Chances are you have considered your current physical condition and determined that you need
to do something. As the years go by, a busy life, fast food, a sweet tooth, or an accumulation of
gourmet adventuring can add inches to your waist.
Most diets cut the fats, but load up on carbs. A salad bar looks like a diet plan, until you heap bacon, cheese, and salad dressing on top of those greens. Of course it makes sense to talk to your Doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program. Moderation and a long-term view are important, too.
Consider these tips, inspired by Good Housekeeping Magazine:
Follow one of these daily diet tips each day, and by this time next year, you'll be 10 pounds lighter!
1. Skip the smear of cream cheese (50 calories per tablespoon) or butter (100 calories) on a plain
bagel and try a hot, flavored bagel, like cinnamon-raisin or salt—delicious naked.
2. Forgo regular bottled dressing (2 tablespoons, 135 to 155 calories) for an equal portion of fat-free
dressing (30 to 50 calories). Once in a while, try a little lemon juice and pepper for a no calorie alternative.
2. Resist that 2-ounce glazed doughnut (230 calories) and pop an English muffin in the toaster (135).
Krispy Kreme is not a supplier to the Olympics, right?
3. Swap an ounce of regular tortilla chips with 1/4 cup guacamole (242 calories), for the same
Amount of fat-free tortilla chips and salsa (130). The crunch is different, and the flavor is a little flatter.
However, you'll do less crunches in the gym and your tummy will be flatter, too.
4. Instead of 20 regular-size French fries (274 calories), have a baked potato (7 ounces, 145 calories).
Baked potatoes fill you up and keep you satisfied for hours. Fries give you an energy burst for the
short term and a bulge for the long term.
5. Rather than a cup of canned cream of chicken soup (116 calories), sip chicken bouillon (13). For a no calorie solution,
drink hot tea in a variety of flavors. Apple-Cinnamon with a little Sweet and Low can be a treat you enjoy as often as you wish.
7. Instead of a regular pork or beef hot dog (142 to 180 calories), grill a fat-free frank (40). Don't worry about what's in a hot dog. You can be sure that it's meat, but very fatty meat. Get in the habit of having grilled or baked turkey breast on hand and you'll be able to snack with less than half the fat.
8. Pass up a chocolate bar (1.4 ounces, 210 calories) and soothe your sweet tooth with 10 regular-size jelly beans, 4 to 5 pieces of hard candy, or 10 Life Savers (100 to 110 calories). If you're ready for a real switch, try fresh berries with Sweet and Low. A small bowl of strawberries is satisfying, flavorful, and has the same calories as those Life Savers.
9. Instead of canned creamed corn (186 calories per cup), eat corn on the cob (90 calories). Experiment with Crazy Salt, Lemon Pepper, or Seasoned Salt for a flavor that satisfies without butter.
10. Remove the skin from a chicken breast after cooking, and save 100 calories. If you are a fan of chicken legs or thighs, try switching to the white meat. Less calories, less fat, and less cholesterol are available in the breast portions.
11. If you want bacon with your eggs, rather than 4 regular strips (145 calories), have one slice of Canadian (43 calories, and as filling). If you haven't had a poached egg, give that a try as an alternative to fried.
12. When making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, skimp on the peanut butter: 2 tablespoons equal 190 calories; 1 tablespoon, 95.
13. Hold the regular mayo in tuna, chicken, and pasta salads and use two tablespoons of light mayo (80 to 90 calories versus 200). Experiment with gourmet mustards such as stone ground, horseradish mustards, or white wine blends for flavor without fat.
14. Make a slice of pie more innocent by leaving the bottom crust (and 100 calories) on your plate.
15. If pie is your weakness, pass up the pecan (430 calories per slice) and choose fruit or pumpkin (240 to 300).
16. Keep the premium ice cream (1/2 cup, 178 calories) in the freezer and lick a frozen fruit or juice bar (50 to 90 calories). Look for the Blue Bunny low fat chocolate fudge bars in the freezer. Quick, easy, and low calorie alternatives to Chocolate Chocolate Chip.
17. When you brown or sauté, skip the tablespoon of oil (120 calories) and use nonstick cookware with a spritz of cooking spray. A wine bottle can be filled with chicken stock and kept in the refrigerator to splash on meats or vegetables as they cook. Add flavor and moisture without adding fat and calories.
18. Replace regular soda (8 ounces, 100 calories) with diet soda, seltzer, or water. Buy water in larger bottles and refill at the water cooler or with a filtered system.
When you're hungry try taking a walk, making a phone call, drinking two glasses of water, or exercising. Substituting activity for eating is the secret of thin people. The main goal in watching our weight is to add to our overall health, and to assure that we'll be able to enjoy the good life with friends and family.
Good luck in your daily efforts!
Chances are you have considered your current physical condition and determined that you need
to do something. As the years go by, a busy life, fast food, a sweet tooth, or an accumulation of
gourmet adventuring can add inches to your waist.
Most diets cut the fats, but load up on carbs. A salad bar looks like a diet plan, until you heap bacon, cheese, and salad dressing on top of those greens. Of course it makes sense to talk to your Doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program. Moderation and a long-term view are important, too.
Consider these tips, inspired by Good Housekeeping Magazine:
Follow one of these daily diet tips each day, and by this time next year, you'll be 10 pounds lighter!
1. Skip the smear of cream cheese (50 calories per tablespoon) or butter (100 calories) on a plain
bagel and try a hot, flavored bagel, like cinnamon-raisin or salt—delicious naked.
2. Forgo regular bottled dressing (2 tablespoons, 135 to 155 calories) for an equal portion of fat-free
dressing (30 to 50 calories). Once in a while, try a little lemon juice and pepper for a no calorie alternative.
2. Resist that 2-ounce glazed doughnut (230 calories) and pop an English muffin in the toaster (135).
Krispy Kreme is not a supplier to the Olympics, right?
3. Swap an ounce of regular tortilla chips with 1/4 cup guacamole (242 calories), for the same
Amount of fat-free tortilla chips and salsa (130). The crunch is different, and the flavor is a little flatter.
However, you'll do less crunches in the gym and your tummy will be flatter, too.
4. Instead of 20 regular-size French fries (274 calories), have a baked potato (7 ounces, 145 calories).
Baked potatoes fill you up and keep you satisfied for hours. Fries give you an energy burst for the
short term and a bulge for the long term.
5. Rather than a cup of canned cream of chicken soup (116 calories), sip chicken bouillon (13). For a no calorie solution,
drink hot tea in a variety of flavors. Apple-Cinnamon with a little Sweet and Low can be a treat you enjoy as often as you wish.
7. Instead of a regular pork or beef hot dog (142 to 180 calories), grill a fat-free frank (40). Don't worry about what's in a hot dog. You can be sure that it's meat, but very fatty meat. Get in the habit of having grilled or baked turkey breast on hand and you'll be able to snack with less than half the fat.
8. Pass up a chocolate bar (1.4 ounces, 210 calories) and soothe your sweet tooth with 10 regular-size jelly beans, 4 to 5 pieces of hard candy, or 10 Life Savers (100 to 110 calories). If you're ready for a real switch, try fresh berries with Sweet and Low. A small bowl of strawberries is satisfying, flavorful, and has the same calories as those Life Savers.
9. Instead of canned creamed corn (186 calories per cup), eat corn on the cob (90 calories). Experiment with Crazy Salt, Lemon Pepper, or Seasoned Salt for a flavor that satisfies without butter.
10. Remove the skin from a chicken breast after cooking, and save 100 calories. If you are a fan of chicken legs or thighs, try switching to the white meat. Less calories, less fat, and less cholesterol are available in the breast portions.
11. If you want bacon with your eggs, rather than 4 regular strips (145 calories), have one slice of Canadian (43 calories, and as filling). If you haven't had a poached egg, give that a try as an alternative to fried.
12. When making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, skimp on the peanut butter: 2 tablespoons equal 190 calories; 1 tablespoon, 95.
13. Hold the regular mayo in tuna, chicken, and pasta salads and use two tablespoons of light mayo (80 to 90 calories versus 200). Experiment with gourmet mustards such as stone ground, horseradish mustards, or white wine blends for flavor without fat.
14. Make a slice of pie more innocent by leaving the bottom crust (and 100 calories) on your plate.
15. If pie is your weakness, pass up the pecan (430 calories per slice) and choose fruit or pumpkin (240 to 300).
16. Keep the premium ice cream (1/2 cup, 178 calories) in the freezer and lick a frozen fruit or juice bar (50 to 90 calories). Look for the Blue Bunny low fat chocolate fudge bars in the freezer. Quick, easy, and low calorie alternatives to Chocolate Chocolate Chip.
17. When you brown or sauté, skip the tablespoon of oil (120 calories) and use nonstick cookware with a spritz of cooking spray. A wine bottle can be filled with chicken stock and kept in the refrigerator to splash on meats or vegetables as they cook. Add flavor and moisture without adding fat and calories.
18. Replace regular soda (8 ounces, 100 calories) with diet soda, seltzer, or water. Buy water in larger bottles and refill at the water cooler or with a filtered system.
When you're hungry try taking a walk, making a phone call, drinking two glasses of water, or exercising. Substituting activity for eating is the secret of thin people. The main goal in watching our weight is to add to our overall health, and to assure that we'll be able to enjoy the good life with friends and family.
Good luck in your daily efforts!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Add Fragrance to Your Home
Potpourri is a great way to add fragrance indoors. Most potpourri is made of lavender and rose petals. Combining different herbs makes a distinct change in fragrance. Here is a recipe for Rose Petal Potpourri.
3 cups dried rose petals
2 cups dried lavender flowers
1 cup dried lemon verbena leaves
1 tablespoon powdered allspice
1 tablespoon ground cloves
1/4 oz. essential oil of rose
Mix all ingredients together and store in an air tight jar for several weeks before using.
3 cups dried rose petals
2 cups dried lavender flowers
1 cup dried lemon verbena leaves
1 tablespoon powdered allspice
1 tablespoon ground cloves
1/4 oz. essential oil of rose
Mix all ingredients together and store in an air tight jar for several weeks before using.
Monday, June 15, 2009
What to Look For in a Lawn Care Contractor
Whether you decide to hire a neighborhood teenager, a local company or a national firm, there are certain requirements that you should look for when hiring a lawn contractor.
First you should decide what your lawn care needs are. If you only want the grass mowed and nothing more, than a teenager would be perfect. If you’re hoping to have the most beautiful lawn on the block, than chances are a professional company would suit your needs better. Most professional lawn care companies offer services such as mowing, edging, fertilizing, pesticide spraying, tree trimming, weed control, and shrub maintenance.
Before hiring a contractor set some goals for your lawn, and communicate them in writing. Also, ask for written bids from the companies you are considering, and check out their reputation with the Better Business Bureau in your State.
Ask the company to provide you with proof that they are properly insured. If one of their workers falls out of your tree during a trimming, you’ll want to know the company is insured.
On a final note, make sure the company will be easy to reach and quick to respond to problems. Lawn care is a competitive business so you can expect, and should get, a high level of service.
First you should decide what your lawn care needs are. If you only want the grass mowed and nothing more, than a teenager would be perfect. If you’re hoping to have the most beautiful lawn on the block, than chances are a professional company would suit your needs better. Most professional lawn care companies offer services such as mowing, edging, fertilizing, pesticide spraying, tree trimming, weed control, and shrub maintenance.
Before hiring a contractor set some goals for your lawn, and communicate them in writing. Also, ask for written bids from the companies you are considering, and check out their reputation with the Better Business Bureau in your State.
Ask the company to provide you with proof that they are properly insured. If one of their workers falls out of your tree during a trimming, you’ll want to know the company is insured.
On a final note, make sure the company will be easy to reach and quick to respond to problems. Lawn care is a competitive business so you can expect, and should get, a high level of service.
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