One of the biggest jobs fields right now is health care. The top paying jobs are: Radiologic Technologist
They help doctors perform diagnostic exams like X-rays, CT scans and MRIs. They work in hospitals, clinics doctor's offices. The median wage is $53,000. The job requires a two year associate degree from a community college or a 21-24 month certificate from a technical college. For more info visit www.arrt.org
Next is Physical Therapist Assistant They help patients implement programs developed by physical therapists. The median wage is $48,000. The job requires a two year associates degree from a accredited program and a licensing exam must be passed. For more info visit www.apta.org Also see www.CapteOnline.Org
Another career choice is Medical Assistant One and two year programs are offered by many vocational schools. The median wage is $29,000. For more info visit www.aama-ntl.org
Dental Hygienists earn about $67,000 a year. They provide dental cleanings and exams in dental offices. A two year associates degree in dental hygiene is required and a licensing exam must be passed. For more info see www.adha.org .
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Little Known Credit Card Perks
Extend Your Warranty -Besides points and cash back, Gold and platinum MasterCards, Visa and American Express cards all extend the manufacturer's warranty by one year. Plus if you loose or break that new laptop or digital camera within 90 days of purchase, Citi's new Thank You Premier card will pay to repair or replace it or reimburse you up to $1,000.
The same is true for purchases made with your American Express card. Also, most gold and platinum cards plus American Express will pick up the collision insurance when you rent a car. You just need to refuse it when you pick up the car and and inform the rental company that your credit card will pick up the insurance.
Get The Lowest Price -If you see an item you purchased with a Citi premium card advertised for less within 60 days, Citi will make up the difference up to $250. Many gold and platinum MasterCards offer the same protection.
Get Covered On The Road - If your laptop is stolen from your hotel room, MasterCard will reimburse you if you used a gold or platinum card to pay for the room. Likewise, if your luggage doesn't arrive when you do, MasterCard will reimburse you for the cost of replacing essential items. Plus, MasterCard will cover the cost to replace or repair damaged luggage.
The same is true for purchases made with your American Express card. Also, most gold and platinum cards plus American Express will pick up the collision insurance when you rent a car. You just need to refuse it when you pick up the car and and inform the rental company that your credit card will pick up the insurance.
Get The Lowest Price -If you see an item you purchased with a Citi premium card advertised for less within 60 days, Citi will make up the difference up to $250. Many gold and platinum MasterCards offer the same protection.
Get Covered On The Road - If your laptop is stolen from your hotel room, MasterCard will reimburse you if you used a gold or platinum card to pay for the room. Likewise, if your luggage doesn't arrive when you do, MasterCard will reimburse you for the cost of replacing essential items. Plus, MasterCard will cover the cost to replace or repair damaged luggage.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
How To Avoid Online Dating Scams
Scammers use a phony picture of a good looking man or woman. Then they flatter and fawn. Once you're hooked, they hit you with some variation of several war torn stories. Sometimes they say they live abroad and desperately want to visit you but their banking system is broken. Or they're at the airport and their credit card has been declined. But all their stories all end up the same: "please wire cash and I'll pay you back." These scammers usually reside in West Africa or one of the former Soviet republics. So to protect yourself, use search engines like Facebook or Google. There you can search for any sob story to see if it is common. Next, stick to PAID online dating services. Paid sites have a paper trail of their members from credit card information. Then ask for info before you share your e-mail address or phone number. Make sure his or her info on Facebook matches up with what they are telling you. Then for added insurance, run a background check on sites like http://www.beenverified.com/
Sunday, April 24, 2011
London Insider Travel Tips
If you're hopping over for the royal wedding or plan to visit London this summer, then these tips will put you light years ahead of most tourists.
London Subway Never pay cash on the tube since cash fares are more than double what locals pay. Buy yourself an Oyster Card ( www.tfl.gov.uk ) . Any tube station sells these stored-valued swipe cards. Load them up with a deposit of 3 pounds ($4.95 US), and fares are automatically deducted every time you ride.
Best London Guides Time Out London is the unbeatable bible of what to do in London. You can view it online at www.timeout.com/london . On Saturdays, grab a copy of the Guardian newspaper and you'll find a terrific pocket-sized guide for free. Or check it out online at www.Guardian.Co.Uk . Hands down the savviest price minded guide to London is: Pauline Frommer's London: Spend Less, See More at $16.99.
Best Department Store Forget Harrods since it's for tourists only. Hip Londoners go to real department stores like www.SelfRidges.Com with its delicious Food Hall and great designer brands. Another best bet is www.JohnLewis.Com whose slogan is, "Never Knowingly Undersold". Another unmissable is
www.MarksAndSpencer.Com .
Museums Almost ALL museums in London are 100% free. So make sure you see all the sights.
Taxi Cabs - Taxi cabs are double NYC fares and drivers won't let you in the cab unless you reveal your destination. But since they have to pass a test on memorizing ever street in London, their less apt to turn down fares like NYC cabbys. Also, tipping in England is a gesture, NOT an obligation.
Best Cheap Eats There's a www.PizzaExpress.Com on almost every corner and www.Carluccios.Com is a great place for killer pasta, cheap wine and great coffee. In London, Indian food has displaced fish and chips as the national dish and the best place to sample it is on Brick Lane in the East End which is lined with cheap eats. Or try the central www.IndianYMCA.Org just north of Oxford Street. They serve fabulous dirt cheap dinners for less than 5 pounds or $8.25 US..
London Subway Never pay cash on the tube since cash fares are more than double what locals pay. Buy yourself an Oyster Card ( www.tfl.gov.uk ) . Any tube station sells these stored-valued swipe cards. Load them up with a deposit of 3 pounds ($4.95 US), and fares are automatically deducted every time you ride.
Best London Guides Time Out London is the unbeatable bible of what to do in London. You can view it online at www.timeout.com/london . On Saturdays, grab a copy of the Guardian newspaper and you'll find a terrific pocket-sized guide for free. Or check it out online at www.Guardian.Co.Uk . Hands down the savviest price minded guide to London is: Pauline Frommer's London: Spend Less, See More at $16.99.
Best Department Store Forget Harrods since it's for tourists only. Hip Londoners go to real department stores like www.SelfRidges.Com with its delicious Food Hall and great designer brands. Another best bet is www.JohnLewis.Com whose slogan is, "Never Knowingly Undersold". Another unmissable is
www.MarksAndSpencer.Com .
Museums Almost ALL museums in London are 100% free. So make sure you see all the sights.
Taxi Cabs - Taxi cabs are double NYC fares and drivers won't let you in the cab unless you reveal your destination. But since they have to pass a test on memorizing ever street in London, their less apt to turn down fares like NYC cabbys. Also, tipping in England is a gesture, NOT an obligation.
Best Cheap Eats There's a www.PizzaExpress.Com on almost every corner and www.Carluccios.Com is a great place for killer pasta, cheap wine and great coffee. In London, Indian food has displaced fish and chips as the national dish and the best place to sample it is on Brick Lane in the East End which is lined with cheap eats. Or try the central www.IndianYMCA.Org just north of Oxford Street. They serve fabulous dirt cheap dinners for less than 5 pounds or $8.25 US..
Sunday, April 17, 2011
9 Top Wilderness Survival Tips
1. Charging Lion, Tiger Or Bear These animals like to mock charge so its best to stand your ground or even fight back. The minute you run, it tells the animal you're prey. 2. When You're Lost don't stay put. People who walk 600 yards may see a cabin or a road. Those who stay put don't see that. 3. When Your Lost In The Woods look for a stream. All streams lead to rivers, and rivers lead to lakes and people.
4. The Best Way To Determine of its Direction is to put a three foot stick in the ground and mark the tip of its shadow. That's west, no matter where you are. Wait for the shadow to move , 10 to 15 minutes, and mark the tip of the shadow again. The line between those tips is east-west. 5. To Escape From Quicksand flop forward and splay your body out onto drier ground. If you stay perpendicular, you're going down. 6. The Best Defense Against A Shark is to punch it on the nose as hard as you can. All predators fear being injured because they need their faces to survive. 7. The Best Sustenance For Being Stranded In A Blizzard is to eat bark from a pine tree. 8. What To Drink When Adrift At Sea Urine will work for the short term, and sea water is too salty. So make a solar still but covering a cup of ocean water with a piece of plastic and it will collect salt free condensation a few droplets at a time. 9. How To Tell If A Plant Is Safe To Eat When Stranded In The Wild First rub the plant on your body the wait 45 minutes for a reaction. If none, touch the plant to your lips and wait 5 minutes. If all is OK then hold it on your tongue for 15 minutes. If there is no reaction, swallow and wait 8 hours. t.If you get no reaction, the plant is safe to eat.
4. The Best Way To Determine of its Direction is to put a three foot stick in the ground and mark the tip of its shadow. That's west, no matter where you are. Wait for the shadow to move , 10 to 15 minutes, and mark the tip of the shadow again. The line between those tips is east-west. 5. To Escape From Quicksand flop forward and splay your body out onto drier ground. If you stay perpendicular, you're going down. 6. The Best Defense Against A Shark is to punch it on the nose as hard as you can. All predators fear being injured because they need their faces to survive. 7. The Best Sustenance For Being Stranded In A Blizzard is to eat bark from a pine tree. 8. What To Drink When Adrift At Sea Urine will work for the short term, and sea water is too salty. So make a solar still but covering a cup of ocean water with a piece of plastic and it will collect salt free condensation a few droplets at a time. 9. How To Tell If A Plant Is Safe To Eat When Stranded In The Wild First rub the plant on your body the wait 45 minutes for a reaction. If none, touch the plant to your lips and wait 5 minutes. If all is OK then hold it on your tongue for 15 minutes. If there is no reaction, swallow and wait 8 hours. t.If you get no reaction, the plant is safe to eat.
Top Ten Barber Shops In America
Chicago: http://www.belmontbarbershop.com/ Dallas: http://www.razorsedgebarbers.biz/ Los Angeles http://www.baxterfinley.com/ Miami: http://www.churchillsbarbershop.com/ Portland: http://www.hairmgrooming.com/ New York: http://www.blindbarber.com/ New Orleans: http://www.aidangillformen.com/, Philadelphia: http://www.2bgroomedstudios.com/, San Francisco: http://www.barberlounge.com/ Seattle: http://www.rudysbarbershop.com/
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
The Thrifty Gourmet's Guide To Rome
Top Billing: http://www.ristoranteilpagliaccio.com/ Where Locals Go: Flavio Al Velavevodetto, 97-99 Via di Monte Testaccio, 011-39-06-574-4194 For Classic Glamour: http://www.anticocaffegreco.eu/
The Best Pastas: http://www.feliceastestaccio.com/ , L'Arcangelo, 59-61 Via G.G. Belli, 001-39-06-321-0992, http://www.anticofornoroscioli.com/ , For The Ultimate Sandwich: http://www.tricoloremonti.it/
For Fabulous Pizzas: Pizzarium, 43 Via della Meloria, 011-39-06-3974-5416, Gatta Mangiona, 30-32
Via Frederico Ozanam, 011-39-06-534-6702, Da Remo, 44 Piazza Santa Maria Liberatrice, 011-39-06-6270, For Home Cooking: http://www.homefood.it/ , For People Watching: Settembrini, 27 Via Luigi Settembrini, 011-39-06-323-2617, For The Best Expresso: Sant'Eustachio, 81 Piazza Sant'Eustachio, 011-39-06-6880-2048, For Gourmet Groceries: http://www.volpetti.com/ and http://www.dioriginelaziale.it/
For Incredible Ice Cream: Gelateria Fatamorgana, 9 Via Lago di Lesina and 7 Via Giovanni Bettolo,
011-39-06-6456-1314, Fiora Di Luna, 96 Via della Lungaretta, 011-39-06-321-6668, Galateria Dei racchi, 272 Via dei Gracchi, 011-39-06-321-6668, Il Glato, 105 Via dell' Aeronautica, 011-39-06-512-8948, Cremeria Monteforte, 22 Via della Rotonda, 011-39-06-686-7720
The Best Pastas: http://www.feliceastestaccio.com/ , L'Arcangelo, 59-61 Via G.G. Belli, 001-39-06-321-0992, http://www.anticofornoroscioli.com/ , For The Ultimate Sandwich: http://www.tricoloremonti.it/
For Fabulous Pizzas: Pizzarium, 43 Via della Meloria, 011-39-06-3974-5416, Gatta Mangiona, 30-32
Via Frederico Ozanam, 011-39-06-534-6702, Da Remo, 44 Piazza Santa Maria Liberatrice, 011-39-06-6270, For Home Cooking: http://www.homefood.it/ , For People Watching: Settembrini, 27 Via Luigi Settembrini, 011-39-06-323-2617, For The Best Expresso: Sant'Eustachio, 81 Piazza Sant'Eustachio, 011-39-06-6880-2048, For Gourmet Groceries: http://www.volpetti.com/ and http://www.dioriginelaziale.it/
For Incredible Ice Cream: Gelateria Fatamorgana, 9 Via Lago di Lesina and 7 Via Giovanni Bettolo,
011-39-06-6456-1314, Fiora Di Luna, 96 Via della Lungaretta, 011-39-06-321-6668, Galateria Dei racchi, 272 Via dei Gracchi, 011-39-06-321-6668, Il Glato, 105 Via dell' Aeronautica, 011-39-06-512-8948, Cremeria Monteforte, 22 Via della Rotonda, 011-39-06-686-7720
Sunday, April 10, 2011
5 Keys To A Succesful Garage Sale
1. Avoid The Big Mistakes Never plan your sales for a holiday weekend. Most shoppers will have other plans. Next, make sure your sale is in line with all local regulations about signs and sales. When making signs, use a thick black marker, white cardboard and clear, large print and arrows to steer drivers to your sale. You want to make sure that your address and sale hours are written large enough to be read from a moving car.Most shoppers will walk away rather than ask for a price on an item. So take the time to mark all your items with masking tape and price them. If you know something about an item like "works fine" or "only worn
once" or "circa 1950" then put that info on your masking tape price tag.Never sell broken junk and unusable garbage and price stuff low enough so bargain hunters cannot pass it up. Finally, always have enough change and go to the bank the day before the sale and get 50 singles and $20 in quarters.
2. Items That Sell include decorative items for the home in good condition, framed prints, cookbooks, kitchen appliances that work, needlework and embroidered crocheted items, tools, fishing gear, and house plants and rooted cuttings. Also, decorative , fashion and household items that are in good condition if they date back to 1960 or earlier. But never try to sell antiques or collectibles at a garage sale. Most people won't spend more than $10 to $20 on a single item. Also, clothing does not sell well at garage sales because most shoppers will not share your size or taste in clothing. The only exception is children's clothing if it is priced well. One good marketing ploy is to try to combine a bake sale from your church or charity with your garage sale. That's because most shoppers are hungry from a morning spent driving around. Plus it wouldn't be a bad idea if you sold hot coffee with cream and sugar for 50 cents a cup to go along with the bake sale. If its a warm or a hot summer day, sell cold bottled water or generic cold soda from a cooler for 50 cents each. Just try to buy water and regular and diet soda on sale for 25 cents each.
3. How To Advertise Place classified ad in local newspapers starting at least a few days prior to the sale. Your ad should include the hours and location of the sale with a few categories of merchandise that your sale will feature. Example: Garage & Bake Sale. Sat 8am-1pm 123 Main St, Anytown. Glassware, quilts, houseplants, kitchen appliances, knickknacks, tools. Then hang fliers advertising your sale on community bulletin boards like those found at entrance of supermarkets. On the morning of the sale, hang signs along busy roads near your home to attract drive by customers. If you live in or near a big city, you ca also advertise your sale for free on www.CraigsList.Org Also, make sure you post info about your sale on your Facebook and Twitter page. Plus to get a jump on your competition, have a sign in list so people can leave their e-mail address and area of interest so they can get advance notice of your next sale.
3. The Best Time to have a sale is on a weekend when there are several other sales advertised in your neighborhood. A concentration of sales encourages shoppers to come to your part of town and visit them all.
So invite your neighbors to join in and participate. The majority of sales are made with in the first 3 hours of the sale on a Saturday morning. That's because most shoppers think anything worth buying has been bought up. So make sure you schedule your sale on Saturday between 8am and Noon. Another good tactic is to consider starting your sale on Friday between 5pm and dusk and then continue on Saturday morning. You will have far less competition and you may snag shoppers on their way home from work. And finally, watch the weather reports at www.Weather.Com or call 1-800-555-TELL and interrupt the recording by saying
"weather" loudly for a 5 day report for your area. Cancel the sale and wait for a better weekend if it looks like rain.
4. Presentation Merchandise sells better if is placed on tables. Clothes sell better if they are hung on hangers and not folded or piled. Place large items like furniture and lawn mowers out front so they can be seem from the street by passing motorists. Have a 25 or 50 ft extension cord running into your house so you can plug in electrical appliances to prove that they work.
5. Common Sense Security Never let a shopper use your bathroom or telephone. You don't want things going missing from your home or you don't want someone to case your house for a future burglary. Politely direct them to the nearest gas station or convenience store.
2. Items That Sell include decorative items for the home in good condition, framed prints, cookbooks, kitchen appliances that work, needlework and embroidered crocheted items, tools, fishing gear, and house plants and rooted cuttings. Also, decorative , fashion and household items that are in good condition if they date back to 1960 or earlier. But never try to sell antiques or collectibles at a garage sale. Most people won't spend more than $10 to $20 on a single item. Also, clothing does not sell well at garage sales because most shoppers will not share your size or taste in clothing. The only exception is children's clothing if it is priced well. One good marketing ploy is to try to combine a bake sale from your church or charity with your garage sale. That's because most shoppers are hungry from a morning spent driving around. Plus it wouldn't be a bad idea if you sold hot coffee with cream and sugar for 50 cents a cup to go along with the bake sale. If its a warm or a hot summer day, sell cold bottled water or generic cold soda from a cooler for 50 cents each. Just try to buy water and regular and diet soda on sale for 25 cents each.
3. How To Advertise Place classified ad in local newspapers starting at least a few days prior to the sale. Your ad should include the hours and location of the sale with a few categories of merchandise that your sale will feature. Example: Garage & Bake Sale. Sat 8am-1pm 123 Main St, Anytown. Glassware, quilts, houseplants, kitchen appliances, knickknacks, tools. Then hang fliers advertising your sale on community bulletin boards like those found at entrance of supermarkets. On the morning of the sale, hang signs along busy roads near your home to attract drive by customers. If you live in or near a big city, you ca also advertise your sale for free on www.CraigsList.Org Also, make sure you post info about your sale on your Facebook and Twitter page. Plus to get a jump on your competition, have a sign in list so people can leave their e-mail address and area of interest so they can get advance notice of your next sale.
3. The Best Time to have a sale is on a weekend when there are several other sales advertised in your neighborhood. A concentration of sales encourages shoppers to come to your part of town and visit them all.
So invite your neighbors to join in and participate. The majority of sales are made with in the first 3 hours of the sale on a Saturday morning. That's because most shoppers think anything worth buying has been bought up. So make sure you schedule your sale on Saturday between 8am and Noon. Another good tactic is to consider starting your sale on Friday between 5pm and dusk and then continue on Saturday morning. You will have far less competition and you may snag shoppers on their way home from work. And finally, watch the weather reports at www.Weather.Com or call 1-800-555-TELL and interrupt the recording by saying
"weather" loudly for a 5 day report for your area. Cancel the sale and wait for a better weekend if it looks like rain.
4. Presentation Merchandise sells better if is placed on tables. Clothes sell better if they are hung on hangers and not folded or piled. Place large items like furniture and lawn mowers out front so they can be seem from the street by passing motorists. Have a 25 or 50 ft extension cord running into your house so you can plug in electrical appliances to prove that they work.
5. Common Sense Security Never let a shopper use your bathroom or telephone. You don't want things going missing from your home or you don't want someone to case your house for a future burglary. Politely direct them to the nearest gas station or convenience store.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Top 4 Family Vacation Spots In The USA
1. Penobscot, Maine at http://www.sailmainecoast.com/ 2. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
at http://www.gtlc.com/ 3. Acme, Michigan at http://www.grandtraverseresort.com/ 4. Sante Fe, New Mexico
at http://www.bishopslodge.com/
at http://www.gtlc.com/ 3. Acme, Michigan at http://www.grandtraverseresort.com/ 4. Sante Fe, New Mexico
at http://www.bishopslodge.com/
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
DC'S Best Keep Secrets
Book Peak Season Rooms At Off Season Rates-One of the best places to stay in DC is the Tabard Inn.
www.TabardInn.Com 1739 N Street NW. Located just 5 blocks from the White House, this quaint, historic boutique 40 room hotel consists of three 19th century row houses. And the rooms go for just $120 to $165 even during Cherry Blossom season. Even if you don't stay here, make sure you stop by for brunch. The food here is absolutely outstanding.
Explore The Local Art Scene - On the first Friday of every month, DC residents flock to Dupont Circle. There, the local galleries turn into a bustling un-snooty fete. Here you can expect live music and free wine until 9pm. Check it out at starting at 9 Hillyer Ct NW and visit www.ArtsAndArtists.org
The Two Best Crab Cakes In Town Check out the Old Ebitt Grill at www.Ebbitt.Com where crab cakes are $17. Or make it over to the amazing alternative at CF Folks http://www.cffolksrestaurant.com/ where the scrab cake sandwich is just $14.
Go Behind Closed Doors when DC'S top 30 embassies open their doors on just two days: May 7 and and May 14. During prime time afternoon hours, hit the embassies on International Drive which tend to be larger and less hectic than the rest. For more info see "passport DC" at www.CulturalTourismDc.Org
Where The Locals Chow Down Without Dinner Reservations On Barracks Row, you'll find eateries that serve everything from soul food to authentic Indian cuisine. You'll find the majority of these low key dining spots on 8th Street between Pennsylvania Ave and M Street. Just stroll along until you find a menu that peaks your interest or see http://www.barracksrow.org/
Reserve Advance Half-Price Tickets To DC's Best Concerts , plays, operas and more at the
the downtown ticket outlet located at 407 7th St NW or see www.TicketPlace.Org
The Best Spot For Lunch In DC is the cafeteria at the National Museum of the American Indian. The museum's sunny Mitsitam Cafe is considered one of the best spots in town. It pays homage to Native American culinary traditions like buffalo burgers, glazed salmon and more. Its located at 4th Street and Independence Ave SW. Or see www.Nmai.Si.Edu
www.TabardInn.Com 1739 N Street NW. Located just 5 blocks from the White House, this quaint, historic boutique 40 room hotel consists of three 19th century row houses. And the rooms go for just $120 to $165 even during Cherry Blossom season. Even if you don't stay here, make sure you stop by for brunch. The food here is absolutely outstanding.
Explore The Local Art Scene - On the first Friday of every month, DC residents flock to Dupont Circle. There, the local galleries turn into a bustling un-snooty fete. Here you can expect live music and free wine until 9pm. Check it out at starting at 9 Hillyer Ct NW and visit www.ArtsAndArtists.org
The Two Best Crab Cakes In Town Check out the Old Ebitt Grill at www.Ebbitt.Com where crab cakes are $17. Or make it over to the amazing alternative at CF Folks http://www.cffolksrestaurant.com/ where the scrab cake sandwich is just $14.
Go Behind Closed Doors when DC'S top 30 embassies open their doors on just two days: May 7 and and May 14. During prime time afternoon hours, hit the embassies on International Drive which tend to be larger and less hectic than the rest. For more info see "passport DC" at www.CulturalTourismDc.Org
Where The Locals Chow Down Without Dinner Reservations On Barracks Row, you'll find eateries that serve everything from soul food to authentic Indian cuisine. You'll find the majority of these low key dining spots on 8th Street between Pennsylvania Ave and M Street. Just stroll along until you find a menu that peaks your interest or see http://www.barracksrow.org/
Reserve Advance Half-Price Tickets To DC's Best Concerts , plays, operas and more at the
the downtown ticket outlet located at 407 7th St NW or see www.TicketPlace.Org
The Best Spot For Lunch In DC is the cafeteria at the National Museum of the American Indian. The museum's sunny Mitsitam Cafe is considered one of the best spots in town. It pays homage to Native American culinary traditions like buffalo burgers, glazed salmon and more. Its located at 4th Street and Independence Ave SW. Or see www.Nmai.Si.Edu
Sunday, March 27, 2011
7 Tips On How To Get A Locksmith To Pick Your Lock Instead Of Your Pockets
1. Some locksmiths in the phone book and online are scam artists. They’ ll quote you a great price on the phone. But when they get to your or business, they’ll say that you have a special lock and they can’t pick it. So they’ll have to drill it open. Then they’ll replace it with a lock you can buy at a big box store for $25.
Also, make sure you look for company advertising and identification. Also, call a local qualified locksmiths that bring a reliable familiarity within your area matched with strong community reputation. When contacting a locksmith, if the legal business name isn’t stated, ask for it. If there’s hesitation, there’s cause for concern.
Hang up and move on. Written estimates should be supplied before work begins, along with an itemized invoice upon completion. All service vehicles, vans and trucks should be clearly marked with the company name and identifying details. The locksmith should have a valid state locksmith license/registration where applicable.
The qualified locksmith should always ask for your proof of ID and authorization to begin work upon arrival, as well as supply his or her own professional identification and credentials. If, for any reason, you’re uncomfortable, it is your right to refuse service.
2. To find a reputable locksmith, check to see if any are Better Business Bureau members in your area at http://www.bbb.org/
3. Keys stamped “Do Not Duplicate” are duplicated all the time. Ask you locksmith about high security locks with keys that can’t be replicated at a hardware store.
4. Don’t believe car dealer who says only he can duplicate your key. In most cases a locksmith who specializes in automotive work can duplicate a key much cheaper than the dealer.
5. If you have a housekeeper who needs a key, then ask your locksmith to key your door so that your master key works on both the dead bolt and the door knob, but hers just works on the knob.
6. Before you call a locksmith, try the door. If the locksmith comes out and finds your door unlocked, he still will charge you for the service call.
7. If your key won’t turn, try WD-40 or silicone spray. Sometimes the lock pins get jammed. And 25 to 40% of the time, that solves the problem.
Also, make sure you look for company advertising and identification. Also, call a local qualified locksmiths that bring a reliable familiarity within your area matched with strong community reputation. When contacting a locksmith, if the legal business name isn’t stated, ask for it. If there’s hesitation, there’s cause for concern.
Hang up and move on. Written estimates should be supplied before work begins, along with an itemized invoice upon completion. All service vehicles, vans and trucks should be clearly marked with the company name and identifying details. The locksmith should have a valid state locksmith license/registration where applicable.
The qualified locksmith should always ask for your proof of ID and authorization to begin work upon arrival, as well as supply his or her own professional identification and credentials. If, for any reason, you’re uncomfortable, it is your right to refuse service.
2. To find a reputable locksmith, check to see if any are Better Business Bureau members in your area at http://www.bbb.org/
3. Keys stamped “Do Not Duplicate” are duplicated all the time. Ask you locksmith about high security locks with keys that can’t be replicated at a hardware store.
4. Don’t believe car dealer who says only he can duplicate your key. In most cases a locksmith who specializes in automotive work can duplicate a key much cheaper than the dealer.
5. If you have a housekeeper who needs a key, then ask your locksmith to key your door so that your master key works on both the dead bolt and the door knob, but hers just works on the knob.
6. Before you call a locksmith, try the door. If the locksmith comes out and finds your door unlocked, he still will charge you for the service call.
7. If your key won’t turn, try WD-40 or silicone spray. Sometimes the lock pins get jammed. And 25 to 40% of the time, that solves the problem.
Friday, March 25, 2011
25 Dirty Secrets Human Resource People Don’t Want You To Know
1. If you’ve been unemployed for six months or more,
they assume that other people passed over you and
they may not want to hire you.
2. When it comes to getting a job, who you know
really matters. No matter how great your
qualifications may be, connections count. So make
you network as much as possible.
3. If want a job at specific company, its best to
bypass the HR department completely. Try to
go through someone you know or go directly
to the hiring manager.
4. You will not be taken serious if your e-mail
address does sound professional like BobJones
@ gmail.Com. BobbyLikes2Booze@ Yahoo.com
just won’t cut it.
5. Most companies practice discrimination.
If you’re in your 50's or 60's, don’t put the year
you graduated on your resume.
6. HR people get irritated about a job hunter
cramming an entire resume on one page in 2 point
type. Use two pages if necessary, but three pages
is pushing it.
7. Most HR people use applicant tracking systems
that scan resumes for key words. To get your resume
through the system make sure you put key words directly
from the job description on your resume.
8. Try to avoid using colored ink and paper when
you submit your resume. Also, dropping off your
resume in person is a no-no.
9.If you want to be considered for a job, make
sure you learn as much as you can about the
company before your interview.
10. A lot of HR people don’t want to hire applicants
with young children. Although its illegal to ask you,
they will pull all kinds of tricks to find out. Some
will put photos of kids on their desks even if they
don’t have children. Then they hope you’ll ask
about the kids and mention your own children.
Or, they may walk you out to your car to see if
you have car seats.
11. HR managers routinely discriminate against
people who are over weight or obese and if you
have a weak hand shake, it will count against you.
12. If you don’t want to blow the job interview,
make sure you turn your cell phone completely
off.
13. Make sure you’re pleasant and cordial to everyone
you encounter at the company. If not, the HR manager
will hear about it and it will count against you.
14. If you have a real personal emergency and you
can’t make your interview, and you have a legitimate
excuse, most HR people probably won’t believe you.
15. Never reveal or on a resume that you were fired.
If you do, it will be trashed. Nine times out of ten,
most state laws on reference immunity and your former
company’s policy will prevent most HR people from
ever finding out.
16. Make sure you know how to pronounce the name
of the person who will interview you. If you must,
call the company receptionist and find out. Also,
make sure your personal hygiene is impeccable.
You should well groomed, and make sure
you wear your best suit or dress for the interview.
17. When asked to talk about yourself, make it
short and to the point. Avoid being a blow hard.
18. Wait at least a week before you send a thank
you note for the interview. In that time, the HR
manager will have interviewed a lot of other
people and your thank you note will stand out.
19. HR managers find persistent people annoying.
Sometimes they’ll tell applicants that they hired
someone internally just to get rid of them. If you want
to check back on your status, limit it to one or two contacts.
20. If you did not get along with your former
supervisor, do not list his direct line as a reference.
Instead, just provide the HR phone number at
your former company. Most will only give out your dates
of employment and your title.
21. If you’re credit score is below 650, it will count
against you when you apply for a job. But since back
ground checks are expensive, HR managers sometimes
bluff and will not even run one.
22. Don’t quote Salary.Com when negotiating pay.
Reason? It’s usually 10 to 20 grand higher than actual
salaries. Plus it annoys HR people like crazy. And
when discussing salary, most HR people try to lock
you in early by saying, “the position pays 35K to 40K.
If they ask you if that’s acceptable, say “no”, “it depends”,
or “it may not be out of the question”. That way, they
can’t lock you into that salary area.
23. If you already have a job, and they start giving you
the worsts assignments possible, with impossible
deadlines, they are setting up to fail so they can terminate it.
So start looking for a new job immediately. Also, watch out
if you’re put on a performance improvement plan and they
say that they want it to work out. They may be looking to
sack you. And the third signal that want to give you
the boot is when you’re a high level employee, and they
start taking away your responsibilities to work on special
assignments. Start sending out resumes fast.
24. If you get laid off, you’ll probably get a separation
agreement where you agree not to sue. Before you sign
it , try to ask for more severance money, a glowing
recommendation in writing or more Cobra. The worst that
could happen is that they'll say no.
25. If you’re asked to travel to attend a conference, try
not to say no. It could end your career.
they assume that other people passed over you and
they may not want to hire you.
2. When it comes to getting a job, who you know
really matters. No matter how great your
qualifications may be, connections count. So make
you network as much as possible.
3. If want a job at specific company, its best to
bypass the HR department completely. Try to
go through someone you know or go directly
to the hiring manager.
4. You will not be taken serious if your e-mail
address does sound professional like BobJones
@ gmail.Com. BobbyLikes2Booze@ Yahoo.com
just won’t cut it.
5. Most companies practice discrimination.
If you’re in your 50's or 60's, don’t put the year
you graduated on your resume.
6. HR people get irritated about a job hunter
cramming an entire resume on one page in 2 point
type. Use two pages if necessary, but three pages
is pushing it.
7. Most HR people use applicant tracking systems
that scan resumes for key words. To get your resume
through the system make sure you put key words directly
from the job description on your resume.
8. Try to avoid using colored ink and paper when
you submit your resume. Also, dropping off your
resume in person is a no-no.
9.If you want to be considered for a job, make
sure you learn as much as you can about the
company before your interview.
10. A lot of HR people don’t want to hire applicants
with young children. Although its illegal to ask you,
they will pull all kinds of tricks to find out. Some
will put photos of kids on their desks even if they
don’t have children. Then they hope you’ll ask
about the kids and mention your own children.
Or, they may walk you out to your car to see if
you have car seats.
11. HR managers routinely discriminate against
people who are over weight or obese and if you
have a weak hand shake, it will count against you.
12. If you don’t want to blow the job interview,
make sure you turn your cell phone completely
off.
13. Make sure you’re pleasant and cordial to everyone
you encounter at the company. If not, the HR manager
will hear about it and it will count against you.
14. If you have a real personal emergency and you
can’t make your interview, and you have a legitimate
excuse, most HR people probably won’t believe you.
15. Never reveal or on a resume that you were fired.
If you do, it will be trashed. Nine times out of ten,
most state laws on reference immunity and your former
company’s policy will prevent most HR people from
ever finding out.
16. Make sure you know how to pronounce the name
of the person who will interview you. If you must,
call the company receptionist and find out. Also,
make sure your personal hygiene is impeccable.
You should well groomed, and make sure
you wear your best suit or dress for the interview.
17. When asked to talk about yourself, make it
short and to the point. Avoid being a blow hard.
18. Wait at least a week before you send a thank
you note for the interview. In that time, the HR
manager will have interviewed a lot of other
people and your thank you note will stand out.
19. HR managers find persistent people annoying.
Sometimes they’ll tell applicants that they hired
someone internally just to get rid of them. If you want
to check back on your status, limit it to one or two contacts.
20. If you did not get along with your former
supervisor, do not list his direct line as a reference.
Instead, just provide the HR phone number at
your former company. Most will only give out your dates
of employment and your title.
21. If you’re credit score is below 650, it will count
against you when you apply for a job. But since back
ground checks are expensive, HR managers sometimes
bluff and will not even run one.
22. Don’t quote Salary.Com when negotiating pay.
Reason? It’s usually 10 to 20 grand higher than actual
salaries. Plus it annoys HR people like crazy. And
when discussing salary, most HR people try to lock
you in early by saying, “the position pays 35K to 40K.
If they ask you if that’s acceptable, say “no”, “it depends”,
or “it may not be out of the question”. That way, they
can’t lock you into that salary area.
23. If you already have a job, and they start giving you
the worsts assignments possible, with impossible
deadlines, they are setting up to fail so they can terminate it.
So start looking for a new job immediately. Also, watch out
if you’re put on a performance improvement plan and they
say that they want it to work out. They may be looking to
sack you. And the third signal that want to give you
the boot is when you’re a high level employee, and they
start taking away your responsibilities to work on special
assignments. Start sending out resumes fast.
24. If you get laid off, you’ll probably get a separation
agreement where you agree not to sue. Before you sign
it , try to ask for more severance money, a glowing
recommendation in writing or more Cobra. The worst that
could happen is that they'll say no.
25. If you’re asked to travel to attend a conference, try
not to say no. It could end your career.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
New Jersey's Best Vintage, Retro And Couture Second Hand Shops
Asbury Park: http://www.alanandsuzi.net/ Beach Haven: http://www.coastalconsignment-salvage.com/
Bernardsville: http://www.encoreconsignments.com/ Forked River: http://www.stillgreatconsignment.cim/
Haddonfield: http://www.borntoshopthrift.com/ Hawthorne: http://www.secondglance.biz/ Livingston:
http://www.dueteveryday.com/ Princeton: http://www.janeconsignment.com/ Red Bank, Ridgewood, Short Hills And Englewood: http://www.edoubletake.com/ Toms River: http://www.silkpurseconsignment.com/
Westfield: http://www.thecoutureexchange.com/
Bernardsville: http://www.encoreconsignments.com/ Forked River: http://www.stillgreatconsignment.cim/
Haddonfield: http://www.borntoshopthrift.com/ Hawthorne: http://www.secondglance.biz/ Livingston:
http://www.dueteveryday.com/ Princeton: http://www.janeconsignment.com/ Red Bank, Ridgewood, Short Hills And Englewood: http://www.edoubletake.com/ Toms River: http://www.silkpurseconsignment.com/
Westfield: http://www.thecoutureexchange.com/
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Why The Internet Is Making Us Stupid
An experiment at UCLA showed that spending one hour per day on the web alters our neural pathways. Another Canadian study asked 70 people to read a short story on a computer screen. Some read traditional text, while others read a version containing hyperlinks. Only 10% of those who read the traditional text reported any difficulty following the story versus 75% who read the hyperlinked version. Those who read the traditional text did so faster.
Simply ignoring online distractions does not work. That's because our brains must make a split second decision not to be distracted which breaks our concentration. For instance, reading books is often considered a passive activity when compared to web surfing. But we think more deeply when we read a printed page compared to an Internet page. The quiet space afforded by the printed page lets us mull over what we read. That quiet space does not exist online, so we're less likely to formed reasoned conclusions about the validity of what we read.
If we want to increase our concentration and comprehension when we read e-books or text online, we should close our e-mail programs, our facebook page, and other competing info feeds on our screen.
Simply ignoring online distractions does not work. That's because our brains must make a split second decision not to be distracted which breaks our concentration. For instance, reading books is often considered a passive activity when compared to web surfing. But we think more deeply when we read a printed page compared to an Internet page. The quiet space afforded by the printed page lets us mull over what we read. That quiet space does not exist online, so we're less likely to formed reasoned conclusions about the validity of what we read.
If we want to increase our concentration and comprehension when we read e-books or text online, we should close our e-mail programs, our facebook page, and other competing info feeds on our screen.
How To Avoid The Hidden Dangers In Your Clothes And Bedding
Wrinkle free fabrics contain perfluorochemicals ( pfcs) for stain and wrinkle resistance. Clothing labeled no iron, permanent press and wrinkle free often contain pfcs. They last long because they are hard to break down.They accumulate in the body and been linked to reproductive toxicity and liver problems.The chemicals in clothing may be absorbed through the skin or inhaled when they out gas.
Numerous cyclesin the wash may release some but not all. Also, synthetic fibers, contain polyvinyl chlorides a known carcinogen.So to play it safe, try to wear clothes made from 100% natural fibers like cotton and wool.
Dry Cleaning Dangers In dry cleaning, a chemical called perchloroethylene (perc)is used to saturate clothing to remove dirt and stains. But a lot of the solution remains in the clothing fibers after cleaning is done. Exposure to perc had been linked to kidney and liver damage. Plus it causes cancer in lab rats. Even short term exposure results in dizziness, headaches and rapid heart rate. One study found that elevated levels of perc remained in clothing after dry cleaning for 48 hours. California and other states have mandated that dry cleaners stop using perc by 2023. In the meantime, you can air out your perc dry cleaned clothes by removing the plastic and hanging them outdoors or in a garage for one or two days. Also, make sure you wear a barrier like a T-shirt when you wear clothes dry cleaned in perc. You can also find a green dry cleaner that uses liquid carbon dioxide instead of perc.
Problems With Mattresses Most innerspring and foam mattresses and made from polyurethane It is so flammable its considered solid gasoline. To neutralize that, makers are required to add flame retardants to the mattresses. Before 2005, these included highly toxic polybrominated ethers and heavy metal antimonies that disrupt hormone activity and may interfere with normal brain functions. If you're sleeping on a mattress made prior to 2005, consider replacing it with an organic mattress made from natural latex and or wool. If you buy a synthetic mattress, take off the outer wrapping and let air out for a few days outdoors or in a garage. You can also purchase a natural latex mattress topper or one made from cotton or wool to act as a barrier between you and the flame retardant materials.
If It Smells Clean It Could It Could Be Bad For Your Health The National Academy of Science reports that up to 95% of substances used to make fragrances for detergents, plug-in air fresheners, fabric softener, are made from petroleum that can trigger asthma, and may cause problems with the nervous system. So when you can, try to use non-toxic natural fabric softeners and detergents around the house. Also, you can find reusable clothes dryer sheets online that are not coated with chemicals.
Numerous cyclesin the wash may release some but not all. Also, synthetic fibers, contain polyvinyl chlorides a known carcinogen.So to play it safe, try to wear clothes made from 100% natural fibers like cotton and wool.
Dry Cleaning Dangers In dry cleaning, a chemical called perchloroethylene (perc)is used to saturate clothing to remove dirt and stains. But a lot of the solution remains in the clothing fibers after cleaning is done. Exposure to perc had been linked to kidney and liver damage. Plus it causes cancer in lab rats. Even short term exposure results in dizziness, headaches and rapid heart rate. One study found that elevated levels of perc remained in clothing after dry cleaning for 48 hours. California and other states have mandated that dry cleaners stop using perc by 2023. In the meantime, you can air out your perc dry cleaned clothes by removing the plastic and hanging them outdoors or in a garage for one or two days. Also, make sure you wear a barrier like a T-shirt when you wear clothes dry cleaned in perc. You can also find a green dry cleaner that uses liquid carbon dioxide instead of perc.
Problems With Mattresses Most innerspring and foam mattresses and made from polyurethane It is so flammable its considered solid gasoline. To neutralize that, makers are required to add flame retardants to the mattresses. Before 2005, these included highly toxic polybrominated ethers and heavy metal antimonies that disrupt hormone activity and may interfere with normal brain functions. If you're sleeping on a mattress made prior to 2005, consider replacing it with an organic mattress made from natural latex and or wool. If you buy a synthetic mattress, take off the outer wrapping and let air out for a few days outdoors or in a garage. You can also purchase a natural latex mattress topper or one made from cotton or wool to act as a barrier between you and the flame retardant materials.
If It Smells Clean It Could It Could Be Bad For Your Health The National Academy of Science reports that up to 95% of substances used to make fragrances for detergents, plug-in air fresheners, fabric softener, are made from petroleum that can trigger asthma, and may cause problems with the nervous system. So when you can, try to use non-toxic natural fabric softeners and detergents around the house. Also, you can find reusable clothes dryer sheets online that are not coated with chemicals.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Land A Job For Someone Else And Make Up To $250 An Hour Or More
With the local unemployment rate at 9% and up to 40% in some areas, job seekers are in full supply. So that means resume writers are in high demand. So to get training and network opportunities, its critical that you hook up with the Professional Association of Resume Writers. You'll also need to join the National Resume Writers Association for more credentials and leads. After your training, make sure you sign up for the PARW'S $225 certification exam. For more info go to www.PARW.Com and www.TheNRWA.Com. Another good resource to find new clients is www.MovinOnUpResumes.Com
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
GPS Owner Security Alert
FROM ONE OF OUR READERS:
"Wednesday, I approached my truck from the passenger side to place my computer case in the front passenger seat. As I reached to open the door I noticed there was a hole right under my door handle. My first thought was, "someone has shot my truck !" I began to think about it and inspect it a little closer and the "light" slowly began to come on.
I phoned my friend who owns a body shop and asked if he had any vehicles with damage to the doors that looked like a bullet hole. "Yes, I see it all the time. Thieves have a punch and place it right under the door handle, knock a hole through, reach in and unlock it, just as if they have a key.
No alarms, broken glass or anything. I then placed a call to my insurance agent and explained it to him I was puzzled that they left my GPS and all other belongings. Here is where it gets scary! "Oh no, he said, they want the break-in to be so subtle that you don't even realize it."
They look at your GPS to see where "home" is. "Now they know what you drive, go to your home, and if your vehicle isn't there they assume you aren't and break in your home."
He says they will even leave a purse or wallet and only take one or two credit cards. By the time you realize there has been a theft, they may have already had a couple days or more to use them. I didn't realize my situation for two full days! They even give you the courtesy of re-locking your doors for you. Periodically walk around your car, daily if you are in a shopping center or other parking area.
Report thefts immediately....your bank w/missing check numbers, your credit card agencies, police, and insurance companies, etc."
"Wednesday, I approached my truck from the passenger side to place my computer case in the front passenger seat. As I reached to open the door I noticed there was a hole right under my door handle. My first thought was, "someone has shot my truck !" I began to think about it and inspect it a little closer and the "light" slowly began to come on.
I phoned my friend who owns a body shop and asked if he had any vehicles with damage to the doors that looked like a bullet hole. "Yes, I see it all the time. Thieves have a punch and place it right under the door handle, knock a hole through, reach in and unlock it, just as if they have a key.
No alarms, broken glass or anything. I then placed a call to my insurance agent and explained it to him I was puzzled that they left my GPS and all other belongings. Here is where it gets scary! "Oh no, he said, they want the break-in to be so subtle that you don't even realize it."
They look at your GPS to see where "home" is. "Now they know what you drive, go to your home, and if your vehicle isn't there they assume you aren't and break in your home."
He says they will even leave a purse or wallet and only take one or two credit cards. By the time you realize there has been a theft, they may have already had a couple days or more to use them. I didn't realize my situation for two full days! They even give you the courtesy of re-locking your doors for you. Periodically walk around your car, daily if you are in a shopping center or other parking area.
Report thefts immediately....your bank w/missing check numbers, your credit card agencies, police, and insurance companies, etc."
Saturday, February 26, 2011
11 Hot Tips To Sell Your House Fast In A Weak Market
1.Choose A Broker That Can Sell To find the best broker,determine which realtor dominates your market by "For Sale"signs and recommendations by neighbors. Then call the sales manager at the realty office and find out who are the top 10% agents as measured by sales. These agents generate 90% of revenues for an office. So they are most likely to sell your house at the best price. Before you commit to an agent make sure he or she has sold several homes in your neighborhood at attractive prices. Also, make sure that no more than 6 months had passed between the time the homes were listed and sold. Then make sure the agent has a marketing plan tailored to your home. 2. Offer A 2 Point Commission Bonus bringing the total commission to 8%. That way, the listing agent, your broker, and the selling agent, the buyer's broker, get an extra one-point incentive to focus on your property above anyone else's. Tell your agent to make sure the extra commission is clearly stated in the MLS listing - both under "commissions" and under "broker remarks". 3.Get Your Marketing Right Most home buyers start their search on the Internet. So make sure your agent lists your property on the seven biggest real estate sites which are Yahoo, Craigslist ,Trulia, Zillow, Homes.Com ,Realtor.Com and MLS. Only real estate agents can list homes on Homes.Com, Trulia, Realtor.Com and MLS. Ads range from free to $300+ for first page positions, slide shows and videos.
4. Brainstorm With Your Agent to come up with the single most important outstanding feature that makes your property different. It's called a USP or "unique marketing proposition". Then market the daylights out of it. Brainstorm further to come up with a list of special features like a fabulous view or a quiet street .It can be long or short. Then rank the items from most to least important. Then make sure all your advertising includes your USP and your home's special features. 5. Use Professional Photos Market research proves that photos influence buyers more than any other tool. Develop a virtual tour online like something you might see in a home magazine. Whether they're clearly visible or not, each photo or video should include a strongly worded caption that points out interesting details or features. Some agents will send out a professional photographer to take photos. If yours doesn't, you can hire your own for $100 to $500 depending where you live. 4. Clean Out Your Closets Neatness implies that you take care of things. Buyers may think that a messy closet means faulty wiring or plumbing. 5. Get Rid Of Clutter Every piece of junk reduces your homes value because buyers can't see past it. If necessary, rent storage space for a few months. Never underestimate how much a poor appearance will turn away potential buyers and diminish a sale. You want buyers to take a look and say, "Wow! I could move in here today!" 6.Let There Be Light Buyers want a bright house above all except location. So ditch the heavy drapes, have the house cleaned, wash the windows, and move furniture away from the windows. Then trim any outdoor plants blocking the sun. Paint the walls creamy white. And if possible, paint the outside of the house yellow. If you need to re-paint or change the siding of the house, make sure it's yellow. Yellow houses have the most curb appeal and sell faster than any other color. 7.Swipe And Deploy Attend an open house at a few new developments and take note on how the model homes are decorated. Then try to apply some of these latest decorating trends to your house on the cheap. 8. Price It Right The smartest strategy is to under price your house below market value. That's because buyers are looking for value when they buy. This also might force buyers into a bidding war over your house with one another. If you price high and then go low, buyers will sense your desperation and start making low ball offers. Calculate the average on the "comps" for your area and mark it down 10%. If market conditions are deteriorating rapidly, or if you're in a particular hurry, mark it down another 10%. 9. How To Handle Low Ball Bids In A Weak Market When you get low ball bids on your property, never say " NO" regardless of how ridiculous you may think they are. That's because your agent may be able to nurse the buyer along and warm him or her up to a price you may be able to live with. Also, it will be a learning experience. You and your agent will get a chance to get a sense of what a buyer's typical objections may be. Then you'll have a chance to try out some arguments to overcome the next buyer's objections. Based on what you and your agent learn, you can update your marketing materials on the web while your listing is relatively new. 10. Offer Incentives In a buyers market, new home builders will be handing out incentives like Halloween candy. So to sell a used home like yours, giving buyers a cash incentive will give you an unfair advantage over other sellers. Offer to pick up part or all of the closing costs. Then advertise this in advance and more people will want to see your property. You could also offer a decorating allowance of say 1% of the sale price. But do not make this known except to buyers who see the house. Otherwise, prospects may consider it as a sign that the home is not clean or needs work. 11. Hold The Paper First of all, one-fifth of all homes sold involve partial or seller financing. Second, buyers may not be able to qualify for a conventional mortgage because they may be self-employed or can't come up with 20% down. If you don't have a mortgage to pay off, and you aren't buying another house, or if you don't need the cash, this is a win-win for you and the buyer. You can charge 5% interest or more, and the collateral is a property you know and trust. The buyer gets to skip the hassle of applying for a mortgage, and saves on closing costs. The down payment also becomes negotiable. Plus you might be able to spread any capital gains you might owe over several years. Just make sure your agent or lawyer runs a credit check on the buyer and let your lawyer draw up a formal contract. Also, make sure your contract states the if the buyer falls behind on payments just one or two months,the buyer forfeits the down payment and you can take back the property.
4. Brainstorm With Your Agent to come up with the single most important outstanding feature that makes your property different. It's called a USP or "unique marketing proposition". Then market the daylights out of it. Brainstorm further to come up with a list of special features like a fabulous view or a quiet street .It can be long or short. Then rank the items from most to least important. Then make sure all your advertising includes your USP and your home's special features. 5. Use Professional Photos Market research proves that photos influence buyers more than any other tool. Develop a virtual tour online like something you might see in a home magazine. Whether they're clearly visible or not, each photo or video should include a strongly worded caption that points out interesting details or features. Some agents will send out a professional photographer to take photos. If yours doesn't, you can hire your own for $100 to $500 depending where you live. 4. Clean Out Your Closets Neatness implies that you take care of things. Buyers may think that a messy closet means faulty wiring or plumbing. 5. Get Rid Of Clutter Every piece of junk reduces your homes value because buyers can't see past it. If necessary, rent storage space for a few months. Never underestimate how much a poor appearance will turn away potential buyers and diminish a sale. You want buyers to take a look and say, "Wow! I could move in here today!" 6.Let There Be Light Buyers want a bright house above all except location. So ditch the heavy drapes, have the house cleaned, wash the windows, and move furniture away from the windows. Then trim any outdoor plants blocking the sun. Paint the walls creamy white. And if possible, paint the outside of the house yellow. If you need to re-paint or change the siding of the house, make sure it's yellow. Yellow houses have the most curb appeal and sell faster than any other color. 7.Swipe And Deploy Attend an open house at a few new developments and take note on how the model homes are decorated. Then try to apply some of these latest decorating trends to your house on the cheap. 8. Price It Right The smartest strategy is to under price your house below market value. That's because buyers are looking for value when they buy. This also might force buyers into a bidding war over your house with one another. If you price high and then go low, buyers will sense your desperation and start making low ball offers. Calculate the average on the "comps" for your area and mark it down 10%. If market conditions are deteriorating rapidly, or if you're in a particular hurry, mark it down another 10%. 9. How To Handle Low Ball Bids In A Weak Market When you get low ball bids on your property, never say " NO" regardless of how ridiculous you may think they are. That's because your agent may be able to nurse the buyer along and warm him or her up to a price you may be able to live with. Also, it will be a learning experience. You and your agent will get a chance to get a sense of what a buyer's typical objections may be. Then you'll have a chance to try out some arguments to overcome the next buyer's objections. Based on what you and your agent learn, you can update your marketing materials on the web while your listing is relatively new. 10. Offer Incentives In a buyers market, new home builders will be handing out incentives like Halloween candy. So to sell a used home like yours, giving buyers a cash incentive will give you an unfair advantage over other sellers. Offer to pick up part or all of the closing costs. Then advertise this in advance and more people will want to see your property. You could also offer a decorating allowance of say 1% of the sale price. But do not make this known except to buyers who see the house. Otherwise, prospects may consider it as a sign that the home is not clean or needs work. 11. Hold The Paper First of all, one-fifth of all homes sold involve partial or seller financing. Second, buyers may not be able to qualify for a conventional mortgage because they may be self-employed or can't come up with 20% down. If you don't have a mortgage to pay off, and you aren't buying another house, or if you don't need the cash, this is a win-win for you and the buyer. You can charge 5% interest or more, and the collateral is a property you know and trust. The buyer gets to skip the hassle of applying for a mortgage, and saves on closing costs. The down payment also becomes negotiable. Plus you might be able to spread any capital gains you might owe over several years. Just make sure your agent or lawyer runs a credit check on the buyer and let your lawyer draw up a formal contract. Also, make sure your contract states the if the buyer falls behind on payments just one or two months,the buyer forfeits the down payment and you can take back the property.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Ten Keys To Happiness
Here are steps you must take if you want to be happy:
1. Find Something To Look Forward To - One study found that just thinking about watching your favorite movie will raise your endorphin levels by 27%.
2. Infuse Positivity Into Your Surroundings - Another study showed spending 20 minutes outside in good weather will improve your mood and memory.
3. Exercise More - More powerful than antidepressants, even walking is a good way way to improve your mood and your brain.
4. Use Your Strengths - If you don't know what they are, find out for free at http://www.viasurvey.com/
5. Encourage Others - Studies show that teams and improved 31% with encouraging managers Employees don't quit companies, they quit supervisors.
6. Change Your Performance To Change Your Mind - Henry Ford said, "If you think you can or if you think you can't, you're right." When facing a difficult challenge, focus on why you will succeed rather than why you may fail. People with a "fixed mindset" will always be less successful than those with a "growth mindset."
7. Commit Conscious Acts Of Kindness - Be gracious in traffic or in line and let people in. Then see how you feel.
8. View failure As Opportunity - Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times before he got the light bulb right.
9. Overcome Inertia - Use the 20 second rule to break bad habits. For instance, if you think you watch too much TV, take the batteries out of your remote. The next time you click on the TV, you can read a book or start an important project.
10. Make A Social Investment - A lack of meaningful social contact can add 30 points to your blood pressure. Studies show that a bond between a manager and employees is the prime predictor of both daily productivity and the length of time people stay at their jobs.
1. Find Something To Look Forward To - One study found that just thinking about watching your favorite movie will raise your endorphin levels by 27%.
2. Infuse Positivity Into Your Surroundings - Another study showed spending 20 minutes outside in good weather will improve your mood and memory.
3. Exercise More - More powerful than antidepressants, even walking is a good way way to improve your mood and your brain.
4. Use Your Strengths - If you don't know what they are, find out for free at http://www.viasurvey.com/
5. Encourage Others - Studies show that teams and improved 31% with encouraging managers Employees don't quit companies, they quit supervisors.
6. Change Your Performance To Change Your Mind - Henry Ford said, "If you think you can or if you think you can't, you're right." When facing a difficult challenge, focus on why you will succeed rather than why you may fail. People with a "fixed mindset" will always be less successful than those with a "growth mindset."
7. Commit Conscious Acts Of Kindness - Be gracious in traffic or in line and let people in. Then see how you feel.
8. View failure As Opportunity - Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times before he got the light bulb right.
9. Overcome Inertia - Use the 20 second rule to break bad habits. For instance, if you think you watch too much TV, take the batteries out of your remote. The next time you click on the TV, you can read a book or start an important project.
10. Make A Social Investment - A lack of meaningful social contact can add 30 points to your blood pressure. Studies show that a bond between a manager and employees is the prime predictor of both daily productivity and the length of time people stay at their jobs.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
25 Fun Facts China Doesn't Want You To Know
#1 The U.S. trade deficit with China increased by 26 percent during 2010.
#2 Since China entered the WTO in 2001, the U.S. trade deficit with
China has grown by an average of 18% per year.
#3 The United States has now had a negative trade balance every single
year since 1976.
#4 The U.S. trade deficit with China during August was more than
4,600 times larger than the U.S. trade deficit with China was for the
entire year of 1985.
#5 According to a new report from the Economic Policy Institute,
between 2001 and 2008 lost 2.4 million jobs due to the growing trade
deficit with China. Every single state in America experienced a net
job loss due to our trade deficit with China during this time period.
#6 China is now the number one producer in the world of wind and solar
power.
#7 Back in 1970, 25 percent of all jobs in the United States were
manufacturing jobs. Today, only 9 percent of the jobs in the United
States are manufacturing jobs.
#8 China now possesses the fastest supercomputer on the entire globe.
#9 Back in 1998, the United States had 25 percent of the world's
high-tech export market and China had just 10 percent. Ten years
later, the United States had less than 15 percent and China's share
had soared to 20 percent.
#10 China now has the world's fastest train and the world's biggest
high-speed rail network.
#11 The United States has lost a staggering 32 percent of its
manufacturing jobs since the year 2000.
#12 The United States had been the leading consumer of energy on the
globe for about 100 years, but this past summer China took over the
number one spot.
#13 China has accumulated the largest stockpile of foreign currency
reserves on the entire globe - $2.85 trillion.
#14 American companies keep handing Chinese companies our most
advanced technology. Just consider the following example that was
just reportedin the New York Times. G.E., in the partnership with a
state-owned Chinese company, will be sharing its most sophisticated
airplane electronics, including some of the same technology used in
Boeing's new state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliner.
#15 All of this new wealth has enabled China to dramatically upgrade
and modernize their military forces. For example, China has actually
developed a missile system that can destroy a U.S. aircraft carrier
nearly 2,000 miles out to sea.
#16 China is now the number one supplier of components that are
critical to the operation of U.S. defense systems.
#17 Since 2001, over 42,000 U.S.factories have closed down for good.
#18 Wealthy Chinese companies are now gobbling up U.S. businesses and
U.S. infrastructure at a staggering pace.
#19 As of the end of 2009, less than 12 million Americans worked in
manufacturing. The last time that less than 12 million Americans were
employed in manufacturing was in 1941.
#20 The United States has 10 percent fewer "middle class jobs" than it
did just ten years ago.
#21 According to Stanford University economics professor Ed Lazear, if
the U.S. economy and the Chinese economy continue to grow at current
rates, the average Chinese citizen will be wealthier than the average
American citizen in just 30 years.
#22 Nobel economist Robert W. Fogel of the University of Chicago is
projecting that the Chinese economy will be three times larger than
the U.S. economy by the year 2040 if current trends continue.
#23 According to one recent study, China could become the global
leader in patent filings by next year.
#24 Today, China controls over 90 percent of the total global supply
of rare earth elements.
#25 According to one shocking new poll, 47 percent of Americans
believe that China is the number one economic power in the world.
Only 31 percent of those responding to the survey indicated that they
believe that the United States is still the number one economic power.
#2 Since China entered the WTO in 2001, the U.S. trade deficit with
China has grown by an average of 18% per year.
#3 The United States has now had a negative trade balance every single
year since 1976.
#4 The U.S. trade deficit with China during August was more than
4,600 times larger than the U.S. trade deficit with China was for the
entire year of 1985.
#5 According to a new report from the Economic Policy Institute,
between 2001 and 2008 lost 2.4 million jobs due to the growing trade
deficit with China. Every single state in America experienced a net
job loss due to our trade deficit with China during this time period.
#6 China is now the number one producer in the world of wind and solar
power.
#7 Back in 1970, 25 percent of all jobs in the United States were
manufacturing jobs. Today, only 9 percent of the jobs in the United
States are manufacturing jobs.
#8 China now possesses the fastest supercomputer on the entire globe.
#9 Back in 1998, the United States had 25 percent of the world's
high-tech export market and China had just 10 percent. Ten years
later, the United States had less than 15 percent and China's share
had soared to 20 percent.
#10 China now has the world's fastest train and the world's biggest
high-speed rail network.
#11 The United States has lost a staggering 32 percent of its
manufacturing jobs since the year 2000.
#12 The United States had been the leading consumer of energy on the
globe for about 100 years, but this past summer China took over the
number one spot.
#13 China has accumulated the largest stockpile of foreign currency
reserves on the entire globe - $2.85 trillion.
#14 American companies keep handing Chinese companies our most
advanced technology. Just consider the following example that was
just reportedin the New York Times. G.E., in the partnership with a
state-owned Chinese company, will be sharing its most sophisticated
airplane electronics, including some of the same technology used in
Boeing's new state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliner.
#15 All of this new wealth has enabled China to dramatically upgrade
and modernize their military forces. For example, China has actually
developed a missile system that can destroy a U.S. aircraft carrier
nearly 2,000 miles out to sea.
#16 China is now the number one supplier of components that are
critical to the operation of U.S. defense systems.
#17 Since 2001, over 42,000 U.S.factories have closed down for good.
#18 Wealthy Chinese companies are now gobbling up U.S. businesses and
U.S. infrastructure at a staggering pace.
#19 As of the end of 2009, less than 12 million Americans worked in
manufacturing. The last time that less than 12 million Americans were
employed in manufacturing was in 1941.
#20 The United States has 10 percent fewer "middle class jobs" than it
did just ten years ago.
#21 According to Stanford University economics professor Ed Lazear, if
the U.S. economy and the Chinese economy continue to grow at current
rates, the average Chinese citizen will be wealthier than the average
American citizen in just 30 years.
#22 Nobel economist Robert W. Fogel of the University of Chicago is
projecting that the Chinese economy will be three times larger than
the U.S. economy by the year 2040 if current trends continue.
#23 According to one recent study, China could become the global
leader in patent filings by next year.
#24 Today, China controls over 90 percent of the total global supply
of rare earth elements.
#25 According to one shocking new poll, 47 percent of Americans
believe that China is the number one economic power in the world.
Only 31 percent of those responding to the survey indicated that they
believe that the United States is still the number one economic power.
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