Tag Archives: Affordable

How To Get Affordable Homeowner’s Insurance In Iowa

June 06, 2024   Matt

How To Get Affordable Homeowner’s Insurance In Iowa

Your home is probably your largest investment and your most priceless asset and because it is you probably have homeowner’s insurance to protect your pride and joy.

But whether you have homeowner’s insurance because you want to protect your home and its contents or whether it’s because your lender insists that you purchase insurance, the simple fact remains that you still want to get affordable homeowner’s insurance here in Iowa.

The good news is, you can – and the steps you need to take to lower your monthly payments are within reach of almost any homeowner.

Start with your credit score. If you want the best rates possible on your homeowner’s insurance you can start by keeping your credit in excellent shape. Surprisingly the size of your monthly premium payment is based in part on your credit score – the better your credit score the lower your homeowner’s insurance payment.

Don’t smoke. Smoker’s pay more for homeowner’s insurance than non-smokers. If you smoked when you first took out your homeowner’s policy but you have since quit, then you need to talk with your agent and see about getting your premium reduced.

A large part of your homeowner’s insurance premium is based upon the level of fire danger to your house. Cut weeds and brush back at least ten feet from any structure on your property to reduce the fire risk – and to reduce your monthly insurance premium.

Motion sensitive outdoor floodlights are a great way to make you home less appealing to burglars but more appealing to your homeowner’s insurance company. Along the same lines you need to trim all bushes away from windows to further discourage burglars.

If you can afford a sprinkler system and/or a home security system that is monitored 24/7 for both fire as well as burglary you may be in line for a reduction in your homeowner’s insurance premiums of as much as 20% to sometimes 30% — but be sure to tell your insurance agent which system you’re planning to install before you sign any contracts.

All exterior doors need a working deadbolt lock and all windows, regardless of which floor they are on, need a working lock – and you need to get in the habit of locking your home securely even if you are only going out for a “minute.”

Upgrading the electrical and plumbing systems in a home more than 10 years old can result in a substantial savings each month on your insurance premium. Be certain to let your agent know any time you make a repair or upgrade to your home.

Make sure that you have installed the required number of smoke and fire detectors for your size home and make certain each one of them is working properly. Don’t forget to change the batteries in your detectors at least twice each year.

Finally, purchase a fire extinguisher specially designed for kitchen fires and mount it where it can be easily reached in case of a fire.

You’ve now done most everything you can to reduce the size of your monthly homeowner’s insurance bill. Now it’s time to go online and find at least 3 different websites that let you quickly and easily compare homeowner’s insurance policies and prices side-by-side.

Be sure to take the time to make your comparisons on at least 3 different websites; that way you can be certain that you are seeing price quotes from every insurance company writing homeowner’s policies in Iowa and you can rest easy knowing that you have gotten the most affordable homeowner’s insurance that you could possibly find.

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How To Get Affordable Homeowner’s Insurance In Alabama

April 27, 2024   Matt

How To Get Affordable Homeowner’s Insurance In Alabama

If you have a mortgage on your home it will come as no surprise to you that your lender requires you to purchase homeowner’s insurance. But did you know that almost 90% of Alabama homeowner’s who own their homes free and clear still choose to purchase homeowner’s insurance?

The reason isn’t difficult to figure out. For most people their home is their biggest and most prized asset and they simply want to do whatever they can to protect that asset. And well they should.

On the other hand there’s no benefit to paying any more for homeowner’s insurance than necessary and so many people are looking for ways to get affordable homeowner’s insurance here in Alabama.

Remember, too, that while your lender has every right to insist that you purchase homeowner’s insurance, your mortgage company cannot legally force you to buy insurance from any particular company. And that is your key to finding affordable homeowner’s insurance.

There are several things you can do that will drive down the cost of your insurance each month.

For example, did you know that if you have a retired person living in your home that you may be entitled to a break on your insurance?

Did you know that your credit score affects how much you pay each month for your insurance? It does. So keep your credit good and your credit score high, because the better your credit score the less you pay for your insurance each month.

Did you know that the biggest reason for a homeowner’s insurance claim is not fire, but water damage? The biggest culprit is either a broken water pipe or a broken appliance connection that floods the house at night or when the home is empty during the day.

Ask your agent how much you could save if you made the one-time investment to upgrade your home’s plumbing and wiring. If the numbers make sense, then go ahead.

Install outdoor floodlights that are motion-controlled and also trim back all bushes away from windows to discourage burglars. Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors and make certain that every single window has a working lock.

A 24/7 home security system that’s monitored off-site not only helps to protect you from both fire as well as burglary, it can also save you 20% or sometimes more on your homeowner’s insurance – but talk to your agent before installing a system as not all systems merit the full discount on your monthly premium.

Purchasing a kitchen-rated fire extinguisher for your kitchen and installing a full compliment of fire and smoke detectors will also help keep your monthly premium cost down.

Now, taking what you have learned in this article go to 3 different websites that allow you to compare the prices of homeowner’s insurance policies from different insurance companies. Input the same information onto 3 of these websites and then find the company that has the lowest price and which you feel confident will be around for at least another 30 years.

And you’re done. You have now gotten affordable homeowner’s insurance here in Alabama and you can feel confident that you will be saving money month after month and year after year.

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9 Affordable Luxury Gifts

February 28, 2024   Matt

9 Affordable Luxury Gifts

It’s possible to treat everyone on your list to a luxury gift without spending a fortune. You just have to know where to find great deals on luxury gifts and how to fit luxury gifts into your budget. If you can’t afford to give an entire designer ensemble, opt for a less expensive accessory. Instead of a mink coat, try mink fur-trimmed gloves. A trip to a day spa, instead of an all-out spa vacation. You get the idea.

How do you define a luxury gift? Webster defines a luxury as (1) something adding to pleasure or comfort but not absolutely necessary (2) an indulgence in something that provides pleasure, satisfaction, or ease. So you see, it isn’t always about the price. A luxury gift can be anything that a person doesn’t find absolutely necessary and probably wouldn’t buy for himself/herself but would love to receive. It’s a special treat.

Here are several affordable luxury gifts that are sure to please:

Jewelry and Watches

A piece of fine jewelry or a designer watch are always welcome gifts but may not be in your budget; especially if you have a long gift list. There’s still a way to get the glitz for much less than retail. Swarovski crystal is a great alternative to diamonds. Or, you could always visit online discount sites if you prefer the real thing. I recently found a Raymond Weil ladies watch for 35% off retail. I’ve also seen substantial discounts on premium designer jewelry and watches on auction sites.

Soothe Mind and Body

Is someone on your gift list stressed out? Treat him or her to a spa service such as a massage, manicure, pedicure or facial by giving a gift certificate. These services cost much less than a full spa day and the recipient will still feel pampered.

Bath and Fragrant Products

This happens to be my absolute favorite when it comes to indulgences. High end soaps, shower gels and bubble bath are richer and more luxuriant than the lower end versions. They also last longer and smell better. I love Bath and Body Works products (especially the new Tutti Dolci Apple Torta line).

Cashmere

There’s just something about cashmere that says luxury. Maybe it’s the feeling of having this ultra-soft wool next to your skin. If your budget won’t allow for a sweater or robe, try less expensive items like scarves, gloves and hats.

Silk

You can find affordable gifts in this luxurious fabric at online discount sites as well. The prices at these sites are so reasonable, that you could spring for silk pajamas without breaking the bank. You could always opt for silk scarves, pashminas or ties.

Fine Foods

Gourmet gifts are great for the person who has everything because they’re consumable. Gourmet foods are generally made of the finest and rarest ingredients and run the gamut from caviar, and lobster to Belgian chocolates. Although some of your recipients wouldn’t dream of paying for these gourmet delicacies, they’ll be glad you did (or at least they’ll think you did). You can impress for less by visiting igourmet.com.

High-End Cookware and Utensils

If someone on your gift list would rather prepare their own gourmet meals, why not arm them with state-of-the-art cookware or utensils. It’s not difficult to find top brands such as All-Clad, Cuisinart, KitchenAid and Le Creuset at savings of up to 70%.

Luxury Bedding

Someone who thinks that all sheets are created equal hasn’t slept on sheets with a thread count above 400. If you want to give someone a luxurious night’s sleep, try sheets with a thread count of 600 or higher. I’ve found a 1,000 thread-count queen sheet set for 9.00 online – 62% off the retail price.

Maid Service

Wouldn’t you feel pampered if someone else handled the house cleaning for you? Give your friend or family member a gift certificate from Merry Maids or Maid Brigade and relieve the recipient of the burden of house cleaning. Service can be scheduled through the companies’ local offices. House cleaning gift certificates are available in amounts of 0 and higher.

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Playgrounds – How to Make Them Fun, Safe and Affordable

July 27, 2021   Matt

Playgrounds – How to Make Them Fun, Safe and Affordable

While creating your own playground will take some planning, it is for certain that your kids will exercise as they are having fun. The good part about this is that the playground does not have to be huge, and therefore expensive. A wide selection of swing and slide sets as well as towers and sandboxes can make for big memories regardless of the playground’s actual size.

First of all, you need to assess the size of the area as well as available materials for your playground. Considerations such as safety and budget constraints should also be in the mix. To get started, ask yourself these questions:

• How much space is available for a playground?
• Is the area sheltered or mostly outdoors?
• Are you willing to build the equipment from scratch or would you rather buy them as kits?
• How much money will you set aside for the project?
• What safety issues do you foresee with the playground?

Space
One thing you should remember: bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. This is particularly so when space is limited. You just need to incorporate strategic pieces that will engage your tots. Great thing about children is that 90% of the fun they get out of playgrounds come from their own imagination. The remaining 10% you provide is just to give them something to work their minds on.

Selections for playground pieces have also corresponded to customers with the limited space and therefore have put out smaller versions of play structures like swings and slides.

Material
Now comes the choice: Metal? Plastic? Wood? What are the pros and cons? Here is a brief run-through:

Play sets made of plastic are perfect for small children. They are light and therefore setup is easy, and it is portable as well. They can also come in a wide selection of bright colors for mini playhouses, jungle gyms, and swings. They can easily be bought either online or at your local retail stores.

Metal playground pieces should be made galvanized to prevent rust from forming. Painting also prevents rusting as well. Make sure that thick gauge steel is used for the swing set particularly for the top bar. Standard swing sets made of metal can sufficiently usually support a limit of 70 pounds for every child.

Play sets made from quality wood like redwood and cedar are more sturdy and attractive. Given proper care and maintenance, they can outlast plastic or metal sets. These can hold around 115 pounds or slightly more per child. Such wood as well as the pressure-treated variety can withstand moisture.

To buy or to build?
Metal and plastic play sets are factory-manufactured and are available in local stores or online. It is preferable to shop with the children so that you can target items of their preference as well as of their size. You are sure to find one that not only meets these criteria, but safety and prize as well.

It will be good to remember that you will need to assemble these sets yourself. This can be done in just a few hours. Also remember to include the delivery price to the retail price of the set as it can cost you significantly. In such cases, try to arrange for your own transportation to do this.

If you choose to get a wood play set you have these options:

– Save money by buying a detailed kit (except for the wood, which you need to buy yourself). You will have to spend more hours to cut and drill the wood before moving onto assembly. You will need to be prepared to do some exact measuring as well before you can bolt together the pieces.

– You can buy the kit, which includes the wood you will be working on. The wood comes pre-cut and pre-drilled and will not take as much time to assemble.

– If assembly is not really your thing, you can avail of the kit and installation services and not have to worry about a thing.

Finally, you need to go over the play set and play area thoroughly for safety issues. It is best to have a child’s mind and eye with this one. Always ask yourself “How would my child see this particular slide/swing?” Are there bars or chains that can potentially snags clothing or injure your child? If there are, remedy these immediately before you allow the child to play in the area. Also, never let a child play unsupervised – this by far, is the prime reason for serious, if not fatal accidents in the playground.

The work it takes to build a playground may be exhausting. But it is definitely time well spent. You are not only giving your child a good play set, you are also allowing him or her the opportunity to build many happy memories.

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What You Need to Start with Affordable Nitro RC Cars

February 28, 2019   Matt

What You Required to Get Going with Cheap Nitro RC Cars

Whether as a gift or a proclivity, nitro RC cars will match your objective. If selecting a nitro RC automobile is your issue, wipe those worries away because you can change the problem into something fun and also interesting.

To begin, better be brightened by the essentials of nitro RC automobiles. These autos are powered by nitro gas fuel. They are the fastest and the most popular sector of the RC car pastime. The important things is that, the smaller the RC car obtains the more pricey it ends up being.

Nitro RC cars and trucks can be split right into two classifications – the off-road and the on-road cars. The previous are developed to conquer rough, bumpy and hard surfaces. They can leap at high rate and back on the ground without staggering. These lorries integrate power, rate, longevity and also performance to perfect their charm. On-road nitro RC vehicles, on the various other hand, are made to race on the streets, race tracks, or virtually any ready surfaces.

Some vehicles are electrical powered while others are sustained by gas. Subsequently, nitro RC cars are powered by fuel. One exciting version of nitro RC cars and trucks is called awesome nitro buggies. They offer one of the most exhilarating race escapade. This is since they combine velocity, speed, sturdiness and managing to create an auto that deserves your loan.

After choosing on the kind of nitro RC automobile, you can ponder on picking either the prepared to run package or the construct it yourself set. The ready to run set is a put together version of RC automobile. It has everything that the RC auto requires in order to run. You simply have to hit the switch to make it run. After that, you can take pleasure in a whole new auto racing adventure with loads of enjoyable.

The build it on your own kit is an unassembled package. Sometimes all the parts are in the package. Nonetheless, there are times when you require to buy additional equipment independently. It might need investing in of a radio, nitro engine, motor, and other extra devices for the RC vehicle.

For beginners, it is best to begin with the ready to run package. You need not fret about the hustle and also bustle of RC auto setting up. You are just to appreciate the adrenaline thrill. On the various other hand, if you find assembly fun and interesting, or if you are a specialist in constructing RC cars, far better get the build it yourself set.

In getting, select an RC cars and truck store in good standing. You can ask an RC auto fanatic for beneficial advice. You can likewise acquire online. Online buying can provide you a wide-variety of choices. You can even benefit from the discounts as well as sales that RC cars and truck online business are supplying. An affordable nitro RC vehicle can be had if you are taking into consideration all offered choices around you.

In order to run your nitro RC car, you require a radio, receiver, nitro engine, two servos, and also a method to begin the engine. You will certainly likewise require nitro fuel to make the automobile run. In addition, make sure to have the best fuel for your RC auto.

Nitro starter packages are specially made for these cars. A lot of the RC leisure activity shops nowadays are geared up with a total nitro starter package. Simply look for the ideal package for you.

Finally, you are prepared for the ultimate racing journey offered you by RC cars and trucks. Brace on your own as well as take pleasure in the adrenaline all over you.

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