Thursday, June 28, 2012

Avoid Personal Bankruptcy

How To Avoid Personal Bankruptcy

It's an unfortunate truth in our society today, most people live beyond their means. They live off of credit which may work fine for a while, but the simplest thing such as an illness or job loss will completely push them over the edge financially. That has happened to many people during this current economic downturn. Even if it wasn't your fault that you got sick or lost your job, living off of credit will ruin your financial situation if you have to file for bankruptcy. In order to get your feet back under you financially, there are some things you can do to avoid personal bankruptcy.

The time to take control of your finances is right now. The longer you wait, the further out of control things will become. This isn't going to be a quick or easy thing to fix. You will likely have to face some less than pleasant truths about the way you handle your money.

For one thing, stop using credit. Period. You should cut up all of your cards expect one. Now I know that many people will say that that is bad advice since it will hurt your credit score. Yes, cutting up your credit cards will have a negative impact on your credit score, but for the short term, so what? If you're considering bankruptcy you're already in trouble and you really don't need more credit at this point anyway. Cut them up so you don't use them and make a bad situation even worse.

Next, take stock of your overall finances. If you take a long hard look at your spending habits you will probably find that you have one or more weak areas where you spend a lot of money. Once you figure out where your budget is bleeding, you can patch it up.

For example, let's say that once you sit down and take a long look at your spending habits you find that you are spending hundreds, or thousands, of dollars a month on eating out. Once you know that, you can adjust your lifestyle accordingly. No one is saying you shouldn't ever eat out again but you might be able to cut back and eat more dinners at home, or you might choose less expensive restaurants and / or meals.

Once you've found a weak area in your budget and you find a way to plug that hole, you will have a little extra money every month. The next step is to take that money and invest it in paying down a debt. Start with your lowest balance credit card first. Instead of only making minimum payments every month add the amount you saved on your budget to that credit card payment.

once you have that small card paid off, start on the nest larger one. Now you can not only apply the left over money from your budget to your monthly payment you can also add the amount you were paying on the first credit card that you just paid off. Just keep doing this over and over and before you know it you will have all your credit cards paid off.

You can use this same principle for paying off your car loans and mortgages too. This method will take time and a little bit of discipline, but it is something that anyone can do.

If you want to avoid personal bankruptcy you will have to take control of your spending. It's very easy to fall into bad habits, but you can recognize those bad habits and learn to make better choices. Good luck.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

A Structured Process For Your Foreclosure

There will be a structured foreclosure process, the time that a foreclosure is registered, in every state. In a judicial state, the time starts when the lawsuit, is filed.

In a non-judicial state, the timing starts when the notice of default or notice of trustee sales is filed. This is the pre-foreclosure stage. You will make the most money in this stage, which we will talk about this later in this text.

Step 1
Ordering a Trustee Sale Guarantee (TSG): This is another name for a Title Report.

Step 2
Sending notice to every person or entity that has a beneficial interest in the property: This would include everyone who has a lien on the property, including mechanic's liens, a second mortgage, or the IRS.

Step 3
Substitution of trustee: In a non-judicial state, there is always a Substitution of Trustee. This stems from the three tiered approach, which consists of:
1. The Trustor, the one who borrowed the money
2. The Trustee who is a beneficiary
3. The Trustee, the one oversees the process

You may see a Substitution of Trustee posted at the County Recorder's Office. This trustee only handles foreclosures and will follow the process to the end.

Step 4
Post legal notices: In nearly every state, the laws require the county to post legal notices. These notices may appear in regular newspapers or other publications. Some of these other publications include a legal newspaper, sometimes called a county recorder, in order to follow the requirements of the law. In addition, most states require that the foreclosure notice be posted at the property.

Step 5
Maintain continual contact: Continual contact is maintained with the title company to make sure no other liens are attached to the property. One thing that can stop the whole process is bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is a federal filing lawsuit that supersedes the state statute.

Step 6
Prepare a credit bid: The beneficiary or mortgagee prepares a credit bid, which is the starting bid/amount at the auction, depending on the state and the state statutes. In most states, the credit bid will include the principle balance plus all of the arrearages, including:
1. Bank interest
2. Penalties
3. Legal fees
Other arrearages can include second mortgages and homeowner's association fees. In a judicial state, the lawyer for the mortgage company/bank will prepare the credit bid. In a non-judicial, the Trustee will
prepare the bid.

Step 7
Make payment and reinstate the loan: The owner can perform this task.

Step 8
Suspend or cancel the sale at any time: The beneficiary or mortgagee can do this, if suitable arrangements have been worked out with the owner beforehand.

Foreclosure can happen to anybody anytime without any fault of their own. If you are in this position of foreclosure then make sure you take initiative at an early stage. Taking immediate action and following the above mentioned 8 steps can make a huge difference as to whether foreclosure becomes a reality in your life or whether you can manage to prevent it forever.

Using 4506 Tax Form to Obtain Tax Returns and Tax Transcripts

The 4506 tax form is used when taxpayers require copies of previously filed tax returns. This form can also be submitted by third parties to obtain tax record transcripts on behalf of clients or the deceased. Third parties can include mortgage lenders, banks and credit unions, tax attorneys, certified public accountants, and probate estate administrators.

Third parties submitting 4506 tax form requests are required to adhere to IRS guidelines set forth in section 6103(e). This Internal Revenue Code encompasses tax confidentiality laws and provides regulations for obtaining tax records of dissolved corporate entities.

Authorized agents and individual taxpayers can use IRS tax form 4506 to request a variety of previously filed returns including 706, 941, 1120 and 1040. Taxpayers can also use this form to request copies of attachments included with each year's return. Common attachments include W-2s, 1099s, tax amendments, and itemized deduction schedules.

Taxpayers must present individual IRS 4506 forms for each required tax return. For example, if taxpayers filed returns for 2007, 2008, and 2009, they must present an individual form for each year.

At present, the IRS assesses a fee of per return request. Accepted forms of payment include personal checks, business checks, and personal money orders. Financial instruments must be payable to 'United States Treasury' and include the taxpayer's social security number or employer identification number.

The Internal Revenue Service requires taxpayers to include 'form 4506 request' within the memo section of the money order or check, along with a letter that includes the year of each requested return.

Taxpayers can obtain tax transcripts at no charge. Transcripts include summarized statements of taxpayers' gross income, adjusted gross income, taxes owed for each year, or amount of tax refunds.

Taxpayers can select one of two options when requesting tax transcripts. Taxpayers can either call the IRS Service Center or submit form 4506-T via mail. Tax summaries offer an efficient way to request required tax returns which typically arrive within 10 business days. Tax summaries usually meet requirements of student loan providers and mortgage lenders.

Taxpayers are limited to a maximum of four tax return transcripts which can include the current year and previous three years of filed returns. When taxpayers require more than 4 years of transcripts they must provide the IRS with form 4506 and pay the fee for each requested return.

Individual taxpayers, sole proprietors, business partnerships, and corporations that file for bankruptcy must provide income tax return transcripts to the court. In 2005, new bankruptcy laws were enacted which require debtors to present copies of current, amended, and past due tax returns before bankruptcy confirmation can occur.

The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act (BAPCPA) stipulate debtors present personal and business tax returns through the court no less than 7 days prior to their 341 creditor meeting.

Individuals who are considering obtaining bankruptcy protection should request tax returns a minimum of 90 days prior to needing them. The Internal Revenue Service is notorious for moving slow. Don't place the opportunity for debt relief at risk by not having necessary tax records. Taxpayers can download 4506 tax form and 4506-T transcript requests at IRS.gov.

Monday, June 25, 2012

Mlm Leader Tracey Walker Review, Finding The Right Mentor.

Tracy Walker is hilarious, and today there are few people in the internet marketing who haven't heard her amazing story of success. However, it all did not happen overnight and there was a long road of preparation when Tracey had to ripe for the decision that would change her whole life and career. She went through several stages that all marketers go through. What is so amazing about her is that she did not give up and managed to identify really fast what it took to succeed. Having good education with an MA degree and a positive and enthusiastic worldview, Tracy was not taken aback in 2002 when she got laid off and had to look for a niche that would welcome her outstanding skills and selfless zeal to create new opportunity not only for her own but for the benefit of the people who were around her.

So, Tracey had realized that due to who she was, and how much she wanted to do in her lifetime, she was meant for mlm. In 2007 she invests a lot of her time and efforts into learning and trying out classic and new marketing methods, and creates several hundreds of presentations in an attempt to succeed. All this did not bring her what she had intended all along but she had come by with a nice baggage and understanding of basic marketing methods.

Her marketing experience takes another positive turn when Tracey Walker saw that she could handle only this much on her own and had done all she possibly could what concerned theoretical knowledge. Now she was in need of an instructor with practical skills and teaching talent to show her marketing strategies applied in real life. Daegan Smith was convinced that Tracey had no desire to waste his time. The synergism resulted in complete change in strategy and a fresh look at marketing opportunities for the next several years.

Soon, the former real estate agent, Tracey Walker receives a kind invitation to co-author with Daegan Smith a book series called "The Power of Leadership" that would forever stencil her name among the most successful internet marketers of the day. Her name got among the top best-sellers and credibility grew tremendously. Energized, she claims one victory after another - on her own enrolls over 70 people in her second mlm business initiative, starts using MLM Lead System Pro and gets to the top list of producers, gets to the Executive Leadership role and starts coaching other system members.

Somewhere along the way Tracey faces the same problem thousands of successful charismatic marketers face when building their companies - duplicating. Tracey could generate hundreds of leads a month and sponsor dozens of new prospects a week but the problem was that the prospects lacked the needed competence and attitude to help grow their shared business. The business woman understood that this halts her progress and impact in the business like nothing else. If only she could train the people who joined in with her to at least 80% of what she knew and could, she would not only build a massive foundation for the company's effectiveness but would also help thousands of internet marketers develop their own skills and talents through an in-depth training process.

You'll ask what so special about Tracey's marketing success? I have covered a couple of important factors of Tracey Walker's personal and professional life that seem to be of the uttermost importance, like having a good mentor and a bright personality, but there are some other features that are not uncommon to all successful mlm business women. No one has it all but everyone can learn those principles that are part of mlm business success:

Tracey is a positive person. Have you ever seem a successful businessman who is always skeptical and negative about his business? I haven't. Ventures
succeed and some fail but you want to select and participate in those that are lucrative and sift through the rest. Any business is risky but money likes secret places that scare 99% of
people;

An understanding and supportive partner and family;

A selfless attitude. Mlm is a highly competitive business and a lot depends on how you perform. That's why one should be extremely demanding to himself and
his personal organization. At the same time, successful marketers are never selfish or self-centered people - everyone works in the team and for the good of the team;

One needs to use the right marketing strategies and systems. There are many rivaling systems out there, however, the best will include all you need in one masterfully
elaborated package;

Skills in writing, blogging and creating at least 30 leads a month etc.

I meant this review to encourage those who are struggling and give some food for thought to all interested. Tracey is making today many thousands of dollars a month - and that's just the 3'rd year of her promising career. Your story can be next ion one of my articles.

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Nri Home Loans: Fees, Interest Rates And Other Charges

Like other home loans, NRI home loans also have various fees, interest rates and other charges associated with them. The fees and extra charges levied on the home loan increase the cost and have to be accounted before hand.
Processing Fees
Banks and finance institutions often levy a processing fee, which is sometimes also called the administrative fee for NRI home loans. This fee has to be submitted with the application and is generally non-refundable. The processing fee is the first thing a home loan borrower will pay to the bank or HFC.
Usually the processing fee is around 0.5% to 1% of the loan amount. A good thing to ask the lender is whether the processing fee includes the service tax or not. Given the high service tax rates in India, a processing fee, which includes the service tax, comes as a pleasant surprise. Here are few examples:

SBI charges a processing fee of 0.5% (inclusive of service tax) for its NRI home loan.
ICICI Bank charges 1% of the loan amount in INR- Indian rupees as the processing or administrative fees. A service tax: 12.36% is also levied on this fee.

Interest Rates on NRI Home Loans
The interest rates on NRI home loans are on the higher side as compared to a regular home loan in India. Depending on the lender, loan tenure, loan amount and the assessment a lender makes about the loan applicant, the interest rates on NRI home loans can vary from 11.5 % to 16%.
In addition to the processing fees there are various other charges that can be levied on the NRI home loan. Some of these are listed below:
Valuation Charges:
These are charged by the lender to get the property valued.
Late payment penalty:
It is usually around 2% of the installment subject to a minimum and maximum limit.
Prepayment charges:
If you want to prepay your NRI home loan for any reason, the bank will ask for prepayment charges. The prepayment charges also vary from lender to lender. Usually around 2%, most lenders do not charge prepayment charges if they find that the borrower has prepaid the loan from his money. However, refinancing of a loan will definitely attract prepayment charges.
Cheque Bounce Charges:
As evident it is charged when a cheque bounces.
Cheque Swap Charges:
Levied when, the borrower wants to swap checks, which he initially gave to the bank with new ones.
Document retrieval charges:
It is charged when the borrower wants to get some documents pertaining to the NRI home loan from the lender.
In addition to the above charges there are stamp duties to be paid, which are charged as per the rates prevalent in the state where the property is located.

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Calvinism And Romans Chapter Nine

Calvinism's favorite scripture is found in Romans chapter nine. This is the Calvinist ringer text, so to speak. This is one passage that they believe cannot be refuted by those who oppose Calvinism. As you will see, this article shall conclusively prove that Calvinists' explanation of this text is contradicted by the overwhelming weight of biblical evidence. I will also provide a link at the end of this article that presents numerous scriptures which clearly and completely refute Calvinism beyond question. However, for now, we will deal with Calvinism's supposed ringer text.

The specific passage that I am referring to is found in Romans 9:10-23. The first portion of this text deals with Esau and Jacob. It states that God elected the older brother to serve the younger brother before they were born. It points out that neither child had committed good or evil when this election by God occurred. Calvinists frequently refer to these verses about Esau and Jacob as an example of TULIP predestination. However, they have committed a serious and obvious contextual error. Why? Because Jacob's and Esau's individual salvation and eternal destiny is not being discussed here. This reference is a direct quotation from Genesis 25:21-23. Proper biblical analysis requires the examination of the text in Genesis that has been quoted, before you can ascertain the correct biblical context in Romans. Genesis 25:23 clearly presents the context. The focus is not upon Esau and Jacob as individuals, but rather upon the nations of people that would descend from them. God told Rebecca that she had two nations in her womb and that two peoples would proceed from her body, with one being stronger than the other. After clarifying those points, God then told her that the older would serve the younger. In other words, the nation of the Edomite people, who descended from the older brother, Esau, would serve the nation of the stronger Israelite people who descended from Jacob. Therefore, the proper context in Romans concerning the election of Esau and Jacob is not dealing with their personal salvation, but rather with their callings regarding whom God had chosen to be the progenitor of His people, and related to the nations that would descend from them.

The Scriptures state that God had elected to call Jacob to be the progenitor instead of Esau. Why? Because God's omniscient foreknowledge allowed Him to know in advance who would be the better choice for this important calling. And, of course, Esau's descendants did serve Jacob's descendants because Israel did become the stronger nation. The prophecy in Genesis 25:21-23 was precisely fulfilled through the nations of Israel and Edom. It should also be noted, however, that if this text referred to Esau and Jacob individually, as many Calvinists suggest, then the prophecy would have been unfulfilled and untrue, because there is no biblical reference to Esau ever having been personally in servitude to Jacob during his lifetime. Nevertheless, we know from the context established in Genesis that the focus was on their descendant nations, thereby fulfilling this prophecy. It should be obvious to any good Bible student that the first part of this Romans text does not offer any support for the Calvinist TULIP doctrine.

The second portion of this passage in Romans states that God wills or chooses to have mercy on some, and to harden some. The specific example used is of Pharaoh when he refused to listen to Moses regarding his plea to let Israel go.

It is interesting that the hardening of Pharaoh's heart is referred to many times in the Exodus account; several times the Bible says that God hardened his heart, and several times it says that Pharaoh hardened his own heart. Which is it? One possibility is that they are being used interchangeably.

As a biblical example of this interchangeable concept, note the account of Job. The Bible makes it clear that Satan is the one who attacked Job's property, livestock and family, and finally Job's own body as well, after receiving permission from God to do so (Job chapter 1 and 2). And yet, in Job 2:3 it says that God Himself had been incited against Job to destroy him. The verse-by-verse account makes it clear that Satan was the one who did it, after God chose to allow it, but God is still given credit for it, as if He had done it Himself. This is one unquestionable example in Scripture where God is given credit for doing things which He simply allowed to happen, or did not prevent from happening. This could be why the Scriptures state that Pharaoh hardened his own heart in one verse, and then say God hardened Pharaoh's heart a few verses later; because God was said to have done those things which He allowed, or did not prevent from happening. When Pharaoh chose to harden his heart and reject God, he was allowed to do so. God did not force Pharaoh to obey Him. However, because God is omnipotent and could have forced Pharaoh to obey, and yet chose not to do so; God was given credit for having done it. This is one possible explanation to the second part of this Romans text, which would also accord with the text that I cited in Job.

However, although the previous possible explanation is biblically plausible, there is another more probable explanation. What is it? Paul has already established a context that deals with callings in life, not with personal salvation. Therefore, it is probable that he is continuing with the same callings context that he began with when discussing Jacob and Esau. Even as Jacob had been chosen or called to be the progenitor of God's people, Pharaoh had also been called and chosen by God to rule over Egypt at this point in history, as part of God's sovereign plan. Then, once Pharaoh was on the throne of Egypt, God used him as His own tool to accomplish His purposes for Israel, by hardening his heart at times regarding decisions he would make as to whether or not to release Israel from slavery. The hardening referred to in this passage in Romans has nothing whatsoever to do with Pharaoh's personal salvation. Any good and honest Bible student, who has read the actual biblical account in Exodus, knows that this hardening specifically referred to Pharaoh's decisions concerning Israel, not concerning his personal salvation. When reading through Exodus, it is obvious that Pharaoh had already totally rejected any and all principles of righteousness and holiness, and had made his decision to thoroughly entrench himself in wickedness. We must remember that he and his predecessors had been murdering the Israelite baby boys by drowning them in the Nile River for many decades before Moses had his interactions with Pharaoh. He was already a lost and totally wicked man when it came to his spiritual condition. That's why the Exodus account also mentions on several occasions that Pharaoh also hardened his own heart, thus showing that he continued to personally and continually choose wickedness over righteousness.

The bottom line is, once again, that the Exodus account clearly and undeniably reveals that God's hardening of Pharaoh's heart was regarding his decisions to continue to enslave Israel, not his personal salvation. This fact is so obvious that it is mind boggling that Calvinist theologians continue to apply this Romans text to personal salvation.

The third portion of this passage in Romans compares God to a potter who makes clay vessels. It states that some vessels are made for honor, while some are made for dishonor. The vessels made for dishonor are referred to as vessels of wrath prepared for destruction. As always, thoughtful consideration of the biblical context is essential.

Paul, as he often does, is referring back to an Old Testament scripture in Jeremiah 18:1-11, which compares God's dealings with people to a potter making clay vessels. This is important to remember because the previous passage in Jeremiah helps to establish the proper context for Paul's related reference in Romans chapter nine, because Paul would not be contradicting Jeremiah. What was Jeremiah's context regarding the comparison of a potter making clay vessels, and God's dealings with people? Does Jeremiah imply that people are predestined by God to be obedient or disobedient, and that they cannot change because the Divine Potter predestined them? Absolutely not! In fact, Jeremiah teaches us the complete opposite. According to Jeremiah, the human vessels have the capability to turn from disobedience to obedience, or from obedience to disobedience; he also states that their decision will cause God to refrain from either punishing them or blessing them. In other words, the future of the vessels depends upon their obedience or disobedience. It is not an arbitrary, predetermined choice by God. It is essential to have this proper contextual understanding as a foundation for correctly comprehending Paul's related reference to the Divine Potter in Romans chapter nine. As previously stated, Paul would not be contradicting Jeremiah. Paul was a Bible scholar and was certainly aware of Jeremiah's previous usage of this concept. Therefore, we can be sure that Paul's message is consistent with Jeremiah 18:1-11.

Some human vessels are indeed made for honor, while some are made for dishonor. However, as clearly stated in Jeremiah, it is the choices of the human vessels to obey or disobey that determines their destiny and valuation as being honorable or dishonorable. It is true that, because of God's omniscient foreknowledge, He knows in advance who will be obedient and disobedient, and, therefore, who will be an honorable or dishonorable vessel. However, God's foreknowledge of His vessels' choices does not force them to make those choices! He simply knows what they are going to do before they do it. With this proper understanding, which also accords with Jeremiah 18:1-11, we can now correctly comprehend Paul's statement concerning the potter in Romans chapter nine.

As previously stated, because of God's foreknowledge, even before He creates each and every human vessel, He is already aware of their entire lifetime of choices and of their final destiny. Therefore, at the instant of creation, He knows whether He is creating an honorable or dishonorable vessel. That is why Paul can state, from God's omniscient perspective, that He is creating vessels for honor or dishonor. God knows in advance which vessels are going to heaven and which ones are going to hell, but that does not mean that He has preprogrammed them to go to heaven or hell. Nevertheless, because He knows in advance before He creates each vessel, the Bible can correctly state that He is making an honorable heaven-bound vessel, or a dishonorable hell-bound vessel of wrath prepared for destruction; this can be stated without indicating that God arbitrarily predestined them for their final destination, and without suggesting that the vessels had no freedom of choice pertaining to their destiny. When studied in this proper biblical context with the similar passage in Jeremiah, we simply have another revelation of God's omniscient foreknowledge. There is no need to interpret this text in Romans as the Calvinists do. Their interpretation maligns the character of God and contradicts numerous other scriptures that plainly teach that we have free will. Many of these scriptures are cited in my article titled, Calvinism Predestination. However, as you can see, the proper biblical contextual understanding requires us to reject the Calvinist interpretation of this passage in Romans. Consequently, even the one supposed ringer text used by Calvinists has been debunked.

Tropical Weather Disturbances & Your New Car Finance Deal

It is amazing in these modern times with modern transportation and communication. In the middle of winter flood damaged cars that appear 100 % fine appear on the market in your home town in the Midwest or even Alaska. How can you as an unsuspecting novice car or truck buyer sniff out these vehicle ?

Many cars have been damaged because of disasters for example tropical storms and hurricanes but water damage isn't limited solely and exclusively to these. Coastal areas are known for being badly affected by tropical storms and hurricanes. However, there are other ways for a car to become ruined due to flooding. Thunderstorms and heavy rains cause some rivers to swell. When this happens, cars in nearby areas become prone to water damage. Don't assume that the sales of these destroyed vehicles are limited only in their respective localities. With a bit of cosmetic repair, these vehicles can be moved to as far as Canada. It just takes a bit of luck and patience to find an unsuspecting buyer. It must be restated that auto industry analysts disapprove of purchasing vehicles that have endured water damage. These are only some of the few situations that can cause great damage and damages to cars, trucks Sport Utility and other vehicles.

If you are considering the purchase of a previously owned vehicle, be meticulous with your finds. Ideally, sellers should inform a potential buyer about a car's history but that would be difficult since people don't want to buy cars that have been damaged by flood. Although this is the case, many vehicles of this type find their way into the market. That is why it becomes more and more necessary for buyers to research on the vehicle that they like. It is equally important to have a trusted repair technician to inspect it for you. Do not think that only areas that have been affected by floods are the ones that have flood-damaged vehicles in their local markets. This isn't the case. Across the country, these vehicles receive cosmetic touch-ups and repairs. Yet it is as easy as a 1,2,3 search online for a car report online. Simply Google "auto research reports","check out vehicle online" or "automobile reports online ", or alternatively Google "How to buy a used vehicle". There are no shortage of tips and services. Even ebay allows for a good service , at inexpensive costs to check out and verify any vehicle that catches your fancy. As a first step there should be a big check mark next to the column "checked for flood damage" .
If you see no check mark or a big red mark - then beware. eBay as well offers the services of recommended automotive inspection services on site. Lastly you can check with your local AAA auto club as to services to either check the VIN or provide on site mechanical and auto body inspections for a fee. As a precaution, do not pay the seller until the car has been examined by a qualified auto repair facility.

Following are some basic as well as fairly simple checks that you can also do on your own. Rust is a telltale sign of water damage. It is the enclosed areas that often water has sat for extended time periods and left its mark.Take out the spare tire in the trunk and look for more than normally apparent rust residue on the trunk metal underside of the donut tire temporary spare. Open up or peer into to some of the less conventional pockets or storage areas. For example the toll pass change holder, an open and closing coffee holder canister area, map compartments or a large console on trucks between the seats.
Enclosed water - dirty flood waters - may of been left in these areas for and extended period of time , evaporating and leaving residue of dirt and grime as well as discoloring the sides or bottom of the enclosed compartment or compartments. Even if the auto detailer and cleaner is thorough in their cleaning process and steam cleaning , they may either forget or forgo these areas as "no-one will look there" . Alternatively it may be just too much work to paint these areas without leaving tell tale paint on the fabric or take a risk of solvent damaging the plastic surface or factory finish. Leave well enough alone can be the adage that leaves vital tips to you or your inspection technician. The flooring under the seats must be inspected for water damage as well. Lastly, if the seller doesn't provide you with a vehicle history report, it's possible to obtain on your own. Jot down the 17-digit VIN or vehicle identification number. It's placed on the dashboard. Hidden problems which include flood titles, are revealed through CARFAX vehicle history reports

There was a case widely reported in the Wall Street Journal newspaper , a tale of woe, where a woman in Bolivia saved for years for her dream car of an Austin ( or now BMW) mini so nice it was beyond her wildest expectations.
The auto was bought, shipped to Bolivia with all paperwork and assurances. It was only after the car arrived and was uncrated did the truth emerge. The buyer was left with little more than a parts car. On top of that she had paid all kinds of import duties and taxes for a luxury vehicle as well as import custom agent services brokerage fees. A lesson learned the hard way. It is both amazing how carefully vehicles from a major flood , tsunami or hurricane can be carefully and meticulously "restored" to almost new condition. Vehicles written off by auto insurance companies that fish would not swim in once finished , detailed and polished up appear as premium low mileage vehicles in better than new car showroom condition. Also be wary that a number of salvaged cars may be combined into one single solitary vehicle. The world knows no end to this chicanery. A non flood damaged salvage vehicle may be purchased say in the midwest or Alaska , its VIN number magically applied to a close to identical model of a flooded vehicle auto insurance write off. Its a matter of attention to detail when inspecting a vehicle for purchase. If you or your mechanic has a nose - you , he or she may notice anomalies. Moisture can have all kinds of effects. Colors may be off on upholstery even after thorough and solid steam cleaning.
It may be on the dash , it may be on the floors, it may even be on the seat belts that colours , scent or a mildew odor ( even slight and even with new car spray ) resides in the background ever so slightly. When these have been replaced, check if they match interior of the vehicle. If the fit is a bit loose, chances are, it is due to replacement.

Sources of light can give you clues. Some vehicles have gauges on the dash board. Others have warning or "idiot" lights. Regardless of the type of dash instruments water plays big havoc with wiring and circuit boards in a vehicle , or even a boat. The lights and gauges should light up and reset themselves when you start up the vehicle. Its a self test feature. If the lights do not light up , come on or remain lit and on after an extended period be suspicious. Don't take any coy answers to explain away and suspicions. Remember all in all you have the right and rights as a buyer to walk off the lot or garage and away from the deal. Don't be high pressured into anything experienced auto analyst Edmonton based M Labovitch notes. Moe Brown sure learned his lesson. These must also be in working condition. ABS fairly electronically complex anti lock braking system. Its a most amazing thing - how much time , money and expense can be expended to fix what seem to be little electronic defects and problems. Sure a good electrical auto shop can diagnose the problem or problems. Yet everything is a struggle and takes an extraordinary amount of time , patience and skill and of course myriads of shop time and expensive auto electronic diagnostic technician's highly billed hours . What might appear to be a simple broken speedometer cable may well necessitate a major and full electric automotive harness system costing many thousands of dollars. Incorporate the costs of such diagnostics and repairs into any offer you may in the transaction , negotiation and sales process. You don't have to feel like Herman Munster at the used car lot talking to Frank Gorshin , with tent and a caravan trailer for an office. In this day and age with the world wide web , there are plenty of resources available. With the VIN number ( vehicle identification number) , a home computer and a credit card there are no shortage of reputable services online to quickly as well as thoroughly research your auto find and rule out flood damage and damages. When you turn the ignition key, notice if the warning and accessory lights come on or not. Check if these are working properly. Another set of lights that must come on are the ABS and airbag lights. Interior and exterior lights must all be tested. These include: turn/ signal lights, heater, radio, cigarette lighter and air conditioner. Test them several times to ensure that there aren't any problems with them. Don't forget to test the windshield wipers as well: signal lights, windshield wipers, air conditioner, cigarette lighter, radio and heater.

Try to bend some of the wires locate under the dashboard. After the wet wires have dried up thoroughly, often they tend to be weaker and more brittle. Before you decide to hand over the payment to a seller, get the car inspected first by an approved auto repair facility. There are also some ways which can help you check for water damage. Observe certain parts like the dashboard, glove compartment and trunk for any indication of water damage in the form of mud, silt and rust. Check for the presence of these beneath the flooring positioned under the seats. An additional sign that can be observed is the smell of mildew. A musty odor is evidence of this as well.

Request for a history report from the seller but if he or she refuses to give you one, use the car's identification number instead. This is the 17-digit VIN or vehicle identification number which is located on the dashboard. Take note of it and verify the vehicle's history on your own. Through the CARFAX reports, hidden problems that the car previously had can be revealed.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Things to Consider When Buying Property

A purchase of land for commercial use should not be undertaken lightly. You may think that you have found the perfect parcel of property, and you may be tempted to close the sale as quickly as possible. However, you will derive more profit and enjoyment from your purchase if you take the time to research the plot of land that you are considering. When it comes to buying commercial land, what you don't know can not only hurt you, it can ruin your business plans and lead to substantial financial loss.

The first and most obvious consideration when purchasing commercial property is location, and this factor is relatively easy to evaluate. Depending on the intended use of the plot of land, you will want to ascertain whether the land is easily accessible by local highways and public transit and whether it is close to amenities such as shopping malls, apartment complexes, recreational facilities, schools, and manufacturing plants. You should also consider whether the subject property is close to and capable of being serviced by any required local utilities, such as electricity, telephone, natural gas, and water. Providing the infrastructure for some utilities, such as water, can be highly expensive for parcels of land in remote locations.

An even more crucial factor than location is development potential. Before buying a plot of land, you must determine whether it is possible to build upon it. A piece of property may be in a prime location, but you will lose the value of your investment if you do not discover that you cannot build upon it until after you buy it. Factors that influence buildability include the quality of the soil and the general topography. Will the soil support the foundation of whatever structure you intend to build upon the property? Is there sufficient drainage or is the land susceptible to flooding? Is there easy access to a sewage system? Will hills and slopes on the surface of the land complicate or hinder your plans for developing the parcel? These are all essential questions for which the answers should be obtained before you complete your purchase.

Other important issues to research include local zoning ordinances and applicable environmental regulations. The zoning laws for the town or municipality in which the land is located may limit the uses to which the property can be put. They may also place restrictions on the type, size, or construction of any structure that is built upon it. In addition, local, state, and federal environmental regulations can also place strict limits on development and sometimes require property owners to undertake costly remedial measures to preserve wildlife or the character of the land.

Finally, make sure that you determine whether there are utility easements on the property and where they are located. If such easements exist, determine whether their location will interfere with your construction plans, compromise the aesthetic value of the property, or otherwise impede your use of the land.

Researching these issues can be tedious and time-consuming. However, you will be thankful that you took the time to look into these matters before buying your land rather than afterward. As with any transaction, having more information can only benefit you as a purchaser and, later, as a land owner and developer.

Why Getting Rid Of Your Credit Card Is A Bad Idea

If you've had problems with overspending or keeping up with payments in the past, you may be tempted to close your credit card. After all, when you use cash, your debit card or your checkbook, you aren't incurring any kind of interest fee. You're also not spending money that you don't have. So why keep a credit card if you have no need for it? The following are three reasons you should hold on to your card, even if you plan on using it less.

1. Protection Using your credit card over your debit card, checkbook or cash, offers protection that other forms of payment don't. This is because you are not yet spending money. Your credit card company will issue a statement to you. Once you agree with the items that have been billed, then you pay for them. This acts as a safe guard against fraud because you can see what has been bought using your card right away and you can challenge it immediately. There are laws in place that will help you protect against fraud when it comes to your debit card and checkbook, but it takes time to process such fraud charges. Using either of those forms of payment withdraws cash directly out of your account, so even though it was fraudulent, you are still temporarily losing money. This can affect other payments as well if you don't have enough funds in your account to cover them. When it comes down to it, using your credit card is the safest way to make a purchase.

2. Convenience You won't always have cash on hand or enough money in the bank to cover a purchase you want to make. You may think that this is a good thing; after all, you shouldn't be buying things if you don't have the money for them. But what if it's an emergency? Maybe you need to catch the quickest flight out of town to visit an ailing relative, or there are medical emergencies that you have to cover? A credit card is a lifesaver in such a situation. Not to mention there are some things you can't even do without a credit card, such as renting a car or booking a reservation at a hotel. The only way you can do these things without a credit card is by allowing them to put a hold of up to several hundred dollars on your bank account, which is the equivalent of temporarily taking it out. This can hurt if your account is low, of if you need the money to cover other payments and bills, since that money won't be accessible.

3. Credit Score Closing a credit card account may seem like an easy way to avoid getting into debt, thereby avoiding damage to your credit history, but it's not. First of all, whatever good credit you accrued using that credit card will simply disappear. Secondly, it can raise your credit utilization, which affects your score in a negative way. The credit utilization is the amount you owe towards your balance. The higher the amount of your balance you are using, the worse your score is. By closing a credit card account, you are taking away additional balance, which in effect raises your utilization percentage by a lot. Don't think that your credit history isn't important. If you ever want to take out a loan to buy a new car or a new home, you'll need to have a good credit score.

As you can see, it's just not worth it to close your credit card account. Doing so can actually do more harm than good. The best thing to do is use your credit card sparingly, and when you do, pay it off immediately. This kind of responsible use will not only help your credit score, it will help keep you out of debt while keeping the advantages of having a credit card.

An Eye On Spending In Dubai Properties

This article is devoted to the purchase of properties in Dubai. It is based on the interview with a specialist in property transactions in Dubai which is an emirate is called the pearl of the United Arab Emirates He is Marcello Arcangeli, the Sales Manager of Emirates Real Estate which is an Italian company having a team of professionals with experience in real estate investments in Dubai. So you are about to receive the advice of one of the most influential and prestigious professionals in the field of real estate investments in the UAE.

Director, Is there any opportunity in Dubai market?

Dubai property market today has got the business opportunities for those who know how to setup their infrastructure quickly in Dubai. Many owners, due to the global crisis, are in crisis and have liquidated and sold their properties. The opportunists captured the moment and made a good investment, which can also be done today but it needs to be fast. Of course, it remains a market that is welcoming a serious partner, professional, capable of managing a profitable investment. We, at Emirates Real Estate, use our structure here to offer a high level of customer service and the best protection, however, for those who decide to invest in Dubai should find a professional and serious partner and the fulfillment of the applicable law.

What makes the great interest in residential property investment in the Arab Estate?

The UAE is one of the richest kingdoms in the world and Dubai is its metropolis that has a secure future as Singapore, Hong Kong or New York. But today, the real estate prices are not the same as Singapore, Hong Kong or New York. To this we add that UAE has no recurrent taxes on property, but a modest 2% of transaction value at the time of purchase. The rental income is not taxable, and same applies to the capital gains from the sale of the property. So in summary, we could say that Dubai property is attractive to current prices, growth potential and a very favorable tax treatment.

The prices of the buildings are on the rise or fall?

Dubai apartments are still in the availability of the developer, a few units per tower, are sold at a price of 2008 before the financial crisis erupted worldwide. It's a different story for the secondary market. You can get a good deal since, precisely because of the global crisis, many homeowners sold their villa in Dubai to pay off their debt. This has resulted in falling prices which reached its minimum in May 2009 and since then we have grown an average price in the order of 30%.

Who are the real estate investors in Dubai?

People with a strong tendency in business to understand what the world and where is the future. People who understand that United Arab Emirates is one of the richest kingdoms in the world with huge potential for growth and development. People have to be fast to recognize opportunities, and know how to seize them. These people have hard-earned money and know how to improve and how to make your money work for them.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Lease Option Real Estate Investing

Lease option real estate investing is a creative way to get started in real estate investing. The biggest advantage of this investing method is "control". It basically gives the investor the right to possess-- be in control of-- and profit from a property without owning it.

A lease option contract is a combination of two documents. The lease part is where the owner agrees to let you lease their property while you pay them rent for a stated period of time. During the lease period the owner can not raise the rent, rent it to anyone else, or sell the property to anyone else.

The option part represents the right you purchased to buy the property in the future for a specific price. If you decide to exercise your option to buy, the owner has to sell it to you at the negotiated price. The option part of the contract obligates the seller to sell to you during the option period- but it does not obligate you to buy. You are only obligated to make rental payments as agreed during the lease period.

When the lease option contract is written and structured properly, it can provide tremendous benefits and advantages to the investor. If the lease option includes the "right to sub-lease" the investor can generate a positive cash flow by renting the property to a tenant for the duration of his lease, or lease option the property to a tenant-buyer for positive cash flow and future profits. If the lease option includes a "right of assignment" the investor could assign the contract to another buyer for a quick profit.

Lease option real estate investing, is a flexible, low risk, highly leveraged method of investing that can be implemented with little to no money.

High Leverage

It is highly leveraged because you are able to gain control of a property and profit from it now--even though you don't own it yet. The fact that you don't own it also limits your personal responsibility and liability. Only if you decide to purchase the property by exercising your "option to buy" would you take title to the property.

Little to no money

The investor's cost to implement a lease option agreement with the owner requires little to no money out of pocket money because it is entirely negotiable between investor and owner. There are a variety of ways the option fee can be structured such as an installment plan, balloon payment or other agreeable arrangement between both parties. The option fee can even be as little as .00. In order to secure the property for purchase at a later date, tenant-buyers typically pay a non-refundable option fee of approximately 2%-5% of the negotiated purchase to the seller. Depending on how the lease option agreement is written and structured, the investor could possibly use the tenant-buyer's option fee money to pay any option fee owed to the owner.

Flexible

It is a flexible method of real estate investing because terms of the agreement like payment amounts, payment dates, installments, interest rate, interest only payment, balloon payments, purchase price and other terms are all negotiated between seller and buyer. Responsibilities of both parties are also negotiable. For instance, if the investor doesn't want to act in the capacity of a landlord, he could specify in the lease option agreement that tenant-buyer will be responsible for all minor maintenance and repairs and the original seller will remain responsible for any major repairs.

Financially Low Risk

It is low risk financially. If the property fails to go up enough in value to make a profit, you have the purchased the right to change your mind and let the "option to buy" expire. Even if your tenant-buyer decides not to buy the property, you have profited by a positive monthly cash flow from the tenant-buyer's rent payments and upfront non-refundable option fee.



Let's look at an example of a lease with option to buy structured in a way that the investor profits in 3 separate phases of the investment.

Profit #1 non-refundable option fee

Future sales price negotiated with the current owner is 5,000 with an option fee of 2% of the sales price. Option Fee you owe the owner is ,500. The future sales price you set for your tenant-buyer is 5,000 and the option fee is 4% of the sales price. Option fee the tenant-buyer owes you is ,200. You collect ,200 from tenant-buyer and pay ,500 to the owner and your profit = ,700

Profit #2 cash flow from monthly rental payments

The Monthly rental payment you negotiated with the owner is ,000. You set the monthly payment at ,250 per month for your tenant-buyer. Each month you collect ,250 from your tenant-buyer and pay the owner ,000 each month. Your profit is 0 monthly positive cash flow during the lease period.

Profit #3 is set up when the lease option contract is initially written

The difference in the negotiated future purchase price with the owner and the future purchase price set for your tenant-buyer. Let's say the property goes up in value to appraise for at least 5,000. Your tenant-buyer decides to exercise their option to buy. You buy the property from the owner at 5,000 and then sell it to your tenant-buyer for 5,000. 5,000 - the 5,000 you pay to the owner = ,000 profit.



Of course the key to making lease option real estate investing work, is finding motivated sellers and buyers. Finding these motivated sellers and buyers shouldn't be difficult. The continuing down turn in the real estate market has created a large number of sellers who can't sell their property and also buyers who can't get financing to buy. The seller could possibly get a fair offer to be paid in the future by selling their property to a real estate investor on a lease option basis. A potential tenant-buyer could obtain home ownership without having to qualify through traditional home loan guidelines.

One disadvantage of lease option real estate investing involves the tenant or tenant-buyer possibly defaulting on monthly rental payments. This would make it necessary for the investor to come up with money out of pocket to pay the owner and possibly have to proceed with eviction process. However, there are certain provisions and clauses that can be written into the lease option to deter buyers from defaulting on payments.

If the investor fails to do "due diligence" before entering into a lease option agreement, he could end up with a property that is unmarketable. There could be a number of liens on it, issues involving ownership of the property or it might be in foreclosure. By diligently performing research before entering into a lease option agreement, the investor can avoid these mistakes. A few things the investor could do is-- perform background and credit checks on both the seller and buyer, search public records in reference to ownership and property status, or do a title search.

Despite the few disadvantages, lease option real estate investing continues to be an excellent way to invest in real estate with little to no money and low financial risks. It also remains to be an excellent way to gain control of a property you don't own and create positive cash flow and profits on flexible terms.

Bottom line, the secret to success in today's challenging real estate investing market is to use only the best creative ideas, proven tools and strategies that have been successfully used by other investors to generate cash flow and profit from today's real estate market. The more you understand and apply now, the more you will profit from today's financial crisis.

Using the Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera to capture objects in motion

The Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera can be used to capture moving objects in a still digital photo. For example you can capture and convey the feeling of a moving car or a person running. Here are some tips for how to achieve that.
All of us have mistakenly capture motion in a digital photo. In most cases the result was not what we wanted a burry useless digital photo. Learning to control such blurriness is the exact skill you will need in order to capture digital photos that are of high quality but also capture the feeling of a moving object.
The main technique for capturing a moving object is controlling the shutter speed. We all know by experience that when the shutter speed is too slow and the objects in the photo are moving the digital photo ends up being blurry. Or when taking digital photos of a sport event with fast moving object the shutter speed should be set to high in order to achieve crisp sharp photos.
When you want to capture the feeling of movement in a digital photo you can take advantage of the control over the shutter speed. Setting the shutter speed to the right value will result in a digital photo that is just a bit blurry to convey the movement but is still sharp enough to be useful and of high quality.
Another important factor when taking digital photos that capture movement is the fact that while the object is moving the background is not. This can help further convey the feeling of motion by either blurring just the moving object or just the background. For example assume that you need to take a digital photo of a runner. You want the digital photo to convey the fact that the runner is moving or in other words you want the viewer to immediately realize that he is looking at a digital photo of a runner while running.
There are two options to achieve just that. One is to blur the runner. Set the Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera shutter speed to the right value that will blur the runner just a bit. Hold the camera steady preferably on a tripod to make sure that the camera does not move and the background is still and sharp. The Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera allows manual setting of the shutter speed. Take advantage of that. Knowing the right value is hard at first and requires experimenting. After some experiments you will already have a feeling for what shutter speed is right for what purpose. Also there is a large range of shutter speed settings that can be used it all depends on how much blurriness you are looking for.
The other option is to freeze the runner but blur the background. This is much harder to achieve. The technique to doing that is to set the Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera shutter speed to the right one to achieve the amount of blurriness wanted and to pan the camera at the exact same speed as the runner is running at. The result will be that the runner will stay on the same area of the camera sensor while the background will be moving and blurry.

Friday, June 15, 2012

Chinese Negotiation Style - Meetings

When negotiating with the Chinese, it is important to understand that they are going to be conduct business in a way that is comfortable to them, which is the Chinese way.

Business etiquette in China is different than in the West, the idea of face and harmony are important concepts to the Chinese. The means that public telling people they are wrong, or that you disagree with them is something you should try and avoid.

How does this affect how they view business meetings and the Chinese negotiation style?

When the Chinese have a business meeting, they often don't expect there to be a resolution to issues during the meeting. To come to a resolution might mean having to tell someone that they are wrong and therefore cause them to lose face. Loosing face is a big insult to many Chinese.

Instead of making major decisions during a group meeting, the Chinese will often meet afterwards in smaller groups of 2-4 people and come to a resolution in the post meeting get togethers. This is perfectly acceptable to the Chinese because it helps them maintain harmony and nobody loses face.

Remember this does not bother them because it is part of the Chinese cultural customs and Chinese business etiquette.

Just realize that you may encounter this as part of the Chinese negotiating style and it will help you be more successful when conducting business in China.

If you find this information helpful and you would like to find out 3 more habits about conducting business in China than just go to our website.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Should you Buy Bluegreen Points from the Resort or from the Resale Market?

This article compares the premier benefits obtained by buying at full price from Bluegreen Resorts with the value of buying a resale contract on the secondary market.

It is very important to understand that any premier or VIP benefits can be changed or canceled entirely at any time, as these benefits are not tied in any way to the real estate ownership (which is why the developer can restrict these benefits from being transferred when the ownership is bought or sold on the secondary market!). In fact, shortly before this article was written, Bluegreen had just changed the benefits again- by reducing the privileges given to Bronze level owners (presumably to try and "encourage" more owners to purchase even more points and "upgrade" to higher levels).

Bluegreen pricing is currently about .85 to .25 per annual point.. Resale prices can commonly be found in the $ .25 to $ .40 per annual point range!

The Premier or Elite Levels of Bluegreen are classified as:

Bronze level VIP privileges are received by owning 15,0000 to 19,999 annual points.(Approximate cost of ,000 to ,000 if you buy resale and ,000 to ,000 if you buy from Bluegreen)

Silver level VIP privileges are received by owning 20,000 to 34,999 annual points. (Approximate cost of ,000 to ,000 if you buy resale and ,000 to ,000 if you buy from Bluegreen)

Gold level VIP privileges are received by owning 35,000 to 59,999 annual points. (Approximate cost of ,750 to ,000 if you buy resale and ,000 to 5,000 if you buy from Bluegreen)

Platinum level VIP privileges are received by owning 60,000 annual points or more. (Approximate cost starting at ,000 if you buy resale and 0,000 if you buy from Bluegreen)

Some of the benefits and privileges premier level owners receive are:

Villa upgrades: Premier owners are eligible to get a free one category villa upgrade based on availability. When you can request the upgrade and how many upgrades you can receive differ by level.

Bronze = 1 day prior to the reservation and a maximum of 3 upgrades per year. Silver = 2 days prior and 5 per year Gold = 3 days prior and 7 per year Platinum = 4 days prior and 10 per year

Presidential Villa Upgrades are only available to Gold and Platinum level owners and are subject to the same maximum count per year.

Gold - 4 days prior Platinum - 7 days prior

Question for potential buyers: Is having a chance (based on availability just before check-in) at upgrading to one unit size bigger than what you reserved worth paying more 500% more for ownership?

The Obvious Answer: No! However, chances are you will already have reserved the unit type you need for your stay since nobody reserves a villa too small to accommodate their family. While an upgrade to a larger unit is certainly a nice perk, it is not necessary and certainly not worth thousands of dollars!

Another possible benefit is the waiver of cancellation or modification fees when you change a reservation.

Bronze class owners do not receive this benefit. Silver level owners are allowed up to 3 modifications or cancellations per year. Gold level owners are allowed up to 5 modifications or cancellations per year. Platinum level owners are allowed an unlimited number of modifications or cancellations per year.

Basically, unless you own 20,000 points or more- you still have to pay cancellation fees! This restriction puts this benefit out of reach for most owners. Platinum class owners who routinely rent their points may find this to be very beneficial, but they will have to consider the vast increase in purchase cost as well as the risk that the benefit could potentially be changed at any time. For almost every knowledgeable buyer- the decision is simply that buying resale is the best choice!

Another benefit is that Gold and Platinum level owners can receive extended stays and reservations at no cost based on availability.

Gold members can have one free white and Blue Season reservation per year. Platinum owners can have three free white and blue season reservations per year.

At first glance, this seems like a fantastic benefit! Who wouldn't like to get vacations for free!

But when you really think it over- it's not as fantastic as it sounds. Another great point for resale buyers is that unless you own 35,000 points or more- you don't even get the chance! And when you compare the cost difference- this benefit is at best a bad joke! Owners are often paying between ,000 to 0,000 over resale pricing for the privilege of getting a few free nights? At a rental rate of 0. per night, it will take you more than fourteen years before you break even! If the rack rate is only 0/night- it then takes more than 35 years! Chances are that extra money in your pocket can purchase all the extra nights you will need.

As always, timeshare ownership at resort prices is far more sizzle than steak! Take your time, research the product and the benefits- and I'm confident you'll agree that purchasing a Bluegreen timeshare ownership on the resale market is the only smart decision!

Copyright (c) 2010 Richard Marquette

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Quick Cash Over The Wire: Online Payday Advances

Convenient is probably the first word many people think of to describe payday advances. A payday loan is a great solution when you need money quick. Now as more people are getting involved online payday loan companies are making themselves available.

Just as you may buy books or clothes on the Internet, you can trust many payday loan sites to allow you to securely transfer money. Respected loan sites connect you with trusted lenders who work with you to secure your advance. If you have an unexpected money need, you can have your money quickly and without worry.

Though quick and easily understandable there are still some cash advance rules for borrowers. First, you have to be a United States citizen who's at least 18 years old and has an active checking account. You must have a regular income and generally the threshold is at least ,000 per month. As long as you're not actively in the armed services you should be eligible. In addition to general requirements, there may be a few rules that are unique to a company.

Many people like payday loans because credit history is mostly a non-factor. Issues like bankruptcy won't affect your candidacy. A key factor in choosing a site to do business is to know whether the company who operates the site processes the loan or if they only connect you to the lenders. The selection process on third-party sites may be more rigorous but still offers good chances for a loan.

If you're already sure that you qualify, you're well on your way to a successful cash transaction. First, make sure you trust your cash advance site. Then all you have to do is complete the personal information form. After that a loan representative will contact you to confirm your information and complete the application process. Unless you're required to send in other information this is the last step before you're approved. Once approved your money will be transferred into your account.

On the Internet the payday loan process is made especially simple. The online forum is very suitable for quick money transactions. Online payday advances are technologically sound and can mean a lot for you.

Conversation Starters - How To Flirt With A Stranger

Sure you can!

Look at these basic rules of flirting tips (Actually how to flirt is almost an art form)-- and then read about the follow-up.

• Be Open-- This is as simple as being friendly and down to earth. The two traits that most people find appealing and inviting are: o Confidence, and o A Sense of Humor

• Careful of your drinks-- Here we just use a bit of common sense. If you know that you become a bit ... (fill in the blank) when you have three or more drinks-- pass on third drink. Logical, yes?

• Understand Body Language - You don't really need to read up on reading body language. If their stance toward you seems to be open, and there is eye contact, it doesn't take an expert to know that this person may indeed be interested in talking to you. Don't take your instincts lightly. They are inbred, and generally very reliable.

• Initiate some good conversation starters-- This is as easy as commenting on the food, weather, music, etc. Whatever you do, don't use some funny pick up lines. Really, they don't work-- and make you look somewhat like a jerk. No, I take that back-- not 'somewhat like a jerk ', but definitely like a jerk.

• Be cool-- No pressure on yourself-- or your objective. Remember, the old Real Estate line, "The best deal of the century" will be found again tomorrow. That special person will likely pop up again very soon, so don't put pressure on this one, or yourself.

• Reciprocate with information-- This is a rule that some forget-- and pay for it, almost immediately. Don't make the mistake of giving all kinds of information about yourself-- like dumping a wheelbarrow full of fertilizer on a garden patch. Give information-- but only as it is given to you. So, the word is reciprocate with information-- don't let it be one sided.

• Manners-- If you think that manners are out of place on the 'Flirting 'scene-- Think again. They are important as always. Perhaps they are even more important-- because they are increasingly rare.

Now, after looking at the guideposts above-- what now?

An opening is pretty simple. Anyone can comment on the weather. Now, what do I say?

Now, the rubber hits the road. In the 'how to flirt 'arena - something good has to follow a simple opening statement. This is where you separate the 2nd placers from the winners.

To do so, you must master some conversation starters, and to be able to follow through with witty conversation, humor, and charm.

Wow-- how do you accomplish that? There are techniques and styles that can be learned-- as any skill can be learned. Is it worth your time to learn these techniques; Not if you want to strike out most of the time-- but, if you want to walk away with the prize-- Hell yes it is worth the effort to learn these things. It will pay you huge dividends in every walk in life-- including flirting!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

What Can You Find in Freedom Debt Relief Reviews

My cousin Paul almost filed for bankruptcy due to his overwhelming debt problems just a few months back until a random internet search brought him face to face with Freedom Debt Relief reviews. He has been trying to stay afloat in the midst of the deluge of bills he gets each month from his creditors but he is losing the battle for sure.

He has five credit cards and each card has been maxed out. He had even stopped paying for two of them while on the remaining three cards, he is only paying the minimum each month which is not enough as the interests kept adding up and his minimum payments seem to be servicing the interest only. He was barely managing these when suddenly, my aunt, his mother, fell seriously ill and Paul had to foot the medical bills which amounted to ,000. This means he is owing six different creditors up to almost 0,000.

At his wits' end, he was considering bankruptcy when he came across some websites giving reviews of debt management firms and debt settlement firms. While he may have heard of Freedom Debt Relief, it never crossed his mind to check out the services they offered. Like a lot of weary consumers, he was worried about financial scams and firms out to cheat and con unsuspecting consumers with serious financial problems. However, after reading through the reviews on Freedom Debt Relief, Paul is certain that this company is not merely a debt settlement company and is definitely not part of a fraud or scams that have been going around. I had also advised Paul to be extra careful when seeking third party assistance so that he does not get cheated easily. Some unscrupulous firms have been known to target those desperately seeking solutions to their debt problems. Instead of actually helping, these scammers will give all sorts of promises from purportedly helping you to get government debt relief grants to clearing your debts within a year.

That's why it's important to read reviews by consumers instead of only relying on the information provided by these companies. Reviews, opinions and comments on any firm or company will be more valuable coming from someone who has used its services. That's why Paul was suitably impressed by the glowing reviews that Freedom Debt Relief seemed to be getting from consumers. Many of the reviewers had escaped bankruptcy by signing up with Freedom Debt Relief and most of them are clearly satisfied with the firm's customer service and efficiency.

Now, after signing up with Freedom Debt Relief, Paul has started the journey towards paying down his debts. The firm is helping him through debt negotiation with some of his creditors and though it may take a while, he is hopeful of being able to clear up his debts in a shorter period of time compared to taking up a second mortgage to consolidate all of his debts. At the very least, he was not risking losing his home through this method.

Many consumers are unaware that they could try debt negotiation for a debt settlement of part of the amount they owe. If the debt negotiation is successful, it simply means the creditors have agreed to forgive a certain percentage of the debts, maybe 30%, and the debtor need only pay the remaining 70% as settlement of the loan. This is a method worth considering as it means settling some of your debts at a lower price.

So, be like Paul. Read up more about debt relief and the methods to achieve a debt free life. Look for valid reviews and check out Freedom Debt Relief to see if they have a program that suit your needs. After all, it never hurts to check out more firms to resolve your financial problems.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

What Is Irs Injured Spouse Relief

The general rule is: when a couple files a joint federal tax return, the IRS will hold both taxpayers responsible for any unpaid tax debts. The IRS will even keep any refund available and apply it to a past due tax liabilityeven if the couple later begins to file separately but incurred the original debt while filing jointly. Some taxpayers might file separately to avoid a withheld refund, but this can cause the couple to miss out on valuable tax advantages for married taxpayers. This blog entry will explain the basics of the IRS's Injured Spouse Relief program.

What is an Injured Spouse and what is the Relief the IRS Provides?

For federal tax purposes, an Injured Spouse is someone that is denied a tax overpayment refund or a portion of a refund because the funds were applied to off-set a past-due obligation of a spouse or ex-spouse. This obligation can be a past-due federal tax, state income tax, child or spousal support or even a federal non-tax debt, such as a student loan. In this case, the spouse is injured because they do not have a legal obligation to the past-due amount but by having their overpayment applied to the liability, the IRS is in fact holding the person responsible for the debt.

As a remedy to holding a non-liable person responsible for the federal debts of their spouse or non-spouse, the IRS offers Injured Spouse Relief. To avoid having a refund withheld, a taxpayer can request Injured Spouse Relief at the time they file their tax return. If approved, the injured spouse will not be held responsible for their spouse's federal tax debts, state tax liabilities, etc. The IRS will also determine the amount of tax owed by or overpayment due to each spouse.

Thus, an injured spouse may be able to recover their loss (misapplied refund) should the IRS approve the taxpayer's claim for relief. According to the IRS, in order to qualify for Injured Spouse Relief, a taxpayer must meet the following three conditions:

1. You must not be legally obligated to pay your spouse's past due tax liability.

2. You must report income such as wages, taxable interest, etc., on the joint return.

3. You must have made and reported payments, such as federal income tax withheld from your wages or estimated tax payments, or you claimed the earned income credit or other refundable credit, on the joint return.

Most Americans will need to meet all three of the qualifications to be deemed an injured spouse.

However, if you live in a community property state (Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, Washington, or Wisconsin) then you will only need to meet the first qualification. In community property states, over-payments are considered joint property and are generally applied (offset) to legally owed past-due obligations of either spouse. Please note that there are exceptions. The IRS will use each state's rules to determine the amount, if any, that should be refunded to the injured spouse. Under state community property laws, 50% of a joint overpayment (except the earned income credit) is applied to non-federal tax debts such as child or spousal support, student loans, or state income tax. However, state laws differ on the amount of a joint overpayment that can be applied to a federal tax debt. If you believe you are an injured spouse but live in a community property state, you should seek the help of a professional.

Professional Help

Once you have determined the IRS has, or will, withhold a refund because of your spouse's past due taxes, you should print out a copy of IRS Form 8379. You will then need to allocate income, adjustments, deductions, and credits between you and your spouse in Part 2 of the form. After completing the form, you can mail it to the IRS with your tax return, or if you have already filed your return, then you can just mail it to the IRS. For those of you who e-file your return, you can even include Form 8379.

Unfortunately, qualifying for Injured Spouse Relief is not as easy as it may seem. Properly allocating deductions and credits on IRS Form 8379 can be very confusing and a simple error could lead to the IRS rejecting your request. Seeking the help of an experienced tax professional may be in your best interest.

Prevention

Some people may claim the only way to truly avoid being held responsible for a spouse's back tax liability is to always file separately. However, this can result in the loss of valuable tax incentives for married taxpayers. Instead, engage in an honest conversation with your partner about both of your finances before you get married so you will know in advance about any potential tax problems. If your spouse has tax problems, then you can proactively file for Injured Spouse Relief when you file your return so your part of the refund won't be used to pay your spouse's prior tax debts.

Innocent Spouse vs. Injured Spouse

Injured Spouse Relief is often confused with the similarly named Innocent Spouse Relief, but each program was actually created to help different types of taxpayers. Part of the reason for the confusion is because until 1988, Innocent Spouse Relief was the only option for a married taxpayer to be relieved of a tax liability stemming from their spouse's errors. Fortunately, these days the IRS offers both programs. Unlike Injured Spouse Relief, in order to qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief, taxpayers must prove they had no knowledge of the errors leading to a back tax debt when they signed the tax return.

Credit Card for Students

For most university students, credit cards aren't high on their priority list for things to take care of after all, students with loans can pay for things with direct debit from their bank accounts, as can students that are being assisted financially by their parents.

The simple truth of the matter is that most students don't think about credit cards, so that when it gets to the point that they need one, they end up rushing through the selection process, ending up with a credit card that isn't optimal for their needs or worse one that actually ends up being detrimental for them in the long run.

So what should a student seeking a credit card do? Simple, they need to research! Look at a wide variety of student credit cards, their benefits and their drawbacks. Only select one that you feel comfortable with and that you feel addresses your needs well, while not providing you with too many setbacks.

So what characteristics should you look for? Well, here are a few things to keep in mind in your search for the perfect student credit card.

Fees

Some credit cards charge you an annual fee for their usage; I like to counsel students to stay away from these types of credit cards, as usually their good points are not enough to outweigh the fact that you have to pay for them. You've already good tuition, textbooks, residence and many other things to worry about, no sense in adding another to the list.

Credit cards that charge annual fees are intended more for business people that spend lots of money and have lots of disposable income, not for students on a fixed budget. As a result, most student credit cards won't have such a fee attached to them. If they do however, consider whether you really need the benefits of that specific credit card before you sign up for it.

Spending Limits

When I started my first year of undergraduate studies, the first credit card I applied for had a credit limit of 0, and it ended up being more than I needed at the time. As I went through University and my general expenses increased, I ended up applying to have that limit raised to 00 and adding a second credit card with a limit at 00 this was mostly just for when I bought textbooks or paid for tuition, as I wanted to get the maximum advantage out of my credit card bonus plans, but it was a good example of me getting the most out of the cards.

Incentives

Incentives are bonuses that the companies attach to their student credit cards in order to entice more people into signing up for them. A good example of this is the "cashback" credit card, where a certain small percentage of what you spend on your credit card is refunded to you.

A credit card that was popular amongst friends of mine was the grocery credit card, which was given out by one of the chains of grocery stores where we lived. Instead of direct cashback, they offered a store credit that was twice the value of most cashback plans at the time, the practicality of which appealed to a lot of students.

Interest Rates

Ideally, this shouldn't ever be a problem, as you'd be able to pay off your balance each month and thus never accrue interest on your account. Practically, however, things won't always work out that way. Therefore, interest needs to be a concern as well.

The industry average for credit card annual interest rates is somewhere in the 19-23% range, compounded monthly. However, being a student you should take advantages of the discounts available to you if you do your research, you should be able to find a card that suits your needs with a student discount interest rate in the 10-15% range.

While 10% may not seem like a whole lot, if you ever lose your job, have to quit or have some other unexpected event that affects your finances, the interest can build up very quickly. One way to partially prevent this is to purposely search for a lower interest rate first.

Monday, June 4, 2012

The Advantages and Disadvantages Of The Credit Card Act

The recent credit card debt legal guidelines have various decent things meant for consumers, although habitually regulations restricting commerce in a free market may have unintended consequences. The new credit card debt law called The Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 was signed by President Obama earlier this year. It took effect on February 22, 2010. When it went into effect it was intended to amend specific questionable business procedures of the credit card companies, but what about the effects on those customers who are conscientious with their credit? The new credit card act has some underlying negatives that will be revealed.

Since the latest credit card debt decree will put a stop to the custom branded as universal default (which is where a creditor could jack up your interest if you default on another credit debt, even if you always paid the existing creditor on time), banks express they will have to make up their cutbacks some other means. The reason issurers are stating they will need to increase the interest on existing balances because of these losses they will suffer. Under the new law issuers are required to give 45 days notice of rate increases and aren't allowed to increase your rate at all in the first 12 months of a new card except under certain defined circumstances such as default on payments or a teaser rate expiration.

The adverse side effect of this for the consumer who does a good job managing their credit is that they might notice their rates going up. Some of you may have already gotten notices of rate increases from your credit card issuers. Many declare that this may result in individuals who were accountable with their credit subsidizing those who are not. Another increase could be in the various fees that are charged. Where currently a credit card issuer charges, for example, used for late charges, they may inflate this to or more. If you are like the average credit card holder who struggles or delays making your payment due date then get ready to be hit with a late fee. It will in addition be more tricky to get approved for a credit card in the future due to the finance institutions needing to make up for the cutbacks created by customers who default plus are written off consequently the criteria for approval will probably be tighter.

As part of the new credit card debt laws Regulation Z, which implements the Truth in Lending Act will be changed requiring issuers to provide certain disclosures upon opening a new account and at least 45 days notice prior to certain changes. The required notifications include differences in APR in addition to billing cycle as well as particular categories of fees. This involves all pertinent fees that credit institutions normally charge including penalty fees, minimum finance charges, and more. Issuers are in addition only required to notify cardholders concerning improvements to their credit limits if the new credit limit would trigger an over the max rate or else a penalty rate. There is concern that seeing as the fees that require notification have been in the details of the legislation, that credit card companies could merely come up with brand new types to get around the disclosure requirements.

Sunday, June 3, 2012

Payday Loans VS Logbook Loans

The two fairly new sorts of credit, the pay day and logbook loans available nowadays give a large number of individuals the opportunity to get a fast cash loan, with out the credit checks.. Which means that these loan varieties are a possibility for those who might not have had the opportunity to acquire other 'high street' loans. The amount you could borrow with a pay day loan depends upon the amount you are paid, whilst logbook loans are guaranteed against the car or another vehicle.

Both types of loan work in various ways though and possess different benefits and drawbacks. This document will look into either side of the story to assist you to work out which choice is right for you.

Advantages Of Logbook Loans

One of the biggest benefits of selecting a logbook loan, is the fact that you're able to sign up for larger amounts of money. It all depends on how much the car may be worth, but you could potentially get as much as ?50,000, which could pay for greater costs like a deposit. This is obviously a lot bigger than you may have the capacity to get with a payday loan - which is normally up to around ?1250.

Logbook Loans - Disadvantages

The main drawback to getting a logbook loan, is that you must be the owner of car. This is because the loan is secured on your vehicle. This is also an additional downside as there is the risk that your car could be taken if your loan isn't paid back. When securing the cash against your vehicle, you will also need to hand over your logbook until it is repaid. You'll still have the capacity to drive the car around normally though.

Advantages Of Payday Loans

The greatest benefit of obtaining an online payday loan is just how fast and simple these are to get. The only needs to qualify for a payday loan is that you have to be over 18, have an UK bank account (with debit card) and be employed earning over ?500 a month. In comparison with the logbook loan, you will not have to be a vehicle owner to get one. Also, these loans are paid back faster since they are typically only borrowed for a month (and paid back on your next pay day). Because of this they are better for temporary financial troubles.

Pay Day Loans - Disadvantages

These financing options are not beneficial if you need a large amount of cash as you can only get small loans. Another disadvantage is that men and women can be deterred by the high interest rates of APR connected with payday loans. In this case, it is usually advisable to focus on the repayments charts of the loan provider, to determine the amount you'll have to pay off.

So, Which Is Best?

Both of these loans will appeal to different selection of people, depending on their situation. If you are the owner of a car or other vehicle and you will like to get a larger amount of cash, then a logbook loan would be best. If you do not own a car and/or you would like use of a smaller quick loan, then payday would be better for your circumstances.

Whatever loan choice you go for, it is wise to make certain you have the cash to make the repayments. It's also advisable to research prices to make sure that you obtain the very best deals for ones situation.