Buenas! The essence of Guam Super Shopper is to marry up the needs of the consumer with the products provided by local businesses. In order to make sure the gain is on both sides of the spectrum, it would make sense that we ensure consumers are educated and informed when it comes to finances – and that our readers know what financial services are available in the market. We are now in the midst of tax season. While we usually sprinkle the pages with something tangible that you can buy, some would debate that the gift of a financial lesson is far more valuable. Our writers went out and talked to a couple of our local businesses in the finance sector to give you tips – simple, but effective ones – on how to pay down debt wisely and also how to prepare for the tax season. We believe that spending should be fun. It should be a reward. It should be something that we don’t feel guilty about when we look at our bank statements. Skim The Money Issue and you’ll be well on your way to being the smart shopper that gets what they want without breaking the bank. Happy spending – and saving!
Volume 19, Issue 04 | February 12, 2016
+1(671) 472-2363 | gssguam.com 167 Serenu Avenue, Tamuning, Guam 96913 OPERATIONS MANAGER Doris C. Mendiola
SALES MANAGER Ryan James
LAYOUT & DESIGN Mylene Angeli Remiendo Kyle Santos
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Mike Salas Mitzilyn Danila-Figueroa Cas Santos Jesscilla Unsiog
PHOTOGRAPHERS Joe Cruz Delfin Andrada
DISTRIBUTION Brandon Babauta Austin Babauta
WRITERS Michelle Conerly Cheerful Catunao Dance Aoki Joylyn Munoz
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VALENTINE’S DAY SALE! Sofa Bed
MON–SAT 9:30am–7:00pm SUN 9:30am–6:00pm
L-Shape Sofa Bed
$79.00
$199.00
FINANCING AVAILABLE! Neck & Shoulder Massager
Smart Watch
$69.00 & UP
$39.99 Fuji Film instax mini
Curve Shelf
$29.99
$39.99
Shoe Cabinet
2-Door Cabinet
CLEARING OUT SALE
Office Chair
$19.99
Power Bank Computer Gadgets
$19.99 & UP Bluetooth Speakers
$19.99
Foot Massager
$399.00
Book Shelf
$79.00
Valentine’s Day
$149.00
Display Shelf
4-Layer Shoe Shelf
$29.99
Beautiful
Life Power Foot Massager
$89.00
$89.00
$169.00
Sofa Bed w/Arm $299.00
Touch h Screen Laptop $599.00
Computer Keyboard
All Speakers and Box
2-Door Cabinet
Multi Purpose Glass Cabinet
$9.99
15% OFF!
PROMO ITEMS 5-Layer Shelf
$49.99
3-Layer Drawer
$59.00
$89.00
Stainless Clothes Hanger
$129.00
3-Piece Sofa Set
$699.00
$29.99
Folding Bed Computer Desk
$79.00
Single Chair
$69.00
$49.99
3-Piece Coffee Table Set
Mini Blind
50% OFF
5-Piece Dining Set
$139.00
$139.00
NEW ARRIVAL FULL REG $849
$299.00 $299.0 0
NOW
$589 SET
NOW
$689 SET
QUEEN REG $989
$399.00
Full Size Bed Frame (Mattress sold separately)
Queen Size Bed Frame w/Bluetooth Speaker System (Mattress sold separately)
KING REG $1249
$789 SET Euro Pillow Top Mattress NOW
(2 pcs, insulated pad, w/ quilting cover)
SIMPLE
LESSONS
BIG GAINS By Michelle Conerly
ith the holidays over and the New Year upon us, it’s a good W idea to establish a strong financial basis you can lean on throughout the rest of the year. But for some still reeling from their holiday spending, it might seem like a daunting task. Albert Manley, operations manager at Express Financial, said now is the time to follow these few simple tips that will help you start the New Year off in prosperity.
“
“
A credit card is to be used, not abused.
02
For some young people who’ve just received their first credit card, while being able to swipe might feel empowering, Manley said to be aware of your spending. “You can keep a small balance on it all the time— not more than $100,” he said. “But be careful with revolving debt. Don’t run that balance up when you can’t pay it off.”
“
Let the card work on your behalf.
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01
Manley said if you’ve got revolving debt—like a credit card balance—pay more than the minimum so that you can pay it off more quickly. Also concentrate on one debt at a time.
Manley said many cards offer advantages like airline miles and that if travel is something you’re interested in, you should look into those special deals from local banking institutions.
03
One option for homeowners trying to pay down old debt would be acquiring a home equity loan. To consolidate debt into a home equity loan, you concentrate on single payments that are spread out over a long period of time. And if you can afford it, just like credit cards, always pay more than the minimum balance.
Manley also said that the interest that piles up on your home equity loan is tax deductible, which could equal a tax break in the following year.
04
Building good credit will pay off in the long run, too, he said, especially when it comes time to make a major purchase like a car or a house.
“When the time comes to make those major purchases, you could save up a sizeable amount to pay it off quicker,” he said. “But with good credit, your credit is there, your ability to pay is there, and certainly your willingness is there. It’s a no brainer for the bank to approve your loan.”
05
And lastly, it’s important to instill good financial management throughout the family. For instance, parents should make it a point to speak to their teenagers about creating good financial habits early on.
“I think it’s one of the most important conversations to have with a child that will be leaving the nest soon—to teach them about budgets and staying within your ability to pay,” he said. “Budgeting is the most important thing to teach before they go out the door, and it’s our jobs as parents to teach them.”
VEHICLES FOR SALE! ONE-TIME CASH PAYMENTS ONLY
2010 TOYOTA YARIS
$6,999
2010 TOYOTA COROLLA
$7,999
2007 TOYOTA CAMRY
$5,999
2010 TOYOTA CAMRY
$9,999
2011 TOYOTA CAMRY
$10,999
2008 NISSAN ALTIMA
$5,999
2008 NISSAN QUEST
$5,999
2010 FORD E150
$12,999
2002 FORD E350
$3,999
646-7000
THERE ARE MANY MORE CARS TO CHOOSE FROM! PLEASE STOP BY & SEE! WE ARE LOCATED ACROSS YPAO BEACH BETWEEN PIC AND HILTON GUAM RESORT & SPA. 6 | Guam Super Shopper | February 12, 2016
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THE
41 1 on TAX PREPARATION By Cheerful Catunao
and W-2 forms start rolling into Astheyourmail,taxonestatements thing is certain: tax season is here! We all know the golden rule that early tax filing usually leads to an early refund. But before you fill out and submit your tax returns, hold onto your receipts and tax statements. You don’t want to overlook tax deductions and credits that you could have qualified if it weren’t for hasty tax preparation.
Here are some strategies to help you make the most out of this year’s tax season. First things first, keep your tax-deductible annual statements and receipts safe. If you qualify, you may claim the following common tax deductions on this non-exhaustive list:
MY NON-EXHAUSTIVE LIST: • • • • • • •
student loans day care costs 401k payments gambling winnings mortgage interest property taxes charitable donations
Another strategy is to see a tax professional to assess your taxes. It’s popular to file taxes online nowadays, but there’s something that can be said for using a tax professional. “People have questions when filling out their tax returns, and it is more efficient to get answers from a professional tax preparer,” says Ramon Quinene of ABACA Pacific in Dededo. Tax professionals can also ensure that you don’t miss out on any tax credits. “People tend to overlook the fact that they could qualify for earned income tax credit, which is a specific refund for people with low income and/or with children,” continues Quinene. Who qualifies as low-income varies with each individual or couple when reviewing annual salaries ranging from $14,000–$53,000. “Tax laws change annually,” says Quinene. “Every year our professionals go to tax seminars in the mainland to be up-to-date in the field of tax preparation to best help the people.” With careful planning and recordkeeping, you can make the most out of any tax season. Give it a try and that may mean more money for your pockets!
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COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2016
CALENDAR
Lukao Fuha 2016 – Celebrating Matao (CHamoru) Spiritual Resilience and Indigenous Creativity February 13, 2016 | 8:00am | Humåtak Community Center Our Islands Are Sacred invites community to honor our creation. 8:00am (Gather), 9:00am (Process) For more info: www.lukaofuha.com, oiasguam@gmail.com
Guam Head Start Fitness Fair Feb. 13, 2016 | 9:00am–2:00pm | Guam Dededo Sports Complex A fitness fair for children ages 2–10. Free admission.
Xterra Progressive Relay – Run Feb. 21, 2016 | Port Authority Beach, Piti Final leg of the progressive relay, with an off-road run aimed to introduce road runners to trail running and give trail runners another chance to hone their skills.
2016 Guam History & Chamorro Heritage Day Festival Feb. 26, 27, 28, Mar. 4, 5, 6 & 7, 2016 | Umatac By the Sea The event showcases the Magellan Mock Landing, local singers, bands, dance performances, competitions, exhibitions, racing events, walking tours of the historic locations in Umatac, local artists, carnival games, a variety of food concessions and much more. There is sure to be something for all ages to enjoy! Contact: Umatac Mayor’s Office 828-8252 For a schedule of events and times, look us up on Facebook: Guam History & Chamorro Heritage Day
Guam Art Exhibit (GAX) Mar. 1, 2016 | The Plaza, Tumon GAX is a bi-annual art exhibit displayed in the heart of Tumon and featuring Guam’s most talented up-and-coming artists. 12 | Guam Super Shopper | February 12, 2016
Place your classified ads by phone, fax, email, or drop-off.
FEBRUARY 2016
Classified placement deadline for the February 26th issue is February 19th. Phone: Fax: Email: Drop-off:
472-2363 472-2361 doris@gssguam.com 167 Serenu Avenue Tamuning, Guam 96913
AUTOMOTIVE
D L O S NISSAN ROGUE 2009 – Silver, 90,000 miles, $6,900. Very good running condition. Call Vinod 488-2397. 1827002
MISCELLANEOUS WE CREATE MILLIONAIRES! Call 988-6168/788-6678 or email ctchien68@gmail.com 1904001
REAL ESTATE COMMERCIAL
FEATURED PETS (cont.) TRACI This pup is not only uniquely colored, but just too cute to handle! Her little brown mask perfectly frames her puppy eyes and her little eyebrows let you know that she is always having a great day. Come spend some one on one time with little Traci today!
BEAUTY SALON FOR SALE
Located in Tumon. Includes salon, massage & facial equipment. $25,000 Call 688-7766. 1904002
REAL ESTATE FOR RENT 2 BED, 2 BATH – $2,000. Located in Barrigada. Power/Water included. Call Payal 482-5263 1827004 3 BED, 2 BATH – Located in Tamuning. Sec-8 welcome. No security deposit. Call Payal 482-5263 1827003 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, HOUSE – $2,500. Fenced and gated. Located in Mangilao. MLS# 15-3500 Call Payal 482-5263 1827005 YIGO – 3 Bedroom/2 Bath / Carport. Military/Section 8 welcome. Call 653-1872 or 998-2402/3. 1904003
FEATURED PETS DASHER A handsome gentleman with the most relaxed of personalities. Dasher is perfect for a loving family who loves to take walks and give tasty tidbits. He loves to spend time outside lazing around in the grass and spending good quality time with humans who love him. Visit this sweet boy today at GAIN! GAIN IS OPEN EVERYDAY, INCLUDING HOLIDAYS, FROM 9AM-5PM. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICES 653-4246.
CHOPS There has never been a cat so loving and cuddly! Chops is the biggest cuddle bug you can find on this island and he is not afraid to ask for attention. He is patiently awaiting for a family to love and adore him. INA A beautiful 7 week old Russian Blue with an intense kitty stare! Her unique color and look is just a bonus to go with her sweet and playful personality. Come visit Ina today at GAIN! GAIN IS OPEN EVERYDAY, INCLUDING HOLIDAYS, FROM 9AM-5PM. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICES 653-4246. 13 | Guam Super Shopper | February 12, 2016
Are you ready to hire a
PROPERTY
MANAGER? By Joylyn Munoz
M
ost landlords choose to manage their rental properties on their own but it could be overwhelming if the landlord owns multiple units, does not live nearby, are not interested in dealing with the day to day responsibilities of managing, or they have limited time. If you fall in any of these categories, you may want to consider hiring a property manager. A property management company’s primary objective is to achieve the maximum return on investment for the owner. The major responsibilities of a property management company are tenant occupancy, marketing and financials, facility maintenance and administrative. The responsibility of a property manager is to keep track of various expenses such as building maintenance, repairs, advertising and promotion costs, and taxes. It is crucial for a management company to understand the current market conditions since the goal is to get the highest rental rate. A property manager will ensure rental payments are paid on time and statements for income and expenses are submitted to the owner. A property manager will also make sure that business licenses, gross receipt tax, and/or property taxes are current. Maintaining landscaping, exterior painting, and maintenance of building are also the responsibility of a property manager. Ensuring the property is up to code and conforms to government regulations are also responsibilities of a property manager. In regards to single-family dwellings, the management company is responsible for routine checks on the house to ensure it’s in good condition. Ultimately, a well maintained property will be easier to rent and will cost less in repairs in the long run. The thought of hiring a property management company may sound far-fetched to some landlords, but is beneficial and well worth it if you are not capable or if you do not want to deal with day to day duties of managing.
5705'65 FROM
CORENOSO STREET By Dance Aoki
BARRIGADA, GU
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STORIES
• 4 BEDROOM • 4 BATHROOM
is for sale in the quaint residential neighborhood of Barrigada Heights for $980,000 or for rent at $6,000 a month. With an incredible ocean view from the second story balcony, this home on Corenoso Street is the perfect setting for enjoying Guam’s spectacular sunsets from the privacy of home with the added safety of a fenced-in property. This four-bedroom and four-bathroom home sits on 1,073 sq meters of land, with 3,500 sq feet of living space, beautiful marble flooring, high ceilings, and hardwood banisters along the stairway to the second floor. The downstairs patio curves in a half circle, framed by two stately plantation-style pillars, and opens to the home’s grassy lawn.
The wide stretch of landscaped lawn is excellent for gatherings and parties. However, if the party needs to move indoors, the open layout of the kitchen and living room can be used to host events for small groups of friends or larger gatherings for those special celebrations.
The home keeps cool with the help of a central cooling system, ceiling fans and an insulated roof covered with decorative stucco tiles. Decorative chandeliers and sconces elegantly placed throughout the home provide a touch of warmth when the sun goes down.
Though there is plenty of space for gatherings, it’s also a great place for just the family. The fence around the California-style home provides security and safety to protect loved ones. The neighbors residing on the quiet Corenoso Street cul-de-sac are a community of executives and their families, and St. Dominic’s Senior Home is located nearby. A two-car carport sits at the end of a paved driveway, and the walkways surrounding the home are complemented with beautiful accents made from natural materials. The kitchen comes complete with ample countertop space, wood-trimmed cabinets, and dishwasher; an oven and refrigerator can be provided by the seller.
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This beautiful home is not to be missed. To find out more information, the MLS listing for this property is 15-3962. To schedule an appointment to see the home, contact Liz Duenas at Re/Max Diamond Realty Guam at 479-9532.
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! FOR RENT
16-248
16-250
TUMON $1,500/mo
3bd/2.5ba • Condo Rental
16-256
16-157
DEDEDO $1,500/mo
4bd/2ba • Single Family Rental
TUMON $1,980/mo
DEDEDO $2,450/mo
1bd/1ba • Condo Rental
4bd/2.5ba • Single Family Rental
FOR RENT
PRICE REDUCED! 16-120
16-93
DEDEDO $2,450/mo
3bd/2ba • Single Family Rental
16-303
SINAJANA $2,600/mo
4bd/3ba • Single Family Rental
16-205
DEDEDO $2,450/mo
4bd/3.5ba • Single Family Rental
TAMUNING $4,400/mo
3bd/3ba • Single Family Rental
FOR SALE
16-194
16-89
ORDOT-CHALAN PAGO $107,000 2bd/2ba • Condo for Sale
16-249
16-224
TAMUNING $137,000
543 sq ft living area • Condo for Sale
YONA $200,000
4bd/3ba • Single Family for Sale
TALOFOFO $375,000
3bd/3ba • Single Family for Sale
FOR SALE
16-203
16-350
TAMUNING $695,000
3bd/3ba • Single Family for Sale
16-195
16-193
MERIZO $20,000
1,184 sq meters • Land for Sale
YIGO $105,000
2,787 sq meters • Land for Sale
BARRIGADA $115,000
1,835 sq meters • Land for Sale
We speak Russian, Farsi, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Filipino and Chamorro
C O M M O N W E A LT H
C. Delgado - PB
30 Years of Service Tel: 649-2121 • Fax: 646-5389
guamparadise.com
Located in Lada, Dededo
GHURA PROJECT-BASED UNITS Pay Zero or Low Rent. CALL NOW!
HOMES FOR RESIDENTS AGES 62+ Under age 55? Please inquire about Summer Homes!
• Energy Energy-efficient efficient appliances • Solar-powered waterheater • Solid wood cabinetry
CALL US TODAY!
• Large ceramic tiles • Central air conditioning • Big doors • Wide hallways
• Community center • Planter’s box • Ballroom • Fitness center • Swimming pool
646-5800
An equal housing opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.