Summer is here and again it is time when most people take their family vacations. The kids are out of school and of course it is expected of the parents to use their vacation time then. In these tough and uncertain times (have there ever been easy and certain economic times? I didn't think so either) saving money once you reach your destination is easy if you know some simple tricks. Plus you'll have more money to spend.
When traveling independently you will almost always do better in terms of price and quality if you veer away from the traditional places to eat and shops that the guide books mention. Going off the beaten track can mean you pick up a real bargain.
Restaurants
Follow the locals; if you head for a tourist orientated restaurant or shop you will find that the prices are substantially higher and often the food is not of the same quality.
Another good tip is to visit the local market where the locals shop. Not only will you get fresh products at good prices but you will also enjoy the experience of mixing with the locals. Ask those around you where to go, after all, it is the locals that are best placed to tell you where to go for a good deal!
A good way of working out whether a restaurant is geared towards tourists or locals is to see when it is at its busiest. Tourists tend to eat a lot earlier than the locals in most foreign countries. Any restaurant that is empty until around 9pm and then fills up is probably frequented by locals.
Car Rental
When it comes to rental cars the costs can vary widely and it really pays to shop around. Sometimes you will be offered good deals as part of your hotel stay or airfare, consider these as combination deals will also be a lot cheaper than you could get on your own.
Booking car rental when you have reached your destination is normally cheaper than reserving in advance if you have not got a good combination deal.
Make sure that you have suitable insurance, as any accident could make a huge dent in your holiday budget! There are good ways to save money, but insurance is not an area that you should scrimp on.
Always select the smallest car that is suitable for your needs, this will be cheaper and will cost less in gas. There is also a reasonable chance that you will be upgraded for free. If you are feeling bold, it is worth asking at the counter if there is any chance of a free upgrade, you never know your luck!
If you are booking car hire from a distance, look at the costs of car hire from the airport as well as from the city that you are staying in. Car hire companies will pay more to have an airport franchise and you may find this reflected in the prices that you are quoted.
Always fill up the gas before you get back to the car rental office. Car rental companies will charge well over the odds for any extra gas that they need to replace on your behalf so take the time to tank up before you get back if you do not want a large bill at the end.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Showing posts with label buying wisely. Show all posts
Showing posts with label buying wisely. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Plan Your vacation and Save Money While Having Fun
Ah Spring time is here and many of us are already looking forward to summer and the vacation season. In these tough economic times everyone is looking for ways to save money without sacrificing fun and adventure. It is easy to do with the proper prior planning.
Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!
Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.
Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially.
There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:
Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?
Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?
Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?
Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?
Firstly, if you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.
If you are planning on creating your own package then you need to be aware that you are taking multiple gambles. For example, you need to consider your airfare, hotels and transport. Whilst you may get an excellent last minute flight, you may not be so lucky when it comes to the hotel or car hire. In fact, you may find that paying a premium for other parts of your holiday will end up out-weighing any last minute savings you have made.
As a general rule, if you are looking to go on a specific holiday, a cruise, for example, with a specific company or a destination that is only offered by a few operators, you may find that last minute bargains are simply not available. Cruising is a classic example of this. A cruise line will offer holidays for a certain price, whilst they may offer their holidays through different agents who may individually offer discounts, the actual price of the cruise is likely to remain very similar no matter who you go to for your price.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!
Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.
Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially.
There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:
Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?
Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?
Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?
Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?
Firstly, if you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.
If you are planning on creating your own package then you need to be aware that you are taking multiple gambles. For example, you need to consider your airfare, hotels and transport. Whilst you may get an excellent last minute flight, you may not be so lucky when it comes to the hotel or car hire. In fact, you may find that paying a premium for other parts of your holiday will end up out-weighing any last minute savings you have made.
As a general rule, if you are looking to go on a specific holiday, a cruise, for example, with a specific company or a destination that is only offered by a few operators, you may find that last minute bargains are simply not available. Cruising is a classic example of this. A cruise line will offer holidays for a certain price, whilst they may offer their holidays through different agents who may individually offer discounts, the actual price of the cruise is likely to remain very similar no matter who you go to for your price.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Better Budgeting
The talking heads from the financial media are telling us the economy is improving. However we all know that on the street level things are still a bit tight. So with the holidays nearing and the new year almost upon us, one should really sit down and figure out their personal financial situation and make sure the ends meet. That is where having and keeping to a good budget is helpful.
A budget is basically a money plan, outlining your financial goals. Having a budget, you can well establish and regulate funds, set and achieve your financial objectives, and make advance decisions as to how you want your finances to function well for you.
The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs.
Simply put, budgeting means an estimation of monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills.
The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your “spending patterns”, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting.
For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income.
Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.
The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor.
Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.
Here are tips on how to budget:
1. Have good sense of money management. Your attitude is essential. Reach an agreement and compromise and know the significance of reducing expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice.
2. Plan your situation. Make a listing with your earnings to one side and your overheads on the other side.
3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list.
4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, play with the kids at the beach or at the park.
Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is readily available to everyone. Consider it, and benefit from it.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the
Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for
you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and
receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html">http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/fina
nce.html
******************************************************************
A budget is basically a money plan, outlining your financial goals. Having a budget, you can well establish and regulate funds, set and achieve your financial objectives, and make advance decisions as to how you want your finances to function well for you.
The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs.
Simply put, budgeting means an estimation of monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills.
The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your “spending patterns”, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting.
For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income.
Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.
The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor.
Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.
Here are tips on how to budget:
1. Have good sense of money management. Your attitude is essential. Reach an agreement and compromise and know the significance of reducing expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice.
2. Plan your situation. Make a listing with your earnings to one side and your overheads on the other side.
3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list.
4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, play with the kids at the beach or at the park.
Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is readily available to everyone. Consider it, and benefit from it.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the
Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for
you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and
receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html">http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/fina
nce.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Poor Rens Tips To Decorating Your Dining Room
You are dissatisfied and bored with the look of your dining room. Sure it worked back in 1995, but today is different and you really want a change. However in today's economy things are a bit tight, so what do you do? Well there are a number of different ways for decorating a dining room to give it a whole new lease on life, without breaking the bank. Try these tips:
1.Why not cover the table with some fabric in order to hide any ugly surfaces? You could then use the colors in the fabric as the basis for the new décor for the room.
2.The use of inexpensive accessories will help to change the whole appearance of your dining room. Get some candles and candleholders in order to provide a different look and feel to your room.
3.Why not make a wall hanging for the room. If you can, purchase some Chinese posters (these are inexpensive) as they are easy to turn into wall hangings.
4.Why not see if where you live has a furniture bank. This is where you can arrange to drop off any old pieces of furniture that you have and no longer want. Then all you need to do is choose a piece from what they have there to replace the piece you have donated. You may find the ideal dining table and chairs that you want for the theme of your room.
5.The rule of three. Instead of placing items together as even numbered groups, do it in odd numbered groups instead. Where 2 candlesticks together look symmetrical, by adding a bowl or another smaller candlestick holder, you will give the element of surprise. Plus, by mixing colors and textures in order to form groups of three in a room, it will provide you with a whole new look also.
6.As previously mentioned, when looking to redecorate your living room, move the furniture. You can also do this in your dining room. Instead of the table being horizontal to the walls, why not place it in the room at an angle (but make sure you have enough space to walk round it). Also, move any cupboards etc., away from walls, and instead place these in corners of the room at angles. By doing this, you are giving your dining room a whole new look.
7.Why not build and attach a fold down shelf to one of your dining room walls? It will certainly make it easier for you when entertaining, and can be used as a buffet area also.
8.How about giving your dining room cabinets a new lease on life and paint them to accentuate the color of the room? Check at your local paint supply store or DIY store, as well as online for advice on how to paint unusual surfaces.
9.Use a mirror in order to create light and space in your dining room. Frame one in such a way that it creates a mock window. You could even use one by placing it behind some artistic belongings in order to highlight them from all sides.
10.If your dining room chairs are looking a little tired and dated, then cover them with slipcovers…why not try making some covers yourself? Why not purchase another tablecloth or two that matches the one you use for your table, and upholster them in this as well?
11.Finally, why not repaint the room? You do not need to do the whole room, just paint one or two walls with an accent color. Maybe go for a color which will accent all the various aspects of the room, and integrates well with any soft furnishings that you have.
Just because money is tight doesn't mean your style has to suffer. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money?
Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection.
Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html
******************************************************************
1.Why not cover the table with some fabric in order to hide any ugly surfaces? You could then use the colors in the fabric as the basis for the new décor for the room.
2.The use of inexpensive accessories will help to change the whole appearance of your dining room. Get some candles and candleholders in order to provide a different look and feel to your room.
3.Why not make a wall hanging for the room. If you can, purchase some Chinese posters (these are inexpensive) as they are easy to turn into wall hangings.
4.Why not see if where you live has a furniture bank. This is where you can arrange to drop off any old pieces of furniture that you have and no longer want. Then all you need to do is choose a piece from what they have there to replace the piece you have donated. You may find the ideal dining table and chairs that you want for the theme of your room.
5.The rule of three. Instead of placing items together as even numbered groups, do it in odd numbered groups instead. Where 2 candlesticks together look symmetrical, by adding a bowl or another smaller candlestick holder, you will give the element of surprise. Plus, by mixing colors and textures in order to form groups of three in a room, it will provide you with a whole new look also.
6.As previously mentioned, when looking to redecorate your living room, move the furniture. You can also do this in your dining room. Instead of the table being horizontal to the walls, why not place it in the room at an angle (but make sure you have enough space to walk round it). Also, move any cupboards etc., away from walls, and instead place these in corners of the room at angles. By doing this, you are giving your dining room a whole new look.
7.Why not build and attach a fold down shelf to one of your dining room walls? It will certainly make it easier for you when entertaining, and can be used as a buffet area also.
8.How about giving your dining room cabinets a new lease on life and paint them to accentuate the color of the room? Check at your local paint supply store or DIY store, as well as online for advice on how to paint unusual surfaces.
9.Use a mirror in order to create light and space in your dining room. Frame one in such a way that it creates a mock window. You could even use one by placing it behind some artistic belongings in order to highlight them from all sides.
10.If your dining room chairs are looking a little tired and dated, then cover them with slipcovers…why not try making some covers yourself? Why not purchase another tablecloth or two that matches the one you use for your table, and upholster them in this as well?
11.Finally, why not repaint the room? You do not need to do the whole room, just paint one or two walls with an accent color. Maybe go for a color which will accent all the various aspects of the room, and integrates well with any soft furnishings that you have.
Just because money is tight doesn't mean your style has to suffer. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money?
Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection.
Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Living Room Decorating on a Budget
In today's economy fixing up one's house can be rather expensive. However one still likes to change things up once in a while just to keep life exciting. One of the ways to spice up your home life is to redecorate the interior of your house.
There are a number of different ways to provide a new look to your living room. It may be that you are just starting out in a new home, or that you would like to revive an old tired space, but decorating any room, and especially the living room, can be a real challenge. It can be even more of a challenge when you only have small budget to work with.
But the biggest hurdle that we face is how to get a look that expresses our unique personality, without spending a fortune. However, by looking at the items you already have in a different way, you should be able to create a cozy family room for almost next to nothing. Below are provided a number of decorating tips which should help to turn a drab living room into a warm and friendly place for everybody to gather.
1. Paint
Paint one wall using your favorite color, and so make this the focal point of the room. Then hang a piece of interesting art on the wall (it could even be something you have made yourself). Next, place a nice piece of furniture on that side of the room to provide even more accent to the wall. If you want to add extra impact to the wall, then why not use a rubber stamping technique? Although it is extremely easy to do, rubber stamping can look very impressive when finished.
2. Use an Area Rug
This is a great way to define a conversation area and look for one which will complement the décor of the room. Rather than lying it straight, put it at an angle underneath your coffee table (if you have one). Or if not, then just place it in a central location where the seating is situated. Why not add some large cushions as well?
3. Pictures & Mirrors
Hang those which most reflect your personality. If you are able to, try frames that are more ornate. Plus, when hanging a mirror, place it in a position where it will reflect either a nice view, or an interesting architectural element of the room. Including a mirror in a room also creates the illusion of more space in a room because of the light reflecting off it.
4. Lighting
Replace lamps, as these are one thing that will provide clues to your room being outdated. If you are unable to replace the whole lamp, then just consider replacing the lampshade instead.
5. Coffee Table
If your coffee table is looking tired or scratched, then cover it with a small decorative throw rug. Or if you want to be a bit more adventurous, then why not consider tiling the top of it with mosaic tiles or colored glass instead?
6. Rearrange the Furniture
But do not think square; instead, put your furniture at an angle. By doing this you are giving a whole new look to the layout of your room, and is much more inexpensive than going out and buying new furniture.
Also pay attention to the floor space that you have left and use it. You could actually get some scatter cushions and use these as additional seating. It will provide your living room with a much more relaxed atmosphere.
7. Plants
Use plants to add freshness and impact to the décor of your room, and if placed strategically, will hide any ugly flaws in a room.
Finally, if you do not need it, then remove it. You can either donate it to your local charity, or ask a family member or friend if they could use it. By de-cluttering a space, you will not only be providing yourself with more room, but you will also be gaining a whole new look.
Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques on living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
There are a number of different ways to provide a new look to your living room. It may be that you are just starting out in a new home, or that you would like to revive an old tired space, but decorating any room, and especially the living room, can be a real challenge. It can be even more of a challenge when you only have small budget to work with.
But the biggest hurdle that we face is how to get a look that expresses our unique personality, without spending a fortune. However, by looking at the items you already have in a different way, you should be able to create a cozy family room for almost next to nothing. Below are provided a number of decorating tips which should help to turn a drab living room into a warm and friendly place for everybody to gather.
1. Paint
Paint one wall using your favorite color, and so make this the focal point of the room. Then hang a piece of interesting art on the wall (it could even be something you have made yourself). Next, place a nice piece of furniture on that side of the room to provide even more accent to the wall. If you want to add extra impact to the wall, then why not use a rubber stamping technique? Although it is extremely easy to do, rubber stamping can look very impressive when finished.
2. Use an Area Rug
This is a great way to define a conversation area and look for one which will complement the décor of the room. Rather than lying it straight, put it at an angle underneath your coffee table (if you have one). Or if not, then just place it in a central location where the seating is situated. Why not add some large cushions as well?
3. Pictures & Mirrors
Hang those which most reflect your personality. If you are able to, try frames that are more ornate. Plus, when hanging a mirror, place it in a position where it will reflect either a nice view, or an interesting architectural element of the room. Including a mirror in a room also creates the illusion of more space in a room because of the light reflecting off it.
4. Lighting
Replace lamps, as these are one thing that will provide clues to your room being outdated. If you are unable to replace the whole lamp, then just consider replacing the lampshade instead.
5. Coffee Table
If your coffee table is looking tired or scratched, then cover it with a small decorative throw rug. Or if you want to be a bit more adventurous, then why not consider tiling the top of it with mosaic tiles or colored glass instead?
6. Rearrange the Furniture
But do not think square; instead, put your furniture at an angle. By doing this you are giving a whole new look to the layout of your room, and is much more inexpensive than going out and buying new furniture.
Also pay attention to the floor space that you have left and use it. You could actually get some scatter cushions and use these as additional seating. It will provide your living room with a much more relaxed atmosphere.
7. Plants
Use plants to add freshness and impact to the décor of your room, and if placed strategically, will hide any ugly flaws in a room.
Finally, if you do not need it, then remove it. You can either donate it to your local charity, or ask a family member or friend if they could use it. By de-cluttering a space, you will not only be providing yourself with more room, but you will also be gaining a whole new look.
Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques on living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Monday, November 24, 2008
Happiness in The Frugal Lifestyle
The word “frugality” has left a more negative connotation for most people than simply being a saver, a cheapskate or tightwad. There is a thin line difference to saving and too much frugality to the point of being awkward and ridiculous. This is where the negative connotation comes from.
But if you are guided with the right principles and reasons in deciding to live a frugal life, you would never go wrong. If you have decided to live frugally, no need to be worried of insults. Keep your head up high. And keep your focus through these tips.
1. Eating Out - Having gimmicks with friends on a Friday night is fine if you do it once in a while. But this can be expensive if you add them up at the end of the month.
2. Clothing - Naturally, if you are the kind of person who adores signature and designer clothes, do not expect that there will be something left of your take home pay. Instead of being trendy, wear clothes that can easily be matched with your other clothes.
3. Own Home - If you are planning to move out and find a place to settle, do not be overwhelmed by the excitement, instead be practical. As a start, buy a smaller house or try other ways like rent-to-own, do-it-yourself arrangements, and owner financing.
4. Buying Your Own Car - Shy away from sports cars or SUVs. Just stick to your purpose of buying a car which is to transport you anywhere you need to go. Check out also program cars like a new car warranty. Maybe this is not just the best time to replace your car with a new one.
5. Shopping for Groceries - As much as possible do not go with items that are branded. Choose non-brands and try looking for items on the highest or lowest shelves for best prices. Grab the opportunity and shop during sales or use coupons.
6. Family Out - There are inexpensive ways to bond with your family and be entertained like going to libraries, local parks, malling, picnics, visit friends and local church.
7. Buying School Supplies - Stock school supplies at home and do not buy anything fancy.
8. Be contented with what you have and try to live within what you earn.
9. Plan your Child’s College Education - Teach them the ways to be independent and self-supporting by encouraging them to apply for scholarships and “on campus jobs”.
10. Be Aware of your Financial Limitations
11. Anticipate your Failures by Planning - Have always a budget plan so you would avoid impulsive buying.
Being frugal in the long run gives one the resources to get through tough times, and in better times enjoy special moments and not worry about finances. Remember I'm on your side as we are all in this together. Come back again next week for another great tip on living the good life without breaking the back. Be sure to check out my ebook (link below) if you need help working out a budget.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
But if you are guided with the right principles and reasons in deciding to live a frugal life, you would never go wrong. If you have decided to live frugally, no need to be worried of insults. Keep your head up high. And keep your focus through these tips.
1. Eating Out - Having gimmicks with friends on a Friday night is fine if you do it once in a while. But this can be expensive if you add them up at the end of the month.
2. Clothing - Naturally, if you are the kind of person who adores signature and designer clothes, do not expect that there will be something left of your take home pay. Instead of being trendy, wear clothes that can easily be matched with your other clothes.
3. Own Home - If you are planning to move out and find a place to settle, do not be overwhelmed by the excitement, instead be practical. As a start, buy a smaller house or try other ways like rent-to-own, do-it-yourself arrangements, and owner financing.
4. Buying Your Own Car - Shy away from sports cars or SUVs. Just stick to your purpose of buying a car which is to transport you anywhere you need to go. Check out also program cars like a new car warranty. Maybe this is not just the best time to replace your car with a new one.
5. Shopping for Groceries - As much as possible do not go with items that are branded. Choose non-brands and try looking for items on the highest or lowest shelves for best prices. Grab the opportunity and shop during sales or use coupons.
6. Family Out - There are inexpensive ways to bond with your family and be entertained like going to libraries, local parks, malling, picnics, visit friends and local church.
7. Buying School Supplies - Stock school supplies at home and do not buy anything fancy.
8. Be contented with what you have and try to live within what you earn.
9. Plan your Child’s College Education - Teach them the ways to be independent and self-supporting by encouraging them to apply for scholarships and “on campus jobs”.
10. Be Aware of your Financial Limitations
11. Anticipate your Failures by Planning - Have always a budget plan so you would avoid impulsive buying.
Being frugal in the long run gives one the resources to get through tough times, and in better times enjoy special moments and not worry about finances. Remember I'm on your side as we are all in this together. Come back again next week for another great tip on living the good life without breaking the back. Be sure to check out my ebook (link below) if you need help working out a budget.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Monday, November 17, 2008
Using Budgeting Tools
Using Budgeting Tools
In these tough economic times one needs to spend wisely. The best way to do so is to make a budget and stick to it. Budgeting your monthly expenses in order to get the greatest return on your income (and perhaps, even put aside some for saving!) doesn’t have to be extremely hard.
Various budgeting programs are available for use. Money management programs provide you with a usual package that allows you to enter your cash inflows and outflows, categorizes your expenditures, and at times, presents to you analysis of your spending behavior. Through these programs you can also input the various payments you have to make monthly, and subsequently track if you’ve paid your dues on time. Moreover, some programs also offer you a tax form draft that will help you make sure you’re not missing out on any dues or any deductibles, for that matter.
Another budgeting tool that you can utilize are coupons. Various stores and magazines contain coupons that you can use to get discounts on various products. Should there be a need to purchase a particular product for which you have a coupon for, you will end up saving a fraction of what you might have had to spend on a regular purchase.
Lists—whether on a piece of paper, on your cellular phone, or on your personal digital assistant (PDA) will help you keep focused on what you have to buy, and in effect, keep track of the purchases you make. A classic example is your regular grocery trip. Prior to making the trip, plan out the week’s entire menu and identify what food items and materials you need to purchase that are unavailable in your pantry. Then, make a list of other household items that you’ve run out of (or are eventually going to run out of before you can make the next trip to the grocery). Armed with these lists, you can go to the grocery and know exactly where to go and what you’re going to buy. Without these lists, you will walk idly along aisles, and will likely pick up various food items that you won’t likely need in the immediate future, or already have at home.
A filing system is perhaps one of the best budgeting tools you can have in your home. With simple, labeled file folders, you can put together your bills, your receipts, and whatever bank documents are issued to you when you save or pay. By putting together your bills, your credit card receipts, and the like, you are able to keep track of how much you owe and when your payments are due.
Effective budgeting tools are those that best address your needs as a consumer. Create your own budgeting tool or find a program, or a book, (I just happen to have one handy) or some other resource to do it for you—just make sure it suits your lifestyle.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
In these tough economic times one needs to spend wisely. The best way to do so is to make a budget and stick to it. Budgeting your monthly expenses in order to get the greatest return on your income (and perhaps, even put aside some for saving!) doesn’t have to be extremely hard.
Various budgeting programs are available for use. Money management programs provide you with a usual package that allows you to enter your cash inflows and outflows, categorizes your expenditures, and at times, presents to you analysis of your spending behavior. Through these programs you can also input the various payments you have to make monthly, and subsequently track if you’ve paid your dues on time. Moreover, some programs also offer you a tax form draft that will help you make sure you’re not missing out on any dues or any deductibles, for that matter.
Another budgeting tool that you can utilize are coupons. Various stores and magazines contain coupons that you can use to get discounts on various products. Should there be a need to purchase a particular product for which you have a coupon for, you will end up saving a fraction of what you might have had to spend on a regular purchase.
Lists—whether on a piece of paper, on your cellular phone, or on your personal digital assistant (PDA) will help you keep focused on what you have to buy, and in effect, keep track of the purchases you make. A classic example is your regular grocery trip. Prior to making the trip, plan out the week’s entire menu and identify what food items and materials you need to purchase that are unavailable in your pantry. Then, make a list of other household items that you’ve run out of (or are eventually going to run out of before you can make the next trip to the grocery). Armed with these lists, you can go to the grocery and know exactly where to go and what you’re going to buy. Without these lists, you will walk idly along aisles, and will likely pick up various food items that you won’t likely need in the immediate future, or already have at home.
A filing system is perhaps one of the best budgeting tools you can have in your home. With simple, labeled file folders, you can put together your bills, your receipts, and whatever bank documents are issued to you when you save or pay. By putting together your bills, your credit card receipts, and the like, you are able to keep track of how much you owe and when your payments are due.
Effective budgeting tools are those that best address your needs as a consumer. Create your own budgeting tool or find a program, or a book, (I just happen to have one handy) or some other resource to do it for you—just make sure it suits your lifestyle.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Monday, November 10, 2008
Holiday Money Saving Ideas
With the hype that holidays usually bring, people always have the tendency to buy more and spend more without taking into account the consequences that their actions can bring.
Hence, it does not necessarily mean that because it is the holidays you have all the reason in this world to buy whatever you want and spend how much you want. Some people contend that it’s just once a year, so better give what you have. However there are smart ways to spend and still enjoy the fun of gift giving.
The problem is that giving something just for the spirit of the holidays does not mean you have to spend gold. You can still give something that will be deeply appreciated without having to spend more money.
Here’s how:
1. Make a budget and stick to it
The problem with most people is that they find making a budget relatively easy but sticking to it is doubly hard. So what’s the point of making a budget when you do not know how to conform to what you have stated in there?
Making and using your budget should always go hand in hand. Therefore, when you make your budget this holiday season, it is best that you follow the things that are written in it so that you would be able to save more money.
2. Live within your means
Of course, everybody would want to give gifts because that is what the holiday season calls for. However, it does not necessarily mean that you have to spend more than what you can afford.
The trick to saving more money is to always live within your means. Spending more than what you can afford will definitely bring more problems than you can afford to solve.
3. Personalize it!
As they say, it is the thought that counts. Hence, there are no better ways to show how much you have thought of those people this holiday season than making personalized gifts.
4. Shop and compare
It really pays to shop around and doubly better when you compare prices. You will never know which items are better priced than the others are when you do not compare their values.
The point here is that you should not be confined to one shopping portal. Try to look for other items, usually in thrift stores and consignment shops, where you can find the best items at a lower price.
Indeed, shopping for the holidays can be fun, but you don’t have to be spendthrift. Nowadays, you really just have to be practical.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Hence, it does not necessarily mean that because it is the holidays you have all the reason in this world to buy whatever you want and spend how much you want. Some people contend that it’s just once a year, so better give what you have. However there are smart ways to spend and still enjoy the fun of gift giving.
The problem is that giving something just for the spirit of the holidays does not mean you have to spend gold. You can still give something that will be deeply appreciated without having to spend more money.
Here’s how:
1. Make a budget and stick to it
The problem with most people is that they find making a budget relatively easy but sticking to it is doubly hard. So what’s the point of making a budget when you do not know how to conform to what you have stated in there?
Making and using your budget should always go hand in hand. Therefore, when you make your budget this holiday season, it is best that you follow the things that are written in it so that you would be able to save more money.
2. Live within your means
Of course, everybody would want to give gifts because that is what the holiday season calls for. However, it does not necessarily mean that you have to spend more than what you can afford.
The trick to saving more money is to always live within your means. Spending more than what you can afford will definitely bring more problems than you can afford to solve.
3. Personalize it!
As they say, it is the thought that counts. Hence, there are no better ways to show how much you have thought of those people this holiday season than making personalized gifts.
4. Shop and compare
It really pays to shop around and doubly better when you compare prices. You will never know which items are better priced than the others are when you do not compare their values.
The point here is that you should not be confined to one shopping portal. Try to look for other items, usually in thrift stores and consignment shops, where you can find the best items at a lower price.
Indeed, shopping for the holidays can be fun, but you don’t have to be spendthrift. Nowadays, you really just have to be practical.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
LAST DITCH METHOD TO STOP YOUR CREDITORS COLD!
Wipe Out Your Debts!
If you're afraid to answer the phone because your creditors have been calling every night; and you're worried that one of them is going to call your boss and tell him you're a deadbeat; and just trying to pay off your bills leaves you almost nothing for food - it time you thought about bankruptcy!
With a small amount of money, a lawyer (and even he's not necessary a lot of the time), and a careful evaluation of your assets (what you own) and your liabilities (what you owe), you too can make a new start with the help of the Federal and State bankruptcy laws. But don't rush into this without carefully
determining which is the right way for you, for there are several different ways to stop your creditors cold, and choosing the wrong way can result in your losing much more than you might otherwise have to.
Straight Bankruptcy Usually Costs Less, and It's Quick!
If you have very few assets, and lots of debt, and not enough income to pay the debts off, even on an extended plan (more about that later), then you will probably have to file straight bankruptcy. You must file the proper forms (or "schedules") which you can purchase from any really good office supply
stationery store in your nearest city, especially one in a district where there are lawyers' offices.
Bankruptcy is not a very complicated court action, so don't be too afraid of it. You will need to know which district you live in for Federal Court purposes; look in the telephone (white pages) under U.S. Government - Courts, and locate the U.S. District Court in your nearest city. Probably that court has
jurisdiction; but check this out by phoning the Clerk of the Court and asking him, giving him you home address. You will have to fill out several "schedules" or lists of your creditors: creditors having priority, creditors having security, and creditors having unsecured claims without priority. You must
list every creditor, for any one that is not listed can still sue you and collect, even after the bankruptcy! If you don't know if a debt is secured (backed up by a related asset, like refrigerator bought on an instalment loan) or unsecured (made only on your personal reputation, with no related asset), ask the creditor. Include as a creditor the name of anyone for whom you co-signed a loan or note, and anyone who co-signed for you.
What Will You Have Left?
Will you be put out in the cold without food, clothing and a house to live in after your creditors get paid? Not at all - because most State bankruptcy laws allow some of your assets to be "exempt" from being used to pay your creditors! You must check the specific laws of your State, but usually, the house you live in, the tools of your trade, your personal clothes (within reasonable limits) and certain specific basic home furnishings are all not taken away from you. In fact, in this totally absurd world we live in, many States now permit you to also keep your TV set(!), because, apparently, they regard it as a necessity for life!
Where to File
Once you have all the forms filled out and notarized, bring them to the Clerk of the U.S. District Court in your district, along with $50. You don't have to notify your creditors - the Clerk does that, while also reminding them that now that you have filed bankruptcy papers, they may not press you for any more money, but may come to your hearing.
Usually your creditors don't show up, since by that time you have filed bankruptcy, you have very few nonexempt assets left that they are interested in. Whatever assets you do have that are not exempt (if any) must be sold under the Court's supervision. Any money thus realized is added to whatever cash
you may have had at the time you filed (if any) and the total amount (which might be, and often is, as low as $50 or $750 is divided up by the trustee appointed at your hearing and your creditors get paid on a pro rata (proportional) basis to the amount you owe them. If your assets add up to an amount that,
for example, only allows each creditor 3 1/2 cents for every dollar of debt you owed them, then that 3 1/2 cents is all he gets!
About three months after you have filed, you adjudged "bankrupt". and you can start over again to incur, pay bills and establish a new credit record. Be careful, however, about talking to your old credits at this time. They may offer to help you out by extending new credit, and manoeuvre you into
signing "reaffirmation" of your old debt! Ready anything you sign very closely, and don't agree to repay any debt that you have already discharged through your bankruptcy!
Lawyers for Complications
There are some people who should definitely hire a lawyer to help them through their bankruptcies, especially people who have assets like real estate that they want, somehow, to keep. Aside from real estate, if you have been accused by any creditor of fraud, you should also have a lawyer handle your case. If you decide you don't need a lawyer to handle your bankruptcy, you are still responsible for filling out all of the forms accurately and completely, and every bit as carefully as if a lawyer had done them. Leaving out a creditor's address from a schedule, or forgetting a loan you co-signed can bring lawsuits against you even after your bankruptcy. So be careful, and if you find the bankruptcy process is too complicated, do see a lawyer!
Keeping Your Assets Instead
If you've fallen behind in paying your bills, but you don't want to declare straight bankruptcy, you may want to clean up your financial mess instead through Chapter XIII of the Federal Bankruptcy Laws. Also known as the Wage Earner Plan, Chapter XIII differs from straight bankruptcy in two most important ways: you must pay off the entire amount of your debts (no 10 cents on a dollar here), and within a 3 year period. but the good part is you are not declared "bankrupt", so no one ever knows that you needed relief under any part of the Federal Bankruptcy Acts.
The major advantage of the Wage Earner Plan, besides not being recorded permanently on your credit record, is that you get to keep all your assets, exempt and non-exempt alike (assuming you still have any left!). This is quite important, if, for example, you have a good paid-up car, or expensive household furnishings or a boat or other valuable assets that you want to keep. Under Chapter XIII, you can get your current debts "stretched out" to three years, which may well result in lower total monthly payments than you are currently paying, and as long as you pay off your debts in accordance with the agreement files with the Court, month by month, no creditor will be able to sue you to try to seize any other of your assets, and force their public sale at disadvantageous prices.
Even if they have begin to sue you, once you file for relief under the Bankruptcy Act, either under Chapter XIII or under Chapter XI, straight voluntary bankruptcy, they can't touch you! They are immediately restricted to getting from you only what the referee or trustee will give them and that only after the court proceedings have been completed. Often, if the creditor threatens to sue you, the most effective thing you can do to stop him (besides paying the debt!) is to tell him frankly that, if he sues you, you have no other recourse than to declare bankruptcy. This will often make your creditor willing to negotiate the debt, and you may be able to satisfy him by paying the debt back, but over a longer period of time (with smaller monthly payments) than you originally contracted for. Creditors know well that if you file bankruptcy, the chance of their getting payment in full on their overdue account is very low, so it is in their interest to try to ease your credit burden at least for a while.
Make Yourself "Judgment-Proof"
If a creditor goes ahead and sues you, and gets a judgment against you, he can then get a court order directing the sheriff to seize your personal property, sell it and pay the creditor the amount of your debt. However, if you have no valuable assets, there is nothing for the sheriff to seize, and you are what is generally called "judgment proof", or in other words, can't be made to pay the debt. Because they know this is likely to happen, street-smart debtors often hide their possessions, or move them out-of-state, before the sheriff (or marshal) arrives. This is, of course, illegal. The creditor's next move is to
try to "garnishee your wages, which he does by getting a court order directing your employer to set aside part of your wages or salary every pay period and turn the amount over to him. However, he can only do this if he knows, or can find out, where you work. But even if your wages are garnisheed, there are limits on what a creditor can take! Laws vary from State to State. In some states wages cannot be garnisheed at all while in others only small amounts are exempt from garnishment.
If you have no job, and no visible assets, or you live in a State where your wages cannot be garnisheed, your creditors actually have very few ways of ever collecting on that judgment!
Harassment and Other Creditor Tools
Before your situation gets bad enough to need bankruptcy relief, and before your creditors actually sue you, they will try to make you pay up using informal techniques, rather than formal court orders, as this is far less expensive and time-consuming. First among these informal attempts may be turning their bills over to a collection agency which may then begin harassment, by calling you often and at odd hours by telephone, by trying to talk to your employer about your debts, and/or by threatening you with legal actions, etc. Many of these techniques that they use are illegal!
Yes, a creditor or agency can write you letters, call once a day seeking payment, try to bring legal action against you, but he is forbidden by law to harass you or invade your privacy, or use deceptive means to get you to pay your bills. He may not use foul and abusive language over the telephone, tell anyone beside you the reason for his phone call, insist on payment for a product or service that you claim to have a legitimate grievance about, nor issue false threats (such as saying that he is going to drag you into court to collect $35, when in fact his agency's policy is not to file suit on accounts of less than $100, because of the high legal costs involved). He may not inconvenience you (by calling you at work when you are not easily able to receive calls), or invade your privacy (telling your employer or your neighbor that he is trying to collect a debt from you).
There are books that provide detailed additional information on personal bankruptcy, and include sample letters with which you can try to arrange "stretch-outs" on your own with your creditors before bankruptcy is necessary. Some include sample bankruptcy forms filled out that you can use as a model. Since the accurate filing of all your debts and assets is so important, it's a good idea to follow their detailed instructions closely, with or without a lawyer, so that once you get your creditors off you back, they stay off!
I hope this article was of use to you and you are able to use this information wisely. Remember that any action on your part needs some deep thought and should not be rushed into lightly.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
If you're afraid to answer the phone because your creditors have been calling every night; and you're worried that one of them is going to call your boss and tell him you're a deadbeat; and just trying to pay off your bills leaves you almost nothing for food - it time you thought about bankruptcy!
With a small amount of money, a lawyer (and even he's not necessary a lot of the time), and a careful evaluation of your assets (what you own) and your liabilities (what you owe), you too can make a new start with the help of the Federal and State bankruptcy laws. But don't rush into this without carefully
determining which is the right way for you, for there are several different ways to stop your creditors cold, and choosing the wrong way can result in your losing much more than you might otherwise have to.
Straight Bankruptcy Usually Costs Less, and It's Quick!
If you have very few assets, and lots of debt, and not enough income to pay the debts off, even on an extended plan (more about that later), then you will probably have to file straight bankruptcy. You must file the proper forms (or "schedules") which you can purchase from any really good office supply
stationery store in your nearest city, especially one in a district where there are lawyers' offices.
Bankruptcy is not a very complicated court action, so don't be too afraid of it. You will need to know which district you live in for Federal Court purposes; look in the telephone (white pages) under U.S. Government - Courts, and locate the U.S. District Court in your nearest city. Probably that court has
jurisdiction; but check this out by phoning the Clerk of the Court and asking him, giving him you home address. You will have to fill out several "schedules" or lists of your creditors: creditors having priority, creditors having security, and creditors having unsecured claims without priority. You must
list every creditor, for any one that is not listed can still sue you and collect, even after the bankruptcy! If you don't know if a debt is secured (backed up by a related asset, like refrigerator bought on an instalment loan) or unsecured (made only on your personal reputation, with no related asset), ask the creditor. Include as a creditor the name of anyone for whom you co-signed a loan or note, and anyone who co-signed for you.
What Will You Have Left?
Will you be put out in the cold without food, clothing and a house to live in after your creditors get paid? Not at all - because most State bankruptcy laws allow some of your assets to be "exempt" from being used to pay your creditors! You must check the specific laws of your State, but usually, the house you live in, the tools of your trade, your personal clothes (within reasonable limits) and certain specific basic home furnishings are all not taken away from you. In fact, in this totally absurd world we live in, many States now permit you to also keep your TV set(!), because, apparently, they regard it as a necessity for life!
Where to File
Once you have all the forms filled out and notarized, bring them to the Clerk of the U.S. District Court in your district, along with $50. You don't have to notify your creditors - the Clerk does that, while also reminding them that now that you have filed bankruptcy papers, they may not press you for any more money, but may come to your hearing.
Usually your creditors don't show up, since by that time you have filed bankruptcy, you have very few nonexempt assets left that they are interested in. Whatever assets you do have that are not exempt (if any) must be sold under the Court's supervision. Any money thus realized is added to whatever cash
you may have had at the time you filed (if any) and the total amount (which might be, and often is, as low as $50 or $750 is divided up by the trustee appointed at your hearing and your creditors get paid on a pro rata (proportional) basis to the amount you owe them. If your assets add up to an amount that,
for example, only allows each creditor 3 1/2 cents for every dollar of debt you owed them, then that 3 1/2 cents is all he gets!
About three months after you have filed, you adjudged "bankrupt". and you can start over again to incur, pay bills and establish a new credit record. Be careful, however, about talking to your old credits at this time. They may offer to help you out by extending new credit, and manoeuvre you into
signing "reaffirmation" of your old debt! Ready anything you sign very closely, and don't agree to repay any debt that you have already discharged through your bankruptcy!
Lawyers for Complications
There are some people who should definitely hire a lawyer to help them through their bankruptcies, especially people who have assets like real estate that they want, somehow, to keep. Aside from real estate, if you have been accused by any creditor of fraud, you should also have a lawyer handle your case. If you decide you don't need a lawyer to handle your bankruptcy, you are still responsible for filling out all of the forms accurately and completely, and every bit as carefully as if a lawyer had done them. Leaving out a creditor's address from a schedule, or forgetting a loan you co-signed can bring lawsuits against you even after your bankruptcy. So be careful, and if you find the bankruptcy process is too complicated, do see a lawyer!
Keeping Your Assets Instead
If you've fallen behind in paying your bills, but you don't want to declare straight bankruptcy, you may want to clean up your financial mess instead through Chapter XIII of the Federal Bankruptcy Laws. Also known as the Wage Earner Plan, Chapter XIII differs from straight bankruptcy in two most important ways: you must pay off the entire amount of your debts (no 10 cents on a dollar here), and within a 3 year period. but the good part is you are not declared "bankrupt", so no one ever knows that you needed relief under any part of the Federal Bankruptcy Acts.
The major advantage of the Wage Earner Plan, besides not being recorded permanently on your credit record, is that you get to keep all your assets, exempt and non-exempt alike (assuming you still have any left!). This is quite important, if, for example, you have a good paid-up car, or expensive household furnishings or a boat or other valuable assets that you want to keep. Under Chapter XIII, you can get your current debts "stretched out" to three years, which may well result in lower total monthly payments than you are currently paying, and as long as you pay off your debts in accordance with the agreement files with the Court, month by month, no creditor will be able to sue you to try to seize any other of your assets, and force their public sale at disadvantageous prices.
Even if they have begin to sue you, once you file for relief under the Bankruptcy Act, either under Chapter XIII or under Chapter XI, straight voluntary bankruptcy, they can't touch you! They are immediately restricted to getting from you only what the referee or trustee will give them and that only after the court proceedings have been completed. Often, if the creditor threatens to sue you, the most effective thing you can do to stop him (besides paying the debt!) is to tell him frankly that, if he sues you, you have no other recourse than to declare bankruptcy. This will often make your creditor willing to negotiate the debt, and you may be able to satisfy him by paying the debt back, but over a longer period of time (with smaller monthly payments) than you originally contracted for. Creditors know well that if you file bankruptcy, the chance of their getting payment in full on their overdue account is very low, so it is in their interest to try to ease your credit burden at least for a while.
Make Yourself "Judgment-Proof"
If a creditor goes ahead and sues you, and gets a judgment against you, he can then get a court order directing the sheriff to seize your personal property, sell it and pay the creditor the amount of your debt. However, if you have no valuable assets, there is nothing for the sheriff to seize, and you are what is generally called "judgment proof", or in other words, can't be made to pay the debt. Because they know this is likely to happen, street-smart debtors often hide their possessions, or move them out-of-state, before the sheriff (or marshal) arrives. This is, of course, illegal. The creditor's next move is to
try to "garnishee your wages, which he does by getting a court order directing your employer to set aside part of your wages or salary every pay period and turn the amount over to him. However, he can only do this if he knows, or can find out, where you work. But even if your wages are garnisheed, there are limits on what a creditor can take! Laws vary from State to State. In some states wages cannot be garnisheed at all while in others only small amounts are exempt from garnishment.
If you have no job, and no visible assets, or you live in a State where your wages cannot be garnisheed, your creditors actually have very few ways of ever collecting on that judgment!
Harassment and Other Creditor Tools
Before your situation gets bad enough to need bankruptcy relief, and before your creditors actually sue you, they will try to make you pay up using informal techniques, rather than formal court orders, as this is far less expensive and time-consuming. First among these informal attempts may be turning their bills over to a collection agency which may then begin harassment, by calling you often and at odd hours by telephone, by trying to talk to your employer about your debts, and/or by threatening you with legal actions, etc. Many of these techniques that they use are illegal!
Yes, a creditor or agency can write you letters, call once a day seeking payment, try to bring legal action against you, but he is forbidden by law to harass you or invade your privacy, or use deceptive means to get you to pay your bills. He may not use foul and abusive language over the telephone, tell anyone beside you the reason for his phone call, insist on payment for a product or service that you claim to have a legitimate grievance about, nor issue false threats (such as saying that he is going to drag you into court to collect $35, when in fact his agency's policy is not to file suit on accounts of less than $100, because of the high legal costs involved). He may not inconvenience you (by calling you at work when you are not easily able to receive calls), or invade your privacy (telling your employer or your neighbor that he is trying to collect a debt from you).
There are books that provide detailed additional information on personal bankruptcy, and include sample letters with which you can try to arrange "stretch-outs" on your own with your creditors before bankruptcy is necessary. Some include sample bankruptcy forms filled out that you can use as a model. Since the accurate filing of all your debts and assets is so important, it's a good idea to follow their detailed instructions closely, with or without a lawyer, so that once you get your creditors off you back, they stay off!
I hope this article was of use to you and you are able to use this information wisely. Remember that any action on your part needs some deep thought and should not be rushed into lightly.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Friday, May 2, 2008
More Than One Way to Recycle Old Newspapers
You ever wonder why some people just seem to hold onto their old newspapers and never seem to throw any of them away? Why don't they just recycle them and be good citizens? Well maybe they are recycling them, but not in an overtly obvious way.
Here are 80 uses for that old newspaper:
1. use as umbrella when caught in rain
2. protect car seats from muddy or wet clothing
3. spread over outdoor benches to protect clothing
4. put into loose shoes to tighten
5. stuff in leather shoes to preserve shape
6. stuff in wet shoes overnight to dry and deorderize
7. crumple and place in suitcase for couple of weeks to remove
stale odors
8. use as mat when polishing shoes
9. stuff hats to keep their shape
10. stuff leather handbags in storage
11. wrap around candle bottoms so they'll fit holders tighter
12. store records between sheets
13. use as padding under a table cloth
14. cover store windows when remodeling
15. cover furniture when away on vacation
16. cover furniture when sanding or painting
17. spread on floor underneath rug when shampooing
18. dampen and spread over window-panes before painting
19. use to dry and polish window after washing
20. dampen a bit and use to clean typewriter keys
21. make a hat when painting
22. fold to make a sheath for a knife
23. place in closed windows to eliminate wind rattle
24. stuff under doors and in cracks to stop cold wind from
coming in
25. use as a bounce reflector when taking flash photographs or
use to reflect sunlight into shadow areas.
26. place a sheet in jar tops to tighten loose lids
27. make unusual lamp shades
28. make dress patterns
29. protect table when children are painting or gluing
30. use as wallpaper for a doll house
31. make paper chains
32. make paper dolls
33. make paper mache handicrafts
34. make kites
35. make party hats
36. occupy children by letting them color and paint the cartoons
37. make a child's play tent
38. use to raise height of child at table
39. use as a stepstool
40. cut out articles and make a scrap book on a specific
subject of interest to you.
41. emergency pot holder
42. use to remove heavy grease from oven
43. emergency dust pan
44. roll, secure in middle with elastic and fringe one end to
use to get rid of cobwebs
45. start fires
46. use as a fan to make fires burn better
47. sharpen pencils by rubbing the point on newspaper
48. muffle a loud alarm clock
49. muffle the sound of a typewriter by using as a mat
underneath
50. place under heavy objects on wooden tables
51. spread out between garden rows to discourage weeds
52. use to wrap green tomatoes to ripen
53. cover plants during a frost
54. use as a knee pad when gardening or scrubbing floors
55. roll and use as a funnel
56. roll and use as a torch
57. roll and use as a megaphone outdoors
58. use folded sheets as a fan to keep cool
59. use as sun shade at spectator events
60. use as a mat for wet darkroom photographs
61. shred and stuff in vases to help support fresh flowers
62. put under car wheels when stuck in snow, mud or sand
63. line storage boxes
64. line bottom of bird cage
65. line shelves
66. line waste baskets
67. line a pet's sleeping box
68. swat flies with rolled up sheets
69. use to wipe paint brushes
70. use as mat for wet, muddy boots
71. shred and use for packing breakables
72. wrap and store Christmas tree ornaments
73. wrap around ice cream to keep frozen
74. roll around baby bottle to insulate
75. use as a blotter
76. put inside coat for emergency warmth
77. place on top of snow with bird feed on it
78. place on windshield to prevent icing
79. make a litter bag for your car
80. crumple (no colors) and place in plastic containers to
eliminate odors
Recycling means more than just putting things in a bin and forgetting about them. It is amazing how much money you can save by just being a bit creative with the materials at your disposal (sorry about the pun......no I'm not!).
Mahalo
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Here are 80 uses for that old newspaper:
1. use as umbrella when caught in rain
2. protect car seats from muddy or wet clothing
3. spread over outdoor benches to protect clothing
4. put into loose shoes to tighten
5. stuff in leather shoes to preserve shape
6. stuff in wet shoes overnight to dry and deorderize
7. crumple and place in suitcase for couple of weeks to remove
stale odors
8. use as mat when polishing shoes
9. stuff hats to keep their shape
10. stuff leather handbags in storage
11. wrap around candle bottoms so they'll fit holders tighter
12. store records between sheets
13. use as padding under a table cloth
14. cover store windows when remodeling
15. cover furniture when away on vacation
16. cover furniture when sanding or painting
17. spread on floor underneath rug when shampooing
18. dampen and spread over window-panes before painting
19. use to dry and polish window after washing
20. dampen a bit and use to clean typewriter keys
21. make a hat when painting
22. fold to make a sheath for a knife
23. place in closed windows to eliminate wind rattle
24. stuff under doors and in cracks to stop cold wind from
coming in
25. use as a bounce reflector when taking flash photographs or
use to reflect sunlight into shadow areas.
26. place a sheet in jar tops to tighten loose lids
27. make unusual lamp shades
28. make dress patterns
29. protect table when children are painting or gluing
30. use as wallpaper for a doll house
31. make paper chains
32. make paper dolls
33. make paper mache handicrafts
34. make kites
35. make party hats
36. occupy children by letting them color and paint the cartoons
37. make a child's play tent
38. use to raise height of child at table
39. use as a stepstool
40. cut out articles and make a scrap book on a specific
subject of interest to you.
41. emergency pot holder
42. use to remove heavy grease from oven
43. emergency dust pan
44. roll, secure in middle with elastic and fringe one end to
use to get rid of cobwebs
45. start fires
46. use as a fan to make fires burn better
47. sharpen pencils by rubbing the point on newspaper
48. muffle a loud alarm clock
49. muffle the sound of a typewriter by using as a mat
underneath
50. place under heavy objects on wooden tables
51. spread out between garden rows to discourage weeds
52. use to wrap green tomatoes to ripen
53. cover plants during a frost
54. use as a knee pad when gardening or scrubbing floors
55. roll and use as a funnel
56. roll and use as a torch
57. roll and use as a megaphone outdoors
58. use folded sheets as a fan to keep cool
59. use as sun shade at spectator events
60. use as a mat for wet darkroom photographs
61. shred and stuff in vases to help support fresh flowers
62. put under car wheels when stuck in snow, mud or sand
63. line storage boxes
64. line bottom of bird cage
65. line shelves
66. line waste baskets
67. line a pet's sleeping box
68. swat flies with rolled up sheets
69. use to wipe paint brushes
70. use as mat for wet, muddy boots
71. shred and use for packing breakables
72. wrap and store Christmas tree ornaments
73. wrap around ice cream to keep frozen
74. roll around baby bottle to insulate
75. use as a blotter
76. put inside coat for emergency warmth
77. place on top of snow with bird feed on it
78. place on windshield to prevent icing
79. make a litter bag for your car
80. crumple (no colors) and place in plastic containers to
eliminate odors
Recycling means more than just putting things in a bin and forgetting about them. It is amazing how much money you can save by just being a bit creative with the materials at your disposal (sorry about the pun......no I'm not!).
Mahalo
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Why pay for home improvement when you can do it yourself?
There has been a decline in consumer confidence in the building and construction industry. This may be the same reason why many are now doing home improvements by themselves.
Why not? A little knowledge of the technical aspects combined with the eye for creativity is enough to do the home improvement on your own.
Why are people turning to do-it-yourself home improvements?
Many construction workers who do not have a lot of experience or expertise in construction or home maintenance are out there right now trying to work on these homes across the country.
As a result, homeowners are finding that the jobs are not being completed to their satisfaction. Sometimes they are even prepaying for services that do not get done or are not part of the plan.
You do not have to rely and pay someone to improve your home. Why not try to do it yourself?
You can enhance your home’s existing concrete surfaces using acid stains, acrylic stains, epoxy paints, and scoring techniques.
If you are tired of looking at dreary gray concrete, there are some easy projects for the serious home improvement do-it-yourselfer to give your patio, driveway, garage, etc. a refreshing new look.
Decorative concrete work costs double or even triple that of regular concrete. This is why many people cannot afford it.
There are inexpensive ways to decorate concrete after it has cured without having to pay skilled tradesmen.
Acid based concrete stains are becoming more and more popular for coloring concrete surfaces. They chemically react with the cementitious material to produce permanent color with variegated or mottled appearance like that of marble. This results in a natural, elegant looking surface.
Water based concrete stains are an alternative to acid stains and are much more user friendly because they’re much less toxic. These stains do not chemically react with the concrete; they are absorbed into the surface pores and act like a dye. The big advantage of water based stains is the wide array of colors available.
If you want to venture beyond the basic staining of concrete, consider using some scoring techniques to create patterns on the surface.
You can make your concrete look like a tile floor for example. It is up to your imagination. An angle grinder with a 4 inch grinding or cutting wheel is the ideal tool for this.
The important thing to remember when scoring is to draw the pattern on the concrete first and make sure you are satisfied with the way it looks because scoring is irreversible.
Epoxy paints make an excellent coating for garage floors and basement floors. Many commercial floors have epoxy coatings because of their durability and resistance to chemical spills as well as their appearance.
In recent years, however, it has become very popular for residential use with an increasing availability of different colors. This is not a difficult project, but the key to successful application is surface preparation.
Epoxy paints have also become available in a water based form making it safe for the do-it-yourselfer and ideal for indoor applications. They cost a little more than stains. For a 400 square foot garage, you’ll spend about $200 for the materials needed for this project.
See? You do not have to spend money to have your home improved. You have the capability to do it yourself. With some instructions and a little bit of work, anyone can turn boring concrete into their own masterpiece.
Mahalo
================================================
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
=================================================
Why not? A little knowledge of the technical aspects combined with the eye for creativity is enough to do the home improvement on your own.
Why are people turning to do-it-yourself home improvements?
Many construction workers who do not have a lot of experience or expertise in construction or home maintenance are out there right now trying to work on these homes across the country.
As a result, homeowners are finding that the jobs are not being completed to their satisfaction. Sometimes they are even prepaying for services that do not get done or are not part of the plan.
You do not have to rely and pay someone to improve your home. Why not try to do it yourself?
You can enhance your home’s existing concrete surfaces using acid stains, acrylic stains, epoxy paints, and scoring techniques.
If you are tired of looking at dreary gray concrete, there are some easy projects for the serious home improvement do-it-yourselfer to give your patio, driveway, garage, etc. a refreshing new look.
Decorative concrete work costs double or even triple that of regular concrete. This is why many people cannot afford it.
There are inexpensive ways to decorate concrete after it has cured without having to pay skilled tradesmen.
Acid based concrete stains are becoming more and more popular for coloring concrete surfaces. They chemically react with the cementitious material to produce permanent color with variegated or mottled appearance like that of marble. This results in a natural, elegant looking surface.
Water based concrete stains are an alternative to acid stains and are much more user friendly because they’re much less toxic. These stains do not chemically react with the concrete; they are absorbed into the surface pores and act like a dye. The big advantage of water based stains is the wide array of colors available.
If you want to venture beyond the basic staining of concrete, consider using some scoring techniques to create patterns on the surface.
You can make your concrete look like a tile floor for example. It is up to your imagination. An angle grinder with a 4 inch grinding or cutting wheel is the ideal tool for this.
The important thing to remember when scoring is to draw the pattern on the concrete first and make sure you are satisfied with the way it looks because scoring is irreversible.
Epoxy paints make an excellent coating for garage floors and basement floors. Many commercial floors have epoxy coatings because of their durability and resistance to chemical spills as well as their appearance.
In recent years, however, it has become very popular for residential use with an increasing availability of different colors. This is not a difficult project, but the key to successful application is surface preparation.
Epoxy paints have also become available in a water based form making it safe for the do-it-yourselfer and ideal for indoor applications. They cost a little more than stains. For a 400 square foot garage, you’ll spend about $200 for the materials needed for this project.
See? You do not have to spend money to have your home improved. You have the capability to do it yourself. With some instructions and a little bit of work, anyone can turn boring concrete into their own masterpiece.
Mahalo
================================================
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
=================================================
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Spend Wisely to Save Money-or A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned (or at least an extra penny to spend elsewhere).
Spend Wisely to Save Money-or A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned (or at least an extra penny to spend elsewhere).
Have you ever noticed that the things you buy every week at the grocery and hardware stores go up a few cents between shopping trips? Not by much…just by a little each week but they continue to creep up and up.
All it takes for the price to jump up by a lot is a little hiccup in the world wide market, note the price of gasoline as it relates to world affairs.
There is a way that we can keep these price increases from impacting our personal finances so much and that is by buying in quantity and finding the best possible prices for the things we use and will continue to use everyday… things that will keep just as well on the shelves in our homes as it does on the shelves at the grocery store or hardware store.
For instance, dog food and cat food costs about 10% less when bought by the case than it does when bought at the single can price and if you wait for close out prices you save a lot more than that.
Set aside some space in your home and make a list of things that you use regularly which will not spoil. Any grain or grain products will need to be stored in airtight containers that rats can’t get into so keep that in mind.
Then set out to find the best prices you can get on quantity purchases of such things as bathroom items and dry and canned food. Also realize that store brands cost at least 10% less than “National Brands”, but still have the same quality.
You will be surprised at how much you can save by buying a twenty pound bag of rice as opposed to a one pound bag but don’t forget that it must be kept in a rat proof container.
You can buy some clothing items such as men’s socks and underwear because those styles don’t change, avoid buying children’s and women’s clothing, those styles change and sizes change too drastically.
Try to acquire and keep a two year supply of these items and you can save hundreds of dollars.
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
Mahalo.
Have you ever noticed that the things you buy every week at the grocery and hardware stores go up a few cents between shopping trips? Not by much…just by a little each week but they continue to creep up and up.
All it takes for the price to jump up by a lot is a little hiccup in the world wide market, note the price of gasoline as it relates to world affairs.
There is a way that we can keep these price increases from impacting our personal finances so much and that is by buying in quantity and finding the best possible prices for the things we use and will continue to use everyday… things that will keep just as well on the shelves in our homes as it does on the shelves at the grocery store or hardware store.
For instance, dog food and cat food costs about 10% less when bought by the case than it does when bought at the single can price and if you wait for close out prices you save a lot more than that.
Set aside some space in your home and make a list of things that you use regularly which will not spoil. Any grain or grain products will need to be stored in airtight containers that rats can’t get into so keep that in mind.
Then set out to find the best prices you can get on quantity purchases of such things as bathroom items and dry and canned food. Also realize that store brands cost at least 10% less than “National Brands”, but still have the same quality.
You will be surprised at how much you can save by buying a twenty pound bag of rice as opposed to a one pound bag but don’t forget that it must be kept in a rat proof container.
You can buy some clothing items such as men’s socks and underwear because those styles don’t change, avoid buying children’s and women’s clothing, those styles change and sizes change too drastically.
Try to acquire and keep a two year supply of these items and you can save hundreds of dollars.
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
Mahalo.
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