How To Beat Car Dealer At Their Own Game

Automotive•by •Posted

Rules for Buying a Cheap Car With Cash

Look for Cars That Have ‘Uglied Out

peeling paint and hail damage are all your friends when buying a used car. The more scuffed up the exterior looks, the more you can haggle the seller down on price. Remember, exterior flaws won’t impact what’s under the hood.

Follow the 10 years/100,000 Miles Rule

Ever heard Korean and Japanese manufacturers like Hyundai, Kia and Mitsubishi advertising their 10 year/100,000 mile auto warranties?

That’s the inspiration for a different rule you should follow if you only want to drop two or three Gs to buy a used car: Look for cars that are 10 model years old and have at least 100,000 miles on them. Think 100,000 miles is too much and that a car with that many miles is probably near the end of its useful life? Think again

Know Where to Look for Deals

When searching for cheap used cars online, check Craigslist, AutoTrader, iSeeCars, the Klipnik message boards and CarGurus. The latter site lets you put in your zip code and the make/model of the vehicle you’re interested in at their website. They’ll comb through some two million listings available on published databases and rate the vehicles available for sale with notations of ‘good deal,’ ‘fair deal,’ ‘high priced,’ ‘overpriced’ and so on.

Beware Those Beloved Nameplates

Honda and Toyota pretty routinely top the tally for car reliability that Consumer Reports does, which means there’s a premium on their resale value. If you’re looking to buy a cheap car, skip the Hondas and the Toyotas of the world. USA TODAY recommends you instead look at what are called ‘second-tier’ Japanese brands like Mazda, Nissan or Mitsubishi.

Buying a car: Things to know

Get financing:

When you go to a car dealership, you’re in a stronger position if you have a pre-approved loan. Unless your model has a special low-rate financing offer backed by the manufacturer, a local bank or credit union is likely to give you a better deal on a loan. And in most cases, you can take a rebate in place of any low-rate financing and use that to lower your purchase price.

usually is good for a month or more.

Credit unions typically charge 0.5% to 1% lower interest than bank car loans. You may have access to a credit union where you work, or may be eligible through a professional organization (teachers, government employees). If you don’t have ready access to a credit union, check out your local bank offerings. Websites specializing in loan information will give you a quick rundown on average rates and the best rates in your area.

Negotiate a price:

Before you head for the dealership, do your homework. Using websites like Edmunds.com or Kelley Blue Book, you can find out the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, or MSRP, and the dealer’s cost for any vehicle. You can also find out about customer or dealer rebates, subsidized lease deals, or other special breaks that can cut your cost. Pull together a folder showing your data and sources.

Focus any negotiation on that dealer cost. For an average car, 2% above the dealer’s invoice price is a reasonably good deal. A hot-selling car may have little room for negotiation, while you may be able to go even lower with a slow-selling model.

Salespeople will usually try to negotiate based on the MSRP. Try to focus the discussion away from the list price, to how much you intend to bid over the dealer’s invoice cost. Bring out your research. The salesperson may know less than you do since traditional dealer training focuses on the list price and many dealers do not give sales teams the invoice prices.

Buying a New Car vs Buying a Used Car

When it comes time to buy a car, you have a variety of choices available to you. Not only do you need to pick the make and model of your car, you also need to decide if you want to buy a new or used car. This is an important decision and it can make a big difference in your finances over the next several years. It is important to realize that buying a car is not an investment Your options may also be determined on whether or not you qualify for a loan or if you need pay in cash.

Advantages of a New Car

The advantage of buying a new car is that you are buying a car that generally comes with a warranty. Most new cars will have very few repairs in the first few years, so you can focus only on the maintenance of the car. The dealer may also offer financing at a lower interest rate, which can reduce the amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan. These are the most basic advantages.​

Disadvantages of a New Car

The biggest disadvantage of buying a new car is that you lose money on it as soon as you drive it off the lot. A new car takes its biggest depreciation in the first two or three years. This means that you are basically throwing away several thousand dollars that you will never be able to get back. Financially it does not make a lot of sense to buy a new car unless you have money you do not mind losing.

Advantages of a Used Car

The biggest advantage of buying a used car is that you let someone else take the biggest depreciation hit on the car. You may be able to sell your car for nearly the same amount you paid for it in the next few years. You can still find good financing options through your local bank or credit union, and because you are not losing the money on depreciation, you may come out ahead of a zero interest loan that you would take out on a new car.

Disadvantages of a Used Car

The biggest disadvantage of buying a used car is that it may not be as reliable or you may need to do more repairs on it. However, you do have the option of buying a Certified Pre-Owned car through several different car companies. As technology has improved cars have become more reliable and many models do not need repairs until they are well over 100,000 miles and close to ten years old. This means that you can buy a car that is three years old and sell it in five years and you may not need to do any major repairs on it. Plus, you can sell it at a price very close to what you bought it for. You may want to set aside a little bit of money each month to cover any car repairs that come up.

Who Has the Best Interest Rates: The Dealer or the Bank?

If you’re searching for a new or used car, chances are good that you’re planning on financing. The vast majority of new cars are financed, as the majority of drivers can’t afford — or don’t want — to pay for a new vehicle with cash. But before you sign the papers at the dealership, you might want to consider if you can get better interest rates and lower your payment by financing your next car through a bank or credit union

Who Offers a Lower Rate?

As a rule, there’s no telling whether the dealer will beat your bank’s rate, or vice versa. Remember: In most cases, dealer financing is also bank financing; the dealer is just doing the legwork by going to the bank on your behalf. So there’s no magic answer to the question of which one will have lower rates. That said, there are some pros and cons to choosing a dealer, and other pros and cons to choosing a bank. We’ve listed them to help you make the best decision possible

Dealer Financing: The Best Choice?

Many shoppers avoid the bank and just go through the dealer. It’s easier: They can show up, finance the car and drive away — all in the same day. But easier isn’t always better. After all, the dealer’s rates are marked up from the bank’s rates, and they have to be for the dealer to make any money. That means they may be higher. And since dealers send business to banks across the country, being late on a payment may mean talking to a bank located across the country — and they may not be willing to work with you, as your local bank might

Benefits of Your Bank

The bank holds a few benefits over the dealer. One is that the bank is nearby and you have a relationship. That means you have a better chance of getting the bank to work with you if you fall behind in your payments. That’s especially true if you finance through a small credit union or a local bank.

Our Suggestion

If you’re looking for your car, try this: Go to your bank first and see what their offer will be. Then visit the dealer. If they can match the bank’s rate, that’s great. If not, stick with the bank. Either way, you’ll have a great bargaining chip as you negotiate the car’s price.

Buying and running a car

Before you buy the car of your dreams, make sure you can afford all the costs. Learn about one-off and ongoing expenses, how to avoid sales pressure and get the best deal.

Costs of running a car

Before you buy a car, work out how much it costs to keep it on the road. It might be more than you think.

Car registration

Your car has to be registered before you can drive it, and you have to pay rego every year. How much you pay depends on where you live

Stamp duty

You have to pay stamp duty when you buy a new or used car. Each state and territory calculates stamp duty differently, so what you pay depends on where you live.

Insurance

You need basic insurance, called compulsory third party (CTP) insurance, to keep your car on the road. This is the minimum insurance you can have. You can also choose to get more third party or comprehensive insurance.

How To Find The Best Divorce Lawyer For Your Case

Legal•by •Posted

QUALITIES TO LOOK OUT FOR IN A GOOD DIVORCE ATTORNEY

Going through a divorce is one of the stressful experiences that anyone can ever undergo. The experience can even be worse when the other parties are not willing to cooperate. In such cases, working with marriage chancellor alone will not be enough. You will need to work with a good divorce attorney to be able to work through the whole experience successful.

GOOD EXPERIENCE

When it comes to matters to do with law, the experience is very critical. Lawyers who have been in the legal world for a long time are placed in a better position to win any case. This is because they have gathered enough knowledge and skills from past encounters and they can, therefore, use it to win any case under the sun. A well experience attorney is an essential resource when it comes to getting a divorce from your spouse successfully.

GOOD COMMUNICATION

Another essential quality that a good divorce attorney must possess is an excellent communication skill. When presenting your case before a court of law, communication plays a significant role. Therefore, if your attorney cannot communicate effectively, then it merely means that it will be hard for you to win the case. When talking to your attorney, one of the things that you are supposed to pay attention to is their communication skills. If they are not impressive, the best thing to do is to walk away from them.

AVAILABILITY

When going through a divorce, the stress can be overwhelming, and this simply means that you will not have enough time to follow your lawyer. A great divorce attorney understands this, and this is why they will make themselves available for you. If you find that your potential attorney has many cases out there, then the chances are that they might not have enough time for your case. This is dangerous because they might not be able to prepare appropriately.

GOOD REPUTATION

It is also to work with a divorce attorney who has a good reputation. The only way an attorney can earn a good reputation is by proving to their clients that they have the ability to win cases. This can be established by reading online reviews.

How to pick a good divorce attorney

Does it really matter who my attorney is?

Going through a divorce or custody battle is an extremely intimidating and overwhelming experience. It is very common to feel alone and lost throughout the entire process. The average person may have no idea what family law is or what rights he or she may have. It is important to examine how to pick a divorce attorney. This is why it is common for someone to find an attorney to help him or her through his or her case. However, far too often, clients choose their attorneys based on cost and friend recommendations and fail to hire a qualified attorney- the results can be disastrous.

I am sure many of you have heard the classic line, “I have a friend who is a lawyer. I am sure they could help you for really cheap.” What that friend forgets to tell you is that their lawyer friend is a criminal defense attorney, who has only had three family law clients in the last ten years of his legal practice. You end up meeting with the attorney. He seems very knowledgeable and willing to help you. You end up retaining him to begin your divorce process.

Does your attorney help prepare you?

The attorney drafts all your initial documents. Everything appears fine. You do not question anything, because you assume he has done his job. Little do you know, the attorney has forgotten to include your request for spousal maintenance in the initial petition. Your spouse is now off the hook, and you are without financial support. Further, you show up to your final hearing completely unprepared. Your attorney never showed you the exhibits he was using or what the opposing party was using. He practiced questioning with you for 5 minutes before the hearing, and he focused more on your expressions than what you say.

Is cost the most important factor?

A big factor in choosing an attorney for many people is the cost associated with it. Many clients may think that it does not really matter who their attorney is, as long as they have one. They all went to law school and passed the bar exam, so how bad can someone really be? Unfortunately, it can be really bad. This does not mean that a cheaper attorney is worse. In fact, many lower cost attorneys are excellent.

Choose someone who specializes in family law

Always be careful in who you decide to represent you in family law matters. Make sure to find someone who knows what they are doing, and is not simply in it to make a quick deal off of you. Be very cautious of attorneys who practice in other areas. Always ask, if meeting with an attorney outside of family law, if they have litigated any family law cases, and how many.   If you don’t, you may end up with a result you are very unhappy with.

Divorce Lawyers

Divorce is often referred to as a dissolution of marriage. It is a court judgment that legally ends the marriage and usually divides the marital assets and property.

Uncontested Divorce: Key points

In the case of an uncontested divorce, the couple agrees on all vital matters relating to the case, including custody, child support, and visitation, along with property division among others. There must be a “total agreement.”

In an uncontested proceeding, the two parties can file a joint petition (one of the necessary forms needed for the proceedings) alongside a copy of their written and signed agreement. The required paperwork and the necessary instructions are provided by the State of Missouri to enable you to successfully file for dissolution. This option reaches a resolution quickly, as the parties do not have to go through the potentially prolonged process of reaching decisions with the help of mediation or lawyers.

Details about Contested Divorce

The materials provided by the state are for “uncontested dissolutions without complicated issues;” if you are likely to be facing a contested divorce, there are many other factors involved

In a contested case where both parties are unable to come to a mutual conclusion on alimony, the division of debts, support for their child, custody, and similar family law issues, the circuit court will make such decisions for them. This option usually prolongs the divorce process and is more expensive. It is, however, the best way to ensure that both parties get to present their case, as well as any evidence.

How To Choose The Right Divorce Lawyer

Choosing the right lawyer for your divorce can feel a bit overwhelming. There are lots of attorneys, but they are definitely not all the same.  Some do not practice family law at all, so you certainly do not want someone inexperienced to help with your case. Others may be too aggressive or not aggressive enough for what you need.

How to Choose a Divorce Lawyer

There is no mathematical formula or system on how to choose a divorce lawyer. Instead, you should do your research, set your expectations, and ultimately go with whom you think will work best for your needs.

Understand What Your Divorce Lawyer Does

Although some lawyers are great at listening to why the divorce happened and addressing some of your emotional problems, please understand that dealing with your pain, anger, sadness, or frustration with your soon-to-be-ex-spouse is not their role.

Set Realistic Expectations for Your Lawyer’s Role

While there are certainly some aspects of that process that are unavoidably emotional, it is part of your lawyer’s job to help you focus on the logical facets of what is happening and your long-term goals.

ecide What Kind of Divorce Process You Need

This may seem like an odd decision to make—but it is an important one! You need to decide whether you think your divorce is going to cause an all-out conflict, you can work everything out, or if you need a little help to get everything resolved.

Choosing the right divorce solicitor

Everyone going through a divorce wants to emerge on the other side in the best position possible. The best way to make sure this happens is to instruct a quality solicitor. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start looking.

A good family solicitor will have an excellent word-of-mouth reputation. Try talking to friends and family who have already been through the process. They will be able to tell you stories about firms and lawyers who gave good service and help you avoid those who did not. Even in the digital age, word-of-mouth still carries a lot of weight, especially when it comes from people you know and trust

Has a solicitor been recommended by the Legal 500? Although recommendations from people you know are very helpful, the Legal 500 can give you a more overall sense of a solicitor or law firm’s quality of service. So if advice from family and friends has not helped as much as you would like, this is a relatively safe barometer of quality.

Be mindful of solicitors who keep looking at the clock during your first appointment. This is not a promising sign. A top quality solicitor will care about your case and give you their full attention. If they are checking the time during your first appointment that should tell you how much they value you as a client

Be wary of solicitors who do not give you a straight answer. This is especially true when it comes to questions you may have about costs. It is a very important part of the divorce process so it is natural to wonder how your finances will be resolved. If your solicitor cannot give you answers within a qualified range of parameters, you should reconsider having them advise you.

Preserving The Life Of Carpet Flooring With Proper Maintenance

Flooring•by •Posted

Solved! How to Select the Best Carpet for Stairs

I just moved into a two-story home, and the floors need some TLC. The stairs are carpeted, but the pile is worn down. I’ve slipped and nearly fallen several times. Do you have any tips for choosing durable, slip-free carpeting for stairs?

You’re focused on the right areas: safety and durability. These busy zones need to be ready to withstand years of foot traffic as well as the cleaning that comes with keeping the color looking like new! Luckily, it’s possible to find an affordable solution without skimping on quality. When shopping for a replacement, it’s best to first understand industry standards and lingo so that you won’t be caught off guard during the buying and installation process. Here’s a cheat sheet with some of the main considerations—material, construction, density rating, and more—for finding the best carpet for stairs that balances safety needs and your ideas of style

First, narrow your search to a carpet material that is as durable as it is stain resistant. In order to appeal to a number of scenarios throughout the home, carpets come in many materials, from natural fibers like wool and sisal to synthetics like nylon, polyester, triexta, and olefin. Of these, a synthetic nylon carpet may be your best bet for safety, stain-resistance, and strength on stairs. You’ll see two common variations of nylon compositions out there—nylon 6 (which is easier to recycle) and nylon 6,6 (which has slightly higher resilience)—but both are good options. Or, consider a blended carpet for the stairs. These typically feature 80 percent wool and 20 percent synthetic to offer the best of both materials: warmth and resilience.

The make of your carpet’s material also lends durability. There are two main types of carpet construction: bulked continuous filament (BCF) and staple. Used in both cut pile (plush) and loop carpets like Berber, BCF means that an entire section of carpeting is made from one long piece of fiber. Conversely, staple carpets use many short fiber lengths, which are then woven together. BCF tends to be favored by major manufacturers of synthetic carpets—it sheds less and offers more design versatility.

The best carpet for stairs has a low pile—¾-inch or less—to be both more stable underfoot and resilient to traffic. A synthetic plush style in twisted or cut pile is always a safe option, while a looped style like Berber is occasionally avoided (particularly if you have pets whose claws may catch in the carpet loops). To make the latter work, choose a high-quality brand and ensure proper installation. Berber should be installed lengthwise, with rows placed from top to bottom, not side to side.

Best Rooms for Carpet

When it comes to choosing flooring for any room in the house it is important that you weigh the ups and downs of your options while considering the traffic and type of activity that will go on in said room. Carpet, a timeless options for many reasons, is popular all over the house, but it’s rather obvious why it should stay out of a few rooms in the home, such as the kitchen or the bathroom. But the reasons that people choose carpeting makes sense. It is comfortable to walk on (or sit on in some situations), it is quiet, it keeps your feet warm, and so on. So what rooms are most popular for carpeting?

Bedroom

While some people prefer hardwood in their bedrooms, carpet is another top choice. Carpet is perfect to wake up to, as there won’t be any sudden chill when you first get out of bed and your bare feet make contact with a chilled wood or stone surface. Since there are so many styles and colors of carpet available, there is sure to be one that matches your interior decor.

Living Room

Living rooms are often highly trafficked areas where family and friends gather to visit, watch movies or share a laugh. A carpeted room makes lounging easy and provides a warm atmosphere for conversation. You may want to talk to the carpet experts about finding one that is extra durable, depending on how often you have guests

Play Room

If you have kids of your own or regularly entertain, there is a good chance you have an area dedicated to their enjoyment. Carpet is a great flooring option for rooms where kids spend a lot of time, as it is soft. Not only will they likely spend a lot of time on the floor sitting and lying, but any falls will be cushioned compared to hardwood or tile

Stairs

While not technically a room, putting carpet on stairs is a great idea as it provides additional grip. Carpet also absorbs sounds, unlike other flooring types, which may radiate the pitter patter of feet going up and down.

How do I choose a good carpet?

A carpet can transform any room’s décor, look and feel effortlessly and instantly. Out of many home décor products available today, premium carpets are one of them. To instil style and fashionable statement, many homeowners choose premium hand-knotted rugs or premium power loom made carpets. These carpets feature contemporary designs, patterns and styles that can instantly match any type of décor and amplify the overall style statement of a room. Today, one can find out the variety of carpets and rugs in the market.

Modern hand tufted carpets showcase fine craftsmanship and are made with skilled hands and a mechanized tool to inject pieces of wool through drill guns. On the other hand, hand-knotted rugs are also known as the hand-woven rug that consumes a lot of hard work and several months to finish. It takes a lot of time to make hand knotted rugs, thus, they last for years without showing any wear and tear. Hand-knotted rugs are mostly made with high-quality wool or silk. They are non-toxic in nature and help to a great extent in purifying the air.

If you have small kids or pets around, then you should go with them as they are non-allergic and don’t emit any kind of pollution. They come in various sizes including rug covers that cover most part of the floor and an area rug that is made to cover a small area in a home. And when it comes to power loom made carpets, they are comparatively cheap in quality and don’t take much time in making. They are often known as machine-made carpets that come with definite life and don’t last for long. However, when it comes to quality, benefits and relevance, then hand knotted rugs have an upper hand compared to power loom designed carpets.

Some of the prominent features that one must check out while buying carpets for the home are:

Slip-resistant: Make sure it offers a slip-resistant surface to avoid tripping or slipping. At the same time, it should be of a fine quality that can prevent you during slips or accidents.

Check-out the padding: Make sure that the carpet is well cushioned or padded that can insulate your impact. Well cushioned or padded carpet gives a very soft touch and offers extra comfort to your feet. As the winter season is around the corner, well-cushioned carpet gives warmth to your underfoot.

Noise resistant: It is one of the best qualities of the best carpets. A high-quality carpet reduces noise to a great extent. One doesn’t feel or hear the sound of clatter coming from shoes or slippers that make a very cosy and noise-free ambience in your home.

Easy to clean: Also, it is very important to know the process of cleaning the carpet from the carpet exporters or suppliers. Make sure to clean the carpet periodically in order to stop allergens. It is recommended to use a vacuum cleaner that has a Hepa filter to conduct proper cleaning.

How to Choose Carpet for Bedrooms

When it comes to furnishing a bedroom, the goal should be choosing decor that creates a comfortable, calm feel for the space. While it may seem like a minor detail, the right carpeting can go a long way in helping create that cozy vibe. With all the options on the market, though, it can be tough to choose a carpet for your bedroom. If you’re getting ready to shop for new carpeting, keep a few basic tips in mind, and you’ll wind up with a carpet that has the right look and feel for your bedroom.

Set a Budget

While the first thing that homeowners usually think about when shopping for bedroom carpeting is the color and texture, determining your budget is probably the most important step in the entire process. Carpeting prices depend on the square footage of the room, so be sure to measure your space before going to the store. If you have a large master bedroom, you may need to look for less costly options. If your bedroom is on the smaller side, however, you may be able to splurge on luxury carpeting since you’ll need less to cover the room. Either way, once you have a firm budget in mind, you’ll save time at the store because you’ll know which carpets you can afford and be able to more easily identify the highest quality options within your price range.

Decide on the Fiber

When it comes to carpeting materials, you can opt for natural or synthetic fibers. Wool is an ideal option for bedroom carpeting since it has a soft, luxurious feel. As a natural fiber, however, it tends to be the most costly type of carpeting. Synthetic carpets are usually more budget-friendly, so they may be a more realistic option if you have a large bedroom. Nylon is typically the most costly synthetic carpeting because it has the softest feel. Polyester carpeting is usually less expensive than nylon and is nonallergenic, making it an ideal choice if you suffer from allergies or asthma. Because it is an inexpensive material, however, polyester carpeting sometimes presents issues with shedding or pilling.

Pay Attention to Texture

In a bedroom, the carpeting should be as soft and comfortable underfoot as possible, so choosing the right texture or pile is key. But the right texture can also give your bedroom carpet a more attractive appearance, so it is a matter of aesthetics as well. For the most luxurious look and feel, choose a saxony pile carpet, which has a plush, fluffy texture. Velvet pile carpeting also has a soft, sumptuous feel, so it is ideal for a bedroom as well. While saxony pile carpeting has long, loose fibers, the fibers in a velvet pile carpet are short and dense, so they offer different looks for your bedroom flooring

Get the Color Right

A neutral-colored carpet, such as tan, brown or gray, is a safe option since it will work with virtually any wall or decor colors. But it’s usually best to avoid carpets that are extremely light like white or beige because they don’t hide dirt as easily as darker carpeting. If you have more colorful tastes, don’t be afraid to try a bold-colored carpet in your bedroom. With light-colored walls, carpeting in rich shade of blue, green or red can add visual interest and dimension to the room. A subtle patterned rug that features two or more colors can also make a plain, neutral bedroom a little more interesting. But avoid extremely loud colors and busy patterns since they’ll likely be too stimulating for the bedroom.

How to Choose the Right Rug

Your living room isn’t complete without a rug. But with so many options out there, finding the best one can be like trying to solve a puzzle.

But rugs can be expensive. And because a large-scale item like that is going to have a big effect on the way a room looks and feels, choosing one can be intimidating. The right rug may live in your home for decades. The wrong rug will serve as a daily reminder of the money you wasted — and the money you’ll have to spend if you want to replace it.

Use One or a Few

There is no rule that says you have to limit yourself to a single rug in the living room. Designers often use multiple rugs in larger rooms to define different areas. So how do you know whether one or a few is best?

Can’t Decide? Then Layer Them

Another option is to layer rugs on top of each other, with a single large, plain rug on the bottom to cover most of the floor, and smaller decorative rugs on top to anchor different seating areas.

Determine the Size

It is important to work around a room’s obstructions when planning a rug purchase.

Being A Good Party Planner Organizer Doesn’t Happen Overnight

Events•by •Posted

Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide

A well executed event can bring in as much as $704 per participant. Even more important, it can introduce your organization to powerful sources of ongoing support, from newfound audiences to bedrock sponsors. And each successful event makes the next one more successful.

Think about the last event you attended. How did you find out about it, and why did you go? Was it easy to get there? Was the location comfortable? Were you served food and/or drinks? What did you see and hear and buy and try? Who did you meet? Did you learn anything, enjoy yourself, come away with new contacts? Did it impress you? Was it worth it?

Everything that goes into making an event happen is the job of an event planner. Everything that goes into making it memorable is the job of an excellent one.

Learn the ground rules

The touchstone of event planning is that you never launch an event without a clear plan for how it will run from start to finish. Simple as that sounds, it’s a foundational rule that guides all professional event planners.

Get in the trenches

In addition to learning event planning fundamentals, the sooner you can get some hands-on experience, the better. The ability to handle pressure and hit deadlines is key to success on every project, and there’s no substitute for real-world accountability.

Choosing the Right Vendors for your Company Event

Choosing the right vendor or vendors can be a painstaking and burdensome task when planning a large corporate event such as a Company Picnic or Family Fun Day.

Decisions, Decisions!

You are now the quarterback and it’s Super Bowl Sunday. You have to find something fun and unique to satisfy not only your boss, but hundreds of your colleagues and maybe even their families. On paper it sounds fun, but once you start to dig into each aspect of the event, things start to get real. Finding the right caterer, entertainment company, logistics specialist, décor and arranging payments can turn this task into a full time job that requires an exhausting amount of organization and attention to detail.

Cheap vs. Expensive

Everyone knows the saying “You get what you paid for”. This could not be truer in the event industry. You have a budget that you have to stay within, but what good have you done if you come in under budget and the event is a disaster? Things to consider

Customer Service and Communication

Perhaps this should be # 1 on the list. The worst vendor you can hire is the one who has you sign a one page contract and says we will see you on your event day. You never hear from them again until it is time to collect the final payment. The event planning process is very much a living, breathing creature that is constantly changing and adapting to ensure one aspect of the event fits the next.

Ambition

Your vendor should be as ambitious as you are when trying to achieve success. A good event planner understands the value of teamwork. Things to consider

qualities every great event planner should possess

Embracing future technology

Technology is constantly and rapidly evolving and changing, ergo being in touch with new trends can be key ease your workload. Technology can help you get your work done faster, more efficiently and more organized, which in the end can make you an exceptional and happier event planner. Social Media is also constantly evolving, and what were new and hip yesterday, might be old and outdated tomorrow. Making sure you recognize your audience and their media trends, can give you an edge over your competitors. Related post: How to embrace future technology

Be Creative – Be Different

The key to success is the ability to do things differently, to do things new ways you need to be creative and innovative. Are you the kind of person who enjoy solving problems creatively, who wants to make every event unique and special, or who is not afraid of doing something new, then you are destined to become a successful event planner. Your ability to improvise, and your flexibility is what will make you stand out from the crowd. Related post: How to be creative

People Skills is my middle name

As an event planner you are going to talk to lots of people, a lot! You are the liaises between vendors, clients and suppliers, therefore a key component, to becoming a successful event planner, is being able to give clear and precise communication and understand what the client wish to achieve in the end. You are going to be social, and build a network of professionals, who can help you out, when problems outside of your expertise arise. In the end, knowledge and charisma are going to help you win a client. Related post: People Skills Are Essential To A Succesful Event Planner

Self-motivation behind the desk

Hollywood has painted a glamorous picture of event planners traveling constantly to exotic locations. The reality is, you are sitting at your desk from 9-17, responding to requests for event proposals, calling venues, hotels, and restaurants asking if they have available dates and satisfying rates. Self-motivation is the answer. It will keep you from going insane with mundane tasks, and will guarantee that you are not slowly killing your mood and creativity, when sitting in front of a screen 8 hours a day. Related post: Motivation Creates the Best Event Planners

Procrastination? Not on my time!

Event planners must have excellent time management. Between the mountains of details, you need to remember, the various people you have to communicate with before an event, and other tasks you are assigned, you will have no time to procrastinate. Remember your schedule for an event start at least 6 months prior to the event, therefore if you are the kind of person, who does every task at the last minute, you are not going to achieve much success. Multitasking is an essential process, when working as an event manager, as you are going to switch your attention back and forth between different assignments. The event industry is stressful, so make sure you use every available option you got, to make your workload easier to overcome

The Complete Guide to Hiring a Destination Wedding Planner

It may come as no surprise that destination weddings require more coordination than local weddings. Paying close attention to detail is critical because not only are you planning an event from afar, you are also likely to be hosting multiple events over the course of the wedding weekend, not just the ceremony and reception. The good news is, destination wedding planners can help you with just that.

“I am obsessed with details—logistical details, styling details, the smallest details down to the placement of a fork,” says premier destination wedding planner Kimiko Hosaki. “Timelines and seating plans are strategic puzzles to me that I love obsessing over for hours until they’re just perfect, ensuring the most enjoyable experience for everyone.”

Reasons to Hire a Destination Wedding Planner

In addition to the comfort of knowing your wedding is in capable hands,

Peace of mind.

Destination wedding planners ease the stress by being able to answer your questions, lay out the facts, and offer an unbiased, professional opinion. They are an invaluable asset if you have to make hard decisions like rain contingency plans, postponing your wedding date, or how to handle unforeseen road bumps.

Hands-on experience.

A top destination wedding planner has years of experience, connections, and relationships that they’ve built over time. They can handle any problem that arises with grace.

Beginners Guide to Event Planning

Hosting a large event like a trade show or an industry conference takes a lot of planning. Sometimes, you can get so focused on the big picture that you forget about the details. Before your next event

Choose a Location That is Easy for Attendees to Access

When deciding on a location for your event, first begin with access. Are you looking to locate your event in a city that attendees can easily fly, drive, or catch a train to? Once they’re there, how will your attendees get around? Do your research and coordinate with your event partners (your local CVB or DMO is great for this) and ensure that your attendees have all the information they need to find the venue, networking events, and hot spots to visit while they’re in town.

Share the Event’s Schedule With Attendees

Let everyone know your event’s schedule by sharing it via email or a mobile event app. Use hashtags like #eventprofs and the name of your conference or trade show to share information on Twitter. You should also post schedules at the event to help attendees make the most of presentations and other opportunities

Check for Inconsistent Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi quality can drop quickly as more people arrive and connect to the internet. You probably can’t do much about a venue’s Wi-Fi quality, but you can use a mobile event app that stores information and regularly syncs with its database to make sure attendees get updates as soon as they can connect. (Good news, PCMA says that these convention centers are upgrading their Wi-Fi soon!).

Provide Good Signage to Help People Navigate the Event

The bigger your event is, the harder it becomes for people to find booths, stages and vendors. Posting large, colorful signs will make it easy for all attendees to navigate your event without constantly asking staff members for help.

Best Tankless Water Heaters For Residential Water Heating

Plumbing•by •Posted

How To Choose The Right Water Heater

You’ve just moved into a new home, and you’re looking to purchase a water heater. You know that a water heater is a pretty hefty investment, but you’re unsure as to what factors make that investment worthwhile. You want a water heater that fits your budget, your fuel sources, and your overall home. There are three important criteria to keep in mind when looking to find your perfect water heater

Energy Efficiency/Cost

We’ve lumped these together because the cost of running your system goes hand in hand with its energy efficiency. Your instinct might be to jump at the least expensive water heater you find, but that’s not always your best bet. Keep in mind that your water heater is a long-term investment. Being a little generous with your initial purchase is going to save you from frequent repair bills down the road or pre-mature replacement.

Fuel Type

Before deciding on a specific type of water heater, you need to know what type of fuel it takes, and how available/expensive that fuel is in your area

Most of these power sources are offered throughout the United States, but costs and rates vary. If you are purchasing a water heater for the first time, compare local fuel costs against water heater types. If you’re looking into water heater replacement, consider switching fuel sources for potentially lower utility bills

Heat Coverage

How many bathrooms and sinks do you have in your home? If you’re leaning towards a small, barely-there system in a house that has several bathrooms, you won’t have enough hot water. Similarly, large systems are inappropriate for smaller homes that have fewer bathrooms and sinks. Think about this sizing when deciding on which type of water heater to purchase.

What Type Of Water Heater Is Right For You?

Few things are more unpleasant than a cold shower. If you’re suffering through a frigid blast of water every morning, it’s time to invest in a new water heater.

As you might expect, there are many options when it comes to purchasing a new hot water heater. You’ll need to choose the right one in order to meet your home’s needs, while also reducing energy costs and your environmental impact.

Here are some factors to consider when shopping for hot water heaters:

Size: You’ll need a water heater with the capacity to provide your household with enough hot water.

Efficiency: To save on heating costs and minimize your environmental impact, choose a water heater that delivers the best energy efficiency.

Cost: Compare the annual costs associated with running different water-heating systems. Generally, there will be trade-off between up-front costs (higher for more efficient systems) and annual costs (higher for less efficient systems).

Fuel: The energy source (gas, oil, electricity) you use to heat your water will have an impact on running costs, energy efficiency and capacity.

Storage Tank Water Heaters

The most common water-heating system is the storage tank, which provides a ready supply of hot water.

The tank is insulated and can store 20 to 80 gallons of water. When you turn on the hot water tap, the tank releases hot water from a pipe on the top of the tank. The tank is then replenished with cold water. Because storage tanks use energy to ensure the tank water is constantly heated, they can drain energy even when you aren’t using hot water.

Electric water heaters: criteria for choosing

Looking for a new water heater? If your old one has given up the ghost or is about to do so, keep a cool head and take the time to make the right choice. Your hot water needs may have changed, and the characteristics of heaters have evolved in recent years.

Water heater capacity

Too large a water heater will push up your energy bill, whereas too small a heater will leave you without hot water just when you need it. To choose the right size, first determine whether your consumption is normal or high. In general, consumption is considered high if there are teenagers (great lovers of showers!) living in your home or if you have a large-sized bathtub, a spa or a multi-jet shower

Energy efficiency

Since the Energy Star program evaluates the performance only of gas, heat pump or solar models, you need to turn to various yield measurements to judge the efficiency of an electric water heater

In particular, you should consider its heat loss, in other words the loss of heat in unused water through the tank’s fairly well insulated walls. These losses vary according to the temperature of the hot water and that of the ambient air: the cooler the room where the heater is located, the greater the losses.

Quality of construction

An electric water heater must meet the requirements of Standard C-191 set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).

Choosing Your Water Heater

Available Energy Sources

After reading on the different energy sources available, such as gas water heaters, thermodynamic water heaters, solar water heaters and electric water heaters, you’ve chosen the electric water heater, which requires little space, no ventilation nor maintenance.

Tank Capacity

40 or 60 gallons? Here are some things to consider to make the right choice: number of family members, number of bathrooms, number of simultaneous uses and the use of a whirlpool bathtub. The best reference is the tank capacity of your old water heater: did it sufficiently meet your hot water needs?

Warranties and Service Contracts

There are two types of warranties: the manufacturer’s warranty and the supplier’s warranty. Manufacturers who offer longer-term warranties on their water heaters usually use superior quality materials and design to ensure their products’ reliability. One point to consider: the staff’s availability before and after the sale.

Installation

Will you choose the worry-free and mess-free installation carried out by a professional in your area, or will you choose to do the installation yourself? This decision will have an impact on the warranty of your water heater. Hardware stores offer standard water heaters, but the installation service is rarely included. You then have to think about the tools you’ll need to acquire if you decide to do it yourself or consider the service fees of a plumber.

Water Heater Features

The construction, the insulation, the cold water entry, the safety accessories like the safety valves and the drain pan, the anticorrosion parts, the number of elements are all factors you need to consider. Ask the advice of your local water heater experts to help you better identify these features.

Tankless Water Heater Buying Guide

Tired of running out of hot water in the shower (or anywhere else, for that matter)? Is your current water heater on the fritz, ready to succumb to years of constant use? Whatever your situation, when it concerns a new water heater, there’s a big choice to make: tank or no tank? Tankless is becoming more and more popular, but how do you know if it’s right for you?

Unlike conventional tank water heaters, tankless water heaters heat water only as it is used, or “on demand”. Tankless units have a powerful burner or heating element that’s activated by the flow of water when a hot water fixture is used. Free of the limitations of the tank, hot water can be produced in perpetuity. They’re touted as water and energy savers, but as always, it depends on the situation. To choose the best water heater for your home, you’ll need to consider your usage habits, your plumbing fixtures, and the limitations imposed by the house and its existing plumbing.

What Is A Tankless Water Heater?

We’re all familiar with standard tank water heaters, which work well but aren’t all that efficient. No matter how great the tank’s insulation is, the hot water inside will give up its heat over time – that’s just how the universe works. The only way to keep that water hot is to regularly warm it up – a constant cycle that consumes energy and costs you money. Standby heat loss typically accounts for 10-20% of total annual water heating costs. In some homes with standard tank heaters, the energy consumed for heating water is even greater than that used for heating the home itself!

Tankless water heaters were designed to avoid the shortcomings of standard heaters, providing a more energy-efficient way to have a steady hot water supply. Utilizing powerful gas burners or electrical elements, they’re able to rapidly heat water at the time of use, as opposed to storing (and perpetually reheating) it for eventual use. Heating water only when you need it makes sense, and eliminating standby heat loss almost always results in lower energy bills.

In addition to avoiding standby heat loss, tankless heaters are also smarter in how they use fuel (be it gas or electrical energy). By modulating their fuel use, these units use only what’s needed to heat water at the flow rate actually being experienced. If you open up a sink faucet that’s drawing 1gpm, less fuel is used to heat that water than would be used for a tub spout running at 5gpm. As a result, it’s not uncommon to see fuel-use reductions of up to 50% compared to a tank heater

Contact Your Local Car Dealer

Automotive•by •Posted

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Used Car Dealer

These days, many people are owning cars and there is a greater increase in the demand for a car as many people are seeing the advantages that come with having a personal car. There are many advantages that come with having your own car. You need to buy a good quality car that will serve you well from the many car dealers available. If you don’t have enough money then you can still be able to buy a car from the used car dealers that are found all around

The first tip that you will have to consider when you are choosing a used car dealer where you will be able to buy a car from is the reputation that they have. A good reputation means that the car dealer sells good cars and the clients are satisfied. You will get to know the reputation that a car dealer has by asking your friends and families. You can also be able to know the reputation of a car dealer by asking those people who have done business with that company in the past as well as checking online reviews on the dealer’s website.

The second tip that you will have to consider when you are choosing a used car dealer to buy a car from is the dealership policies. Some used car dealers will offer you 2 to 3 day of return policy in case you buy a car and later find it is not the right one for you. You also need to ensure that the car dealer as an exchange policy where you can be able to exchange the car after some time and get a better one that you want

You will have to consider the type of cars that the used car dealer sells. Do a research and ensure that the used cars burlington dealer has the type of car that you want to buy before you visit to buy a car. You can even Google the best type of car that will be able to fit your needs and ensure the dealer has them and ensure that the used car dealer has them before you visit the dealer for buying

When you are choosing a used car dealer that you will buy a car from you should ensure that all the cars that he sells are certified. Most of the used car dealers will be able to offer the certified vehicle program through their manufacturers in order to ensure that the cars will be worth paying the premiums for. There are a lot of benefits that come with buying a certified car from a used car dealer. The discussion above is about the tips that you need to consider when you are choosing a used car dealer to buy a car from

Qualities of Car Dealers

Buying a car is a sensitive decision that needs to be made with lots of planning. Otherwise, you might end up getting a raw deal. You will be left regretting if you buy a car that is not worth the cash that you spend.

Credibility

Don’t just pick the first car dealer you come across because the odds are that they might not be credible. You will notice that almost all car dealers have a website that sheds more light on their work and contacts.

Variety

You should buy your vehicle from a dealer that will give you unlimited opportunities. In simple terms, you should consider one with a huge inventory if you want to know what other cars they have to offer and the specs of the auto that you would like to purchase. Choosing such a dealer will make the process of buying your new or used wheels a breeze

Arranged Financing

Some cars are very expensive, and not everyone can afford to buy them in one installment. For this reason, excellent car dealers will arrange for the financing of the vehicle so that you can pay for it when driving it. However, you need to clearly understand every step of the financing process to avoid spending more than you intended. If you are not keen, you will get financing options that have lots of hidden charges.

Online Shopping

Shopping online has become a popular trend within the last two decades. It comes with multiple advantages when you are buying a car. For instance, you will be able to view the car images from different angles. That aside, you should not be fooled by the images

tips for buying your first car

Buying your first car can be exciting, but there’s a lot to manage. Planning ahead can help make the process easier—and help ensure you end up with the best car for you. Here are some important things to keep in mind as you start shopping for your first car.

Be honest about your needs

Do you need a car to get to class or work every day, or just for weekend adventures? What’s the weather like where you live—snowy, rainy or hot? Evaluate your lifestyle and the driving conditions you face most often. Do your research: Learn about different features and options, and how they might affect a car’s price

Think about your budget and financing

Take a realistic look at your finances, too. That includes not just the purchase price but budgeting for use and care of your future car, including maintenance, insurance, gas, repairs and parking. Learn more about the true cost of owning a car.

Explore your options

Shopping for your first car is a lot easier for you than it was for your parents. The Internet offers a wealth of sellers beyond your local area (who may ship cars to your area, which may come with a fee), which can mean more choices in your price range. You can research and narrow down the choices by looking at online auto rankings in categories like safety or auto type (such as SUVs, hybrids). Learn more about how to shop for—and even finance—a car online.

Know your credit score

Your credit score helps determine the interest rate you pay on a car loan. Better credit may help get you a more favorable interest rate, which in turn will affect your overall car-buying budget. You may also be able to get your credit score for free through your credit card provider.

Things to Avoid When Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be a smart investment when you need a replacement vehicle. While new car purchases tend to increase with a rising economy, used cars can provide a great alternative as long as you know how to shop for one.

Failing to Line up Financing Before Shopping

Before you purchase your used car, whether that’s through a dealer or from a private owner on a website such as Craigslist, you’ll have to figure out how you’re going to pay for it. Not everyone is able to lay down the cash for a car in full—even for a used one

Financing allows you to understand the upper limit of your price range. Knowing your budget makes negotiating prices easier. If you’re buying a car from a dealership, you can certainly take their offer. But remember, dealer financing is built like a wholesale insurance offer, often adding in additional interest rates.

Shopping Based on Monthly Payments Alone

You can save a lot over the long term if you have enough money to buy your used car outright. If you don’t fall into this category, you’ll have to make up a budget and determine how much you can afford

When people look for a new car, they often think about the monthly payments they’ll have to make. While a lower monthly payment is good for your monthly budget, a longer payment period means you end up paying back more money in the long run. Due to compounding interest, it could make more sense for you to take on a higher monthly payment since it’s possible to pay back the principle in a shorter period.

Choosing the Best Car Dealer

Buying a new car, truck, or SUV can often be a time-consuming and quite overwhelming process. Even when you do some digging, choosing a manufacturer, and set your sight on a few models, there is still a lot of things to be done. Finding and choosing the right car dealership means that you will need to do more than simply typing “best car dealers” into your search box. In this article, you will be able to read about a few steps that you should take when looking for a good car dealer

Read the Reviews on the Dealer Website

Reading the reviews from customers can provide you with a good idea of the overall dealership quality. They will certainly provide insight into how the dealership communicates with its customers, what services they offer, as well as the cost of the services they provide. You should check the dealers’ websites and read reviews from customers just like you.

Dealer Longevity

Selling vehicles is not an easy thing to do and dealerships come and go, just like every other business. This is especially true for car dealers who opened their doors for the first time less than a year ago. Will the dealer be there in the future when you need help? It is usually smarter and safer to buy a vehicle from a well-established dealer who has been around for a lot of years

Check Better Business Bureau

You should check the Better Business Bureau or BBB website for your state. The BBB keeps various records about customer complaints for up to 36 months and the records might show you if the complaint that a customer filed was solved according to the BBB policies. Comparing several car dealers in the same area can quickly reveal if there are any trouble spots.

Facilities

According to the experts from autonkauf-mikael.de, how a dealership cares about their facilities can tell you a lot about them. The best dealers will take pride in their showroom and facilities. You should look around when you arrive there. Are the facilities orderly, clean, and in good shape? Are all the cars there clean? Take these things into consideration when choosing a car dealership

What You Should Know About Installing Ceiling Fans

Painter•by •Posted

Ceiling Fan Blades Impact the Quality and Performance of a Fan

Ceiling Fan Blades

Blades may not be the first thing you think about when shopping for a new fan, but you may be surprised by how much blades affect both the aesthetics and performance of a ceiling fan. Whether you are looking for a new ceiling fan or want to replace an existing fan’s blades, there are several factors to consider. Some blades are created to withstand outdoor environments, while others are meant to lower energy costs inside your home. By understanding the importance of ceiling fan blades, their types, and in which rooms they are suitable, you can make your home’s ceiling fan work for you—and even reduce your cooling costs in the process.

How Many Blades?

There is a common misconception that five ceiling fan blades work better than four or even three blades. Homeowners assume that five blades means better air movement, circulation, and less cooling costs, but in reality, all five blades do is add aesthetic appeal. According to Energy Star more blades do not move more air1 – even one, two, or three bladed fans can be extremely efficient — what matters is the strength of the motor powering the fan.

Blade Span

Blade span refers to the width of a fan, from blade tip to blade tip. The most common ceiling fan blade spans are 52 and 42 inches. Longer blades work best for larger rooms and create softer, more comfortable airflow. Shorter blades offer more direct airflow and are ideal for smaller rooms. The volume of air is not determined by blade span, but by the motor. A motor with smaller blades will move a greater quantity of air than the same motor with larger blades.

Blade Types

For general, in-home use, many ceiling fan blades are made from particleboard or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). High-quality ceiling fan blades, on the other hand, are made from furniture-grade, real hardwood, many with hand-carved intricate designs. Regardless of the material from which they are made, blades come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles to match any room’s décor. If you are shopping for a fan that will be used outdoors, you will want to look for fans with damp or wet-rated ceiling fan blades.

What are the signs of a fan needing replacement?

As I’ve mentioned, there’s no definite things to tell you that you have to replace it. But initial signs of the following deserve to be looked into:

  • Annoying buzzes that develop after a few years.  This is due to either sub-standard capacitors or poor quality motor windings and laminates.
  • Wobbling – a properly installed fan should never wobble.  This is a sign of an inferior hanging device or unbalanced blades.
  • Squeaky sound of the fan even after oiling.
  • Diminishing speed.
  • Recurring technical issues even after a professional fix.

How to choose a ceiling fan size

Fan diameter for room size

The amount of air circulated by a ceiling fan is determined by its diameter. Larger rooms require fans with larger diameters, while smaller spaces require fans with smaller diameters:

Small rooms

100 square feet or less work best with a small ceiling fans that range from 30 inches to 48 inches. Small diameter fan sizes are ideal for home offices and laundry rooms.

Large rooms

400 square feet or less work best with medium ceiling fans that range from 48 inches to 54 inches. Medium diameter fan sizes are ideal of living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens.

Great rooms

Over 400 square feet work well with large ceiling fans 56 inches or larger. Large diameter ceiling fans are ideal for open-concept living areas or lofts with ample space.

What is the difference between 4-blade and 5-blade ceiling fans?

The main difference between a 4- and 5-blade ceiling fan is one of aesthetics and personal taste. However, the laws of physics do dictate a slight difference in performance between ceiling fans with different numbers of blades.

As a rule, as the number of blades goes up, the fan tends to be quieter and circulates less air. Additional blades increase the drag on a ceiling fan’s motor and slow it down. This is one of the reasons why industrial fans (like wind turbines) usually have only two or three blades. They can go faster and move more air, and noise isn’t so much of a concern.

Many ceiling fans designed for the home come standard with four or five blades. Beyond having a pleasing symmetrical aspect, it’s at the 4-blade and 5-blade level that the ideal balance is achieved between the amount of air circulated and amount of tolerable ambient noise.

These days, you are unlikely to notice any major difference in job performance between fans with fewer or more blades. Advancements in overall residential ceiling fan design, balance, and low-drag blade shapes and pitch ensure that ceiling fans with a non-standard number of blades are able to do their job well. Even if you opt for a ceiling fan with an expansive seven blades, you can rest assured it will still perform well.

WHAT IS BLADE PITCH?

Blade pitch is the angle of the blade from the motor. The higher the pitch the greater the movement of air. Are some fans more powerful and quieter? Another key feature to look at when purchasing a fan is motor power. Motors are measured in watts and poles, often indicating how powerful the motor is. The speed of the motor, along with the rest of the design, can have an impact on how the fan operates and the noise it emits. Quieter fans are generally more desirable, however, quiet fans do tend to cost a little more. Direct Current ceiling fans (DC ceiling fans) deliver the ultimate in power and performance. Consuming 75% less electricity than standard ceiling fans, and costing only about 1 cent per hour to run*, while producing better airflow.

*The calculation of costs and savings are approximates only and may vary according to use and size of the fan

The Job Of A Mold Remediation

Home Inspection•by •Posted

How to Find the Best Mold Removal Company

With so many mold removal companies to choose from, how do you decide?

Hiring the right company is necessary, yet a difficult decision… especially when it comes to the health and safety of your family.  You can’t afford to cut any corners.

Before I show you how to find the right mold removal company, I’ll explain the main difference between Mold remediation companies and restoration companies because this distinction will factor into your ultimate decision.

Mold remediation companies are specialized in safely removing contaminated mold in until the home is once again safe to occupy.

Mold remediation companies do not rebuild your home after the mold has been removed, but they may recommend or arrange for a company to help you with that

Restoration companies rebuild the home back to its original condition after the home after the mold has been removed. Many of these companies will remove the mold as well.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING A MOLD REMEDIATION CONTRACTOR

Roof leaks or high indoor humidity leads to excessive moisture which can cause a lot of damage to your properties. Undetected water damage in a home can lead to dangerous mold problems and cause many health issues. Attempting to resolve the mold issue yourself can cause the mold to spread quickly to other parts of your home.

Make sure you’re dealing with professionals

You need to know you’re dealing with professionals. You can ask the remediation contractors to evaluate the affected area in your home. The manner they present themselves and how they answer your questions will tell you a lot. Look out for confident answers based on ensuring your health not just a price quote. Find out if they conduct air testing before and after remediation. Get the remediation contractors to explain the type of mold testing they do. If they do not conduct air testing, look elsewhere

Make sure they are licensed and insured

Insurance is necessary for remediation contractors because it provides coverage in case of an accident. A license, on the other hand, says that the contractors are recognized and permitted to operate in your area. One thing that comes with being licensed is belonging to an association that emphasizes standards. This means licensed remediation contractors are equipped with the best standards available to rid your home of molds. Always choose contractors who are properly insured and licensed.

Check for free mold assessment

It is a popular practice for remediation contractors to provide an evaluation of your home at no cost. You can then take the opportunity to evaluate their professionalism. If a remediation contractor cannot provide a comprehensive assessment, you should not put them in charge of your project

Look out for a guarantee policy

Even after removal, it is possible that the mold could return or that more damage has been done. Good mold remediators will guarantee their work, test your home for mold after remediation and resolve any issue that they may have missed during initial cleaning

HOW TO CHOOSE A MOLD REMOVAL COMPANY

In our line of work, one of the most serious health and safety concerns for home and business is mold.

Mold grows in damp and wet conditions and without proper clean up, containment, and complete remediation, the mold spores can cause skin irritation, respiratory illnesses, and other health concerns.

For example, mold is often the result of untreated water damage or leaks, or a secondary complication of the water that was required to put out a fire. Mold doesn’t just appear on its own. The conditions have to be right for mold to grow and are often the result of other property damage first.

In order to do this, if the area contaminated by the mold is larger than 3 feet by 3 feet, you will need to hire a professional mold removal company to eliminate the mold and remediate the area so no new mold colonies grow.

In this article, we will provide you with information on everything you need to know about mold, including how it grows and why it can be a health threat, as well as how to choose a mold removal company to help you restore your property

MOLD REMEDIATION COMPANIES

Mold remediation companies provide a number of services necessary to deal with the problematic growth of mold in the home – mold inspection, mold removal, repair of household damage due to mold. Some mold removal companies are certified in mold remediation, though certification is not required of mold remediation contractors so that’s something you want to inquire about when selecting a company to take care of your mold problem.

Why Hire Someone?

Some people decide to just handle their mold problems on their own, and in some cases that might work out fine. However, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends not attempting to clean up a mold problem on your own if the mold covers more than ten square feet. The thing is, even though you may only notice a few square feet of bathroom tile affected by mold, mold spores spread easily through the air and mold can hide in many places, including your heating vents and air ducts. You probably won’t see it there yourself, but certified mold remediation contractors know how to track it down and take care of it.

Something else to consider is that there are different types of mold, and different techniques are used to thoroughly remove different types. If mold is not thoroughly removed, it will continue to grow and spread, putting you and your family at risk for all sorts of health problems.

The picture below shows a bad case of black mold in an attic. Attic mold removal is usually a difficult job because it is hard to remove mold from porous surfaces like wood, and sheetrock and insulation usually need to be replaced

Choosing Among All the Different Mold Remediation Companies

Unless you live in a very small town, you probably have several mold remediation companies from which to choose. Don’t just settle for the one with the biggest ad in your local yellow pages. You can call your local Department of Health for suggestions, or check with the Better Business Bureau. The important thing is to make sure you choose a company that will do the job right.

Helpful Tips In Choosing A Professional Mold Removal Service

Most fungi and fungi-like parasites, especially those found at houses or any kind of structures, are most often known and called as molds. These molds thrive and live on dead and living organisms

Mold most often than not have harmful and dangerous effects on human beings. They should be kept out of homes, offices, and other commercial properties. When mold grows indoors, it will cause health problems that come out as allergic reactions, from sneezing and skin rashes to asthma attacks and respiratory infections.

The mold removal contractor should be well-known for their expertise and years of relevant experience.

The mold contractor you have in mind should have the necessary experience to do an effective job, from inspection to removal of mold. This means that the proper procedure will be used, in keeping with guidelines, and that all their staff has been properly trained, ensuring that safe and effective means will be used to accomplish the job successfully.

Get recommendations from others who have used the services of the contractor you have in mind.

When other clients have experienced satisfactory results from the work of the mold removal service, it should be safe to assume that you will also experience the same positive experience. Most companies and contractors have websites so checking out testimonials and success stories from previous clients would also be helpful.

Choose a contractor that also offers expert advice on future prevention of mold growth.

There are specific things and tips you can do to control the extensive growth of mold and expert mold removers not only know how to clean mold; they also know how you can prevent it from reoccurring, or at least contain it so that it does not cause huge damage, as it did the first time

Can The Best DUI Lawyer Get The Charges Dropped

Legal•by •Posted

Steps to Find the Right DUI Lawyer

More than 1.28 million drivers were arrested in 2012 for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.1 This is an arrest rate of 1 for every 165 licensed drivers in the United States. While a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) arrest is a stressful event for anyone to undergo, it is important to face the situation head on and be as prepared and informed as possible. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney can help take some of the stress away. An attorney can help determine whether to plead guilty or take the case to court. If the case is especially complicated an attorney can help navigate the complex legal system.

All states have DUI laws that deem “per se intoxicated” any driver with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) above a set limit (now .08 in all states). Additionally, the state may charge the individual for violating more than one law. A DUI attorney can help better understand the charges against you and advise the best way to proceed with your case

A DUI can have an immediate impact on your day-to-day life. It can affect your driving privileges, your employment, and it may even mean possible jail time. As such, it is necessary to find out your options as soon as possible.

Come Up With a List of Potential Attorneys

There are a number of resources out there to help you in your search for the best DUI attorney. By seeking out personal recommendations and researching National Associations and State Bar Associations you can start filling up your list with some great attorneys to meet with. Like most major decisions in life, you will want to do your due diligence and research your options before choosing the right DUI attorney.

Personal recommendations: A good place to start your search is by soliciting personal recommendations from people you trust. A recommendation from someone who previously used the attorney’s services is probably the best way to go. Your trusted friend or colleague can give you some good information about the overall process, how the attorney performed, and what the outcome was. You can also get an idea of what the total costs were in the end. Keep in mind that not every DUI case is the same and the information you receive from your friend is subject to change based on the facts of your case.

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT DUI ATTORNEY?

When you are facing a DUI charge you have a lot on the line. Your reputation, criminal record, driver’s license, even your freedom are all at stake. You need an attorney that has experience and specialized training on your side. DUI law is an ever changing area of the law with continually evolving case law, complex scientific testing devices and voluminous data and law enforcement training manuals available. In short, there is a lot of information to know and apply when it comes to properly defending a DUI charge

National College of DUI Defense:

College Members represent the most experienced DUI Defense attorneys in the county. The National College of DUI Defense is an invite only non-profit organization aimed at improving the criminal defense bar and to educating the public about DUI defense law as a specialty area of law practice

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Certification:

DUI defense lawyers that have participated in this training are certified to administer and interpret the standard filed sobriety tests to NHTSA standards. Less than 1% of practicing attorneys have received this specialized training. The NHTSA program is the exact same program that law enforcement officers take. The certification takes 21 classroom hours to obtain and encompasses in depth training on the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test, Walk and Turn Test and the One Leg Stand Test.

Science of Breath Testing Course Certificate:

DUI defense attorneys that have participated in this course have spent time working with the equipment law enforcement uses to administer breath tests on drivers suspected of DUI. If your lawyer has participated in this training then they have an advanced knowledge of how breath test machines work, what faults the machines have, what maintenance the machines require and what protocols an officer must follow to correctly administer the test.

American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys:

Members of the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys have received advanced level training on the strategies that win the most DUI cases at trial and are also used to get DUI cases successfully resolved for the defense prior to trial. Members of the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys also have access to the resources and tools that are used to win and successfully resolve DUI cases. The resources and tools AAPDA members have, only a very small percentage of DUI attorneys have access to and use including law enforcement manuals, testing protocols and validation studies.

HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD DUI LAWYER

No matter what type of legal issue you are facing, you always have to be smart about it and hire a professional lawyer to help you out. Of course, depending on the issue you need to hire a lawyer who has the most experience in that field. That’s why when you are facing some DUI charges you should hire a private DUI lawyer who has a lot of experience.

The one thing that you have to be careful when hiring a private lawyer is to find one who has a lot of experience and who is considered to be a good lawyer. A lot of people don’t understand how to find a good lawyer, well I can help you out with that because I had some previous experience

REPUTATION

Definitely, the first thing that you want to follow when searching for a good DUI lawyer is the reputation. If you have ever wondered how to find a good DUI lawyer, we will give you all the information that you need. People never think about having a lawyer ready at all times, they go searching for one when it is time to deal with the issue. Depending on the penalty you are facing, you might not have a lot of time to spend on searching, so you better be prepared at all times and find yourself one now.

If you want to hire a good DUI lawyer, you have to ask other people and search online to see if they have a good reputation or not. This way you can easily point out which lawyer is good or not. This method will save you a lot of time, money and stress.

AFFORDABILITY

One of the important things that you have to be careful with when hiring a lawyer is to make sure that you hire one that you can actually afford. In order to avoid having to deal with a situation where you cannot pay the lawyer, you have to first ask him how much does he charge.

Questions to Ask When Interviewing a DUI Attorney

The secret to finding a good attorney is in the questions you ask before you hire one. If the police have recently arrested you for driving under the influence, or DUI, of alcohol or drugs, you need to find a good DUI attorney. This article can help.

The criminal justice system moves a lot faster than a civil lawsuit would. You need to find a DUI attorney quickly. Asking the right questions will help you do that

Many attorneys are willing to meet you briefly to introduce themselves and discuss your case. This is where you can conduct an interview to see if you have found the right lawyer for you

This article will suggest a number of questions. Do not feel obligated to ask them all, but pick and choose among them. You may even add some of your own as you see fit.

After you get the name of a DUI attorney or two, call to set up an appointment for that first meeting. Your goals for this meeting are to:

Learn about the DUI attorney’s background and experience

Discuss your options and possible strategies

Most importantly, determine whether this is the lawyer you want representing you

DUI Law: How To Choose the Right DUI Lawyer

So you need a good DUI lawyer but aren’t sure what you should be doing to get the best deal for the drink driving offense you’re facing? What are some of the things you need to do – and who are some of the lawyers you can check out to see who might be best for you?

DUI Legal Fees

You can’t tell what any lawyer might charge for handling DUI cases, but watch out for the high up-front cost that is followed by a guilty plea at the end of the day.  Similarly, you need to watch out for a low up front charge, followed by an endless progressioin of fees for the work.

Make sure you have an agreement showing exactly what you are getting and how much you’re paying.  Remember that you should not need to pay fees for precedents and law that is resolved and known from other cases.  Your “case” for a good defense also rests upon having an experienced attorney who has handled DUI cases and appeals, rather than someone who needs to research every legal point.

The Lawyer’s Reputation

Make sure you do some checking about the drunk driving lawyer’s reputation by asking about, doing some online checking.  Find out what sort of reputation he or she has with the judiciary and the prosecutors, which can be vital if you are seeking the best possible result for the charges  you face.

DUI Knowledge

Ensure your lawyer knows exactly what you’re likely to be receiving in terms of penalty.  Does he or she know the sentencing options for the locality where you’re going to go to Court?  Do they know the options and requirements?  Do they know the criminal and sentencing guidelines that need to be followed? You need local knowledge here.

Tips For Hiring A Prestige Home Builder

Home Improvement•by •Posted

Tips for Choosing and Working With a Builder

You may have heard horror stories about problems with builders, budgets spiraling out of control and sites left half-finished. But the reality is that the vast majority of builders are both professional and capable, and you can do a great deal to avoid bad experiences simply through the way you choose, manage and communicate with them. Here’s why it’s worth laying the foundations for a good relationship with your builder — and how to do it well.

Don’t approach a builder too soon. It may seem logical if you’re thinking of having construction work done to start by approaching a builder, but don’t be too hasty. Builders are generally good at pricing once they know exactly what’s wanted, but asking for a price before you have any drawings or detailed information about the project is as good as inviting them to tell you simply what they think you want to hear.

Consider the scope of the project. Find the right kind of building company for your project. The kind of contractor suitable for a luxury retail project has to be highly organized, usually with multiple managers, a well-organized back office, and teams that can operate around the clock and produce exceptionally high-quality work at speed. Such contractors tend to be expensive and for most people would be too much for a kitchen addition or an attic conversion.

Establish whether you need a specialist or just a general builder. A really good general builder is suitable unless the work in question is unusual.

Aim for one point of responsibility. Rather than using one general contractor, it may seem wise to try to save money by directly engaging separate tradespeople, such as plasterers, electricians and carpenters.

How to Choose the Right Custom Builder for You

Congratulations! You’re taking the first steps toward building your own custom home. You’ve probably been thinking about your dream home for quite a while. Maybe even spent a few late nights perusing Houzz to get ideas. You may have already chosen the perfect lot or sketched out ideas for a floor plan. Wherever you are in this research phase, we are thrilled that you’ve found us. We make it our mission to provide as many helpful resources to people like you who are embarking upon this exciting custom homebuilding journey.

In this post, we hope to make an incredibly important decision a little less daunting for you. Selecting the right custom homebuilder is absolutely the most impactful decision you will make along the road to your dream home. Choose well and you will have a true partner and advocate. With the right builder you will avoid the all-too-familiar construction horror story and instead end up with a high-quality dream home as well as an enjoyable, smooth, and creatively fulfilling experience for you and your family.

When to choose your builder

The best time to choose your builder is either before you begin the design phase with an architect or very soon after engaging an architect. Bringing a builder on board early in the design phase will ensure that your home’s design and your desired budget stay aligned throughout the process. Actually, a good custom builder will do much more than that during this architectural design phase

Beginning your search

First, you should know that in the state of Texas anyone can be a builder. There are no licenses or certifications required by law here like there are in most other states. Because of this very low barrier to entry,

Dig deep in your research

Now for the fun part. Time to narrow down your list to your top two or three choices. You will want to do this by digging deep with online research AND by reaching out to them through their website or by phone.

How to choose the right builder for you

When you decide to build your next home, rather than buy it, there’s one thing you simply have to get right: choosing the builder. Picking the right builder has the potential to make or break the entire experience for you, so it’s something you don’t want to rush.

Check their folio

You’ve no doubt got some idea about the type and style of home you’re hoping to build, so it’s important to find a builder whose skills best align with your plans. Paxino says this part of the process is usually easy, as most builders will have their projects displayed on their websites, or they will be able to provide you with a catalogue of homes they’ve built previously.

Find or ask for references

Some of the best information to assist you in selecting your builder can be gleaned by speaking to people who’ve dealt with them before.

Go the extra mile

You’re going to be paying your builder hundreds of thousands – possibly millions – of dollars to construct your home, so a few hours spent doing some extra reconnaissance will be more than worth your while

Let’s talk costs

There’s no point in gathering building quotes first, Paxino says, because many of the builders may not be appropriate for your project.

How To Choose The Right Builder

Choosing the right builder for your dream home is an extremely critical step. The builder you opt for is going to be responsible for your home and all that it has to offer. The number of builders in the market are one too many, but who is the most reliable of them all? One must be cautious and one must do a thorough market study to find the best builder who will provide the best quality in terms of quality of material used, architecture and service. Your life’s savings are going into your real estate purchase, so one must compare, analyse and choose a builder who is the best amongst his competitors and is offering what suits your needs. Here are some simple, yet important tips that will help you pick the right builder for your home.

Experience of the builder:

The experience of the builder in the Industry says a lot about his efficiency. If a certain builder has been in the market and has consistently performed throughout the period of his presence, one can be assured that he is offering both quality and service. Not just that, an experienced builder will come with sufficient knowledge about the industry, the material and the evolving architecture. You can be assured that someone with ample experience will build good quality homes.

Success rate:

The number of homes built by the builder, it be villas or flats is also an important factor to consider while choosing the right builder for your home. The number of homes built and occupied is a direct reflection of the scale of operation, reliability, quality and workmanship of the builder.

The one who meets your needs:

Each of us are looking for something different in our dream home. Different builders might offer different styles, scales and lifestyles in their projects. Or, one builder might have a lot of variety in what they offer- Make sure that you opt for something that meets your needs and the builder that you opt for is offering a home that is in your budget and offering you the amenities and lifestyle that you desire

Number of ongoing projects:

This factor is again a direct representation of the efficiency of the builder. Multiple ongoing projects show that the builder is reliable and has sufficient funding and experience in the field, making them a good option to opt for.

HOW TO CHOOSE A HOME BUILDER THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

A builder isn’t just a contractor you call up at the last minute. Builders are an important partner – after all, buying land and building a house is a huge undertaking that should set you up for long-term comfort and happiness. With such a vital role in the project, your builder must be in complete sync with you to get the best outcome

CHOOSE YOUR LAND FIRST

It’s easy to get excited about house designs and skip straight to this step, but hold on a moment and ensure you have your ideal lot first.

CREATE A LIST OF HOME BUILDERS

Not all builders are made equal. Many have a specialty, such as aesthetic style, building materials, and so forth. Some building companies also offer optional extras like finance, or deals for first-time buyers.

How to find good builders: First, visit your local developer display villages to find their preferred builders. Nothing beats seeing and feeling a home in person! If you want to do more research, jump on Google and search local companies to examine their offerings. Your friends and family members may also have recommendations.

Are they licensed? Unlicensed builders could cause problems down the track. If you want to confirm that they are registered