HOW to... Guide
2012
St. Louis Park • Hopkins
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KITCHEN APPLIANCES
If you're considering a kitchen remodel, you've probably done a lot of research. You've paged through home decorating magazines, toured model homes and even checked out the kitchen sections of the home improvement stores in town. Whether you’re planning to go with a bold, contemporary look or one that’s a little more traditional, one thing’s for sure, the appliances you choose are going to be more functional than those you used to rely on. Today’s appliances offer features that allow homeowners to customize their kitchens to fit into their lifestyle, according to one industry expert. People are more aware of what’s out there and actually coming into stores with a list of amenities they want. Here’s just a sampling of some of the features that are expected to be popular this year:
Refrigerators Gone are the days where the simple top mount refrigerator was the must-have appliance in the home. Refrigerators are not just about convenience anymore. They are about style and function. Especially popular right now are French-door style refrigerators, which feature two French doors for the refrigerator and a bottom freezer, complete with an icemaker. Not only are they more stylish than the older refrigerators, they offer more storage space and features than ever before, including easy-glide shelves, humidity-controlled crisper drawers and even spill saver glass shelves. Also popular in home remodels these days are counter-depth refrigerators.
Rather than sticking out into the room, these shallow fridges are flush with the cabinets and can even be decorated to look like they’re part of the cabinetry.
Ranges When it comes to freestanding ranges, the choices used to be gas or electric. Nowadays, the options have more to do with the lifestyle of the consumer, and for most people it’s all about convenience. Convection ovens, which use fans in addition to heating elements to cook food more quickly, have come way down in price and are more widely available. And it seems more and more people are opting for double ovens in their homes, typically with one larger than the other. The smaller oven is used to handle most of the every day cooking. The larger oven makes entertaining easier than ever as people can now simultaneously prepare main dishes and side dishes. Also gaining in popularity are gas cook tops, which offer better temperature control. They are available in dual-fuel rangers with gas cool tops and electric ovens. Experts in the appliance business say many people are also being drawn to induction cook tops, which use electromagnetic field to only heat the cookware while the rest of the surface remains cool. This safety feature is especially popular in homes with young children.
Dishwashers Safety is also a major consideration in the new dishwashers. Many models are now available with hidden controls so the little ones can’t turn them on and off. Other popular amenities are stainless steel interiors, an extra rack on top just for
silverware and a motor that runs almost silent. Homeowners no longer have to settle for a noisy, clunky machine in exchange for convenience. And good news for those with large households and extra dishes to wash. You no longer have to purchase two dishwashers to handle the extra work. Drawer dishwashers, which are actually two dishwashers in one stacked on top of each other, are now available. Not only do they save space, they offer a clean look. Microwaves Microwaves have changed dramatically too. There are now speed cook microwaves that prepare food 60 percent faster than a regular oven. They work through a combination of convection baking, microwave cooking and halogen light for browning. No more waiting for the oven to preheat to 400 to bake that frozen pizza. Now you can get dinner from the freezer to the table in less than 10 minutes. Experts say another popular trend is that built-in microwaves are replacing over-the-range styles as homeowners upgrade their ranges, requiring hoods for ventilation.
Finding the Right Appliances When it comes time to actually go out and do your shopping, it pays to visit a store that specializes in appliances and features all brands and all price ranges of appliances. By taking a look up close in a local showroom, consumers will be able to look, touch, open and close the doors and get a real feel for what the appliance would be like once it is installed in your kitchen.
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FUNERAL PLAN
It may be a gift to those you love
It was Ben Franklin who said nothing is certain but death and taxes. This article does not deal with taxes, but rather the other certainty in life. Everyone dies, so a discussion of funeral planning is never irrelevant. When someone we love dies, there are varying stages of anger, confusion and numbness. The funeral is one of the most significant means we have of dealing with grief. The funeral ritual helps us focus our emotions and brings a sense of meaning to death. It confirms the reality of death and provides a catalyst for mourners to talk about the deceased. Experts tell us being able to talk about the life of a deceased loved one is one of the first steps toward accepting death.
Prearranging your funeral Prearranging your funeral is not much different than any other planning you have carried out during your lifetime. You buy insurance in case of fire, flood, theft or death. These coverages are purchased as an act of love and responsibility for those you love in case an unfortunate incident occurs. A pre-planned funeral accomplishes the same goals. A preplanned funeral can prevent your family members from having to make a number of significant decisions at a time when they are confused and upset. They will have enough on their minds dealing with grief without having to make several important decisions in a very short period of time. Experts tell us that there are an average of 50 decisions to be made when arranging a funeral. Adding to the need for preplanning is the fact that our lifestyle is more complex in today’s world. Family members often live in different states, complicating rapid decision making. Further complications stem from frustrations that occur when dealing with government agencies in different states. A solid preplanning session can help prevent these complica-
tions which can loom very large during a time of pain and sorrow.
How to plan A call to a funeral director or a pre-arrangement specialist probably would be a good beginning in making sure you have covered all your bases in your planning. He or she can lead you through a process to ensure you don’t forget vital information in your plan. Some funeral directors and prearrangement specialists offer free booklets that provide a “punch list” of topics to think through and record your wishes. Topics in these guides include funeral details ranging from visitation to the memorial service and alternatives from burial, cremation or entombment. These are obvious decisions, but other important topics include categories that will provide a helping hand to your family. Additional topics include organizations to be notified with phone numbers, persons to be notified, medical history, estate information, banking information, real estate holdings and insurance policies. Many include obituary information outlines, personal property inventories and special instruction and information pages. There may also be information regarding the importance of your will and how to go about ensuring it is accurate and updated.
Prefunding your funeral Prefunding your funeral also is an important consideration. Your funeral director or prearrangement specialist can show you options which will waive your family from possible financial burden later. You may take out a life insurance policy which would cover funeral expenses, or invest in a funeral trust account or final expense insurance policy. In most cases, funds invested today would be enough to cover the total cost of the funeral since interest earned by the funds will offset the effect of inflation.
Government regulations safeguard your investment so funds will always be available for use. Another important part in your plan is to make sure your loved ones know where your recorded wishes can be found. Millions of dollars in government and insurance death benefits go unclaimed because family members do not know where to find information they need at the time of death. Some considerations that also need to remain in the forefront of the preplanning agenda: • Social Security: When a loved one dies, dependents and survivors may be eligible for certain benefits such as death payments, survivor’s benefits and Medicare. Qualifications depend on several factors such as age, marital status, number of dependent and whether employment was under Social Security. Your Social Security account should be verified periodically to ensure contributions are posted. All benefits must be applied for since payments are not automatic. • Veterans Benefits: Honorably discharged veterans are entitled to benefits that may affect decisions about funeral arrangements. For example, veterans may qualify for a cemetery plot and burial allowances, a headstone and burial flag, as well as pension for survivors. • Medicaid: Having a properly structured prepaid funeral is a very important reason why preplanning a funeral is imperative. If an individual has placed their funds into a prepaid funeral plans, after they have itemized a funeral pre-arrangement, the money would most likely be protected 100% from paying for any nursing home costs. In most cases they can also pay for burial space items for their immediate family members. Each persons situations is unique and laws change, however, most funeral directors and pre-arrangement specialists work closely with Elder Law Attorneys who keep them updated on current Medical Assistance laws.
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PAWN STORE Pawnbroking is not a new practice nor does it appeal to just one social class. As humankind’s oldest financial institution, pawn loans can be traced back at least 3,000 years to ancient China as well as early Greek and Roman civilizations. During the 14th Century, King Edward III of England is said to have frequented pawn stores in Europe. Queen Isabella is reported to have pawned her royal jewels to finance Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the New World. In today’s society, many people depend on pawnbrokers to help them meet daily financial needs not offered by other institutions. Pawn customers represent the working families of America who periodically experience an unexpected need for short-term funds. Pawn loans keep the electricity on, the rent paid and cars running with full tanks of gas. This growing, competitive industry is constantly working to enhance the image of pawnbrokers, while offering needed services to their communities. Today’s pawn stores are attractive, welcoming places to do business. Most of them are family-owned and operated stores that offer superb customer service. Although pawnbrokers are primarily small business owners, they can also be larger, publicly traded companies that help to add to the professional status of the industry. Homework to do and things to know when picking a pawn store. • How long have they been in business? An established company is more likely to have solid, long-term customers than a company that has only been around for a few
years and long term customers mean they have been satisfied with the store. • Call ahead and ask for a ballpark price on an item. A store can give you a fairly close quote assuming you are accurate in describing what you have to pawn or sell and its condition. Just remember, don’t try to kid yourself on the condition of the item as what the pawnbroker is willing to pay is going to be on their assessment of condition as well as market demand. • On precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum, ask what they are paying by weight. If they will not give you a price over the phone but say they will “meet any price,” look someplace else. A pawnbroker should have a set price they will give you by either pennyweight or grams (a pennyweight is 1.55 grams). • If you are pawning the item rather than selling it, ask what they charge for interest rates and storage fees. Ask if they offer discounts for early pick up and larger loans. • Check online reviews. For example one review said, “I think I have been to just about every pawn store in Minnesota and this place is the best! I have purchased many things from them over the past 10 years and always got a great deal. Their pricing is second to none! • Look for places that are willing to negotiate on both the buying and selling end. Sometimes you can get a little more on your loan or sale and almost always a good
store will bargain on the sale price of an item they are selling. • When buying an item ask about the return policy. Most reputable pawn stores will offer a guarantee that the item is in good working condition or offer extended warranties at a reasonable price. • To get an idea of how they operate and see a pawn or buy in action, watch Pawn Stars on the History Channel. You can see the interaction between a pawnbroker and customer and get an idea of what you can expect to get for your item based on a professionally appraised valuation from an independent expert. Foy years pawn stores have been providing safety net loans to families that need short term, small dollar loans that simply are not offered by banks and other traditional lending institutions. They have also always been a place to buy merchandise at huge discounts off of what you will pay for an item at retail. Consumers can find more information about the pawn industry at www.PawnShopsToday.com.
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BATHTUB LINERS AND WALL SURROUNDS
Those who are looking to a bathroom makeover without high expense and hassle should consider a bathtub liner and wall surround. These liners and surrounds fit over your existing tub and walls for a quick and affordable remodel. Replacing bathroom tile, and the tub or shower are some of the most common bath remodeling projects, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association. However, these projects can be costly. A basic remodeling job includes replacing the tub, removing tiles and plumbing, possibly costing $6,000 to $8,000. The average remodeling job is more extensive, and costs close to $10,000, according to the National Association of Realtors. These remodel projects can take weeks to complete, depending on how extensive the project is. Choosing a tub liner and wall surround can be a less expensive alternative. For example, a tub liner and wall surround can be installed in one day, with complete systems starting at $2,800.
What to look for
Find a reputable company
When shopping for a bathtub liner and wall surround, ask the company many questions. How do you determine which type of tub I have? How is the liner installed? Are the walls seamless? Some wall surrounds cover the walls in one piece with no seams; others will have multiple panels with seams in the corners. Are you the manufacturer or a distributor? When required, do you use a licensed plumber?
Are the installers properly trained? Installers should be trained in the installation of tub liners and wall surrounds, not windows, gutters or siding. Ask what kind of product training is involved. Are they using employees or subcontractors? Make sure you feel comfortable allowing this company to work in your home. The company should be there for you after the installation. What type of warranty do they offer? Ask your company for references, call these past clients, and ask them if they were satisfied with their service and if they would hire that company again. Finally, check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints or suits filed against the companies you are considering.
Is your bathroom ready? Never install a tub liner or wall surround over a degraded bath or shower area. Installing a wall surround over a wall that is rotting or missing tile will only worsen current conditions, necessitating a major remodeling overhaul in the future. Any damage should be evaluated and repaired prior to installation of the tub liner and wall surround.
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WISE PURCHASING DECISIONS The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota is a non-profit organization which was founded right here in the Twin Cities back in 1912. Our mission is to maintain a marketplace where buyers and sellers can trust each other. In 2010, our BBB handled nearly 2.2 million inquiries from people; visiting our website, checking out company reports and contacting us with general questions. Oh yes, we also received more than 25,000 complaints. With nearly a century of experience helping businesses and customers resolve disputes, the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota has unique insight into marketplace trends, consumer behavior, and common mistakes people make when looking for a service provider or shopping online. Here are some helpful tips you can take to make a wise purchase and avoid potential problems and marketplace fraud: • Check with the BBB at bbb.org or 800-646-6222 before dealing with any company or charity you’re not familiar with. • If you need to hire a contractor or repairman, check with BBB for a list of Accredited Businesses in your area. Always make sure the contractor is properly licensed by visiting www.doli.state.mn.us. • Don’t yield to high-pressure or emotional sales tactics. Read all contracts thoroughly and seek outside advice if you don’t understand it. • Be sure to comparison shop and get multiple estimates. You can use BBB’s “Request a Quote” to get free estimates from local Accredited Businesses with one email. • If you’re hiring a service provider, ask for professional references. • Don’t do business with someone who just shows up at your door. Many cities require door-to-door sales solicitators to have permits. Check with your city/town. • Pay with a credit card. Under federal law, you can dispute the charge if you don’t receive your item
or service – a protection you don’t have when paying with a debit card or by check. • Never pay the entire cost of a repair job upfront. Try not to pay more than one third of the total estimate. • When shopping online, shoppers should always look in the address box for the “s” in https:// and in the lower-right corner for the “lock” symbol before paying. Look for the BBB seal and other widely-recognized “trust marks” on retailer websites. Always remember to click on the seals to confirm that they are valid. • Beware of websites or advertisements offering prices that seem too good to be true. • Never give personal or financial information to an unknown caller or unsolicited email. When on the phone, you can always ask for their name and number to call them back. Delete and do not respond
to unsolicited emails. • Keep documentation of your order. After completing an online order process, there may be a final confirmation page or you might receive confirmation by e-mail. The BBB recommends saving a copy of that as well as any e-mails for future reference and as a record of the purchase. • Trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feel right, don’t make a purchase. By following these simple steps, you’ll be a wiser consumer and limit your exposure to fraud and potential headaches. Visit our website to sign up for our monthly consumer newsletter, or for more information, such as our business reviews, as well as consumer news, fraud alerts and helpful educational tips – all available free at bbb.org!
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Start With Trust – Start with the BBB! For a century, our mission at the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota has been to build marketplace trust. We are proud to support more than 6,400 locally Accredited Businesses who work with us to promote and foster business ethics through voluntary self-regulation, consumer and business education, and service excellence.
BBB RESOURCES ARE FREE FOR CONSUMERS • Advertising Review - We promote truthful advertising and selling practices by monitoring advertising and seeking appropriate corrections. • Business Reviews - Learn about a company’s marketplace performance before you do business with them. • Consumer News and Fraud Alerts - We provide timely news and tips, and issue alerts on the latest scams targeting consumers and businesses in our area. • Dispute Resolution - We’re happy to accept consumer complaints and mediate disputes between businesses and complaintants. • Estimates – Visit our website and use Request a Quote to receive estimates from multiple BBB Accredited Businesses in one simple step. !00!.ĆŤ 1/%*!//ĆŤ 1.! 1ĆŤ+"ĆŤ %**!/+0 ĆŤ * ĆŤ +.0$ĆŤ '+0 ĆŤÄ‘ĆŤ $+*!Ä?ĆŤÄ‡Ä†Ä ÄĄÄ‡ÄŠÄŠÄĄÄ Ä Ä Ä ĆŤĆŤÄ‘ĆŤ Ä‹+.#
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