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How Grandparents Can Go About Saving for their Grandchildren’s Future

July 16, 2022 by

For some overly financial health-conscious grandparents, simply saving for their children’s future is not enough. Upon reaching their retirement years, certain grandparents wish to make it a priority to begin putting money away for their grandchildren out of financial need or out of good old generosity. 

But despite making saving for the grandkids a priority, retired grandparents aged 62 and older might find that they simply don’t have enough cash on hand to make it possible. This is where a reverse mortgage loan could come in quite handy. If the retired grandparents don’t plan on moving out of the family home they’ve been paying the mortgage on for decades, they can tap into all that equity they’ve built up. 

If approved for a reverse mortgage, they can potentially collect up to a six-figure sum or more in one lump sum payment, or they can take it in monthly disbursements. The best part of this financial opportunity is they need never pay back the loan until they either leave the house or die. You can easily find out how much of a reverse mortgage you qualify for based on this calculator. 

But what if you’re a grandparent who hasn’t yet reached retirement age and who is, in fact, quite a few years away from 62 years old? How can you go about saving for your grandchild or grandchildren’s future? 

According to a new report, it’s generally believed that most grandparents enjoy helping their grandchildren whenever possible. Some grandparents are the type to watch the grandkids while their parents are both working full-time jobs, and others feel that their role is better suited to help out financially.    

But it’s important to note that not all grandparents are in a position to help their grandchildren monetarily, especially in these hyperinflated times. Still, they feel the need to set at least something aside for the grandkid’s future.  

The reason will vary. Some grandparents had to struggle to pay for their education and for their first home. With that in mind, they wish to give their grandchildren “an easier start to their life.”

Still, others will see it as a priority to help their children and avoiding the massive burden of taking on the grandkid’s student loan debt. But no matter the reason, there are several good ways grandparents can go about saving for their grandchildren’s future. 

Here are just a few options you can look into right away. 

The Savings Account

This might sound overly simplified, but one of the most effective ways to save for your grandkids is to open a savings account on their behalf. But beware that the easiest choices for saving are not always the best choices. 

While placing money in an account for your grandchild will not decrease in terms of dollars, the interest rates on today’s savings accounts remain way below that of inflation. This means the purchasing power of the money you are saving today will decrease over the course of many years. 

If you decide to open a savings account at an FDIC-insured bank, you need to look for a “high-yield savings account.” 

CDs or Certificates of Deposit

Despite low-interest rates, you can get a higher return than a savings account by opening up a CD or certificate of deposit. In general CDs will give you a higher interest rate on your cash so long as you make a contractual promise that you will not be withdrawing the money for a specific period.  

CD terms are said to be as brief as a few months (or even a single month). But longer-term CDs will offer much higher interest rates. That said, you might not want to lock into a fixed rate long-term certificate of deposit if interest rates are rising. 

The Brokerage Account

The gutsy grandparent who is willing to withstand some risk for potentially much higher returns than a savings account and/or CD might wish to invest their cash into a brokerage account. By opening a brokerage account, you can invest for your grandchildren in bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, stocks, cryptos like Bitcoin, and other varieties of investments like real estate and precious metals. 

The best part about a brokerage account is that given time (ten years or more), brokerage-related investments will always “provide higher returns than savings accounts.” However, you must keep in mind that the money you invest could also lose some of its value, and this is why it’s important to maintain a diversified portfolio. 

But it if you’re investing in your grandchild’s future from the very beginning of his or her life, you have a full 18 years to go about investing before they require even a single dollar of what you’ve been putting away for their future. 

That’s a long time, and when it comes to investing, time is always on your side. 

 




How to Safely Pack and Move Your Extra Sports Gear

July 14, 2022 by

Almost all the families present out there have sports equipment or tools. There is always someone in a family who likes to play sports. If you are considering relocating your extra sports gear at the new home you must consider hiring out of state movers near me right away to keep these safe. If you not hiring movers then be sure you pack these safely to prevent any kind of damage because these items are quite expensive. If you are looking for a guide to transport these then have a look at this:

Plan everything at first

There is nothing worse than having to pack and move sports gear in a hurry because it always takes time. Proper planning and preparation are the keys to moving items with safety. Consider a few things like the budget for the upcoming relocation process, necessary packing supplies, size of the inventory, the distance required to travel, and so on. 

Clean all the equipment

It is important to clean all the equipment before moving them. This ensures that you don’t bring germs and bacteria with the items. Certain items such as towels and blankets should be washed before packing. Wipe down your yoga mats and also clean all the surfaces of the equipment you are going to relocate. Cleaning is important before you start packing the objects.

Measure these

This is an important step but most people skip this and end up finding themselves in big problems. Before relocating, you should envision the position of these in the new home, be sure the new home has enough space to keep them else bringing these along with you is not worthful. Just imagine that you face all the hurdles of packing the large stuff and you find yourself out of space when reached the new home. Where you will keep it then? So be sure you measure all the stuff at first.

Obtain the required supplies

Packing supplies and materials are required to keep items protected. Collect all the supplies such as the boxes, padding, packing foam, bubble wrap, and so on. Be sure you buy enough materials that are enough to transport items safely. Also consider getting moving equipment on rental such as dollies, moving blankets, trolleys, and so on. Moving delicate items such as sports gear can be done with the help of these items. Be sure you don’t give up on any important packing supply just to save a few bucks because this could lead to damage that you can’t even afford and increase moving related stress.

Dissemble

For complex machines and large equipment, dissembling items is great before packing these. You can easily pack dissembled small pieces instead of packing the large complex pieces. There are instructions and manuals present on the large sports machines that tell you how to assemble and disassemble these. So, it is time to read out these and have to follow the instructions. If you don’t want to take any risk then be sure you take the help of the professionals to do the job.

Packing

Now it is time to pack them actually. Get a moving box, place the items inside it and then get enough supplies over it to keep it protected. Make sure there is no space left inside the box to move during transportation. Provide enough padding inside boxes. Also, be sure these heavy items do not cause damage to the other items.

Time taken

You will need a couple of days to handle only this part of the entire relocation process therefore it is recommended you start the process earlier. The process is harder than it actually looks therefore be sure you prepare yourself physically as well as mentally before you embark on this toughest part of relocation. Give yourself enough time and if possible then take the help of the professionals.

Relax and take care

Now you have done the difficult part which means packing and moving the job so it is time to get relaxed because everything will be just fine and you will be able to transport items without causing any damage.

Wrapping it all up!!!

Extreme sports gear offers you safety when you try the adrenaline-rushing activities. Many sports equipment is fragile in nature and require handling safely during the transportation process. Be sure you secure everything perfectly before allowing these to be transported. Stay organized and start with a good strategy in your hands so you don’t find yourself in any problems later on.

 




Is It Safe for Kids to Be Passengers on a Motorcycle

July 14, 2022 by

Riding motorcycles is a hobby and even a passion for people of all ages and backgrounds. According to research, there is a growing number of people who own motorcycles, including female riders. 

Since many families own a motorcycle, it also means that it’s more common to see kids on the back. 

However, you do have to decide if it’s safe for a child to be a passenger on a motorcycle and, if so, what you need to do as a parent to make sure you’re following the rules.

What Are the Laws?

In many states, there aren’t any minimum age requirements to ride a motorcycle as a passenger. To legally operate a motorcycle, most states say that young people have to be at least 16, just like driving a car. 

Interestingly, in many states, there are laws that require children under a certain age are in the right safety restrain system when they’re in a car, yet this doesn’t apply to motorcycles. 

While there aren’t necessarily many laws dictating when a child can ride on a motorcycle, there are other requirements that should be met. The Motorcycle Handbook lists the requirements as proper precautions, which is what any motorcycle passenger should follow, especially kids. 

The precautions for a child passenger include a motorcycle that has a passenger seat and footrests. The passenger should be able to comfortably reach the footrests, and passengers should always wear a snug-fitting, federally approved helmet. Children should also wear durable but comfortable clothing, including long pants, a thick jacket, and closed-toe shoes. 

Getting the Right Helmet

If you’re going to have your child as a passenger on a motorcycle, the proper helmet is one of the most important things to make sure you have. 

The helmet needs to fit properly. A child should not be wearing a helmet for adults. If the helmet is too large, it’s very likely that if you are in a crash, it will come off. 

The helmet needs to fit snugly, even though this means your child will outgrow it faster. The helmet should have full coverage as well as a chin-bar. If the helmet doesn’t have a face shield, your child should wear goggles. 

What About a Leather Jacket?

Wearing a leather jacket on a motorcycle isn’t to look the part. Leather jackets are important for protection. 

There are kids riding jackets available, and while they can be expensive, the protection they provide is likely worth it. Kids need at a minimum a tough jacket made of rugged material. 

Retention Solutions

Your child can’t be put in front of you to ride—that’s incredibly dangerous. If you are going to ride with a child as a passenger, they can fall off when they’re sitting behind you. A child can fall asleep on a longer ride, which increases the chances of falling off. A child can also be flung off following a maneuver for quick avoidance. 

If a child has small hands and their arms are short, it’s going to be tough for them to hold onto the rider. 

There are a lot of stories about motorcycles that didn’t crash, but children were still ejected from them. 

There are some aftermarket solutions that can help with this issue. 

For example, there are belts for riders that have passenger handholds. 

If you have a kid on the younger side, they might not be able to remember to hold on, so in this case, there are harnesses that go over a child’s waist and shoulders and between their legs so they can’t wiggle out. 

There are quick-release buckles on these harnesses that a child can’t release. Then, the harness attaches to a foam pad with grips like a handlebar. There’s a belt that attaches to the front of the pad and then goes around the waist of the rider, securing the child to them. 

Following the Rules of the Road

Whether you have a young passenger or not, following the rules of the road is critical for safety on a motorcycle. You need to make sure you comply not only with local laws but also with best practices for riding a motorcycle safely. 

Your child should have an understanding of basic safety skills before riding with you as well. 

Having a child as a passenger on a motorcycle inherently has more risks than putting a child in a car. If you do decide to do it, you need to take every available precaution to make it as safe as you can. 

 




5 Common Types Of Cancer As We Age

July 12, 2022 by

Cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. When left unchecked, these cells can spread to other body parts and cause serious health problems. 

There are many different types of cancer, but some are more common than others. Here are five of the most common types of cancer that people often experience as they age.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. 50% of breast cancer is diagnosed in women over 65 years of age, and it usually begins as a lump in the breast that may be painless. 

Other symptoms of breast cancer include a change in the size or shape of the breast, discharge from the nipple, and a change in the appearance of the skin on the breast. If you notice any of these signs, make sure to see a doctor right away.

Unfortunately, breast cancer can also occur in men. However, it is much less common than in women. The symptoms in men are often the same as those experienced by women, and the only risk factors seem to be Klinefelter syndrome and BRCA mutations.

Risk factors for breast cancer in women include a family history of the disease, early onset of menstruation, later age at first childbirth, and obesity. All of these increase the breast’s exposure to estrogen, which is a hormone that leads to breast growth. If this growth becomes abnormal, you get cancer.

Fortunately, breast cancer can be screened for and treated before it spreads to other parts of the body. This is done through a combination of regular breast exams, mammograms, and ultrasounds. 

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. It usually begins as a small growth in the prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder. The prostate gland produces semen, so prostate cancer can cause problems with urination, sexual function, and fertility.

Prostate cancer is most common in older men, and the risk factors include a family history of the disease and genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome. African-American men are also at an increased risk.

There is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, but you can lower your risk by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting regular checkups. If you have any symptoms of prostate cancer, such as difficulty urinating or pain in the pelvis, make sure to see a doctor right away.

Treatment options for prostate cancer have evolved significantly over the years, with the introduction of targeted therapies such as abiraterone acetate. However, one of the challenges in treating prostate cancer is the high cost of medications, including abiraterone acetate. This Abiraterone Acetate Price Calculator is a valuable tool for patients and healthcare professionals to estimate medication costs and plan for treatment.

Your doctor will screen you for prostate cancer with a digital rectal exam and a prostate-specific antigen test. If cancer is found, it will be treated with surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women. It is cancer that begins in the colon or the rectum, and it often has no symptoms in the early stages. This is why screenings are so important, as The Centre for Gastrointestinal Health explains.

Screenings for colorectal cancer usually begin at age 50, but if you have a family history of the disease, you may need to start earlier. The screening test involves a colonoscopy, which is when a doctor inserts a small camera into the rectum to look for any abnormal growths (called polyps).

If polyps are found, they will be removed and tested for cancer. If cancer is found, it will be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

When symptoms do arise due to colorectal cancer, they consist of blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention. 

You can lower your risk of colorectal cancer by eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet, cutting down on alcohol and smoking, losing weight, and getting regular screenings. 

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. It is most often caused by smoking, but exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and air pollution can also increase your risk.

Symptoms of lung cancer include a cough that does not go away, shortness of breath, unexplained exhaustion, chest pain, and coughing up blood. If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away.

Just like prostate cancer, there is no sure way to prevent lung cancer, but quitting smoking is the best thing you can do. Some things you can do to quit smoking include:

  • Making a plan to quit
  • Identifying your triggers
  • Choosing a date to quit
  • Telling your friends and family about your decision
  • Getting rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays in your house
  • Avoiding places where people smoke
  • Staying busy when you get the urge to smoke

There are also medical drugs that can help you quit smoking. These drugs target nicotine addiction and can make it easier to quit.

Unfortunately, we don’t have a screening test for lung cancer as we have for prostate and breast cancer. This is why lung cancer is the number one killer when it comes to cancer.

If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, treatment will depend on the stage of cancer and your overall health. Treatment options generally include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. It is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds.

There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is the more serious type of skin cancer and can be fatal if not caught early. Non-melanoma skin cancers are less serious and are usually treated successfully.

Symptoms of skin cancer include new or changing moles, dark, patchy spots on the skin, and open sores that don’t heal. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. 

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid exposure to UV rays. This means wearing sunscreen, staying in the shade, and wearing protective clothing when you are outdoors. You should also avoid using tanning beds.

If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, treatment will depend on the type of cancer and how advanced it is. Treatment usually involves removing cancer from the skin.

 




I’m a Mom With ADHD: Here is How I Manage

July 12, 2022 by

  

Growing up in the 1990s, you probably heard about ADHD in passing. It was a diagnosis almost always assigned to boys, treated with stimulants and surrounded by a negative stigma as with most mental health conditions. For a long time, it was thought to be a condition of childhood that we would outgrow as we reached adulthood. An expanded understanding of ADHD teaches us that it couldn’t be further from the truth. 

New studies have found that if one or more children are diagnosed with ADHD, it’s highly likely that at least one parent also lives with the condition. Contrary to popular belief, Dad does not always carry those genetics. I’m a mom with ADHD. If you’re in the same boat, here’s how I manage. 

ADHD Looks Different in Girls

We tend to picture an ADHD diagnosis as a young child who can’t sit still in class and who struggles with focus and might not do well in school because of it. These symptoms might be typical of ADHD in boys, but in girls, they can present entirely differently. Rather than being hyperactive like their male counterparts, ADHD presents as being inattentive. We spend time daydreaming and might have trouble paying attention, but since we lack the titular hyperactivity often used to diagnose ADHD, we are often overlooked as children. 

Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety or depression. They may struggle with self-esteem and have a higher chance of turning to self-harm. 

How I Manage With My ADHD

Managing as an adult with ADHD isn’t easy, but once you know what you’re up against, it’s easier to craft a plan of attack. Here are a few things that have worked well to help me manage my ADHD. 

Building a Routine

I get it — life can be downright chaotic at times. When you’re managing calendars for multiple people and may need to develop the ability to teleport to make sure everyone makes it to school, work, appointments, rehearsals and practices on time, setting up a routine might seem like an impossible task. In reality, having my routine in place has been a lifesaver for managing my ADHD. 

I have a list of things I need to accomplish to start my day correctly. They might not have to happen in the same order or at the same time, but I need to complete all these tasks before I can jump into any other tasks. The same goes for my evening routine. I must complete these tasks before I can wind down for the night. If you don’t already have a routine in place, start by taking small steps. Adopt one new task at a time. Trying to change too much about your routine could be overwhelming. 

Break Down Tasks Into Manageable Bites

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. If you’re trying to tackle a huge job, start by breaking it down into more manageable steps. For example, let’s say that Sunday is your chore day. You’ve got a list of things you need to do on Sunday because you work the rest of the week and it’s your only day off. Trying to take on the entire list can be incredibly overwhelming. For someone with ADHD, getting overwhelmed can lead to shutting down. You’ve got so much to do that you don’t know where to start, so you give up, and nothing gets done. 

Back to your chore list, start by breaking it down by room. Then, look at the tasks for each room and break them down into even smaller tasks. The bathroom chore list for a neurotypical person might look something like this: 

  • Clean sink
  • Scrub toilet. 
  • Scrub shower
  • Hang fresh towels

It seems pretty straightforward until you sit down and think of all the steps that go into each task. For me, the bathroom chore list looks something like this.

  • Clean counter
  • Move toothbrushes
  • Spray sink with cleaner
  • Scrub sink
  • Rinse
  • Put toothbrushes back.
  • Spray toilet with cleaner
  • Scrub toilet
  • Flush. 
  • Spray shower with cleaner.
  • Scrub shower
  • Rinse.
  • Move dirty towels to the laundry
  • Hang fresh towels
  • Empty trash. 

It seems like a lot, but each of these tasks is small and easy to complete, so the entirety of the chore list doesn’t seem so overwhelming. Yes, my Sunday chores might have dozens of to-dos, but each is small enough that I can manage them without too much trouble.

Recognizing My Limits

This challenge might not have much to do with my ADHD diagnosis, but I tend to be a perpetual people pleaser. I say yes when I should say no and take on more tasks than I have the energy to handle because I don’t want to be a disappointment. Instead of recognizing my limits and sticking to my boundaries, I would blow right past them and push myself into burnout. 

Learn how to recognize your limits. Know when you need to step away, even if it’s just for a few minutes to recharge. Don’t let people stomp on your boundaries. 

Staying Organized

One of the most challenging things to manage with ADHD is our problems with object permanence. Out of sight, out of mind takes on a literal meaning for us. If we put something away in a drawer, box or safe place to ensure that we don’t lose it, you can almost guarantee that we’ll never find it or think about it again. We also have a habit of creating ‘doomboxes’ — repositories for everything we have no other place. These boxes, drawers or cubbies will accumulate items that we’ll forget about, again due to that issue with object permanence.

Staying organized is one of the biggest challenges for people with ADHD. You don’t need to spend much money on coordinated storage boxes or other supplies. Sometimes, something as simple as taking the doors off your cabinets so you can see what you have can help make organization a little easier. 

You’re Not Alone

Living as an adult with ADHD might seem impossible. We’re in a world built for and by neurotypicals. We must mask our symptoms to fit in; even then, we tend to stand out. If you take nothing else away from this article, remember this — you are not alone. There are others out there that share your struggles. 

 




Keeps These Tips in Mind Before You Clean Your House Again

July 12, 2022 by


Cleaning your home makes you more relaxed and impresses your guests. Having an efficient cleaning routine is essential. So, here are some tips to keep in mind before you start. 

Work Smarter Cleaning can sometimes feel like a hassle. Instead of working harder, find ways to make things easier. For example, use a cordless electric scrubber. This tool can help you clean the bathroom with minimal effort. 

You can use the extendable feature to prevent reaching over large tubs. Also, look for multipurpose cleaning supplies, such as all-purpose products. 

1. Use the Total Method

This is where you do the same task, such as dusting, for every room. It can make the cleaning process more efficient. The total method prevents you from repeating the same task, saving you time. It also reduced the need to switch cleaning tools constantly.

Make sure to tidy up the entire house at once, not just a few rooms. This saves time and energy in the long run. Pick a day you don’t have much going on so you can devote plenty of time to the job.

2. Dust With the Right Tools

Dusting is essential to improve your indoor air quality-especially for those with allergies. Dust particles collect over time and can irritate your throat and eyes. They also give germs and bacteria more places to hide. Dust your floors, furniture, mattress and surfaces. 

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down tabletops, counters and bookshelves. Find dusters with ridged edges to trap tiny dust bunnies. When cleaning, work from the top down.

3. Use the Power of Scrubbing 

Use cleaning solutions and some elbow grease to clean bathroom or kitchen tile. This scrubbing method can remove dirt and grime. You may need to do a bit of extra work for stubborn grout found between tiles.

 First, buy a product specifically designed to remove grout. You could also check online reviews to ensure it’s a quality cleaner. Then purchase a drill bit for motorized scrubbing. You’ll want to attach the scrubber to your drill and wash away grime. This trick can save you time and effort, making the task less like a chore. 

4. Keep Your Toilet Clean

Cleaning your toilet prevents bacteria build-up and unpleasant odors. Mix baking soda with essential oils and let it sit in the bowl for a little. Then you can scrub using a bowl brush before flushing. 

Natural ingredients are also better for the environment. Store-bought cleaning supplies can have toxic chemicals. Make sure to clean the outside of the toilet with disinfectant products, such as wipes. Wipe down the tank, handle, lid and seat sides.

 

5. Remember to Clean Your Dishwasher

Many people may forget this spot. It may seem like the dishwasher just cleans itself, but it could lead to potential mold growth. The damp environment and food particles help mold spores thrive. To clean it, run an empty cycle on dry-heat to wash out the interior. 

You can also use bleach any especially dirty areas. Suppose you notice mold in the silverware basket. Let it soak in the sink with warm water and bleach and rinse thoroughly. 

6. Make Sure to Clean Your Drains 

Cleaning your drains can save you from costly repairs in the future. In fact, a clogged drain can cost around $150 to fix. To keep your drains protected, pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Then let it fizzle before flushing it down with hot water. This method will remove grime, which could prevent clogs. 

Also, use drain enzyme cleaners that are good for the environment. They have chemicals that reduce particle build-up and protect your entire plumbing system. 

7. Wash Your Cleaning Tools 

Remember, your cleaning tools can get dirty too. So, clean these before getting started. Use warm water and soap to remove dirt and dust from scrapers and brushes. For tougher stains, you can add chlorine bleach. 

Make sure you store your supplies properly after cleaning. For example, keep your broom with the bristles to maintain their proper shape. You could spend more time cleaning if you don’t do this step. Plus, you could be adding more grime to your surfaces unintentionally. 

8. Tidy Up Your Bed

A messy bed can make the whole space seem messy. So, try tucking the sheets and making the bed. It’s also an excellent time to wash your sheets to remove germs. Consider washing your sheets at least once per week. You could also switch to a removable cover for less hassle.

Making your bed can also impress your guests when you give them a house tour. Plus, who doesn’t love sinking into freshly cleaned sheets at the end of the day?

9. Empty Your Dishwasher Each Morning 

Emptying your dishwasher each morning can save you the hassle of unloading a larger load. It also ensures dirty dishes don’t pile up in your sink or counter. The leftover food can attract bacteria and create unpleasant odors.

Empty your dishwasher while your coffee is brewing or you’re waiting for your kids to get dressed for school.  

Cleaning Tips

Cleaning is part of maintaining a home. Using the right tools and methods, you can make the process more efficient. Keep these tips in mind before your next spring cleaning day.

The many benefits of having a professional clean your home are far-reaching and diverse. Professional house cleaning services can provide a clean, organized and inviting living space with precious time saved. From dust free furniture to spotless window sills and baseboards, professional cleaning companies can provide deep top-to-bottom cleaning services as well as other specialized surface cleaner solutions that may be necessary to keep your home looking neat throughout the year. Shine Bright MV House Cleaning, tisbury ma is an award-winning, family-owned and -operated business providing top quality residential and commercial cleaning services in Tisbury, MA, and the surrounding areas.

 




How to Make the Right Choice: PODS vs. Moving Company

July 11, 2022 by

Sooner or later, all of us have to deal with relocation, be it a job offer, downsizing, or getting a better home in a new city or state, and get confused with various moving services available in the market. PODS vs. movers – what is the best solution for you? Probably, you’ve heard from friends or colleagues how much they paid to a full-service moving company and the amount impressed you, so you give a thought to a DIY move. Often recommended online portable containers seem a budget-friendly variant but there are some pitfalls though.

To make up your mind, scrutinize advantages and disadvantages of two methods: moving yourself or hiring movers.

PODS vs Movers

Having decided to move, you face multiple tasks and choices. You need to sort out when and how to move. As of now, moving containers (i.e., PODS or similar options) are popular and often asked-for. They are pretty affordable and offer maximum versatility in terms of a moving schedule. Yet still, lower pricing includes higher involvement and heavier workload in comparison to specialized full-service companies that promise clients seamless and stress-free experience.

Renting a Moving Container

PODS offers its customers 8-, 12-, or 16-foot portable units to choose from. You select a required size, next – a container is delivered to the specified place (your current address), then you fill it; later, the company will redeliver the unit to your new location or keep it for a specified time (short- or long-term storage). PODS containers are suitable for both residential and office moves.

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PODS units represent an affordable variant for small-size local moves. As a case in point, moving a 1-bedroom apartment 500 miles will cost between $1,500 and $1,700.

Unfortunately, for longer distances, PODS do not seem inexpensive. Let’s say, to move 1,500 miles a 2-bedroom home for a family of three will cost around $8,300. The price is comparable to moving companies’ rates. Add here amounts you have to outlay on packing materials and efforts on packing the stuff, carrying and loading/unloading a portable container. If you don’t feel like doing the hard work, it’s more than likely that you will need moving assistants. As a result, total costs may exceed the flat rate of full-service movers.

The good thing is that you can cancel service anytime (a day before the scheduled unit delivery) and receive a full refund.

Pros:

  • PODS containers provide freedom for planning and organizing a move
  • PODS units are often used for storage
  • Inexpensive option for a DIY move or storage
  • NO-fee cancellation

Cons:

  • There is no mobile app to reserve a PODS container
  • You should have enough space in front of the home (along with the building or homeowners association permission) for a container
  • It is complicated to choose the right volume of a container
  • PODS might be a costly option if you travel long-distance
  • Moving to a new home might take far more time

How Do Moving PODS Work?

The company delivers a movable container so that you can use the unit for storage or relocation. Later, you can schedule a pickup time and specify the re-delivery date to a new place. Once you’ve finished unloading the portable container, the service provider picks up the unit. This way you have much greater freedom within the frame of the moving timeline.

PODS, a transportation and storage business, is headquartered in Florida but operates in 46 states as well as in Australia, the UK, and Canada. Actually, moving containers are used for DIY moves but PODS has a large network of moving partners (third-party service providers) so that customers can hire packing or loading assistants. The target customers are those who need to cut moving costs and can pack and load their stuff.

Note: If you live in a compound or apartment building, make sure that building rules allow using portable containers. The same applies if you have shared driveways — homeowners associations sometimes restrict placing portable containers next to your home.

The company charges for storage units on a monthly basis. If you need PODS for moving, you will also be charged shipping fees, unit delivery and redelivery fees. The rates of renting a movable unit-container start from $149/h, and delivery fees depend on the total distance and start from $75. In case of short-distance moves, the company bills a day before the unit delivery, and redelivery dates. In case of long-distance relocation, billing is divided into three parts with each one charged a week before the service. You can use the PODS online calculator to estimate moving or storage fees for your unique situation.

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Another challenge is choosing the right size of a PODS unit. No one wants to get frustrated in the middle of the loading realizing that the chosen container isn’t large enough to fit all your stuff. On the contrary, competent moving companies provide pre-move estimation and select the right size of a truck. Besides, an experienced crew can use the space efficiently, and you don’t pay for air (empty space) transportation.

Hiring Movers

A trustworthy full-service moving company takes care of all aspects of your planned relocation, from A to Z. Signing a contract with professional movers is the most efficient and least stressful way to move your house or apartment. Qualified and experienced staff will save your time and effort during the entire moving process. Moving companies perform an estimation of your move size, select the right size of the truck, and decide on how many movers are required in your unique situation. Additionally, all packing supplies are delivered to your place, and pros will pack all your belongings much faster than when you would do it on your own. Reputable companies are fully equipped for the job and use special pods to protect floors and dollies for loading/unloading the truck.

Full-service movers provide the following services:

– Free in-person or virtual estimation

– Packing supplies and tools

– Packing and unpacking services

– Disassembling and reassembling furniture

– Loading and unloading a truck

– Discarding used materials after your stuff is unpacked

– Basic insurance coverage

Pros:

· Movers execute all the physical work

· Full-service moving companies provide all required packing materials and tools

· Relocation takes less time

· Fragile items receive special packing and attention

· Relocation to a new home with full-service movers is less stressful than a DIY move.

Cons:

· Moving services can be quite costly.

· You need to arrange and schedule all stages of your move with a selected moving company

· Potential hidden costs and all sorts of moving scams. As in any industry, you should be aware of scams and dishonest movers who announce rates without virtual or in-person estimation and require an upfront payment. Professional movers offer a free estimation of your move-size and provide their licenses and certificates upon your request.

How to Hire Movers

First of all, plan your move, including minor details, in advance. Once you have decided to relocate, take your time, make a cup of coffee, and do thorough research. Based on available customer reviews, recommendations, and rates, select two or three moving companies. Nowadays, most professional movers have online calculators and offer free in-person estimation of your move. Customer service plays a vital role in making your move stress-free. Discuss the details of the move, such as schedule, special requirements, moving size, and costs, with a company’s representative.

Note that the moving industry has high and low seasons. In summer moving services are in high demand; hence, rates are typically higher (peak dates are usually at the end of every month and on weekends), and reputable movers can be fully booked. If possible, plan your move for the winter or spring months — rates are usually lower.

Final thoughts

Ok, the decision is up to you. Let’s reason: moving containers usually save you money in case of short-distance and local moves, but you should be ready for the hard work that awaits you in this case. Besides additional expenses on all packing supplies, including various types of boxes, pads, tape, labels, wrapping materials, blankets, etc., you are responsible to pack everything, then load and unload the storage unit, and later again unpack all things which you have carefully packed.

Obviously, a full-service moving company frees you from the headache and hard work associated with moving to a new place. Surely, pros save your precious energy and time, which you can dedicate to more pleasant and useful activities. As in any industry, professional services cost more than a DIY move.

Take time to weigh all the variants and get free online quotes from reputable moving companies prior to making the final decision.

FAQ

What is a moving pod?

PODS stands for Portable On Demand Storage. In other words, it is a movable container. Initially, PODS was founded in 1998 by Peter Warhurst as a part of a family storage business. Peter invented PODS containers and a hydraulic system for fast delivery and transportation of units.

Is it cheaper to use pods or a moving company?

PODS containers will be a cheaper option for short-distance local moves. However, PODS costs for long-distance, particularly interstate moves, are almost equal to full-service movers’ rates. Add here that with PODS you will be responsible (or have to hire an additional crew) for packing and loading/unloading.

Are pods good for moving?

PODS containers are versatile: you are more flexible with the timeline because you can load them and use containers for moving to your new home or keep them as storage for your belongings. Sometimes people use PODS containers for storing things during a home renovation.

Are pods safe for moving?

PODS units are equipped with locking latches, built-in tie-downs, and locks with keys to ensure the safety and security of the stored items. As PODS states, units are manufactured from durable materials (steel and aluminum) and can withstand winds up to 110 mph. Clients also can follow the status of their orders via online accounts.




Tips & Tricks For A Spotless Home

July 9, 2022 by

Do you feel like you’re constantly cleaning, but your house never seems to be clean enough? Are you struggling to keep up with the constant messes? If so, read on for some helpful tips and tricks! By following these simple steps, you can achieve a spotless home in no time. Happy cleaning!

Reasons Our Homes Get Dirty Or Disorganized

There are many reasons why our homes can start to feel dirty or disorganized. It could be anything from too much clutter to not having enough storage space. Whatever the reason, it’s important to identify the problem so that you can find a solution.

Why Is cleaning Stressful? 

For many people, cleaning is a stressful and dreaded task. There are a few reasons why this may be the case. Maybe you don’t have the right tools or maybe you’re not sure where to start. Whatever the reason, Homeowners in Oak Park can now enjoy House Keep-Up Co professional cleaning services. From small apartments to large condominiums, they always provide outstanding cleaning results and take the stress away from you doing the cleaning by yourself.

Helpful Habits That Will Keep Things Tidy

1. Don’t wait until things are dirty to clean them.

This is a mistake that many people make. They think that as long as something looks clean, it must be clean. However, this is not the case! If you wait until something is actually dirty to clean it, you’re just doing more work for yourself. Instead, try to clean things on a regular basis before they have a chance to get too dirty. This will save you time and effort in the long run.

2. Invest in the right tools for the job.

Another common mistake people make is using the wrong tools for their cleaning tasks. For example, using a harsh chemical cleaner on delicate surfaces will only damage them further. Similarly, using a paper towel to wipe up a spill will just end up making a mess. Investing in the right cleaning supplies will make your life much easier and help you achieve better results.

3. Put things back in their proper place.

One of the quickest ways to create a cluttered and messy home is to leave things out of their proper place. Whenever you’re finished using something, put it back where it belongs. This will help to keep your home organized and tidy.

4. Don’t wait until tomorrow to do something that can be done today.

This is another common mistake people make. They think that they’ll have more time tomorrow to do a certain task, so they put it off. However, tomorrow always seems to be just as busy as today. So instead of putting things off, try to do them today. This will help you stay on top of your cleaning and prevent a messy home.

5 Start Small

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of cleaning your entire home, don’t worry! You don’t have to do it all at once. Start small by tackling one room or one task at a time. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed.

6 Declutter Regularly

One of the best ways to keep your home clean and tidy is to declutter on a regular basis. Get rid of any items that you no longer need or use. This will help to free up space and make cleaning much easier. The less stuff you have, the easier it is to keep things tidy.

7 Develop a Cleaning Schedule

One of the best ways to keep your home clean is to develop a cleaning schedule. This will help you to stay on top of your cleaning and make sure that nothing is ever neglected. Make sure to include all of the different areas of your home in your schedule.

8 Hire Help When Needed

There will be times when you just can’t keep up with the cleaning on your own. If this is the case, don’t hesitate to hire some help. There’s no shame in admitting that you need a little assistance. A professional cleaner can come in and do a thorough job, leaving your home spotless.

Unrealistic Expectations

It’s important to have realistic expectations when it comes to cleaning your home. You’re not going to be able to achieve a spotless home overnight. It takes time, effort, and consistency to achieve and maintain a clean home. So don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep at it, and eventually, you will achieve the level of cleanliness you desire.

The Right Tools For The Job

As we mentioned before, having the right tools for the job is essential for effective cleaning. Without the proper supplies, you’ll just be doing more work for yourself. So be sure to invest in high-quality house cleaning supplies that will make your life easier.

 

When is it time to hire help?

There’s no shame in admitting that you need help with your cleaning. If you’re struggling to keep up with the mess, it might be time to hire some professional help. Don’t wait until your home is a disaster before you take action. A little bit of help can go a long way in keeping your home clean and tidy. Remember, the professionals have better tools than you do and can take specialized care to restore things to their original shine. Bring in a carpet cleaner once every few years, or hire an A/C company to come to clean out your vents, it’s worth paying a few dollars to get things like this done the right way.

 

It’s important to have realistic expectations when it comes to cleaning your home. You’re not going to be able to achieve a spotless home overnight. It takes time, effort, and consistency to achieve and maintain a clean home. So don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep at it, and eventually, you will achieve the level of cleanliness you desire.

 




Calm Kids’ Fears About Going to the Doctor

July 6, 2022 by

As most children become anxious about going to the doctor, parents worry. The kindergarten checkup is when they begin to have their initial diagnostic screenings making it difficult for them to enjoy their visit. 

Some might have to see a children’s ADHD specialist in St. Lucie, for example. However, there are a handful of ways parents can help calm their children down before heading into this new situation. 

You could sit with your child and show them pictures of you as a young child and your parents. You could then explain that when you were young, your mother and father had to take you to the doctor when you weren’t well or needed an exam. Tell them how important it was then and how it is crucial for them now.

6 Good Ways to Help Your Child Overcome Fears of the Doctor

1. Enrol your child in a child-friendly pediatrician

The more children associate the pediatrician with a fun experience (playing video games, watching cartoons, playing cards and games), the less on edge they may be when they enter their office. Unfortunately, it can take up to a year for children’s fears to subside. Pre-reviewing the checklist and acting as a parent advocate will help your child get the best treatment possible.

2. Seek an alternative medicine perspective

Pediatricians are very well educated regarding alternative medicine, so they can offer common-sense health advice to parents and their children and provide them with information regarding what treatments are available in that particular area of medicine. It is essential to keep this in mind. However, that alternative medicine is not an all-knowing panacea.

3. Create a positive environment

The pediatrician’s office is very stressful for children and adults alike. The environment can be made more comfortable by providing a calming greeting for your child when they enter their office (perhaps a song or funny anecdote). You could offer comfort afterward by playing cards and other games, such as computer games, or even playing video games on the television screen.

4. Make transparent appointments with your child’s pediatrician

Some children also believe that they have to go to the doctor every time they have a minor complaint, which can be very draining for you and them. You must talk to your child about why it is best to wait until you have had a chance to speak with your pediatrician about specific ailments.

5. Find a good paediatrician with a comfortable office

This is an important step in helping your child overcome their fear of the doctor, especially if they are already afraid or do not usually enjoy medical facilities. Stress to your child that the doctor is there to make them feel better when they are sick or have a problem.

Pediatricians are very well educated regarding alternative medicine, which is why they can offer common-sense health advice to parents and their children and provide them with information regarding what treatments are available in that particular area of medicine. It is essential to keep this in mind. 

It would be helpful if the doctor could explain some of the instruments they use to check the eyes or the nose so the child understands what the instruments are used for. They won’t be as frightened of them if they know how they work.

 

6. Go in and see the office before the actual visit

If time permits, it might be a good idea to take your child to the doctor’s office and let them see what it looks like. There is probably an area where there are toys or books for children and you can explain to them that they can touch those things when they come in.

Though probably not possible, if you can, meet the doctor so your child can see who they are. You could meet the office staff also. Maybe one of the staff could show your child around the office and make them feel at home so when they have their real appointment, the child will feel comfortable because they have done it before.

 

Going to the doctor for the first time is a little nerve-wracking, but with the right amount of preparation, it can be a great experience for a child.

 




The Benefits of Solar Panels

July 5, 2022 by

Even on the gloomiest, murkiest, cloud-filled day, somewhere in the sky above us is the sun.

A free source of energy that all life on this planet depends upon.

 

In terms of power production, it is a free resource that heats our homes naturally, encouraging most homes and buildings to be designed with larger windows on the side of the building that faces the sun. This is done to capture more of the heat from the sun.

But for many years now, there has been the ability for homeowners to gain even more benefits from the power of the sun by installing solar panels. The solar panels create electricity which can be used to not only heat the home, but to power every electrical item on the homeowners property.

The disadvantages of solar panels are few, but include:

  • The high upfront cost of installation
  • Power can’t be produced at night-time
  • Some would say they make a house appear less attractive
  • Most homes are still unable to use solar power for 100% of their power needs.
  • Some homes have a roof design that cannot fit solar panels
  • Some roofs are unsuited to fitting solar panels or will not hold their weight, while other roofs may need repairs which are preferable to do before installing solar panels.

When it comes to the advantages of Solar Power systems on your home, there are many convincing reasons why you should seriously consider going solar.

Reduce your electricity bill

How much you will save will depend on a number of factors including:

  • How much electricity you consume?
  • The size of your solar energy system
  • Whether you buy or lease your system
  • How many hours of daily sunlight your home receives?
  • The size and angle of roof
  • Your local electricity rates.

Most solar panels are guaranteed to last for 25 years so you can expect them to keep functioning beyond that, although they may gradually become degraded and produce less electricity towards the end of their life.

Still if your solar system managed to reduce your monthly electricity bill by $150/month, after 25 years that is a saving of $45,000. Electricity costs will almost certainly increase regularly over the next 25 years, so in fact your saving could be significantly more.

Your solar panel power suppliers should have tools available to help you calculate how much electricity you are likely to save based on your electricity usage and the size of the solar system you intend to install. 

These tools can calculate how many years it will take for your savings to match the installation cost, plus any interest if you have borrowed to buy the system.

Increases the value of your home

Because of how much cheaper it will cost to run your home; you immediately get an increase in the value of your home.

Studies have proven that houses with solar sell at higher prices than houses without solar.

How much your home increases will depend upon the monthly power savings, the increased value of other nearby homes with solar, and the state of the local property market at the time you get a valuation.

Although you will only really know how much extra the solar panels have added to the value of your home when you sell, this is a positive.

Some people decide against installing solar because they don’t intend to stay at the same address for 25 years and therefore will not fully benefit from the power savings available.

But this is offset by the increased value of your home.

Unless you are planning to shift in the next couple of years, the increase in the value of your home because of solar should be another incentive to install solar.

Solar power works everywhere

The sun rises everyday everywhere in the world.

Sure, some places get more sunshine hours than others, and some have better weather and more cloudless days which maximizes the benefits of solar. But even homes in colder and cloudier climates can still receive help from solar.

Even on days when the weather is poor, your home will still be producing solar power.

You may be able to earn money off your solar panels

More than 40 states have electricity suppliers that offer net metering. Where you produce more electricity than you use, the power company effectively buys that surplus electricity off you and pays you for it.

Be cautious about this though. In Australia, some power companies ran into financial problems because they ended up buying so much power off homeowners, they didn’t need to produce any themselves and the financial model failed.

Many homeowners had borrowed to put additional solar panels on their property, using them solely as a passive income source, then the power companies stopped buying the surplus power. This made the extra solar panels redundant, but they still had to pay back their loans on solar panels that were no longer of any use to them.

In the same way, there is no guarantee that the amount of money the power company will pay you for surplus power will remain the same. In other countries there have been power companies that have lowered their rates.

Therefore, you are best to get enough panels to suit your home power use and not be encouraged to buy more panels just because you have the space and because you might get offered net metering.

Available tax credit

For 2022 there is a 26% federal tax credit available, which reduces to 22% for 2023, then ends.

There are also some state-level tax credits and rebates available. Solar panel providers will know all the details because these incentives are a major selling point for them.

While the tax credits seem like a great deal, if you can’t afford to buy solar panels now, delaying a few years until you can buy them outright, or with much lower borrowings, may actually be a better financial decision.

Protects against rising power costs

The more power you can produce from your solar panels, the less the impact of any future electricity power increases.

Can supply energy independence.

For many people, the ideal is to be totally dependent on their solar system to provide all of their power and go off-grid. Usually, this will require the added cost of batteries to store your power for use at night and on days with less sunlight.

If you are building in a remote location, the cost of getting a power supplier to bring an electricity line to you may be more than the cost of a solar system and batteries.

A system with batteries is also handy if there are any electricity cuts. Your stored power will keep your lights on, and your heating etc.

But you do need to be confident that your system will always supply all the power you need, because if you run out of power and the batteries have used up all their stored power, then being off grid means you will have no source of power until the sun reappears.

You are protecting the environment

Every kilowatt of power your solar system produces will reduce greenhouse gas emissions like CO2 and other pollutants. 

The more people creating their own power through solar will end the need for governments to build new power plants, all of which have negative environmental impacts because they are powered by coal, natural gas, hydro, or nuclear plants.

Coal plants are a huge pollutant, while gas, hydro-electric and nuclear plants all have an impact either because of what it takes to build the plant, or what can happen if something goes wrong, e.g., Chernobyl and Three Mile Island nuclear plants.

Solar Panels provide a clean, green power source that most homeowners can take advantage of to reduce their power costs, and do their bit to improve the state of the environment.


By HomeLight Homes

 




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