Investing is a risky activity. There is so much one needs to learn, and stay on top of, that it can drive one crazy. Many a time someone has started an investment strategy, only to lose it all because of their inability to stay on top of things.
Of course there are many ways to avoid risking your money, and a good financial planner always helps. Also the types of investments one deals in should be tailored to how much they can safely invest, and meet their financial goals, without the worry of losing everything they have.
Everybody has a risk tolerance that should not be ignored. Some individuals can stand the risk, others stress over every decision they make.
Any good stock broker or financial planner knows this, and they should make the effort to help you determine what your risk tolerance is. Then, they should work with you to find investments that do not exceed your risk tolerance.
Determining one’s risk tolerance involves several different things. First, you need to know how much money you have to invest, and what your investment and financial goals are.
For instance, if you plan to retire in ten years, and you’ve not saved a single penny towards that end, you need to have a high risk tolerance, because you will need to do some aggressive, risky, investing in order to reach your financial goal.
On the other side of the coin, if you are in your early twenties and you want to start investing for your retirement, your risk tolerance will be low. You can afford to watch your money grow slowly over time.
Realize of course, that your need for a high risk tolerance or your need for a low risk tolerance really has no bearing on how you feel about risk. Again, there is a lot in determining your tolerance.
For instance, if you invested in the stock market and you watched the movement of that stock daily and saw that it was dropping slightly, what would you do?
Would you sell out or would you let your money ride? If you have a low tolerance for risk, you would want to sell out… if you have a high tolerance, you would let your money ride and see what happens. This is not based on what your financial goals are. This tolerance is based on how you feel about your money!
Again, a good financial planner or stock broker should help you determine the level of risk that you are comfortable with, and help you choose your investments accordingly.
Your risk tolerance should be based on what your financial goals are and how you feel about the possibility of losing your money. It’s all tied in together.
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
******************************************************************
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
One Must Start Somewhere - How To Begin Investing and Getting To The Top of The Heap.
Donald Trump and Warren Buffet didn't start out rich, they started building their empires somewhere and you can join them with patience and persistance.
If you are anxious to get your investments started, you can get started right away without having a lot of knowledge about the stock market. Sure it helps, but while you are studying and learning, you can still invest your money in an intelligent manner. Start by being a conservative investor with a low risk tolerance. This will give you a way to making your money grow while you learn more about investing.
Start with an interest bearing savings account. Sure this is not exciting, but every little bit helps. Something is better than nothing. Besides, you can always move the money latter after you are more knowledgeable and confidant with your investment knowledge. You may already have one. If you don’t, you should. A savings account can be opened at the same bank that you do your checking at , or at any other bank. A savings account should pay 2 – 4% on the money that you have in the account. Again not exciting, it’s not a lot of money, unless you have a million dollars in that account, but it is a start, and it is money making money.
Next, invest in money market funds. This can often be done through your bank. These funds have higher interest payouts than typical savings accounts, but they work much the same way, some even let you write a limited number of checks against the account (generally two to three a month). These are short term investments, so your money won’t be tied up for a long period of time, but again, it is money making money, and that is the general idea isn't it?
Certificates of Deposit are also sound investments with no risk. The interest rates on CD’s are typically higher than those of savings accounts or Money Market Funds.
You can select the duration of your investment, and interest is paid regularly until the CD reaches maturity. CD’s can be purchased at your bank, and your bank will insure them against loss. When the CD reaches maturity, you receive your original investment, plus the interest that the CD has earned. Again f you are not ready for the big time when they do mature, have th interest moved to your money market fund, and "roll-over" the CD's (reinvest the principle in another CD of the same approximate length).
If you are just starting out, one or all of these three types of investments is the best starting point. Again, this will allow your money to start making money for you while you learn more about investing in other places. This way you will build up capital for when you are ready for the next step.
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 are anxious to get your investments started, you can get started right away without having a lot of knowledge about the stock market. Sure it helps, but while you are studying and learning, you can still invest your money in an intelligent manner. Start by being a conservative investor with a low risk tolerance. This will give you a way to making your money grow while you learn more about investing.
Start with an interest bearing savings account. Sure this is not exciting, but every little bit helps. Something is better than nothing. Besides, you can always move the money latter after you are more knowledgeable and confidant with your investment knowledge. You may already have one. If you don’t, you should. A savings account can be opened at the same bank that you do your checking at , or at any other bank. A savings account should pay 2 – 4% on the money that you have in the account. Again not exciting, it’s not a lot of money, unless you have a million dollars in that account, but it is a start, and it is money making money.
Next, invest in money market funds. This can often be done through your bank. These funds have higher interest payouts than typical savings accounts, but they work much the same way, some even let you write a limited number of checks against the account (generally two to three a month). These are short term investments, so your money won’t be tied up for a long period of time, but again, it is money making money, and that is the general idea isn't it?
Certificates of Deposit are also sound investments with no risk. The interest rates on CD’s are typically higher than those of savings accounts or Money Market Funds.
You can select the duration of your investment, and interest is paid regularly until the CD reaches maturity. CD’s can be purchased at your bank, and your bank will insure them against loss. When the CD reaches maturity, you receive your original investment, plus the interest that the CD has earned. Again f you are not ready for the big time when they do mature, have th interest moved to your money market fund, and "roll-over" the CD's (reinvest the principle in another CD of the same approximate length).
If you are just starting out, one or all of these three types of investments is the best starting point. Again, this will allow your money to start making money for you while you learn more about investing in other places. This way you will build up capital for when you are ready for the next step.
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
******************************************************************
Sunday, February 3, 2008
The Problem of Our Age Has a Name and it is Called ‘Credit Card Debt ‘
Once upon a time, not so long ago the adage “Cash is King” was the mantra of business. Credit Cards were virtually unheard of and most credit was done by “Letters of Credit”, or “Revolving Credit”. Of course in the 1960's and 1970's Credit Cards started to take off and were at first a sort of a luxury for the rich and upper crust.
Credit cards are no more a luxury, they are a necessity. Let's face it, the whole “New Economy” depends upon them. So, you would imagine that people are going for credit cards without abandon.. In fact, a lot of people possess more than one credit card. So, the credit card industry keeps growing by leaps and bounds. In fact I am sure most of you receive at least 3 solicitations a week from different banks (let alone the idiotic commercials on TV, radio and in magazines).
Credit Cards a great tool if one knows how to use them properly and is careful in their use. However, too many people do not take care, as they don't really pay attention to what they are doing (usually because Mommy and Daddy took care of the bill when they were younger), so the credit card industry and credit card holders are posed with a big problem called ‘Credit Card Debt’. In order to understand ‘credit card debt’, we need to understand the work flow associated with the use of credit cards as such.
Credit cards, as the name suggests, are cards on which you can get credit i.e. make borrowings (your credit card debt). Your credit card is a representative of the credit account that you hold with the credit card supplier. Whatever payments you make using your credit card are actually your borrowings that contribute towards your credit card debt. Your total credit card debt is the total amount you owe credit card supplier. Normally, if one uses them properly, one settles their credit card debt on a monthly basis. Of course sometimes emergencies arise and one has to go further into debt than planned. This is fine as long as you budget and don't overdue it.
So, you receive a monthly statement or your credit card bill which shows your total credit card debt. Ideally you should pay off your credit card debt by the payment due date, failing which you will incur late fees and interest charges. However, you have the option of making a partial (minimum) payment too, in which case you don’t incur late fee but just the interest charges on your credit card debt. If you don’t pay off your credit card debt in full, the interest charges then get added to the debt. Of course this is how Credit Card Companies and Banks make money off Credit Cards (and why they advertise their use so you would have to pay them interest).
If you don't pay off the balance every month, your credit card debt keeps on increasing, more so because the interest rates on credit card debt are generally higher than the interest rates on other kind of loans/borrowings. Further, the interest charges add on to your credit card debt each month to form the new balance or the new credit card debt amount. If you continue making partial payments (or no payments) the interest charges are calculated afresh on the new credit card debt. So you end up paying interest on the last month’s interest too and so on and so forth until one finds themselves in the deep spiral of endless debt.
Thus your credit card debt accumulates rapidly and soon you find that what was once a relatively small credit card debt has ballooned into a big amount which you find almost impossible to pay. Moreover, if you don’t still control your spending habits, your credit card debt rises even faster. This is how the vicious circle of credit card debt works.
So remember to keep a budget and track your purchases so you don't overspend and everything will be fine and you can keep yourself out of debt and enjoy your life.
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
******************************************************************
Credit cards are no more a luxury, they are a necessity. Let's face it, the whole “New Economy” depends upon them. So, you would imagine that people are going for credit cards without abandon.. In fact, a lot of people possess more than one credit card. So, the credit card industry keeps growing by leaps and bounds. In fact I am sure most of you receive at least 3 solicitations a week from different banks (let alone the idiotic commercials on TV, radio and in magazines).
Credit Cards a great tool if one knows how to use them properly and is careful in their use. However, too many people do not take care, as they don't really pay attention to what they are doing (usually because Mommy and Daddy took care of the bill when they were younger), so the credit card industry and credit card holders are posed with a big problem called ‘Credit Card Debt’. In order to understand ‘credit card debt’, we need to understand the work flow associated with the use of credit cards as such.
Credit cards, as the name suggests, are cards on which you can get credit i.e. make borrowings (your credit card debt). Your credit card is a representative of the credit account that you hold with the credit card supplier. Whatever payments you make using your credit card are actually your borrowings that contribute towards your credit card debt. Your total credit card debt is the total amount you owe credit card supplier. Normally, if one uses them properly, one settles their credit card debt on a monthly basis. Of course sometimes emergencies arise and one has to go further into debt than planned. This is fine as long as you budget and don't overdue it.
So, you receive a monthly statement or your credit card bill which shows your total credit card debt. Ideally you should pay off your credit card debt by the payment due date, failing which you will incur late fees and interest charges. However, you have the option of making a partial (minimum) payment too, in which case you don’t incur late fee but just the interest charges on your credit card debt. If you don’t pay off your credit card debt in full, the interest charges then get added to the debt. Of course this is how Credit Card Companies and Banks make money off Credit Cards (and why they advertise their use so you would have to pay them interest).
If you don't pay off the balance every month, your credit card debt keeps on increasing, more so because the interest rates on credit card debt are generally higher than the interest rates on other kind of loans/borrowings. Further, the interest charges add on to your credit card debt each month to form the new balance or the new credit card debt amount. If you continue making partial payments (or no payments) the interest charges are calculated afresh on the new credit card debt. So you end up paying interest on the last month’s interest too and so on and so forth until one finds themselves in the deep spiral of endless debt.
Thus your credit card debt accumulates rapidly and soon you find that what was once a relatively small credit card debt has ballooned into a big amount which you find almost impossible to pay. Moreover, if you don’t still control your spending habits, your credit card debt rises even faster. This is how the vicious circle of credit card debt works.
So remember to keep a budget and track your purchases so you don't overspend and everything will be fine and you can keep yourself out of debt and enjoy your life.
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, January 22, 2008
Snydley Whiplash At Your Service!
How to Spot and Avoid Equity Scams
With all the talk these days about Recession and layoffs and inflation, people are looking for ways to make ends meet. Regretfully January is the month when all those Holiday bills come due. Where do people get the money? Well those in dire straits that happen to be homeowners, there is always the old “Home Equity Loan”. Also known as “Second Mortgages” (but Home Equity sounds better than a second mortgage, regretfully there are to many people who think that if you soften the language, the experience is lessened, ask all those who have been “downsized” instead of “laid off” and see if there is any difference).
In fact about 25% of the TV commercials these days are for some sort of Home-Equity Loan (the rest are for beer, cars and a small percentage designated for other stuff). Funny as the banks themselves seem to have overextended themselves on other mortgage loans and now are desperate to trap a whole new set of victims..er customers.
Most lenders on the equity loan marketplace are legitimate lenders; however, a few lenders are taking the less fortunate for a ride. These unscrupulous lenders offer appealing loans, yet fail to tell the borrower about hidden charges or “balloon” charges. In fact this is what the whole “Mortgage Crisis” is about. Hidden charges are often stripped from loans, since the APR is a supposed security to borrower that weeds out hidden fees.
“Equity Stripping” is one of the leading scams on the loan marketplace. The lenders engaging in “equity stripping” will often present to borrowers (too good to be real) deals, leading them to believe that they are saving money. Thus, once the borrower agrees to the contract, the lender will pose new charges, high interest, and other fees that puts weight on the borrower, until he or she breaks and
fails to make payments on the mortgage. The lender then repossesses the home, selling the house for profit while the borrower is standing on the corner, wondering where he will live next.
Thus, the Federal Government has provided information to help borrowers avoid losing. Since equity stripping is becoming a huge industry, the Fed’s advise homeowners to watch out for equity stripping, including paying attention to lenders that are offering loans that reach above your wages.
The feds also advise borrowers to stay alert to “loan flipping,” which is the process of switching loans regularly and requesting larger amounts of cash on each refinance applied. If a lender is pressuring you to sign an agreement, you will need to find another lender, since pressuring borrowers is a surefire tip that the lender is out to take you for a ride. You will also want to consider PMI, which is personal mortgage insurance, which is a requirement; however, few lenders attempt to charge for additional coverage that is not needed. Thus, homeowners, especially the less fortunate,should adhere to advice and read details of any loan offered thoroughly.
It is amazing that these types of scams still exist. I don't know if I should laugh at or show pity for the fools who fall for these in this day and age of unlimited information. I know I feel deep scorn for the criminals who try to pull these scams and they should be in jail and out of business.
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
******************************************************************
With all the talk these days about Recession and layoffs and inflation, people are looking for ways to make ends meet. Regretfully January is the month when all those Holiday bills come due. Where do people get the money? Well those in dire straits that happen to be homeowners, there is always the old “Home Equity Loan”. Also known as “Second Mortgages” (but Home Equity sounds better than a second mortgage, regretfully there are to many people who think that if you soften the language, the experience is lessened, ask all those who have been “downsized” instead of “laid off” and see if there is any difference).
In fact about 25% of the TV commercials these days are for some sort of Home-Equity Loan (the rest are for beer, cars and a small percentage designated for other stuff). Funny as the banks themselves seem to have overextended themselves on other mortgage loans and now are desperate to trap a whole new set of victims..er customers.
Most lenders on the equity loan marketplace are legitimate lenders; however, a few lenders are taking the less fortunate for a ride. These unscrupulous lenders offer appealing loans, yet fail to tell the borrower about hidden charges or “balloon” charges. In fact this is what the whole “Mortgage Crisis” is about. Hidden charges are often stripped from loans, since the APR is a supposed security to borrower that weeds out hidden fees.
“Equity Stripping” is one of the leading scams on the loan marketplace. The lenders engaging in “equity stripping” will often present to borrowers (too good to be real) deals, leading them to believe that they are saving money. Thus, once the borrower agrees to the contract, the lender will pose new charges, high interest, and other fees that puts weight on the borrower, until he or she breaks and
fails to make payments on the mortgage. The lender then repossesses the home, selling the house for profit while the borrower is standing on the corner, wondering where he will live next.
Thus, the Federal Government has provided information to help borrowers avoid losing. Since equity stripping is becoming a huge industry, the Fed’s advise homeowners to watch out for equity stripping, including paying attention to lenders that are offering loans that reach above your wages.
The feds also advise borrowers to stay alert to “loan flipping,” which is the process of switching loans regularly and requesting larger amounts of cash on each refinance applied. If a lender is pressuring you to sign an agreement, you will need to find another lender, since pressuring borrowers is a surefire tip that the lender is out to take you for a ride. You will also want to consider PMI, which is personal mortgage insurance, which is a requirement; however, few lenders attempt to charge for additional coverage that is not needed. Thus, homeowners, especially the less fortunate,should adhere to advice and read details of any loan offered thoroughly.
It is amazing that these types of scams still exist. I don't know if I should laugh at or show pity for the fools who fall for these in this day and age of unlimited information. I know I feel deep scorn for the criminals who try to pull these scams and they should be in jail and out of business.
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
******************************************************************
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Too Deep In Debt? Find a Debt Consolidation Program – Help To Become Debt Free!
Here we are, new year and new hopes and dreams are dawning as everything is new again. Only one thing can spoil this wonderful feeling. The bills from the holiday season have now descended upon us and we are immediately brought down to earth.
Did you spend too much? Did you decide to travel in First Class during your holiday rip when you can't afford it? Have you let your other bills become overdue? Are creditors starting to call? Are you getting too deep in debt?
If you answered yes to these questions, you are not alone. Statistics show that the average American house holds 13 credit cards, and a combined debt of $5,800 in credit card debt or more. In debt, it's next to impossible to save, invest, or even enjoy life fully due to a lack of financial freedom.
Of course one way out is to borrow more money to pay off old debts, but this only gets one deeper into debt. If you are experiencing severe debt difficulties and find it difficult to cope, the last thing you really should not do is to borrow more money. Try to consolidate your debt using a debt consolidation program.
Debt consolidation programs you say? Aren't they for losers and deadbeats? Okay maybe you are right, what are my options?
There are various debt consolidation programs, which gives you a lot of options. You could either select a paid service or go for the many free services available.
Check with your Banks and financial firms to see if they can provide you with these services. You will be surprised how many people do use these services and are not losers, but normal people who got into trouble.
If comfortable using the Internet, you could search for an online program for debt consolidation. Search using the term "debt consolidation" and you will find a wide variety of companies to choose from who will be willing to help you. Fill out their free, secure online questionnaires; and a representative from each company will get back with you within 24 hours with a recommendation about your financial situation.
Once enrolled in a particular company, you will have a financial analyst or an expert counselor working with you to frame a program to suit your financial need. They then work with your creditors to get lower interest rates and lower monthly payments for you. In some cases, they might even get creditors to eliminate past fees.
Once your counselor has come to an agreement with each of your creditors, you must begin making payments to the debt consolidation company each month. They will divide your payment among your creditors. It is important that once you start a program, you stick with it until you pay off your debt. Sure this will hurt for a little while, but in the long run you will be glad you did. Remember, “No Pain, No Gain” not only applies to exercise.
Another benefit of a debt consolidation company is that they will teach you how to use credit wisely and how to budget better so that you won't find yourself in debt again. Then of course it is up to you to learn from your lesson. Smart people learn from their mistakes and only fools repeat theirs.
Learn to spend wisely and enjoy life as it was meant to be.
Mahalo.
********************************************************
Need help 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
*********************************************************
Did you spend too much? Did you decide to travel in First Class during your holiday rip when you can't afford it? Have you let your other bills become overdue? Are creditors starting to call? Are you getting too deep in debt?
If you answered yes to these questions, you are not alone. Statistics show that the average American house holds 13 credit cards, and a combined debt of $5,800 in credit card debt or more. In debt, it's next to impossible to save, invest, or even enjoy life fully due to a lack of financial freedom.
Of course one way out is to borrow more money to pay off old debts, but this only gets one deeper into debt. If you are experiencing severe debt difficulties and find it difficult to cope, the last thing you really should not do is to borrow more money. Try to consolidate your debt using a debt consolidation program.
Debt consolidation programs you say? Aren't they for losers and deadbeats? Okay maybe you are right, what are my options?
There are various debt consolidation programs, which gives you a lot of options. You could either select a paid service or go for the many free services available.
Check with your Banks and financial firms to see if they can provide you with these services. You will be surprised how many people do use these services and are not losers, but normal people who got into trouble.
If comfortable using the Internet, you could search for an online program for debt consolidation. Search using the term "debt consolidation" and you will find a wide variety of companies to choose from who will be willing to help you. Fill out their free, secure online questionnaires; and a representative from each company will get back with you within 24 hours with a recommendation about your financial situation.
Once enrolled in a particular company, you will have a financial analyst or an expert counselor working with you to frame a program to suit your financial need. They then work with your creditors to get lower interest rates and lower monthly payments for you. In some cases, they might even get creditors to eliminate past fees.
Once your counselor has come to an agreement with each of your creditors, you must begin making payments to the debt consolidation company each month. They will divide your payment among your creditors. It is important that once you start a program, you stick with it until you pay off your debt. Sure this will hurt for a little while, but in the long run you will be glad you did. Remember, “No Pain, No Gain” not only applies to exercise.
Another benefit of a debt consolidation company is that they will teach you how to use credit wisely and how to budget better so that you won't find yourself in debt again. Then of course it is up to you to learn from your lesson. Smart people learn from their mistakes and only fools repeat theirs.
Learn to spend wisely and enjoy life as it was meant to be.
Mahalo.
********************************************************
Need help 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, January 4, 2008
Another Election Year Another Recession
The Business press are all agog over the fact that we might be heading for a Recession in the economy. Well DUH! If they bother to pay attention to their own records they will see that after every Multi-Term Presidency we tend to have recessions. It is part of the Business Cycle, and yes that is probably why it is called a “Cycle” rather than a line.
Lets face it it happened in 2000-01, 1992-93, 1975-76 and so forth and back all the way to the beginning of the country. It is an historical fact that one can look up for themselves (if they weren't so lazy). How does this happen? Why does this happen?
The main cause of this, if anyone really pays attention, is that the current President cannot run for another term, being limited to two four year terms by the Constitution, and the business community and investors start getting jittery over who will take over running the country. The whole economic philosophy can change depending upon who wins the election (that is why when a sitting VP that has a similar philosophy to the outgoing President gets elected, the cycle is delayed until they themselves leave office).
If there is a change of party then of course the whole economic scenarios change (albeit rather small) and therefore different types of investments are needed to survive in the different environments. Of course it also depends upon the personality and policies of the new President, as some Republicans act like Democrats and vice-versa.
Of course who is running Congress can have a major effect, and usually if the same party runs Congress as the White House, we are guaranteed to have a Recession, that is why Mid-term Elections usually see a change in Congressional make up.
This is good for the country as we depend upon the Checks and Balances between the different branches for our own well being and civil liberties. Regardless of what the immature sour-grapes , namby-pamby naysayers (on the left and right) are whining and crying about, no opposition politician has been assassinated, jailed, or otherwise in the last 8 years, so our basic liberties are still intact.
So what can we do if we know trouble is coming? Well prepare for it and survive the stormy seas.
Well the most important thing to do is to make out and stick to a budget.
See what you can live without as far as unnecessary items are concerned. Put something away for emergencies and planned big expenses (vacations, graduations, weddings, etc). Make sure all bills are as up to date as you can make them and pay off all that you can. This way you don't have debt hanging over your head and you can have a bit more financial freedom.
Maybe a change in your shopping habits can help as well. Buy some of the store brands when doing your grocery shopping. They are not as much of a fall-off as you think, and the quality is the same (in fact due to the government inspections etc. they have to maintain a certain level of quality before they can be put on shelves). Another thing would be eating less Red Meat and more fruits, vegetables and poultry. Not only will you cut down on your grocery bills, but also be healthier for it to boot. Talk about a Win-Win situation!
Now I know what it is like to be a “victim” of “downsizing”, rightsizing” or what ever the moronic newsreaders are using as a euphemism for a layoffs, so I know how traumatic it can be. Especially when the business folds or the office you are working in closes up. It is harsh and somewhat degrading to go through and collect unemployment for a while. But take the time to learn new skills, or at least brush off the rust of old ones you haven't used in a while. Most of all do not despair nor panic. If you were smart and prepared you will come out all right. If not, then pull yourself up by the proverbial bootstraps and get moving, vowing to never be unprepared again.
A recession is coming but it doesn't have to be a catastrophe if you are prepared for it and act in an intelligent manner. Take control of your finances and they won't control 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
******************************************************************
Lets face it it happened in 2000-01, 1992-93, 1975-76 and so forth and back all the way to the beginning of the country. It is an historical fact that one can look up for themselves (if they weren't so lazy). How does this happen? Why does this happen?
The main cause of this, if anyone really pays attention, is that the current President cannot run for another term, being limited to two four year terms by the Constitution, and the business community and investors start getting jittery over who will take over running the country. The whole economic philosophy can change depending upon who wins the election (that is why when a sitting VP that has a similar philosophy to the outgoing President gets elected, the cycle is delayed until they themselves leave office).
If there is a change of party then of course the whole economic scenarios change (albeit rather small) and therefore different types of investments are needed to survive in the different environments. Of course it also depends upon the personality and policies of the new President, as some Republicans act like Democrats and vice-versa.
Of course who is running Congress can have a major effect, and usually if the same party runs Congress as the White House, we are guaranteed to have a Recession, that is why Mid-term Elections usually see a change in Congressional make up.
This is good for the country as we depend upon the Checks and Balances between the different branches for our own well being and civil liberties. Regardless of what the immature sour-grapes , namby-pamby naysayers (on the left and right) are whining and crying about, no opposition politician has been assassinated, jailed, or otherwise in the last 8 years, so our basic liberties are still intact.
So what can we do if we know trouble is coming? Well prepare for it and survive the stormy seas.
Well the most important thing to do is to make out and stick to a budget.
See what you can live without as far as unnecessary items are concerned. Put something away for emergencies and planned big expenses (vacations, graduations, weddings, etc). Make sure all bills are as up to date as you can make them and pay off all that you can. This way you don't have debt hanging over your head and you can have a bit more financial freedom.
Maybe a change in your shopping habits can help as well. Buy some of the store brands when doing your grocery shopping. They are not as much of a fall-off as you think, and the quality is the same (in fact due to the government inspections etc. they have to maintain a certain level of quality before they can be put on shelves). Another thing would be eating less Red Meat and more fruits, vegetables and poultry. Not only will you cut down on your grocery bills, but also be healthier for it to boot. Talk about a Win-Win situation!
Now I know what it is like to be a “victim” of “downsizing”, rightsizing” or what ever the moronic newsreaders are using as a euphemism for a layoffs, so I know how traumatic it can be. Especially when the business folds or the office you are working in closes up. It is harsh and somewhat degrading to go through and collect unemployment for a while. But take the time to learn new skills, or at least brush off the rust of old ones you haven't used in a while. Most of all do not despair nor panic. If you were smart and prepared you will come out all right. If not, then pull yourself up by the proverbial bootstraps and get moving, vowing to never be unprepared again.
A recession is coming but it doesn't have to be a catastrophe if you are prepared for it and act in an intelligent manner. Take control of your finances and they won't control 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
******************************************************************
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
=================================================
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