A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in providing mental health care to patients across the lifespan. PMHNPs are trained and licensed to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with psychiatric disorders, mental health conditions, and substance use disorders.
Some of the key responsibilities and roles of a PMHNP include:
1. Assessment and Diagnosis: Conducting comprehensive psychiatric assessments to evaluate patients’ mental health status, including their medical history, symptoms, and psychosocial factors. PMHNPs are trained to diagnose various mental health disorders based on standardized diagnostic criteria.
2. Treatment Planning and Management: Developing individualized treatment plans for patients based on their diagnosis, needs, and preferences. This may include prescribing psychotropic medications, providing psychotherapy, and offering counseling or other therapeutic interventions.
3. Medication Management: Prescribing and managing medications to treat mental health conditions, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and anxiolytics. PMHNPs monitor patients for medication effectiveness, side effects, and adherence to treatment regimens.
4. Therapeutic Interventions: Providing psychotherapy and counseling to individuals, families, and groups using evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and mindfulness-based interventions.
5. Collaboration and Consultation: Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, psychologists, social workers, and counselors, to coordinate care and ensure holistic treatment approaches. PMHNPs may also consult with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes.
6. Health Promotion and Education: Educating patients and their families about mental health conditions, treatment options, medication management, coping strategies, and self-care practices. PMHNPs promote mental wellness and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being.
7. Advocacy and Support: Advocating for patients’ rights, access to mental health services, and resources within healthcare systems and communities. PMHNPs may also provide support and resources to help patients navigate social services, housing, employment, and other aspects of daily living.
PMHNPs undergo specialized graduate education and clinical training in psychiatric-mental health nursing, typically earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialization. After completing their education, PMHNPs must pass a national certification exam to become certified as psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners by organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Choosing a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is an important decision that involves several considerations. Here are some steps to help you choose the right PMHNP for your needs:
1. Assess your needs: Determine what specific mental health concerns or conditions you need assistance with. Are you dealing with anxiety, depres-
sion, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or another condition? Identifying your needs will help you find a PMHNP with expertise in treating those conditions.
2. Credentials and qualifications: Ensure that the PMHNP you are considering is licensed and board-certified. Check their educational background, training, certifications, and experience working in psychiatric mental health care. Look for someone who has relevant experience in treating patients with similar conditions to yours.
3. Referrals and recommendations: Ask your primary care provider, therapist, or trusted friends and family for recommendations. They may be able to suggest PMHNPs they have had positive experiences with. Additionally, you can seek recommendations from online reviews and professional organizations.
4. Specialization and expertise: Consider whether the PMHNP has experience and expertise in treating your specific mental health concerns. Some PMHNPs may specialize in areas such as child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, substance abuse, or trauma-related disorders. Choose a practitioner whose specialization aligns with your needs.
5. Therapeutic approach: Different PMHNPs may have different therapeutic approaches and treatment philosophies. Some may focus on medication management, while others may incorporate therapy techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or mindfulness-based interventions. Choose a practitioner whose approach resonates with you and your preferences.
6. Communication style and rapport: Building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for effective treatment outcomes. Consider the PMHNP’s communication style, empathy, and ability to listen and understand your concerns. You should feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics with them and feel heard and respected.
7. Logistics and accessibility: Consider practical factors such as the PMHNP’s location, office hours, availability for appointments, and accepted insurance plans. Choose a practitioner whose office is conveniently located and whose schedule aligns with yours to ensure regular access to care.
8. Initial consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with the PMHNP to discuss your concerns, treatment goals, and expectations. Use this meeting to assess whether you feel comfortable with the PMHNP and whether you believe they have the expertise and approach to meet your needs effectively.
9. Cost and insurance coverage: Understand the PMHNP’s fees, payment policies, and whether they accept your insurance plan. Clarify any questions about out-of-pocket expenses, copayments, or coverage limitations before starting treatment.
10. Trust your instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts and intuition when choosing a PMHNP. It’s essential to feel confident in your decision and comfortable with the practitioner you select to guide you through your mental health journey. If you have any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion, or explore other options.
If you or someone you love are faced with such as issues as addiction, depression or anxiety, finding the appropriate treatment provider is crucial in getting the best care possible.
The good news is that there are more general and specialized treatment providers and centers available than ever before. Further, there is less stigma, more recognition and an evolving scope of treatment and therapy to help anyone who suffers from these and other behavioral health symptoms.
Behavioral health care is an umbrella term for a range of issues from depression to substance abuse, psychiatric troubles and more recently recognized struggles such as eating disorders.
Children, teens and adults alike can benefit from the inpatient or outpatient care.
Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for a treatment center.
Flexibility
Good behavioral health centers will shun a one-size fits all approach to helping people. Needs vary greatly from person to person depending on the diagnosis.
A good option for less-serious issues could be short-term outpatient care that can be performed in any setting: school, office or even your home. This often comes in the form of one-on-one counseling. At the other end of the spectrum is long-term inpatient care in a hospital setting.
Most cases are somewhere in between. The ideal center will offer a combination of treatments over time that will yield the best results.
Team approach
Behavior health deals with myriad problems that are often best solved with a multidisciplinary approach. Psychiatrists and psychologists are only the beginning.
A full array of medical professionals should be available if needed. A team approach can help with social aspects of behavioral issues, such as social workers, teachers, nurses and dietitians.
The best facilities create teams of professionals who work with individuals on different aspects of their problem.
Family involvement
Family involvement in the treatment process can increase positive outcomes.
Some behavioral health issues, like addiction, involve emotional and stressful family situations. Healing these family wounds can be a very important step in the treatment process. It’s important to remember that emotional and mental issues never affect just one person. Sub-
stance abuse is often called a family disease. Behavioral health issues impact many people in major ways. All those people can be involved in supporting the right health solution.
Ongoing services
Continuing care is essential for behavioral health concerns. It will help keep the patient on track with their recovery.
Many diagnoses require intense treatment followed by a longer period of continuing care. Successfully following the long-term recommendations will lead to a full recovery.
With Americans living longer than ever, the need for assisted living/ sheltered care centers has also grown and the industry has responded. But because the type of care seniors require varies, finding the proper facility means locating a balance between appropriate levels of care, comfort and access.
In the past, long-term care could only be handled by a nursing home. Living in a hospital setting for an extended time was not a pleasant environment. Times have changed dramatically. In addition to on-site medical care, many assisted living/sheltered care centers can appear more like upscale apartments, offering dining, travel, activities and personal freedoms.
But not all assisted living/sheltered care centers are alike. The decision to place a relative into such an environment warrants close scrutiny and research.
Ask your loved one’s personal physician how much care is required to function safely. The doctor may even be able to guide you toward an appropriate facility. Be sure to seek advice on what qualifications and certifications you need to look for in the center’s staff. The center’s employees should be well-qualified to handle medical needs.
It all depends on what you are looking for, what you can afford, and what is available.
If you monitor medical care, you can avoid paying for extensive services that your loved one may not need. Understanding the care the person requires will help you find a center that is a good fit.
Accommodations at these centers can range from luxurious, detached cottages to cozy condominiums or smaller apartment-style rooms.
As you visit the facilities, try to personalize each space. Imagine how your loved one’s belongings might fit into the area and where decorations will be placed. Does the atmosphere bring about a feeling of peace and tranquility? How are the rooms decorated? Are they tasteful and soothing, or do they remind you of a hospital setting?
Look at the home amenities and consider how you would feel about living there. Would you want your loved one living there?
Is the facility within your budget?
Recreation and activities
Game and meeting areas can help the resident make new friends and keep them from feeling alone and lonely. Leaving the confines of their units is an important part of improving quality of life. Make sure the center offers activities and space to occupy your loved one’s time.
Quality facilities will have activities that match his or her hobbies. If your family member enjoys crafts, then look for a center with a designated craft area or classes for your loved one to enjoy.
Gardens and landscaping
The landscaping of an assisted living/sheltered care center can give you a good indication about the quality of the facility. A well-maintained lawn and garden is a positive sign.
If the prospective resident enjoys spending time in nature, look for a facility that has park-like areas. Some centers have community-style gardens and walkways for residents. Just being able to experience nature as it grows and changes with the seasons can be uplifting and soothing. An assisted living/sheltered care center with a manicured lawn and garden can make a huge difference in the quality of life for a loved one.
Choosing an assisted living/sheltered care facility is about finding the right combination of medical services and amenities. With research and thought, you will find the perfect place to bring comfort and care to your loved one.
Shopping is easier when you know what you’re looking for – especially when it comes it meat.
Gazing at the meats available at your local grocer, you may able be able to identify the simpler choices (hamburger, certain steaks). They’re all labeled of course, but there’s no real guide to which are the best cuts of meat.
If you don’t have access to a local butcher, the following tips can help you through the process of finding those cuts.
Choose the right cut of meat for your recipe.
Consider how you are cooking the meat and what you want your result to be. Traditionally barbecue uses less tough cuts and cooks them slowly until they become soft and tender. A brisket can become delicious and tender if you smoke it slowly over low heat for hours. A Porterhouse or T-Bone are best cooked over high, direct heat for a short time.
Consider the density or toughness of the meat and its fat content.
Density can be hard to ascertain, so usually the cut indicates the density or toughness. Meats culled from different areas of an animal tend to be more or less tender.
Marbling – small streaks of fat running
through the cut – can sometimes tell you about the fat content. Many people think marbling gives the Steak its best flavor. However, the quality of the marbling is important. Thick and consistent cuts of marbled meat would need to be slow – cooked to release the flavor and small, thin ribbons of fat are usually excellent for a traditional steak cooked over high heat.
Examine the color of the meat to see how red of the color is.
Meat browns quickly when exposed to air. If you fin bright-red meat without additives used to preserve that vivid color, then it is an ultra-fresh cut.
Novice cooks might start with a cheaper cut of meat, such as a sirloin steak for grilling.
Once you have practiced your grilling skills, work your way up to expensive meats
such as New York Strips, T – Bones, Filet Mignon and Porterhouse. Ultimately, it is the quality of your cooking skills, coupled with your selection of meat that will make a great meal.
Let’s face it: Purchasing insurance isn’t fun. But not having insurance — or not knowing how to access it in an emergency — is worse. And if there’s a loss to your home, auto, or business, the last thing you want to have to do is figure out who’s your insurance company is when your life’s been turned upside down.
Insurance guarantees you peace of mind and protection, so choosing the right insurance company is a worthwhile investment of your time. But unless you know what you’re looking for in an insurance provider, you shouldn’t pick a company based on their marketing hype alone.
Premiums from company to company can vary widely, as can the type of coverage they offer. So, before you purchase a plan, you need to understand exactly what type of insurance you’re buying and how it will affect your bottom line.
Know your policy
You will have to take a look at the fine details and figures for each policy. If you are in the beginning of this process, insurance representatives should act more like teachers instead of salespeople. Your choices may be complicated, with a range of pricing options, deductibles and exclusions. A good company will give you choices, explain them clearly and let you make up your own mind.
While reviewing your options, make sure you are comparing similar policies. If a premium seems unusually low, it might have a higher deductible or more limitations.
It is important that you get as much information as possible about each policy before making a decision.
Customer service always plays a key role in determining which company is best. If you’ve had friends or family who have filed insurance claims previously, ask them about their experiences.
Some insurance companies have better reputations than others. Gathering all of these experiences will give you a good idea of how you
Each company has a different customer service philosophy. Some of them prefer to use a local representative to communicate with clients.
Others will discuss policies through their website or a 24-hour phone number.
Many insurance companies, however, use a combination of these methods. They might give you 24-hour access to national representatives along with a local advisor.
An insurance company is only as strong as its balance sheet. Financial strength is especially important these days.
Every insurer is independently rated based
on their finances. An insurance agent should inform you of the company’s rating and tell you what it means. A good rating means the company can make a payout in the event of a catastrophic event. A reputable, stable, well-capitalized insurance company is also likely to have more coverage options.
While your insurance premiums are an important factor, it is just one piece of a complicated puzzle. Choose a company that will not only give you a fair price, but who will also be prompt and courteous in the event you have to file a claim.
The right insurance company will treat you well at every level of interaction, provide quality coverage, and pay out in a timely manner should there be an accident.
The circumstances are never easy and may be emotionally crippling. Facing the death of a loved one requires planning that may be difficult. But there are ways to make this difficult decision a little bit easier on you and your family.
People often select a funeral home because it’s nearby or has been recommended by someone they trust. But by limiting the search to just one funeral home, you may risk paying more than necessary for the funeral and any additional goods or services offered.
Here are some tips to help make choosing the right funeral home less stressful.
Compare prices
If you have had to make funeral arrangements in the past, you may be tempted to just go with the funeral home you have experience with. While this may be a smart option for some people, it’s not always the right option.
Depending on how long it’s been since you needed to make funeral arrangements for a loved one, the price of that particular funeral home may have gone up. That’s why it is wise to shop around and compare the prices of the various funeral homes in your community.
Ask for recommendations
ant that you ask a potential funeral home what types of packages they offer.
Even if you have never had to choose a funeral home in the past, you may have a friend or two who has. Ask these friends if they would recommend the services provided at the funeral homes they have used.
They may be able to share valuable information about the staff, facility and prices of a specific funeral home.
Ask about packages
Whether your deceased loved one had a specific list for their final wishes or you have to make these decisions for yourself, it is import-
You will find that not all funeral homes are created equal, and each offers their own different ways of handling a service. No matter what type of requirements you have, it is best to choose a funeral home that will cater to your specific needs in order to make this difficult situation a little less daunting.
When visiting a potential funeral home, the funeral director can be a major deciding factor when you choose whether or not to use this particular company to handle the funeral of your loved one.
A caring and professional funeral director and staff will take the time to explain all your options in an empathetic way so you can make a better choice when choosing a funeral home.
If the director seems short or uninterested in your needs or makes you feel like you and your deceased loved one aren’t important, you won’t want to choose this facility to handle the funeral of your loved one.
While dealing with the death of a loved one is hard, choosing the right funeral home can help relieve you of some stress.
If you want your loved one to receive the proper funeral he or she deserves, following the above listed tips should help you make the right choice.
If you’re stuck in a job you don’t like and have no future in, it’s time to consider changing careers. And there’s no better time. With unemployment at an all-time low, companies are vying for qualified employees to fill shortages. Training for a new career can bring renewed value to your life and work. But how do you get started?
Here’s a guide to help you navigate identifying what you want to do, how to get the training and where to turn.
Your first step should be to identify what type of training you need for the type of job you want. Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of applying the skills you already have to a new field of interest. Often, though, you’ll have to pick up some new skills or go through a specific training program to gain certification. Thorough research into this topic will give you a goal to work toward.
If you like your company but just wish you worked in a different department or could get a promotion, ask your manager if the company will pick up the tab for job training. As long as you plan to use the new skills within the company, there’s a good chance they’ll pay. This is especially true if you’re looking to build computer or management skills.
Those who have been laid off might look to the U.S. Department of Labor for training opportunities. There are plenty of resources for people like you who want to find a new job. The Employment and Training Administration (https://www.doleta.gov/) can connect you with apprenticeships in your area. In many cases, you’ll even get paid as you train for a new career. These organizations can also help with resume writing and interviewing skills.
If you’re willing to start at the bottom, you can often get the training you’ll need to move up in your chosen field. For instance, getting a start as a customer service representative and
letting management know that you’re interested in learning more can help you later get a job as a customer service manager. The skills you learn in that new position will propel you toward other management opportunities.
Starting college or going back to finish a degree is a valid option for many adults. Financial aid makes it affordable, and a lot of colleges offer evening programs that let you complete your degree while working a full-time job.
The key to making this work for you is to actively seek out programs that will give you the skills you need for the job you want. You might need to take a few English or math classes to complete the degree, but most of your classes will focus on your specific area of interest.
Once you have your degree, make use of the college’s career services department to help you find that first job.
If you don’t have experience in a particular field, having training or certification can help you get a job.
For instance, if you’ve been working in re-
tail and would prefer to transition to a more corporate environment, you might look into Six Sigma training. This is a business management method that many companies use, and having the certification helps an employer feel confident about giving you a chance. These types of certification programs are readily available online.
Computer programming boot camps are becoming increasingly popular. You’ll work hard for a few weeks, but will come through the process with a solid knowledge of programming techniques. This can help you get a job in this field.
It’s hard to get into the best programs, but Fortune magazine states that it’s not uncommon for graduates to eventually be earning six-figure salaries.
No matter what type of career you’re interested in, there’s a training program that can work for you. Simply figure out what new skills you need to learn and look for a program that’s a match.
It is estimated that doctors of chiropractic, known as D.C.s, treat about 35 million Americans adults and children annually, according to the American Chiropractic Association. These specialists use a hands-on, drug-free approach to health care that is best known for spine manipulation, but they also treat many other areas with techniques that have been proven safe and effective.
So, if you have unexplained aches and pains, you may want to consult a chiropractor. These professionals can help alleviate pain in your back, head or neck. Chiropractors believe that realigning your spine will help relieve pain and discomfort in the body.
And it works for a lot of people. Many patients find immediate relief from pain before even leaving the chiropractor’s office. They report rapid improvements in their muscles, joints, bones and ligaments.
Chiropractic care can also improve your overall health. The treatments administered by chiropractors can also treat minor ailments such as headaches and sinus pain.
Thinking about the following factors can help you find the right chiropractor for your needs.
Chiropractors have some of the most stringent educational requirements in the health care industry. According to the ACA, accredited chiropractors go through at least 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory and clinical training time combined.
Students must spend four years in a pre-medical program, in addition to four or five years of professional training.
Not only do chiropractors study the body, they usually also study the muscular skeleton, pressure points, bone and joints, and nerves. Finding a chiropractor with these studies under their belt can give you a better experience and results.
Prior to selecting a chiropractor, inquire about training and credentials. Make sure he or she is properly qualified, has a current licensee to practice, and has experience in the area you are looking for.
Many insurance carriers include chiropractic care as part of their regular coverage.
Verify that your care will be covered. You might be offered a discount for choosing an “in-network” professional.
But if you don’t have insurance, many chiropractors offer low cash rates or affordable plans to help patients. Even without health insurance, you can still find chiropractor offering quality, cost-effective care.
Check for discounts. Some chiropractors will offer incentive discounts for groups, referrals of new clients and other promotions.
Someone in your social or professional net -
work has likely received excellent care from a chiropractor. Ask family, friends and co-workers for referrals.
Inquire specifically about his or her demeanor and schedule. Is it easy to make an appointment? You should also find out about the chiropractor’s philosophy about health and other wellness issues. Some practitioners will suggest complementary forms of care, including massage.
Given the results it can provide, chiropractic care is still affordable and worth the money. With time and effort, you are likely to find a quality chiropractor in your area.
Researching the chiropractors in your area will help ensure you get the type of care you want and need.
Senior care of today is much different than in the past and the industries’ terminology can get confusing due to more options for your health care needs.
Different facilities offer different services so be sure you are comparing apples to apples. There is independent living, assisted living, short term or “skilled” rehabilitation, memory care, long-term care, and hospice care. “Senior Care” is often used as a broader term to encompass all the different types of care. Below is meant to be used only as a guide to get you started.
Assisted living (AL) facilities are focused on allowing individuals to remain as independent as possible while encouraging residents to socialize. They have “care companions” or “certified nurse’s aides” (CNA) that will help with a few “activities of daily living”. Meals are provided in most AL facilities. One example of an individual that might do well in an AL living situation is if they need assistance with a shower or getting dressed in the morning and undressed at night but are fairly independent the rest of the day. Residents living in an AL facility need to be cognizant enough to administer their own medications with a reminder \ supervision of the care companion or CNA. They also need to be able to exit the facility on their own in case of an emergency. When you are looking for the appropriate assisted living home for you or your loved one, make sure you are asking a lot of questions such as “Is there 24hour emergency care available on-site?” There are a select few homes that are able offer to offer that service. If money is an issue, there are a few assisted living facilities in the area that are licensed to take Medicaid, but they are limited.
Short-term rehabilitation or skilled care usually focuses on healing an individual or helping them to become stronger, therefore allowing for a successful return home. There m ay be several rehabilitation services available at the facility such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, just to name a few. One example might be an individual with a hip fracture, successfully completing physical therapy services and returning home.
Most long-term care facilities today have
more equipment with staff that are highly trained with around-the-clock care available. In the past, the care these facilities now offer would only have been available while in a hospital. Today’s facilities can accommodate care for complex physical and mental conditions, provide IV medicines, treat serious wounds, infections, etc., and are highly regulated. Most long-term care facilities take Medicaid for payment if there is no money available from the individual.
Clear as mud? No worries! Remember, your health care provider or facility can help steer you in the right direction with just a few questions.
In addition, when you are searching for a facility for a loved one, your best choices are facilities that have high scores from state agencies, such as Medicare.gov. Find out if the facility can assist you as your loved one’s health care needs change. You will not want your loved one going into an assisted living facility, just to turn around in six months and move them to a long-term care facility if you can prevent it.
Don’t hesitate to “drop in” on a facility at any time so you can get a “real look” as to what the home is like when they are not expecting you. You may want to keep in mind, however, that staff may be busy taking care of their resi-
Are you 50+ years old? Bored at home or need some socialization? Need to get up and out of the house? Why not come join us? Come meet new friends
our Assisted Living Wing or renew an old friendship.
a couple of your friends
dents and therefore, depending on the day and time, may not be able to give a detailed tour without scheduling an appointment.
Be sure to visit with current residents and their families to get a good assessment of the facility. Family members will likely provide the most unbiased and unvarnished opinion of the facility.
Most high-quality facilities are significant investments. They provide a much higher level of care and quality of care, so they cost more. You may want to ask if the facility is a not-forprofit home. Not-for-profit homes tend to invest any profits back into their home(s) and residents.
The decision to put your loved one in a particular facility is not permanent. If your family member is not receiving good care or shows signs of abuse, you have the right to remove them. Frequent visits are important so you can monitor the health and well-being of your loved one. Visit at different times of the day to verify the quality of care.
Take all the time you need when searching for a facility. Taking a loved one to a facility, while necessary, can be difficult and emotionally challenging. Finding the best one you can afford will help to give you peace of mind.
Finding the right insurance agent isn’t as simple as choosing the cheapest policy. A good insurance agency is an advocate for your needs and represents your interests in covering your health, home, auto and other insurable valuables. They’ll guide you through the maze of options available to you and help find policies that protect you and your budget.
Unfortunately, not every agent is the reliable, reputable agent professional you’d hope. It’s important to make sure you vet your agent prior to opting into the coverage they offer. Your financial future depends on finding the right person to help you get insurance that will fit your needs.
Here’s some guidance on how to find the best agent or broker for your needs.
Ask for Referrals
Family, friends and colleagues have likely worked with insurance agents in the past. Ask people you trust for referrals. If you receive a recommendation, it is because that person has had a positive experience. There is a strong likelihood that you will have similar results.
Good agents understand that offering great service will keep them in business. Their careers depend on word-of-mouth. If you are happy with the service you receive, your insurance agent will appreciate your willingness to send business their way.
If you do not have recommendations, begin researching your options. Begin by looking at local companies and brokers. As you conduct your research, be thorough and critical. Buying a policy is similar to purchasing a new car or home. It truly is that important.
Select a company that is highly regarded by consumers. Read reviews of each company to determine who has the most satisfied clients. Are they easy to work with? Have there been any problems with collecting on a policy?
Also, check that any prospective agent has all necessary licenses and training.
After narrowing your list of prospective agents, make an appointment to visit each one. Prepare a list of questions and concerns about your personal situation. Take notes during your meeting. Remember that you must feel comfortable with the answers before purchasing a policy.
If an agent tries to pressure you into making a decision right away, inform him that you need more time and cannot sign anything immediately.
The right agent will let you take as much time as you need to understand the implications of each policy. They will give you useful information and not subject you to high-pressure sales techniques.
Your agent should be available. The relationship doesn’t end once the sale is completed. Your dialogue should be continuous. The best agents are available in the event you have to file a claim.
Agents who have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation and track record. They understand the policies and will even take extra care that you are properly protected.
It is essential that you choose the right type and amount of insurance to adequately protect yourself and your financial future. The policy should be tailored to fit your specific needs.
A seasoned, skilled insurance agent will be an invaluable resource for safeguarding your future.
When choosing hospice, you are choosing a type of care that specializes in caring for those who are in the last six months of life. It’s an emotional period for anyone, but an important decision that will ensure a loved one will receive the care and comfort they deserve.
According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, only 50.7% of people choose hospice care when they are faced with the possibility of death. But hospice is not only for the dying. Loved ones also benefit from hospice care, as nurses, home health aides, social workers, bereavement counselors and chaplains will support them with education, and emotional & bereavement support through some of the most difficult moments in life.
Hospice care can be provided in the patient’s home, assisted living centers, nursing homes, or an in-patient hospice home.
While all hospices are regulated by the government, each hospice has meaningful differences in personnel, policies and facilities.
Here are some things to consider when selecting hospice care:
Location
Hospice specializes in making the patient feel as comfortable as possible. Care can take place anywhere. Patients can even receive services in their own homes, or wherever they call home – a nursing home, assisted care center, or where they are most comfortable.
Some cases may require more specialized care than others. The patient can also choose to stay in a hospice home that can give them easy, 24-hour access to nurses, medication and medical equipment needed for their comfort.
The hospice team and your physician can discuss the options with you and your family to help determine which might be the best option for your specific situation.
Communication
Pick a hospice service that helps you feel at ease. You are going to have to ask and answer some extremely difficult questions. Death is a tough subject to discuss. Clear, caring commu-
nication is absolutely essential.
A quality hospice program will give you all the time and personal attention you need to ease your mind.
Picking a hospice involves having the right feeling. If the hospice staff is personable and makes you feel comfortable, that’s a good sign.
Every patient who receives hospice treatment must be qualified by a physician. Usually, this means there is a life expectancy of six months or less.
Since some physicians may hesitate to broach the subject of hospice care, you may need to bring it up yourself. Ask whether hospice care would be appropriate and which services might be most helpful to ease the endof-life process. It is never too early to request a referral visit if hospice care is appropriate for you and your family. In 2018, the National average for days in care for patients receiving service ranged from 1-7 days of care at 27.9% to >180 days at 14.1%. Helping families and physicians to have end of care planning conversations earlier is a goal for hospice to ensure patients and families receive the maximum benefits that they have available.
You can also approach a hospice facility directly to ask about their services. They will help you determine which care is most appro-
“My sister and I felt like we were part of your families, and in doing so, you became part of ours..”
priate.
Hospice care has been growing since the 1990s. It is possible to die with peace and dignity. Hospice can help make the end-of-life experience a little easier for the patient and their loved ones.
Families spend a lot of time in their kitchens — and not simply to eat. It’s often the prime entertaining and gathering space. An outdated kitchen can make cooking and gathering less fun for friends and family, and make cooking a chore rather than an exciting experience.
Kitchen remodeling is the No. 1 project for many homeowners, but many delay it because the process can seem so expensive and daunting, but hiring an experienced, qualified contractor can spare kitchen nightmares and bring your design dreams to life.
Here’s some factors to consider when hiring a kitchen remodeling company.
Contacting kitchen remodeling companies in your community to get a rough idea about the cost and scope of the project you have in mind is a good place to start. Your local home improvement store might have information for licensed contractors in the area.
Once you have compiled a list of professionals, ask them for quotes. They will likely have to visit your home to look at the room. Estimates should be based on the total work that needs to be done.
If you find someone who hesitates to give you a quote in writing, cross them off your list and look for someone who is more forthcoming.
Sometimes, remodeling requires work from a sub-contractor. It is difficult to know at the beginning whether sub-contractors will be necessary. Chances are, if you receive similar information from several different professionals, you can trust the advice.
Another aspect of any estimate will be time. Ask each contractor about the time it will take to complete the project. All professionals should be able to finish the project in roughly the same amount of time. If there are any contractors that vary greatly from the average time frame, you should ask them why they differ so greatly.
After narrowing down your list, check each individual’s or company’s references to ensure their reputation. Speak directly to anyone who has hired them for previous work. Inquire about the quality and dependability of
the workers.
If anyone is unable to provide you with references or contact information, you might want to reconsider using them.
Once you have decided on a licensed contractor or kitchen remodeling company, ask to view the contract. This document should specify any task involved in the project, including its cost and time for completion.
Before signing, request proof of the individual or company’s licensure. Be sure that they have current accident insurance coverage. If they do not, you might be liable for any acci-
dents that occur on your property.
When sub-contractors are used, they should be under the umbrella of the head contracting company. If not, separate written contracts may be necessary. Review each sub-contractor just as you would the head contractor: check references, licensure and insurance coverage.
Choosing the people who will remodel your kitchen is an important decision. Finding someone who will stay within a budget and complete the job in a timely manner will go a long way toward giving you satisfaction with the end result.
Fact: Mental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. An estimated 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year, according to Mental Health America, an advocacy organization.
Where to find help will depend on age (adult or child) and the type of disorder or symptoms experienced. But qualified professional assistance is more available than ever.
Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for a treatment center.
Flexibility
Everyone is different. Needs vary from person to person, depending on the diagnosis. One of your first considerations is to look for a center that does not offer a one-size-fits-all approach to healing people.
The best facilities will have a wide array of treatment options. Then they will tailor their services to fit specific situations.
These centers will have a range of choices. At one end of the spectrum, there might be short-term outpatient care that can be performed in any setting, much like one-on-one counseling. At the end, there is full-time, longterm inpatient care in a hospital setting.
But most cases will be somewhere in the middle of these two choices. An ideal care center will be able to offer custom treatments for individuals. Whether you are seeking short or long-term care, the staff will be able to match you with the best care for your needs.
Team approach
When people think of psychiatry, they often imagine one-on-one sessions with the patient laying on a couch. In reality, mental health care may involve a multidisciplinary approach.
Psychiatrists and psychologists are just the beginning. Other behavioral and wellness professionals can also assist in treatment.
There may be medical professionals like nurses and licensed therapists, along with
social workers, case managers, teachers and therapists. It all depends on the diagnosis and desired outcome.
A good treatment center will be able to utilize a team of professionals who can work on a patient’s health from multiple angles for the most successful results.
Family involvement
Support is vital. When family and others get involved in the recovery process, it makes a huge positive impact on the individual.
Mental health professionals appreciate the support that a family can give the patient.
In addition, some issues — especially addiction — often leads to emotional and stressful family struggles. It is essential that the whole family learns how to deal with these dynamics. Education is key. The best treatment centers encourage honest, open dialogue among family members. The family must establish healthy, clear communication about the issues they’ve
been experiencing.
Emotional, mental and substance abuse issues do not affect just an individual. Everyone feels the impact in major ways, and all of those people can become involved in supporting the right health solution for the patient. And themselves.
Ongoing services
Reputable treatment centers will have a strong aftercare program. They will recommend a course of ongoing, continuing care to keep the patient on track with their recovery. This last stage can make a big difference over the long run. It will help the patient ease into daily life while still receiving continuing care. A mental health center should be able to arrange for ongoing services, such as outpatient care, support groups or recovery residences to ensure as smooth a transition as possible once the initial, intense stages of treatment are completed.
Buying a big-ticket item such as an appliance is a major investment. You might be lulled into a shopping after seeing advertisements and sales featuring new appliances with all the latest features and technology. Or you may just need to replace an aging appliance on its last legs.
Either way, it’s smart to figure out what you really need, how much you can afford and which stores offer the best quality and deals. Chances are you’ve already done some research or quizzed friends or family about their own experiences with various appliances, but shopping for one can be daunting. But it can also be fun.
These days appliance manufacturers produce items that have every conceivable feature to make your life easier. Exploring these innovations in home appliance technology can be an enjoyable and eye-opening experience.
We’ve put together some tips that can help you narrow your search and find exactly what you need. But first you’ll have to determine your budget and requirements — what you need, what you want and what you’re willing to pay for it.
Now, it’s time to go shopping.
First, do an internet search for appliance stores in your area. Local stores are easier to work with and you will likely be able to get your appliance much quicker than if you had to go out of the area or order it. If your refrigerator has stopped working, this is especially important. Many appliance stores also offer free delivery in the local area.
You can get a good idea of the services offered by various companies via business review sites. Don’t dismiss negative reviews, but keep in mind that customers who have good experiences are less likely to crow on the internet.
Consumer Reports and the Better Business Bureau are also great resources for finding reputable businesses. To qualify for listing on the
Better Business Bureau site, the business must be reliable and honest.
Many stores also have review sections for customers to leave comments, reviews and ratings for the services and the products they sell, which can give you some insight into the business and their products.
For most of us, getting a good deal is probably a top concern when shopping for appliances. Check your local newspaper and your mailbox for circulars announcing the latest, greatest deals on appliances in your area.
Many stores will use price-matching to stay competitive. Not all stores have policies on price-matching, so be sure to ask first. If you can find a lower advertised price on the exact same product and model elsewhere, many stores will sell you the product for that price.
As always, conduct research on the appliance you need to make sure you are spending money wisely. Not all appliances are the same; just because one manufacturer was excellent two decades ago doesn’t mean the quality will be the same now.
Review the store’s policies about warranties and repairs. If the appliance comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty, you might not need an additional warranty from the store.
Appliances have a yearly sale-price cycle. Washers and dryers usually go on sale during the winter. Refrigerators are often discounted in the spring, with stoves and ovens dropping in price during the fall. If you don’t need it right away, consider shopping seasonally for the best deal.
You could also haggle for a price, especially at a local appliance store. Salespeople are typically prepared for this process. If you are too shy or afraid of haggling, ask the store for extras, such as an extended warranty or free delivery and set-up. It never hurts to ask. They just might give it to you.
Consider these questions when you’re looking for an appliance store: Do they have a delivery window, warranty options, repair services and range of products?
Answer these questions, and know that you’ll purchase appliances with confidence.
The array of financial institutions vying for your business is broader than ever. With the rise of internet banking, visiting a brick-andmortar branch is no longer absolutely necessary. Still others prefer to bank in person.
Beyond a physical presence, some choose to combine all their accounts at one bank; others spread their finances around at specific institutions for savings, credit and investment to get the best deals and rates.
Which sort of bank you choose — a “name” institution, credit union or the new-money, internet bank — reflects your financial needs and how you wish to deposit and manage your hard-earned pay.
No matter where or how you access your money, choosing the right bank to serve your needs still requires close scrutiny.
Here are a few things to consider.
Banks want to be competitive. One way they entice new customers is by offering handsome interest rates. It’s not uncommon for savings account interest rates to vary widely, but the majority of institutions make adjustments according to changes in the federal funds rate.
When substantial deposit amounts are involved, the difference a few percentage points on an interest rate makes can be significant. Use online resources and shop around for the best rates in your area.
Banks are also notorious for charging fees for certain transactions. A checking account may only allow a certain number of checks to be written each month before a fee is assessed, or maybe a minimum balance is required to keep the account active.
Some banks offer free checking. But you should make sure that the free checking is really free. There may be stipulations such as being required to keep a minimum balance in the account at all times.
Look at a fee schedule to determine if it is acceptable to you.
Banks with multiple locations in convenient areas are important.
If you travel frequently, make sure your local or regional financial institution is a member of a national network. Some banks offer free ATM fees at another bank’s ATM.
Also, ask about their online banking policies. Is the bank’s website easy to navigate and secure? Online banking can be a great way to pay bills and transfer money between accounts.
We all make mistakes. Accidental overdrafts happen occasionally. Each financial institution has a different policy about these matters.
Many banks offer overdraft coverage in the form of a high-interest credit line. Other banks charge fees each time an overdraft occurs.
Other banks provide no coverage. Be sure to research overdraft policies before making a final decision.
It is very important to consider a bank’s stability. Before you hand money to an institution, check its history and financial condition.
Consider the longevity of the bank, is it important to you that banks are locally owned and locally managed? Local banks tend to give back more to the communities.
Any bank with a strong balance sheet should be able to weather any turbulence caused by market corrections.
Most banks are also insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for up to $250,000 per depositor. This can vary depending on the type and number of accounts held by a customer.
If you understand these safeguards, your money will be safe in a bank.
Most banks offer a variety of services. Whether you need to get a loan or open a checking account, choose a bank that fulfills your needs with the fewest fees. It should offer the maximum conveniences possible.
The level of customer service available is important. In seems with the rise of technology, customer service can be lacking. Find a bank that easily answers your questions, helps with your accounts, and is easy to communicate with face to face or over the phone.
Careful and vigilant shoppers will have positive experiences by making an effort to choose a trustworthy bank.
If you have a large lawn or substantial piece of property to take care of, you’ll need the right equipment to not only mow and seed but carry supplies and tow attachments.
Zero Turn Mowers are the upgrade you need to navigate the terrain with the power and capability to maintain your land. These workhorses make quick work of taming acres of land.
Choosing the right Zero Turn Mower depends on several factors, such as the size of your property, towing capacity and, of course, price.
Here’s some guidance to help you pick the right tractor for your needs.
The right fit
Zero Turn Mowers come in a variety of capabilities and price points which can range from $2,399 for a simple, basic model to $10,000 or more for a fully-featured, commercial-grade unit. In between, you will find a vast mixture of features and quality.
Select the right model by asking yourself how you will use the Zero Turn Mower. Lawn size is an important factor to consider. For a bigger lawn, you may need a wider mowing deck. Do you have any other planned uses for your tractor such as hauling garden supplies and bagging leaves.
High-end Zero Turn Mowers are more like pieces of farm equipment than traditional rideon mowers. You can purchase accessories for them, such as baggers, trailers, and pull behind accessories.
You are not only buying a lawn mower. These mowers are platforms that can be used for all kinds of jobs. So check on the accessories that come with each model, even if you don’t plan on purchasing them yet. You may appreciate the choices in the future.
Most people want to finish the job in the least amount of time.
While it is true that large mowing decks will cover more ground with each pass, there
are other things to consider as well.
The transmission and speed is also a factor. The zero-turn mower is a popular option. These vehicles can turn quickly and precisely to cut lawns of all sizes and shapes.
While they have been used for years by commercial lawn crews, only recently have these mowers become affordable for the average homeowner.
Zero-turn mowers are particularly useful when mowing close to homes, playground equipment and other tight areas.
The longevity of your Zero Turn Mower is also an important consideration.
The brand’s reputation should weigh heavily when you are making a decision. Research consumer reviews and talk to your friends and family members about the best brands of lawn products.
Also, visiting a retail store and talking to knowledgeable salespeople will also help you. There are plenty of low-end, affordable zero turn mowers out there, but few have a reputation for durability. It is economical in the long run to choose a well-built model from a reputable manufacturer.
Inspect the construction of each lawn mower carefully to verify that it will meet your needs. While you probably don’t need the extreme engineering and high price of a commercial-grade model, you ought to buy the best model you can afford and follow the maintenance directions closely. It will help you get the most usage for your money.
Finding a good dealer is an essential part of the process. When you locate an experienced local retailer with a long track record of happy customers, you will be well on your way to selecting the right Zero Turn Mower for you.
Everyone with a home on the market wants their property to sell fast and for the highest price possible. It not only means money in your pocket, but also speeds up the move into your new home — not to mention the relief of having to keep your place in tip-top shape every day.
However, quick sales do not always happen due to timing, market fluctuations and the condition and attractiveness of your home.
But there are some time-tested steps you can take that will make it much easier to see a “sold” sign in your front yard quickly.
Pricing
The most important step is to price your home correctly at the outset, and a good real estate agent can help you with that.
Price it too low and you’ll leave money on the table. Price it too high, though, and your home will take longer to sell — or won’t sell at all — because savvy buyers won’t take it seriously.
To hit the pricing bull’s eye, you’ve got to know what is comparable in your market. A good agent will be able to pull data about recent comps, typically from the last six months, for sales of homes that are similar to yours.
The closer your price is to homes that are actually selling, the more likely you are to get a quick sale.
Staging your home is sometimes thought of as an elaborate process that involves redecorating and renting beautiful furniture to make your interior look its best, but it doesn’t always have to be that intense.
In its simplest terms, staging is about presenting your home in the most appealing way possible. The goal is to get buyers to imagine putting their own things in your home, so basic steps like clearing out clutter and removing your personal photos can help their imagination go to work.
For most buyers, the first impression of your house won’t be made in person. It will be
made through photos of your home they see online or in print ads.
That’s why it’s critical to have good, quality photographs of your home.
In some markets, especially for high-end houses, that might mean having a professional photographer shoot images of your home when it’s staged at its best.
For most homes, though, a good, thoughtful Realtor or their assistant could do the job. The key is to find someone who knows enough about both photography and real estate to show your property in its best light, inside and out.
The more clear, well-lit pictures that show off the beauty and features of your home, the more buyers are likely to take the next step and schedule a showing.
The realtor
Picking the right Realtor is absolutely key to selling your house quickly.
Not only should you feel good about them personally — knowing you can communicate well with them, trust them and feel good about them listing your home — but you should find an agent who will work their hardest to market and sell your home quickly.
Ask them about their background, how many similar homes to yours they have sold in recent years and what sets them apart as a Realtor. You should also look for examples of the agent’s listings and make sure they’ll quickly add your home to the MLS with good photos and descriptions of your property.
Spread the word
While your real estate agent will take the lead in selling your house, there are also some steps you can do personally to help get the word out about your home.
Let your friends, family and neighbors know that your home is on the market. You can share photos with your Facebook friends and do personal networking to help raise awareness about your home’s strong points that potential buyers might enjoy.
You never know where the buyer might come from, so spread the word far and wide.
Fix it up
Finally, you’ve got to pay attention to details to make sure your home is in top shape cosmetically.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to spend a lot of money. A little paint and elbow grease can go a long way toward sprucing up most homes.
You’ll want to make sure the gardens, flower beds and other landscaping are neat, clean and free of weeds. You should also make a checklist of simple handyman tasks to complete, like replacing burned-out light bulbs, making sure doors and hinges shut properly and don’t squeak, and removing stains from your carpet.
Your Realtor will be able to help you figure out what needs to be done. They should have the experience and insight to see your home through the eyes of potential buyers, letting you know any steps you can take to improve your chances of a quick sale.
In the end, selling a house quickly takes a lot of work and some specialized knowledge. But it’s made much easier when you find the right Realtor and take some initiative to find your buyer as fast as possible.
A reality of auto ownership is that at some point it will need repairs and upkeep. Some new car owners may naturally gravitate toward their dealers to follow scheduled maintenance to keep their vehicle in top shape. Older cars will likely need more attention. That’s why it pays to develop a relationship with a qualified, reliable and professional auto repair shop.
Developing a relationship with an knowledgable mechanic or auto repair shop early on in your vehicle’s life can prove invaluable. Talented, honest mechanics can extend the life of your car and help you avoid costly repairs. And if the unexpected occurs — an accident or a major malfunction — that relationship can be the difference between hundreds and thousands of dollars.
Even if your car is new, at some point it will need tires, oil changes or even a new engine. If you have a relationship with a good auto repair shop, you won’t sweat it when these things come up.
If you haven’t had a regular mechanic is recent years, now is the time to find one.
Here are a few points to consider:
• Less than 40 percent of new customers in
auto shops are walk-ins. That means word of mouth is still king in the industry. Find a shop that gets rave reviews from family and friends, and you’ll be in good hands.
• The Better Business Bureau can inform you about the repair shop’s performance and reliability.
• If you travel often, consider a shop that offers a national warranty. For instance, a warranty of 12,000 miles or 12 months is handy for issues that keep cropping up, particularly in older cars.
• Ask about the shop’s range of services. They will need the latest technology to diagnose problems with newer cars. For example, can your prospective shop handle brake systems, electrical components and warranty repairs? Does the shop provide a loaner, rental car or shuttle service while your car is being repaired?
• Look around the shop. Is the equipment in good condition? Is it clean, well-lit and organized? These factors all contribute to a level of professionalism.
• Look for brand names and proper certification. Does the auto repair shop use brand-name parts? These parts are engineered to meet the
manufacturer’s specifications and will likely come with a warranty. Shops may use remade or generic brands which your insurance policy may not cover, so be sure to check.
• Are the auto technicians certified by a specific car manufacturer, the National Institute for Automotive Services or Automotive Science Excellence? Is the shop approved by the American Automobile Association? If so, this indicates a customer approval rating of 90% or higher and the ability to adequately perform the services advertised.
• Compare the services and fees of each shop in the area to find out the average price ranges.
Don’t pick a shop based on cost; poor repair work will mean higher costs in the long run. You’ll also want to ask about the shop’s warranty policy. Imagine spending hundreds on a repair only to learn the work isn’t guaranteed.
Once you have found a shop you trust, establish a good working relationship and try to use the shop for all of your automotive needs. Your mechanic will come to know you as a dependable customer and always be sure to provide you the highest level of service.
Funeral planning is not the most pleasant subject, but it makes sense to consider options whether you are facing such a decision about a loved one or want to ensure your own funeral follows your wishes.
More frequently, people are choosing cremation. In fact, more than half of Americans chose cremation over traditional burials in recent years, according to the National Funeral Director’s Association.
The reasons are numerous. Among them, cremation is cheaper than a traditional funeral and it has become more acceptable to the baby boom generation and those who are younger. And it is important to note that most cremations are also part of a memorial service or viewing.
Still, making the decision between a traditional burial and cremation requires many factors beyond simply the cost.
First and foremost are the wishes of your loved one. So if they’ve opted for cremation, or if they have no preference, cremation may be the most cost-effective way to achieve both.
Making decisions in advance about cremation services can take the burden off loved ones during a painful time. Otherwise, they will need to make tough choices while stressed and grieving.
With cremation, the family doesn’t have to purchase an expensive casket. Loved ones may spend more money than they can afford in an effort to respect the memory of the deceased. But a cremation service is an affordable way to respectfully memorialize a friend or family member. The service can be a peaceful time to grieve and remember.
A funeral home may have a partnership or connection with a cremation center. They may have additional services, such as grief counseling or assistance with necessary paperwork.
After the cremation, you will receive an urn. You can choose to bury the urn, keep it in your home or place it in a memorial building.
When searching for a cremation center, check with your family or friends for referrals. If you cannot get an appropriate referral, you might be able to join a cremation society. For a
small fee, you will receive up-to-date information about your options and the process. Membership may also help you obtain a lower-cost on cremation services. These societies will provide assistance with many details connected to the service and disposition of remains.
The Internet Cremation Society and the Cremation Society of North America are sources of information about cremation societies.
Once you have narrowed your choices, consider how you feel about the staff of the cremation center. You should feel comfortable asking questions. The employees should be
knowledgeable, competent and pleasant. They should give you all of the details about price breakdowns, and their process of making ashes for the urn.
By doing a little research and choosing wisely, you can make the process a little easier for loved ones during a difficult time.
Discuss with your loved ones and family members their preference for when they pass. Talk with them and explain your own so that there will not be any misunderstandings or second-guessing after the fact.
Painting your home is among the bigger home-improvement jobs you’ll confront, but it’s also a perfect money-saving do-it-yourself project. But it’s also easy to make mistakes by jumping in without considering all your options and the proper materials to use.
If you have little or no experience painting, working with a good paint store can be a major help. Not only can a knowledgeable paint store help you pick the right type of paint and applicators for your project, they’ll be able to keep you abreast of the latest paint technology and trends. In addition, they’ll be able to mix paint to get that color just right for your project.
Here is what you’re looking for in a quality paint store.
There’s an enormous variety of paint colors and textures. Oil-based and latex paints are available in a wide range of finishes and compositions.
They are also available in different grades. Cheaper paint may be thinner, messier and harder to apply than its thicker, premium competitor. You will also have to determine if you want to work with a primer. Some brands require specific primer, while other brands have products that are “paint and primer in one.”
A good paint store will have far more than just one line of products. They will stock paint designed for concrete floors, industrial paints that can withstand certain temperatures or chemicals, and paints that will reduce mold growth.
It may seem overwhelming, but more choices will give you a better results and hold up over time. Knowing your specific priorities and considerations will help guide you toward the right paint for your project.
Even the most experienced house painters sometimes need guidance. So don’t be shy about asking for advice.
And a good paint store will be happy to provide painting pointers. Not only will the best stores
sell quality products, they will also have staff who are ready to offer suggestions and recommendations for your particular situation. Most are very knowledgeable about their products. They should also offer tips on how to apply the paint. You can spend money on high-end paint products, but applying them incorrectly will give you terrible results.
The paint store you choose should be able to offer you expert advice on all aspects of your project, from product selection to prep work and clean-up.
With so many color and style selections, a good paint store can offer design advice for getting the look you want.
When it comes to paint, there are endless possibilities, and the best paint store staff will help you navigate through the selections. They will know the latest style trends and offer recommendations for color palettes that work well together. If you bring them a fabric swatch, they should be able to create a duplicate color in paint.
Choosing the right paints and accessories takes experience and, quite often, some trial and error. Be certain to get prices for mixing sample colors up front. Don’t be afraid to put small quantities of these sample colors on your walls to test out your design. Once you’ve selected the right colors, go back to the store to purchase larger quantities of the paints to complete your project.
Stephanie George are Millennials. One thing they all have in common is a desire to find the right home for their clients.
When ready to purchase a home, choose an agency that is familiar with local home values and has an understanding of the neighborhoods that interest you.
Finding a reliable, reputable agent is essential. They will guide you through complicated negotiations and contracts.
Bardier & Ramirez Real Estate in Sterling has agents of 3 generations with plenty of experience among them. Lee Bardier and Deb Proctor are Baby Boomers, Jill Ramirez is part of Generation X and Korinna Cooper and
Honesty, trust, and integrity build and create life-long clients.
It is important that an agent is accessible, replies quickly and communicates often.
Jill Ramirez continues to help many of the Hispanic clients, as she is bi-lingual and makes the buying process easily understandable.
When selling your home choose an agency that concentrates on selling homes similar to yours.
Marketing strategy and an advertising plan will greatly influence the sale of your home.
Be prepared to ask an agency the following questions if you are selling your home:
• How will you advertise my home?
• How many pictures of my home will appear online?
• On which sites will my home be featured?
• Do you have other homes that have recently sold in this price range?
• How long has the agency been selling homes in my neighborhood?
• What makes your agency unique?
The two biggest financial decisions you will make in your lifetime are buying and selling a home. Protect your investment and peace of mind by choosing the best and most trustworthy real estate agency you can find.
It’s no secret there are far fewer travel agents around now than 20 or even 10 years ago and although the popularity of booking travel online had tried to decimate this career field, using a professional travel designer is now the hottest new thing that never went away! In early 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic forced the closures of international borders and stayat-home orders became the norm, many travelers were left scrambling. Along with expensive rebooking and cancellation fees, travelers were faced with long lines at airports and even longer wait times with customer service representatives. But for consumers who had employed a travel agent, or travel advisor/designer, to book their trips, it was a different story. They were busy securing flights without change fees; negotiating future travel credits; doing the legwork on behalf of their clients to avoid them having to pay anything more. This unfortunately was not always the case for those who had booked with popular on-line travel companies, some even shut their phones off or their clients were left for hours on hold fending for themselves. It was proven that during the COVID—19 pandemic, having the backing of a professional travel designer was a must.
Here’s how to find a good travel agent:
Eleven states require travel agents to be state-licensed. Many of these states only require the agency to have a license and pay a fee. These stipulations offer no real protection for travelers. There are some other ways you can discover if a travel agent is competent, knowledgeable, and honest. First of all, find out if the agency is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents or the Association of Retail Travel Agents. Using an ASTA-affiliated member means you are working with someone who has been vetted and follows the organization’s code of ethics, which can be important should you need a dispute or complaint resolved.
Many are also certified through the Travel Institute, which accredits agents based on their expertise. With many consumers turning to social media, finding a professional travel
designer can still be a confusing maze.
Always take care when handing over your hard-earned cash, just because you see a travel company’s Facebook page and pretty pictures, does not mean that they are a professional travel agency or advisor. So many options nowadays; you have on-line agencies, home based agencies, store front agencies. As a rule, most travel agents are well-trained, competent professionals who work hard for you. But taking the time to look at or ask about their credentials, certifications or ask whether the agent or agency is licensed, can save you a headache down the line
A competent travel designer can be a great asset. Certified travel professionals have an edge over the digital world. They work for you to ensure you have the best deal and back up their bookings with personal service that can’t be achieved when booking online by yourself. Travel designers are professionals who know every trick in the book when it comes to ensuring a trip will go smoothly. For a fee, these agents will plan every aspect of your vacation, leaving it up to you only to relax. Best of all, if something goes wrong your agent will be a phone call away with a fix...
Choosing one is no different than choosing a doctor or lawyer. Get advice from friends and relatives who use an advisor they trust. Since
travel choices are personal decisions that reflect individual desires and lifestyles, you will want to visit or call several travel agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider everything from the appearance of the office to the travel advisor’s willingness to listen and answer questions. The best advisors want to establish a long-term relationship with a client, not just make one sale.
Destinations Travel Services have ALL the above listed credentials and licenses, and this is why you should always book with a Professional Travel Advisor. They are not a call center - they are your personal travel advocate. They don’t work for the cruise lines, resorts, or airlines, they work for you!
When you find a great travel agent.
If you have found the world’s best travel agent right in your neighborhood, throw her all your business. You will not do better anywhere else. She can see everything the booking engines can see, and sometimes more. She will make a living, you’ll become a preferred customer and the world will be a better place
Using a professional travel advisor will make any good vacation GREAT!
Choosing an acupuncturist is unlike choosing any other health care provider. While you many know that the practice is part of Chinese medicine, beyond that an acupuncturist’s qualifications aren’t nearly as well-known as those of medical doctors or even chiropractors.
And although the practice has become more widely known and accepted, the practice of any medical care in the wrong hands can be dangerous so it pays to educate yourself before you go looking.
The Eastern medicine practice goes back as much as 5,000 years and is defined as the natural healing force uniting the universe and the body in terms of two opposing forces, the “yin” and the “yang.” By inserting small, mostly painless needles into various pressure points, the body is brought back into its proper balance.
But the value of acupuncture isn’t just an Eastern myth. For many years, Western physicians have confirmed that acupuncture can help relieve chronic pain, migraine headaches, fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis-related symptoms, among other stresses. Researchers also believe it’s valuable in the treatment of post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety, as well as control the side effects of chemotherapy.
In short, this once derided therapy now ranks among the top non-medical, non-pharmaceutical medical treatments with proven benefits.
Increasingly, most medical doctors understand their patients desire to seek alternatives to traditional methods of treatment. It is now not uncommon for physicians to recommend acupuncture as either a primary or additional treatment when confronting pain in all its forms. You may want to check with your insurance provider as well, as many companies offer coverage for selected acupuncture services.
Furthermore, if you have friends or family that have undergone the procedure, ask them about their experience and whether or not they would recommend the acupuncturist they
went to.
Certification is key in choosing the right acupuncturist. It indicates a practitioner’s level of training, skills and prior experience. A qualified acupuncturist will have all this information readily available.
A licensed practitioner may also offer other valuable health services, such as herbal medicine and cupping. These treatments are sometimes used in conjunction with acupuncture.
Acupuncturists practicing in the United States must use sterile, one-time-use needles, and work in a safe and clean environment.
• Ask to see the rooms were sessions take place and make sure standard medical cleanliness practices are adhered to, such as clean hands, covered tables and properly disposed needles.
• Don’t be afraid to request a consultation, just as you would with any healthcare provider. Acupuncture specialists should understand the concerns of prospective clients and should be willing to discuss your options ahead of time.
• Any questions you may have should be an-
swered before booking an appointment. Your acupuncturist should be able to explain the benefits and risks of treatment. Make sure you understand what their methods are and how often you will need to come in for treatment sessions.
• Look for an acupuncturist who asks you questions as well. Traditional Chinese medicine takes into account all aspects of one’s life in order to determine the right treatment, and a skilled practitioner will ask you all manner of questions, from diet to family history to daily activities.
Some of the questions may even seem odd or invasive, but they are necessary. The acupuncturist who doesn’t make any inquiries about your health, mental well-being and personal surroundings might not be the best choice.
Acupuncture in itself may be beneficial to many because when performed properly it is safe, has few if any side effects and can be effectively combined with traditional medicine.
As the ancient Chinese might advise, choose wisely and with all these questions in mind and you may find yourself surprised at its benefits.
Perhaps you’re running out of room in your apartment of house for storage items, maybe even a car or a boat, and an on-site storage building is not an option, it’s time to investigate storage centers.
If you’re looking into self-storage, chances are you’ve noticed there are a great deal of storage facilities looking to attract your business.
There are some important aspects to consider before selecting a storage facility.
Location
Location is a key factor when selecting a storage company. Your ideal facility should be close to your home or office for ease of access. If you need to add or take something out of storage, you will be glad that you picked a convenient location.
Avoid using companies in risky neighborhoods. The overall security of the facility will be stronger when it is in a safer part of town.
Security is another important consideration. Your belongings should be safe for the duration of the rental. Visit the facility in person to verify its security protocol. If you can’t see the center in person, talk to a knowledgeable representative on the phone. The best facilities have three security layers.
1. The building has a security fence that is not easy to climb. It should be topped with barbed wire to discourage attempts to infiltrate the perimeter.
2. Heavy, secure doors seal the center. Keys, codes or even biometric door locks safeguard your stuff.
3. A professional security guard should be on site at all times.
The amount of belongings you have will determine the unit you need. Some self-storage centers offer units as small as 24-square feet. If you are storing furniture or a vehicle, you will probably need a unit that measures at least 300-square feet.
Also, if you are storing sensitive items, such
as musical instruments, look for a unit that has climate control. You can request to have an air conditioned or humidity-regulated unit.
Determine how often you will need to visit your items.
Some people store their belongings for several months. They may only need access to them once or twice during that time. Other people might need to visit their unit several times a week.
The hours of operation should fit your schedule easily. If your schedule is unpredictable, you might consider using a storage center that is open 24-hours a day.
Don’t search for a bargain. Price should not be your only consideration. After all, if you
choose an inexpensive facility, they may be cutting back on important aspects. Maybe they don’t have as much security as other facilities. Maybe the building is not maintained well.
Selecting a facility based solely on a low price may cause you to pay in other ways. It is not fun having your items stolen or damaged. Of course, within a storage facility, a smaller unit will be cheaper to rent than a larger one. But if the overall prices are lower than average, be very cautious.
The best way to find a good storage center is word of mouth. Ask your social network for recommendations. Advertisements, the Yellow Pages and even the internet are good sources of information. Be sure to check out several companies before narrowing your search.
Start early, take your time and follow your intuition. That way, you can’t go wrong.
There’s no more important step than assisting a loved one who needs ongoing care for medical or mental condition in finding a quality nursing home. Some choose nursing homes to recover after a hospital stay, but most require constant care.
A nursing home can provide a comfortable living environment for your loved ones while ensuring that all of their needs are met. As an added bonus, you can rest assured knowing that quality medical care is always nearby to meet any medical emergency that may arise. You can’t put a price on peace of mind.
Placing a loved one in such a facility is never easy, but the choices can be made easier by making some basic decisions on what is important — nursing care, meals, physical therapy, a religious connection, hospice care, or special care units for dementia patients? Do you want a place close to family and friends so they can easily visit? These are all important criteria to consider.
Here are a few more things to think about if you believe someone you love could benefit from nursing home care.
Take a tour of the potential facility. You should intuitively feel warmth and safety in this environment. Your visit will also provide clues about the general atmosphere and morale of the residents. There should be lots of natural light, cheerful colors, bright wall art and hints of laughter from the staff and patients.
Focus on the cleanliness, staffing levels and the appearance of other residents. Is the air fresh and free from unpleasant odors such as urine, feces and stale food? Are there enough nurses and attendants on duty? Are residents appropriately dressed? Do they seem clean and freshly bathed?
Bring the prospective resident along for the tour. This facility may become home. Your loved one deserves to have a voice in selecting the facility. Feeling welcomed are cues that this could be a positive living experience. Socializing is important. Are there opportunities for residents to meet each other? Reg -
ular activities such as music and crafts or an outdoor area for enjoying the sunshine will enhance quality of life.
Most nursing home facilities are happy to provide a tour of the building. Once you see the environment, ask for a consultation with a staff member. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and address special needs of the prospective patient.
Possible questions might include availability of physical and occupational therapy, accommodation of appointments outside the facility and access to barbers and beauticians for the residents.
You might have a chance to talk with a relative of a patient who is currently living in the nursing home. Don’t be afraid of asking them for honest opinions about the facility. Query them about the staff and quality of care received by the residents. Solicit their input on whether you should place your own loved one in this facility.
These relatives are usually eager to share their experiences with you. Hearing their im -
pressions will help ease your own anxieties about this important decision.
If you are still unsure about your decision, or if you have reservations about the facility, discuss the matter with your loved one’s primary care physician. This professional should also be able to recommend good nursing facilities in your area.
The doctor may suggest additional facilities not on your original list. When your loved one has special needs, the doctor will know which facility or center can best meet these requirements.
Deciding to put a family member or loved one in a nursing facility is never easy. Carefully weigh the expectations of your family member with your impressions and the recommendations of others.
This is one of life’s most difficult decisions. Taking the time and doing the research will result in a better quality of life for your loved one and peace of mind for yourself.
Those who seek out and collect antiques are driven by at least one of two passions: for the objects themselves and what they might mean to an individual or their interest in history, or they recognize their value and hunt antiques in order to connect with a collector. Sometimes passion and profit collide.
But there’s no denying that antiques and collectibles intersect at the point where nostalgia meets art in everyday things.
The character of older products and the sense of history dating back decades or generations can be inexplicably attractive. It’s because we know every antique piece has a story. Some have multiple stories embedded in the array of nicks and scrapes marking them. And we’re often free to imagine our own stories about their pasts.
Antiques don’t go out of style. No matter what the piece, there’s a good chance it will always be of interest to someone — a collector, a museum curator, a professional collector or an auctioneer.
Usually, a piece should be at least 50 years old to be considered a true antique. But just because it’s old doesn’t mean it’s an antique. “Collectible” and “vintage” are not synonymous with “antique.” That’s an important distinction to keep in mind when shopping for authentic pieces.
Many items considered antiques are simply collectibles. View-Masters, vinyl records, spoons and even thimbles are some examples of popular collectibles that are not antiques. Also, vintage items are usually from a certain time period, such as the 1970s or 1980s.
When looking for authentic antiques, quali-
ty, craftsmanship, manufacturer and history of the piece are paramount.
Where to find antiques
But to truly find the best and most authentic deals, shopping your local antique stores is your best bet.
You are much more likely to get a better deal on an authentic piece at your local antique shop. Local shop owners like to build a rapport with their customers and love to talk about the history of their inventory. When you shop locally, you will also have the assurance of being able to validate works before purchasing them. Online stores and sites such as eBay, flea markets and estate sales are great places to find antiques or collectibles. They might even offer you a good deal. But unless you really know your antiques use these venues with caution. Know the difference between a genuine antique and a fake. And never buy something without inspecting it.
Auction sites may be convenient, but you
will have to add the cost of shipping and insurance to the price of the item. It is cheaper to find the same item at a local shop or estate sale. You can use an online auction site for research, to see what other people are bidding on the same or similar pieces.
After you have located two or three prospective dealers, visit their shops.
If you are searching for a particular item, most dealers will try to locate it for you. If they don’t have the item, they might be able to tell you about another dealer who carries it.
Creating a good relationship with an antiques or collectibles dealer has many advantages. Dealers can give you their assurance you that the pieces are authentic and often offer regular clients better prices. Reputable dealers can also help you find other resources, such as conferences and conventions that can help educate you in the art of finding the perfect antique for your home or office.
Finding home care for an elderly loved one can be challenging but ultimately rewarding. In-home care means seniors can remain in their homes rather than a nursing facility, which can make a huge difference in quality of life.
But it’s important to determine needs in advance of looking for a provider. Services vary from basic assistance with simple daily needs, such as getting dressed and minor chores and errands, to more advanced nursing care and medical treatment.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a home service provider.
Medical care
It’s important to know is what level of medical care, if any, will be provided. Senior service providers vary widely in the types of help they offer people. Some are staffed by nurses or other licensed health-care providers, which is important if you’re looking for any actual medical care as part of your needs. But for many seniors who don’t necessarily need medical services in their home, there are other providers that focus on helping with dayto-day needs like cleaning, cooking and personal grooming. They’re more like personal assistants to help seniors live a great life, not necessarily offering any nursing care.
Make sure you know the difference and ask exactly what kinds of services will be provided. For medical needs, always talk to your doctor to get advice about what would be best for your situation.
Different companies handle staffing in different ways. Most likely, you’ll be assigned a regular person who you can get to know and be comfortable interacting with. Inviting someone into your home is a big responsibility, so it’s important you find someone you can trust and enjoy spending time with.
What happens when your regular staffer can’t visit, though? Vacations, illness and other conflicts mean sometimes you’ll need to have a different person do the job, so ask your provider
how they handle substitutes when needed.
Find out how long the home care service has been in business. Usually when a company has been around for a long time, that’s a good sign. With a competitive market for in-home care services in most areas, only the best ones will stay in business for a long period of time. You should also find out as much as you can about the firm’s workers. Ask about how much supervision they get, what their qualifications are and how long they’ve worked for the service.
Because every person’s needs are different, find out what kinds of plans will be a good fit. From the frequency of visits to the types of services offered, you need to find a good match for
your exact situation.
If the in-home service will be helping with any medical needs, your doctor ought to be involved with making the plan. Most home care services will be able to coordinate with your doctor or hospital personnel to come up with a plan of care.
Finally, ask around to learn whatever you can about the service’s reputation. Your doctor, friends and family may be able to tell you their experiences with certain service providers in your area — good or bad — so try to find first-person experiences to make a good choice. The best home health providers will have a long track record and lots of happy customers, so a good reputation in your community is a sign that you’re making the right pick.
We all have sensitive personal documents containing valuable information, but over time much of that paperwork becomes obsolete. If you own or run a business, that trove of financial and personal documents quickly piles up, and disposing of it thoroughly and securely becomes a priority.
Confidentiality is important, particularly for businesses in competitive industries. That’s why a good shredding service can be a major help in keeping fraudsters and potential spies from viewing your business documents. Some businesses handle their business documents by throwing them in a public trash receptacle or using a compact shredder. These options are not reliable. A compact shredder breaks easily and is also cumbersome to manage.
Shredding services will handle confidential paperwork easily and efficiently.
Medical professionals, attorneys and banks are particularly in need of shredding services. If sensitive, confidential information is leaked, your business could be legally liable.
Why risk a lawsuit? A good document shredding service will help you avoid the hassle and scare of being vulnerable to lawsuits and crime.
Trust is the key word when looking for a document shredding company. After all, they will be handling your confidential papers.
Ask other area businesses which shredding company they use. Getting a good recommendation from a fellow business owner is a great way to guarantee your satisfaction with a shredding company.
Look for a company with a long track record. The more experience they have, the better service they can provide.
Inquire about their method of destruction. It is a key consideration, as you need to be certain these documents are handled with great care.
Some services use a mobile document shredder for added security. They will bring the shredders to your business, which elimi -
nates the possibility of some sensitive documents leaking to competitors. It provides an exceptional level of security.
If you are comfortable with using an off-site service, ask for references before determining if they have a high level of security.
Ask how and where waste is disposed. If your company values environmentally-friendly products, using a document shredding service that recycles can be a fantastic choice.
Choose a company that is certified through the National Association of Information Destruction.
Proper certification means your documents will be handled with the utmost professionalism. A certified service takes superior precautions so that your documents will not wind up in criminal hands.
When interviewing service companies, ask
about liability insurance. You need to know that your business is protected in the event something happens while your records and documents are being transported.
Take your budget into consideration. Ask for written quotes from several companies. Comparing these prices and service details will help you understand what you are paying ahead of time.
When choosing a document shredding service, always consider confidentiality and safety first. The lowest price quote will not always be the best. Remember, the reputation of your company is at stake. Select a company that makes you feel comfortable. It will leave you and your company feeling more secure and satisfied.
Don’t take chances with your company or personal identity. With identity theft growing daily, you need to take every precaution to protect yourself and your business.
You’ve heard of seasonal pests, you’ve heard of occasional invaders, but you may or may not have heard about overwintering bugs just outside your door!
Certain kinds of pests in Sauk Valley become more aggressive about home invasion as the weather begins to cool down. As wind and rain lower seasonal temperatures, these pests become highly motivated to hide inside or around human buildings.
There are dozens of overwintering pest species in Sauk Valley and hundreds of individual vectors that could be putting your property at risk. These pests include:
• Rodents
• Cluster Flies
• Stink Bugs (The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug)
• Crickets
• Mosquitoes
As you might imagine, these types of pests create an enormous amount of damage inside and outside the home. Rodents can chew through almost any substance and spread serious illnesses from place to place. Animals like cluster flies, stink bugs and crickets can become a nuisance in the home, contaminating food sources and creating bad odors. Finally, pests like mosquitoes emerge during the warm summer months and can spread deadly viruses, bacteria, and parasite eggs from person to person. If pests and their serious issues are not addressed early on, they could start endangering the lives of you, your family, and all your loved ones.
Overwintering pests are difficult to combat. However, there are some quick and easy tricks homeowners can use to get ahead of the curve:
• No matter what time of year it is, it’s essential to practice good stewardship around the yard and garden. Pick up and throw away all dead vegetation, shrubbery, and plants. These should be burned or disposed of in a plastic bag to prevent pest accumulation.
• Be sure to trim back any pest harborage
zones. Thick bushes, long tree limbs, and other shady spaces should be quickly addressed.
• You can also dissuade pests from coming too close to the home by caulking and sealing all entry points. By relying on a waterproof formula built for indoor and outdoor conditions, you can better protect your yard from serious pests and their overwintering plans.
• Another level of protection comes from the management of indoor and outdoor moisture. Pests that like to overwinter in Sauk Valley properties need a large volume of water to survive. Limit their infestation zones by running a dehumidifier in problem spaces. Consider installing desiccant bags or chemical moisture reducers for smaller areas that require marginal care.
While do-it-yourself (DIY) care during the fall will certainly reduce your risks for overwintering pests, they are unable to eliminate your chances without more potent products. Ongoing professional care is always your best option for success.
The most effective way to deal with a pest problem, especially during the fall season, is professional assistance from the team at Pest Control Consultants. For over 30 years, our dedicated professionals have been seeking new ways to manage and control overwintering pests in the Sauk Valley area. With every scheduled home pest control visit, our team springs into action to provide:
• Same day services for emergency pest infestations
• Free pest inspections for all homeowners
• An award-winning pest-free guarantee
More than 3,500 customers strong, the crew behind Pest Control Consultants is ready and waiting to take on our next job. Call us today to inquire about one of our overwintering pest services or schedule an initial inspection before the fall season approaches. We’re here to help you thrive, no matter how many overwintering pests have their eye on you!
From dents and scrapes to fender-benders and more intense damage resulting from an accident, repairing your vehicle requires the services of expert professionals from an experienced, reputable auto body shop.
Not surprisingly, shops specializing in this service can vary in quality, reliability and cost. It’s not unusual for auto body repair estimates to differ by hundreds if not thousands of dollars. To get the best work at the fairest price requires an investment in time and asking the right questions.
Choosing the right body shop depends on many factors, such as the extent of damage, whether the costs are born by yourself or insurance, the experience of the shop with your make and model of vehicle and the shop’s history and reputation, among others.
Paramount to your search is finding an auto body shop that’s honest, trustworthy and dependable. That choice will ensure that your vehicle is repaired quickly, affordably and correctly.
The shop you choose should be able to complete all manner of work, from a minor touchup to a full-body repair.
Your friends, family and colleagues might have recommendations. After all, auto body shops are an unfortunate, but necessary, part of life for most people.
Have a list of companies, research each shop on the Internet and read customer reviews. Testimonials, negative and positive, should be considered. But keep in mind that no business has a 100 percent satisfaction rate. Someone will always be displeased. Also, more people are likely to leave a negative rather than a positive comment.
A good source for finding an auto body shop is your local newspaper. Local businesses advertise and many times you can find special deals to help save you money.
Once you have created a list of shops, contact them on the phone and ask pertinent questions. How long have they been in business? What are their specialties? How soon can you bring your vehicle in for an inspection?
Ask to set up an appointment for a free in-
spection. Then further investigate the business. Look around their lobby. Is it clean? Do they have their license and any awards or certificates posted? Do they care enough about their customers to offer reading material, coffee or water?
Consider prices. Are they comparable to other body shops? While you want to find a great deal, cheaper is not always better. Understand that you will often get what you pay for when it comes to auto body work.
Low prices may be tempting, but they typically mean sub-par work, used parts and paint that is incorrectly applied.
Feel free to ask the manager or owner for references before they work on your car.
You can also check their previous work.
When you see a car with paint drips, panels that are misaligned or paints that don’t match, look elsewhere. You will not save money if you need to have the improper work redone.
The shop should inspect your vehicle for repairs that are not readily visible. Often, there are hidden damages that cannot be detected until repair work begins on the vehicle.
Finding an auto body shop may not be the most pleasant business because it usually means your vehicle has suffered some kind of damage. But finding the right shop will make the experience much more pleasant and you will be happy with the repairs. Especially if you find the right shop that knows how to repair your vehicle so it looks the same as before, or even better.
Working with a professional financial advisor could be the best investment you’ll ever make. The best planners can help you meet your financial goals now and in the future, bringing into play an experienced, objective perspective to advise you on how best to save, invest and spend your money. They can also suggest avenues of money management that hadn’t occurred to you, help lower your taxes and guide you through uncertain financial times.
To find a reliable financial advisor, start by asking your social network. Friends and family may have some suggestions.
Research online for advisors in your area. Your local newspaper will likely have advertisements for local advisors. Remember to research each advisor with an eye toward your own situation and goals.
Once you have a list of three or four possibilities; look closer at each choice. It might be a good idea to pick a financial advisor who is a certified financial planner. A certified financial planner has passed rigorous exams in order to obtain a certificate.
Once you have discovered each advisor’s qualifications, contact the certifying organizations to find out if there have been any complaints against each professional. If so, find out how the complaints were resolved.
You can request a list of satisfied clients who have goals comparable to yours. Contact them to talk about their experiences.
Financial products can contribute to your well-being and peace of mind. Some common investing tools include bonds, mutual funds, stocks and commodities.
Weighing risk is essential. Some products will undoubtedly be better for your portfolio than others. An experienced financial advisor can customize a portfolio especially for you. You can also do some research to find a seg -
ment of the market that might be a good fit for your situation. Then look for an advisor who specializes in that investment. For example, if you want to invest in commodities, your potential advisor should have some experience in that market.
Success rates will also play a prominent role in your decision. Look at the rate of success for each advisor. Has the rate of return on his recommendations outpaced the average market rate of return over time? An advisor with a solid rate of return conducts research to strengthen his clients’ portfolios.
During tough or stagnant economic times, experience will play a vital role. Has your advisor weathered previous economic slowdowns? Do clients thrive in bleak environments? Or have clients taken multiple hits to their portfolios?
You should be wary if clients appear to be doing too good during tough times. Someone with an extraordinary success rate might be too good to be true.
Inquire about how your advisor is paid for services. Most offer fee-based or commission-based services. It will greatly influence your selection. A commission-based advisor is prone to suggesting financial products that offer a professional commission. It could needlessly increase your exposure to risk. Only use a commission-based advisor if he or she has a proven track record of success and also has your best interest in mind.
When you need someone who puts your best interests first, go with a fee-based advisor. He or she will be compensated only for the time spent on serving your portfolio.
Once you have narrowed your prospects to two or three possibilities, schedule a meeting with each professional. During this consultation, communicate your goals honestly and clearly. A financial planner should be someone who will guide and inform you. He or she will continually increase your knowledge about your current financial situation and how to improve it.
Once you have narrowed your list to one or two advisors; ask each to write a plan for moving you from where you are to where you want to be. Get a written copy of this proposal. This document should have your short-term and long-term goals, and also state who else will profit from the proposal. This plan should be written clearly so you completely understand it. Once everything has been completed to your satisfaction, you can choose a financial advisor. Then you can comfortably relax and know that your money and future are in good hands.
Choosing to install a solar photovoltaic (PV) system can be the best investment you’ve ever made – but it can also be very expensive, so selecting the right solar company to work with is an important decision. Solar equipment is built and warrantied to last 25-years on average, so going solar is a long-term commitment, which is all the more reason you want a solar company you can trust and have a lifelong relationship with over the life of your solar PV system.
Reputation
In a fast-growing industry like solar energy, it’s especially important to know the reputation of the company you’re dealing with. Out of state or new companies might be showing up in the marketplace, but that doesn’t mean they’ll necessarily offer the best service or be around long enough to support their product line years from now.
Look for stability in your solar installer. You’ll want to find a company that has developed a great reputation over a number of years with a long track record of satisfied customers. If possible, request the solar company provides you a customer or two they have already serviced with a solar PV system similar to the one you plan to have installed. Hearing directly from customers of the company is the best way to see how that solar company interacts and services their customers.
The System
There are a wide range of solar PV systems on the market, and the technology itself is going to be a big part of your decision. Your solar PV system can be tied to the existing electrical grid (also known as grid-tied) or tied to a battery system to be off grid. Be aware, the equipment for these two types of system connections differs and will also be reflected in the price of your solar PV system and the equipment associated.
Some solar PV systems generate power more efficiently than others, depending on their design and the type of materials used to make up the system. Be sure to ask questions such as if the solar PV system has power optimizers or remote monitoring capability to ensure the system is producing energy to it’s full potential. These added solar components might be what sets the prices apart when comparing bids, but the overall return on investment of the system
will be met sooner when the solar PV system is generating more efficiently to offset your power bill costs.
When considering a solar company, ask them about the warranty spans on the solar equipment they install. A majority of solar equipment has a 25-year warranty, meaning you will be investing in a long-term solar PV system. In addition, ask what type of workmanship warranty the solar company offers.
Overall, look closely at the math, and pick the solar PV system that gives you the best return for your money. Many systems will pay for themselves over a number of years, so choosing one to be installed by a well-regarded company can be a wise financial move.
Homeowners and business owners will often want more than just solar panels installed; such as a battery back-up system or electric vehicle (EV) charging station that can be tied into the existing solar PV system. It is important to choose a solar company that has a wide range of services such as these.
With technology ever changing, EV are becoming more and more common, so to have the ability to pair your solar PV system with an EV charging station is a huge bonus.
A common myth is that solar energy systems mean you will have power even when the grid is down. This is not true unless you have a battery back-up system paired with your solar PV system. Battery back-up systems are great for those who want the capability to be off-grid, but take into consideration the price of these systems
when you compare bids. Battery back-up systems can be installed after an existing solar PV system has installed, so if you decide not to do it now, you can still do it down the road.
The solar company should be familiar with all of the state and federal incentives available to you, and be able to provide you with all of these details. State incentives vary from state-to-state, so depending where you live, they should be able to share what incentives apply to you. Your solar PV system could be eligible for the federal incentive called the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which is a tax credit in the amount of 30% of your solar PV system cost. It is encouraged to consult your financial advisor or tax preparer to verify if you qualify for the ITC.
Depending where you are located, you could be eligible for utility net-metering. Your solar company should be fully educated on net-metering and be able to tell you if this great incentive applies to you.
Lastly, the solar company’s you contact should be able to provide you multiple financing options to ensure you are financially able to make this investment. There are three ways buyers typically purchase their solar PV system:
Paying Cash: The simplest and most direct way of paying for your system is by being a cash buyer. This route will allow you to be eligible to receive both the state and federal incentives to help offset the cost.
Loans: Both home equality loans and unsecured solar loans may be available to help you purchase your system. Some solar companies have partnered with local banking institutions to provide solar financing. Home equity loans may have the benefit of letting you deduct the interest from your income taxes.
Leases: Some solar companies lease your solar PV system with little to no down payment or upfront costs. A solar lease will let you make affordable monthly payments to your existing utility bills. You will not outright own the solar PV system and will have a lease term length. With lease systems, you usually do not receive the state and federal incentives; those incentive funds are absorbed by the solar company.
If you’re planning any sort of sale that features large quantities of items, whether it’s livestock, furniture or vehicles, you might find yourself in the market for a quality auctioneer. The right auctioneer can be the key to hearing that magic word: Sold! If you are selling off an estate or raising money for a good cause, this is especially important.
Auctions are mutually beneficial for participants and the host. They’re also fun and a great way to make a healthy profit.
Choosing the right auctioneer can be a challenge in itself. Auctioneers are specialists and you want to be sure find the right one to fit your needs. Make sure the auctioneer you choose can sell your high end property on a online auction. For example, if you’re having an estate sale with a loved one’s valuables and antiques, you probably wouldn’t get the best results with a commercial or business auctioneer.
Auctions are personality-driven events, so be sure you select an auctioneer who is gregarious and personable. This person must have the gift of speech, a touch of humor and the ability to develop a rapport with the audience.
The success of your auction will depend on how much the auctioneer can establish a relationship with the audience. The auctioneer will show your products off in the best light and entice participants to bid. If they have been in business for a while, they will likely have a following that will come to your auction just because of the auctioneer’s reputation.
Look for an auctioneer at your local auction house. The best auctioneers are independent contractors with well-honed skills and years of experience getting results for clients.
Use the internet or your local newspaper to find a qualified auctioneer. Most newspapers have an auction section in their advertising
section. If you use the internet, be sure to visit the website of a certified institution. Not every site lists credentialed auctioneers.
If you’ve exhausted these sources, contact the National Auctioneers Association or visit its website at www.auctioneers.org. Many auctioneers belong to professional organizations such as the Certified Auctioneers Institute or CAI. Auctioneers with this certification are held to a higher standard of integrity.
Sometimes a well-known person can also draw people to your event. Your potential auctioneer should undergo some training in the overall auction process. There are often logistics that must be explained beforehand.
for references and work history. Verify licensing and check that they are actively working auction events.
Once you have a list of finalists, attend an auction and watch them perform. Pay attention to how they handle attendees and the pacing of the event. Take notes on each auctioneer. Once you have narrowed your list to one or two candidates, perform a background check and obtain reliable references.
When speaking to candidates, be sure to ask
Then sit back, relax and enjoy the show. Know that your goods will be professionally described and displayed and more often than not, sold for the highest price possible. The auctioneer you choose will make sure of this.
Whether you’re looking for a great place to play on your own, or in a group, choosing an excellent golf course will enhance your game and make the experience memorable and enjoyable. If you are looking for a great golf course, you have many options. With enough research, you can find a location that will stretch your skills without breaking your budget. Deer Valley Golf Course , voted the Sauk Valley Area’s #1 Golf Course, offers a variety of memberships—Full Platinum, Pay as You Play Gold and Silver memberships.
The course itself is the top factor for any serious golfer. The ideal course should be difficult enough to challenge you. The best courses match the natural surroundings. They will provide a beautiful backdrop to put you in the right frame of mind. Sometimes, the most memorable experience comes from playing in extraordinary settings. This 18-hole golf course with mature landscape and rolling hills offers both a challenging experience as well as a course for the novice golfer. This par 72 track has 4 sets of tees to accommodate every skill level.
Every course offers a list of services that will make your visit more enjoyable. Take advantage of all the services that might be offered. Most facilities know that a golf course is an excellent escape from daily life and they want you to feel welcome and appreciated.
At this course you will experience a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere with a full bar and a snack bar for food that includes burgers, brats, hot dogs, chips and snacks. In the summer, we offer weekend grilling hours. There are also gaming machines available for entertainment after the round.
Often courses will also offer banquet facilities for many social events. This course has a stunning, full service venue, featuring a spacious ballroom with seating up to 400.
Many golf courses offer lessons on site. Check with your course of choice to see if this amenity is available.
For the competitive golfer, ask about tournaments that will challenge your game and add an element of fun. This course has monthly tournaments for members as well as daily green fee patrons.
The best golf courses have gorgeous settings, excellent amenities and exceptional service, as well as the challenging course.
Many courses also offer private play days and outings for organizations to use as fundraisers, employee appreciation or even family
gatherings. These outings can be organized as team scrambles or individual rounds and can include food provided by the course. Inquire at 815-438-4653 ext. 15 to schedule your event.
In closing, the best courses have gorgeous settings, excellent service and a layout that can be as challenging or easy as the golfer wants based on the tees that are played. A course with reasonable fees and memberships can also provide great value to a family or individual looking to spend their leisure time in a peaceful, enjoyable environment. Shop around and discover what courses are the best fit for your needs.
Choosing the best financial planner involves some research. You need an advisor right for your situation so you won’t waste time and money paying for services you don’t need. Budgeting for a financial planner makes double sense — you’re taking strides to control your finances and choosing an advisor you can afford. Don’t think you can’t afford a good financial planner, because these days there’s an advisor for every budget.
Budgeting, money management and even crafting investment strategies are a few of the things a good planner can help you complete. Planning professionals will guide and inform you on how to prevent cash-flow problems. They might even prevent future bankruptcy.
With the right questions and research, you can find a financial planner you can trust.
Seek referrals from your friends, family and trusted individuals who have built substantial financial reserves. If their modest portfolios have become bigger over time, a skilled financial planner likely played a role in that success. Look at the educational and professional background of each recommendation. Find out if that person has worked with people who match your financial circumstances.
ness. Integrity is one of the key qualities in a good financial planner.
Financial planners who have undergraduate degrees in finance or business show a dedication to this work.
Verify that each prospect has the right certifications. Financial planners must have specific certifications in order to legally practice in the field. Credentials vary according to the location and advising type, but all must have formal training.
Once you are ready, meet with several financial planners to gauge their trustworthi -
During the meeting, honestly explain your financial goals. Wealth building should be a goal. Minimizing risk and maximizing returns will help grow your resources.
Whether your desired outcome is to launch a small business or send your kids to college, share these thoughts with your financial planner.
Also, don’t be shy about detailing your debt level. It is essential that the professional understands all aspects of your financial situation. It could motivate the planner to make your money work harder so you can break free from
Finally, discuss compensation with any financial planner. Sometimes professionals are paid a flat rate, while others will receive a percentage from any profits made on investments.
These matters must be openly discussed, so you can understand how his or her compensation may affect his investment recommendations. Some unscrupulous experts could advocate risky investment strategies for their own financial gain.
Taking the time to research will help you select the best financial planner in your area. You will be on your way to a healthier financial future.
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