What is a home warranty?

Home warranties are a type of insurance that can be purchased for a home, ideally at the time when the home is purchased. Like any other type of insurance, home warranty plans are purchased from a provider for a predetermined lump sum or periodic payment. Typically plans cover home systems, appliances, or both and in the event that something goes wrong the insurance company will assist with the costs of repair or replacement.

How do home warranties work?

If an appliance or system covered by a home warranty plan fails, the policy holder contacts their home warranty provider and informs them of the failure. The warranty company then contacts the partner they use to repair the type of damage in question, who then visits the home, assesses the situation and reports back to the warranty company. The repair partner goes on to fix the problem and/or perform any necessary replacements; once the problem is resolved the homeowner pays a minimal service fee (less than 100$ in most cases).

Who is responsible for paying for a home warranty?

Which party is responsible for purchasing a home warranty plan is usually dictated by local practices. In some places it is seen as the seller’s responsibility to pay for a home warranty because it gives the buyer coverage in the event something goes wrong with the home and ensures that they will not contact the seller after closing about problems with the home. In other cases, the buyer is seen as being responsible for ensuring that they are protected against anything that might happen to the property after closing by purchasing a warranty plan if they desire one.

Are home warranties the right choice for you?

Home warranty plans are an optional service, so it is up to the consumer to determine if getting one is the right option for their circumstances. However, the protection that such warranty plans provide can be invaluable in the event of a home system or appliance failure that could cost a large sum to replace unexpectedly. Home owners that don’t want to risk paying huge amounts unexpectedly for the replacement of something like a furnace should definitely consider paying a comparatively small sum for a home warranty plan to protect themselves from the risk of a huge financial burden.

Selling your appliances with your home seems like a great loss, but can help impact the selling price, as it makes the buyers move-in infinitely less expensive, and more convenient. Savvy buyers are on the look out for appliances that will add the most value to the home.

What to Invest In:

1. A stainless-steel kitchen

Most new appliances are made in stainless-steel these days, and real estate shoppers are looking for modern appliances that are energy efficient and attractive, which is most often found in appliances with a stainless-steel finish. Refrigerators are big sellers — typically home owners are looking for a kitchen that is spacious and can accommodate their needs, and a large refrigerator that saves them money on their monthly electricity bill is always a plus. For those with an interest in fine cuisine, the oven is essential — investing in a nice stove top or double oven will often add thousands of dollars in value to your home.

2. Laundry room make-over

Nobody wants to make a trek to the laundromat if they don’t have to — having a washer and dryer that comes with the home adds an element of convenience to the buyer’s everyday lives, particularly if that washer and dryer is modern and efficient. Buyers will pay for convenience, and a washer and dryer, particularly Energy Star or energy-saver models, will make an impression in the marketplace.

3. Ductless heat

It is not necessary to invest in a new heating system if you have a drafty home — instead, consider ductless heat pumps, which keeps the climate of your home temperate and comfortable without any ductwork that adds thousands of dollars to the bill. Easy to replace, buyers will be drawn to the comfortable climate, as well as the potential ease of fixing any heating system mishap that might occur in the future. The average ductless heat pump runs at a couple thousand dollars, which is considerably less expensive and takes up less space the average baseboard-style or ducted heating system.

In most card playing circles odds, luck, and randomness are all factors that make the game fun, so counting cards during a friendly game of bridge with the aunts is probably unnecessary. Card count is primarily used in games like blackjack that are being played for money in a casino or other gambling environment.

When and Where is it legal?

Technically, card counting is entirely legal–at least in states and on territory owned by Native American tribes where gambling is legal. Federal, state, and local laws only prohibit card counting when it is done using machines or other devices.

Nota bene: Casinos frown heavily upon this practice, and have no qualms kicking out a player who they determine to be counting cards, which they can do–accurately or no–by observing patterns in betting (this will become more clear in a moment).

The technical legality of card counting is in part due to the fact that as a crime, it produces little to no evidence. While a casino may have no problems throwing a suspected counter onto the street, or banning them from the blackjack tables they do so at the risk of throwing out an innocent, inexperienced gambler (the kind blackjack games make so much money from) whose betting patterns are coincidentally similar to those of a card counter.

How it’s done

There’s more than one way to count cards, and every game comes with different rules, which will also impact the ways in which the cards must be counted.By assigning value to each card–positive, negative, or zero–and betting based on a sum total of values. That’s right: card counting is simple math, no Rain Man-style, iron-clad memory needed.

Low cards (2-6 or 7 depending on the strategy being used) are generally attributed a positive value, because when a low card is dealt the percentage of high cards (9-K and Ace, generally) is also increased. In this same way, a high card is given a negative value when dealt.

The point of all of this value attribution is to represent what is referred to as the What is card counting? EOR (effect of removal) of any given card on the house advantage. The house is always assumed to hold advantage–because it does–and any card removed from play has an impact, positive or negative, on that advantage.

Once house advantage has been rated by the card counter, a bet can accurately be placed. Of course, this is just a basic description of a numerical system that has many variants–side counts, special purpose counts, and a slew of ranking systems–that can be learned and applied.

Simplify Your Business Model

During the 1990s and early 2000s, economic expansion cultivated a culture of creativity in business, and as a result many companies that were started during that time now suffer from overly complicated business models. Simplifying your model can help you to keep up with the implementation of new mandates.

Forecast Conservatively

Especially if you have investors to keep happy, now is a time to be very conservative about your forecasts. If Congress has shown us anything over the past few years, it is that it is bought and paid for by special interests – a situation that will rarely end up swinging in favor of entrepreneurs or small businesses.

Invest in Technology

Creating a good, solid, streamlined technological core will help you to meet the challenges of implementing the mandates of the ACA. That doesn’t have to mean going out and buying a ton of new computers, either. There are excellent technical services companies (see Clientfit.net) that provide high quality data services at a fraction of the cost of buying the hardware yourself.

Get Involved

Whatever your personal feelings about the ACA are, it will help you to get actively involved in the lobbying and political activism that continues to rage around its implementation. First, by being involved you might help to sway implementation to benefit your business in some way. Second, engagement is the best way to stay on top of the minutia of implementation, which is where most healthcare companies will lose their way.

Remember Your Mission

The debate about healthcare reform was so bitter, so passionate, and so fueled by misinformation that it has changed the culture of care – mostly for the worse and in some cases in near violation of the Hippocratic Oath. But there is nothing more important for the managers of a healthcare company to remember than the great mission that is at their core: helping people to improve poor health and maintain good health.

Metal Sheds

One of the most important aspects of keeping a metal shed in good condition despite the weather is having an effective ventilation system. Keeping humid air circulating will prevent the condensation which causes rusting–the primary concern with sheds and out barns made from any kind of metal.

Another useful weatherproofing tool for metal buildings is a rust neutralizer. These are often part and parcel of any weatherproofing compound that can be purchased at a home supply store, but can also be obtained separately, and should absolutely be used on any metal building before the first rain falls.

Wooden Sheds

Because it is especially important to protect wooden sheds from water damage, most professionals recommend building a base for the shed to rest upon, keeping it off the ground. A common trick involves cinder blocks and sheet metal.
To protect the roof, apply commercial sealant to the outside, all along the perimeter, and on the interior shed ceiling. This will help to lock out water, which is bound to fall on top of the roof (which ideally is shingled in a manner similar to a home roof). To keep even more moisture out and discourage moss growth on the exterior of the shed, consider treating or just sealing the wood–just like you might on a wooden deck.

1      Cars

Used cars, when properly purchased, are a much better deal than a new car, especially when financed. Many used cars go under an inspection to make sure they’re quality, and can last just as long as a new car fresh off the lot.

2      Jewelry

Jewelry has a huge markup when purchased new, and often does not have the charm of vintage jewelry. In addition to pawnshops, relatives are a great source for used jewelry; just make sure some research gets done before making that purchase.

3      Kid’s Clothing

It is crazy to buy children’s clothing new; they wear them for such a short time before growing out of them, and thrift stores are filled to the brim with like-new clothing. Buy used, have your children wear them, and then donate or resell them.

4      Furniture

Some people change furniture like others change their clothes, have to make a move across country, or simply find themselves with too much furniture. Buying used furniture does not mean scratch and dent; if the time is taken to find the right furniture, then one can save thousands  buying used furniture.

5      Tablets

If you’re leery about jumping into new technology, like an iPad, or the latest Android Tablet, buying used is a great way to get your hands on new technology without paying full price. While some people have to have the latest tablet, why spend full price on something you’re not sure you want?

6      Cell phones

People are eligible for a new phone at a discounted rate as early as 13 months after they have gotten a new phone on contract. A used phone replacement might be a great way to upgrade early and save a few hundred dollars, or get out of signing another contract with your least favorite phone provider.

7      Designer Clothes/Purses

A savvy shopper knows how to look good without spending a lot of money, and it is easy to look like a million dollars without spending a million dollars if you look for used designer jeans, clothes, and purses. Thrift shops and garage sales are a great place to find designer jeans, purses, and other clothing.

8      Power Tools

Tools, especially power tools, are expensive items that tend to take a lot of abuse, especially if they are used for work. Buying tools used is cheaper than buying new and savvy tool buyers know that they are just going to get beat up anyway. Save some dollars and check out those classified ads for used power tools.

9      Children’s Toys

From outdoor play sets to video games, children’s toys are best bought used. As children grow out of large play sets or complete video game quests, they wind up at second hand stores, thrift shops, or going unused in the backyard. With a little research, buyers of children toys can save hundreds or thousands of dollars.

10   Exercise Equipment

New year’s resolutions and vows to lose weight may prompt people to purchase home exercise equipment, but it does not always inspire them to use it, and someone else’s new year’s resolution to lose weight can be another’s ticket to cheap exercise equipment.  According to Statistic Brain and a 2012 University of Scranton study, while the number one New Year’s resolution is to lose weight, only 46% of people keep their resolution past six months. This is easily the best way to save a few hundred dollars and get fit.

Purchasing an item used does have its downside; the item may not work, or it may not fit, so do a little double checking before making the purchase. Thrift stores usually have a return policy, or do repair work on an item before selling it, but it is rare to get the same guarantee through a private seller. However, after some due diligence, buying items used can be terrific fun and save the buyer a ton of money.

1. The Azores: These gorgeous and remote islands will offer you an exciting vacation in an unbelievable setting. While taking a vacation in the magical Azores, you can see volcanic activity, hike, birdwatch, fish or scuba dive.

2. Kenya African Safari: Safari holidays in Africa provide you the opportunity to see lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffalo and giraffes. The scenery is stunning, and you will have an exciting adventure.

3. Santorini, Greece: You can visit a place where everyone lives in a volcanic depression. The villages of the island are built on the volcanic cliffs, so you can witness beautiful views of the volcano.

4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: While in Rio, you can see the iconic statue of Jesus Christ or you can visit Sugar Loaf Mountain. The city contains exciting festivals throughout the year, and you can enjoy numerous cultural activities. The city also is home to amazing beaches.

5. Madagascar: Located in the Indian Ocean, this island contains remarkable plant and animal life. While on the island, you can visit a spectacular rainforest, or you can take an exciting safari. You can also enjoy visiting one of the parks or just relaxing on the shores of this exciting island.

6. Grindavik, Iceland: You can visit the gorgeous blue lagoon and enjoy the rich waters of this natural attraction. You can float in the water, and you can watch the mysterious steam bellowing off the ice. It is a unique experience.

7. Monte Carlo, Monaco: While visiting this exciting city, you can gamble, stay in a luxury hotel and enjoy gorgeous weather. You can also get a glimpse of the Prince’s palace.

8. Niagara Falls: You can take the Maid of the Mist boat ride where you can see the falls up close, or you can just marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder. It is an unforgettable vacation experience.

9. London, England: Some of the things to do in London include visiting The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. You can also shop, eat and enjoy vibrant nightlife.

10. New York, New York: The Big Apple offers an opportunity to visit The Statue of Liberty, The Empire State Building or Central Park. You can see a Broadway Play or you can enjoy one of the fabulous restaurants. You can also shop until you drop.

Frequent Washes

During harsh winter weather, consider taking your car to the car wash at least once per week. It might not seem practical since it will quickly get dirty again, but the less you allow salt and dirt to accumulate, the better. By minimizing the amount of time these substances spend in contact with the vehicle’s exterior, you can reduce the odds of serious damage.

Cover Your Car

When you’re not driving your car, it is strongly recommended that you keep it shielded from the elements. It’s easy to think that your car will be fine sitting in your driveway, but passing salt trucks, snow plows and other automobiles can toss snow and harmful chemicals onto it. Canvas or plastic car covers offer fair protection from these things. However, if you have a garage or a car port, you should keep your car there for optimum defense.

Waxes, Polishes and Polymers

In addition to other forms of protection, you may wish to consider applying a protective coating to your vehicle. Cenano makes an excellent product that can be used on all parts of your car to seal out and repel water, dirt, oil and other harmful substances. Best of all, it lasts for months, saving you the hassle of frequent reapplication. Cenano car care products can be used on plastic, glass, metal and paint to form an invisible barrier against damage.

Interior Protectants

When you’re caught up in trying to keep the winter weather off of your car, it’s easy to forget about the inside. The cold, dry air that accompanies winter will suck the moisture right out of plastic, vinyl and leather. This causes it to crack, peel and become brittle. Such damage is very expensive to repair and can greatly reduce the value of your car should you wish to sell it in the future. To avoid this, use polishes or waxes designed of use on automotive interiors.

You may not be able to stop winter, but you can certainly prevent it from wreaking havoc on your car. By following the above care tips, you can preserve your car’s aesthetic appeal while adding years to its useful life.

1. Familiar Food

Familiar food is very important. If you’re in your 20′s or 30′s it can be lots of fun to try new foods, but for newborns it isn’t as fun. And new foods often mean stomach discomfort, which can be really not fun for their parents.

No matter if you’re in Asia or Europe, you can find some familiar foods. Rice and bread parents can find virtually anywhere, and major grocery stores carry baby food. The key is to find familiar foods so that your baby isn’t too unhappy.

Also, parents will know what familiar foods should taste like, and be able to figure out if they’ve gone bad. You might be in Korea and not sure what everything should taste like, especially Kim Chee, but if that baby food doesn’t taste like it should, the parents will know – and not feed it to their baby.

2. Research Where You’re Going

Before you go wherever you’re going, find out about the place. Find out what foods will be available there, and if there are any immunizations you need to get – or if you should travel there with a baby.

This can save you a lot of travel related pain and discomfort. Just make sure you’re going to a relatively safe place, and that you take precautions for any special location-specific issues.

3. Bring Basic Medicines

If your child gets an upset stomach a lot, bring Tummy Calm or another basic medicine. If there’s a special cough syrup they usually take, or if the baby has a condition, make sure you bring medicine for it.

New parents can easily plan and avert a lot of catastrophes. Bring some basic medicines and planning makes everything easier.

4. Sleep and Regular Meals

Sleep and regular meals will keep your baby happy and healthy. Familiar food, on a familiar eating schedule, will keep babies from needless stomach pain and discomfort.

Keeping the same regular, daily schedule is beneficial for keeping your baby happy. That means that if you’ve had nap time at three in the afternoon, wherever you are – keep nap time at three in the afternoon.

Little things like this will make a big difference. And keeping your baby happy and healthy go hand in hand.

5. Keep Them Clean!

Most of all, keep your baby clean! Regularly washing your child, and carry cleaning and antibacterial soap and/or lotion with you will keep your baby healthy.

Cleaning will keep unfriendly microbes at bay. Which will allow you to fully enjoy traveling with your healthy baby.

If you’re looking to hear to Sin City soon but can’t quite afford it, consider utilizing these apps to help you feel like you’re already in Vegas!

-       All Slots Mobile Casino 

If you wish to cruise around Vegas but the crowds are too big inside of the large casinos, consider checking out many of the awesome mobile casinos that are available for both tablets and smart phones. Popular favorites include the All Slots Mobile Casino, which is considered to be the largest mobile casino around.

Most of the best apps offer plenty of the games we all know and love to play including slots, roulette, black jack, craps, and more. You simply make a deposit using a funding method such as PayPal or a credit card and you’re off!

-       Hotel Mogul: Las Vegas

Ever want to know what it would feel like to be buzzing around the city of Las Vegas while running your own hotel empire? That is exactly what Hotel Mogul: Las Vegas was designed for. In this exciting game, you can buy up property to build your hotels on as you compete against other people to see who can own the most land and make the most money.

-       Vegas Life

Those looking to feel what it’s like to live and play near the Strip will love using the app known as Vegas Life. Along with being able to play this exciting game with your friends, you can build your own casino and create events to see how many people you can bring in. You can also play Vegas style mini games which include popular favorites like slots and roulette which will make you feel like you’re smack dab in the middle of Vegas and enjoying the action.

-       Entertainment Las Vegas 

Although you’ve heard about all of the exciting shows and attractions that Vegas has to offer, it’s a totally different experience when you’re actually there! By checking out the Entertainment Las Vegas app, you can preview all of the best shows there before taking your trip. You can preview the various shows and even have the ability to buy upcoming tickets straight from your mobile device.

-       Guide to Vegas

Those who are feeling anxious about jumping onto a plane and heading to Vegas may wish to first check out Guide to Vegas. This essential app provides you with everything you’ll need to feel like you’re actually walking around the Strip. High quality pictures and descriptions let you know about everything from state parks to the tastiest places to eat. With this app, you can explore all that Vegas has to offer without actually being there.