Would You Consider Purchasing Investment Property Abroad?

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It's no secret that adding investment property to a portfolio will add diversity. Diversity is the cornerstone of any vibrant investment strategy. While most people have investment property in their own country, investing abroad doesn't even occur to them.

Overseas investment properties can be as profitable and safe as investing in your own country. While once it may have been a risky proposition, overseas investing has become easier and a new source of investment income. Once only the well to do could invest overseas, today the average investor has an ever increasing number of options to help them succeed.

While the real estate market may be stagnant in one country it could be appreciating in another. Property prices in an emerging real estate market can have below market value (BMV) properties. Giving you a better chance of capital appreciation. With the whole world as your property market you will be able to choose only the best countries and markets.

Even if you are a novice to overseas investment properties, there are many capable real estate professionals in your chosen countries that have the expertise and knowledge to help you select the right property. Today's real estate representatives have a thorough knowledge of there respective areas and can help you through the many unknowns an overseas investor may encounter.

When choosing an international property it's good to determine what goals you you want to attain with it. You need to determine if your investment is for rental income or capital appreciation. Or will the investment be a vacation or retirement home. If your choosing it for income it may not matter. But if you are choosing it for a vacation home and eventually a retirement home, location is more of a priority.

Every day more and more international investment properties are coming to the real estate market. The opportunities for investing continue to be a good choice for the diversified investor.

How To Overcome A Bad Financial Habit - Depending on Others

Over the last few years this country has been in bailout mode. The banks, car makers, some states and unions have been bailed out. The average person is also looking for their fair share of the goodies coming from Washington. Lets also put on the list food stamps, welfare, unemployment and other assistance. There is a place for this kind of help but I worry never ending support is bad in many ways. It's hard to believe but there was a time when none of these programs existed. When trouble came you were either on your own and you suffered alone or you were lucky enough to have friends and family to help in your situation. I am not against a public safety net. I believe that not providing your own safety net is unconscionable.

Definition of self-reliance:
Reliance on one's own capabilities, judgment, or resources; independence.

Self reliance is a skill that we try to teach our children. We want them to stand on their own two feet. Most get the teaching but there are always a few that don't apply themselves and depend on others for their support. Whether it's the kid that doesn't want to grow up or the adult that depends on financial support from parents or others well into their adult life. If this describes you or someone you know, there are ways to retrain yourself and be self reliant.

1. Work.
This can be an odd concept for many people. The foundation of being self reliant is to have a way to make money. Without a consistent in flow of cash on a regular basis you can not support yourself. Those that do find work rewarding an profitable find it strange when people turn work down and lead a life of minimal subsistence. There are many people out there that depend on others to give them a place to live, food, and clothing.

2. Income.
With a job you will be receiving income. With your income you now need a plan to use it. Creating a budget is telling your money what to do. It's a map to help you be self reliant. You will be able to buy the things you need and not depend on others.

3. Stay with Cash.
When your first starting out stay away from the financial system. Start an envelope system for your expenses. An envelope for your rent, food, gas, clothing. Stay away from banks, payday loans and any other financial process. They haven't served you well, you don't need them.

How To: Create A Budget

Budgets: Hold Your Nose and Try One

4. No credit cards.
For this to work credit cards are off limits. You don't have the money to pay them and you will definitely be tempted to over spend.

5. Be prepared for the unexpected.
When something unexpected happens is the time your self reliance will show. Another envelope to add to your budget is "Emergency Fund". This envelope holds the money to pay for the unexpected. An example is if you need health care, auto repairs, leaky roof, or anything that comes unexpected. This envelope must be filled with a portion of each weeks pay. It must be filled consistently. This cash reserve will keep Murphy away from your door. It's your insurance policy. It's the most important part of your plan for self reliance.

10 Popular Excuses for Not Saving Money

With this plan you can stand on your own two feet and be self reliant. You will not need to depend on others in time of need. It will take work and dedication but the rewards are well worth it.

Discover More Card Review & 18 Month 0% Promotional Balance Transfer

Discover More Card: No Annual Fee, Great Cash Back Rewards & 18 month 0% Balance Transfer

The Discover More card is one of Discovers more interesting cards. I have always used Chase and Citi credit cards before now. Discover has always been an odd card to me. It's wasn't taken every where so I just passed it by for the more popular Visa or Mastercard. I came across this incredible balance transfer offer so I dug a little bit deeper to see what Discover has to offer. These benefits I discovered made the card very interesting.


5% cashback on up to $400 in purchases.

• Jan–Mar Travel and Restaurants
• Apr–Jun Home and Fashion
• Jul–Sep Gas, Hotels, Movies and Theme Parks
• Oct–Dec Restaurants and Fashion

Of course you have to sign up each time to receive the cashback.

You can also earn up to 1% unlimited Cashback bonus on every purchase you make outside those seasonal purchasing categories. You'll earn .25% Cashback bonus on every purchase you make until your yearly spending total reaches $3,000 dollars. After that, you'll earn 1% Cashback bonus. You'll earn between 5% and 20% Cashback bonus when you shop at over 150 online retailers through ShopDiscover.com, Discover's online shopping mall. There's no limit to the amount of Cashback bonuses you can accrue, and these bonuses never expire as long as your account is active and current!

The Discover® More Card - 18 Month Promotional Balance Transfer offer lets you redeem your Cashback bonus rewards for merchandise, gift cards from hundreds of name-brand retailers, Discover gift cards that are good anywhere Discover is accepted, and even cash. You can have your Cashback bonus rewards redeemed for direct deposits to a bank account of your choice or directly credited to your Discover card statement.

On top of these excellent features, you'll never be charged an Annual Fee for the Discover® More Card. You can access your account securely online anytime day or night, and customer service is available whenever you need it. The Discover® More Card - 18 Month Promotional Balance Transfer offer is an excellent choice if you're looking for a cash rewards card, a very long 0% Introductory APR on balance transfers, 0% Introductory APR on purchases, or all three!

Discover Online Mall: What's there?

The Discover Mall has merchants that give 5% to 20% cash back bonuses on purchases, when you perchase your items there. These online merchants are your very best. This is an outstanding group of merchants and the bonuses are very generous.

Merchant included and their % bonus:

• Apple Store: 5% cashback bonus
• Best Buy: 5% cashback bonus
• Groupon: 20% cashback bonus
• WalMart: 5% cashback bonus
• Kohl’s: 10% cashback bonus
• Lowe’s and Home Depot: 5% cashback bonus
• Target: 5% cashback bonus
• Meijer: 5% cashback bonus 

That's not all. Look also for Cabela’s, Sears, Dicks, JCPenney, Hotels.com, Old Navy, and Staples. You won't just be getting the normal 1% cash back, you'll be getting much more. During the holidays you will be getting bonus cashback. Some bonuses go from 10% to 20% during the Christmas holidays.

What's the bad news?
Warning if your not responsible with credit cards do not use them. But if you a responsible shopper, paying off your balance every month than this is appropriate for you. These rewards are a nice incentive when shopping, but must be used responsibly.

Also remember that you will only earn .25% on your first $3000 in purchases, if those purchases don't fit into the seasonal category's or are a 5%+ partner.

Discover More Conclusions

The Discover More is definitely one of the best cards for cash back deals. It's links to big name retailers for substantial discounts is a big plus. The 18 month 0% balance transfer is also a huge bonus. I can whole heartily recommend the Discover More card if your a responsible credit card user.


If your interested in this Discover More Card: No Annual Fee, Great Cash Back Rewards & 18 month 0% Balance Transfer click here.

5 New Ways to Save Money on Your Christmas Spending

Image via WikipediaThe dreaded Christmas shopping season is fast approaching. Are you in danger of overspending like you did last year. Most Americans overspend and rack up large credit card bills. It's hard to break the bad habits of a lifetime, but this year will be different.

Breaking bad shopping habits is not impossible. I was terrible at shopping for Christmas gifts. I felt obligated to make a big present filled Christmas for my family. This led to over spending and large credit card balances arriving in January's credit card bill. The money I charge usually took till at least the summer time to pay back. This was an intolerable situation and I had to find ways to stop the madness. Below are just 5 ways that I made the break back to sanity. Maybe they can help you.

1. Cut back on the Gift Cards.
When shopping for that perfect gift for Christmas most people don't know what to get. So to end the shopping adventure they go to the gift card isle. It's so convenient to just get a restaurant or store gift card. But what amount do you purchase? You budget tells you that you can only afford a $10 card but you feel it may make you look cheap. So you go for the $20 or $25 card, which you think makes you look generous.

What you just did was bust your budget. This year skip the gift cards and do some actual shopping. You can't afford to give out $25 gift cards. Make a list with the name of the person and an amount of money you want to spend. You still have time to shop sales and stay on your budget. Don't give gifts not cards this year, you will save money and look like you actually care.

2. Spend cash not plastic.
All year you should of been saving for the Christmas shopping purchases. With this cash you will go shopping, you won't be using plastic. Not even your debit card. With plastic you have a greater chance to overspend. With cash it is very hard to overspend. Leave the cards at home so you won't be tempted. You will spend less and it will force you to hunt down better deals.

3. Have a Plan.
You are on a mission to hunt down that gift on your list, pay for it and get the heck out of the mall. No sightseeing or window shopping. You have your list, cash and a plan this year. Your not going to overspend again this year. You will be tempted by all the holiday decorations and music playing. But you can't let it happen. Remember you don't have to complete all your shopping at one time. It's better to break down your shopping into small missions that can be accomplished.

4. Make more purchases online.
The online shopping experience can make your purchases more economical because it's much easier to find the best deal. Websites like Fatwallet.com has forums where members take much pride in combing the Internet to find the best deals. Online you can get some new inspiration and find some great deals. For some, it eliminates impulse purchases, but for others it's to tempting. But if you are a savvy shopper, you can grab some good deals and stay out of the malls too.

5. Alternative gift giving.
The usual gift in a box will fulfill you Christmas obligation. But why not try something a little different this year. Instead why not give an experience. Get together with the whole family and plan a vacation. Your own family and extended family all plan on taking a little trip. You can rent a multi bedroom home at a lake or oceanside resort and split the bill. Make it a week together no TV or video games, just each other. Make a memory you will always cherish.

Giving experiences is a lasting gift that won't end up in the closet or the return counter. Do you remember what you received last year for Christmas, I know you don't remember. Most people don't because it was a meaningless gift. An experience won't break or get returned.

The holiday season is not about spending money or material gifts. It should be about celebrating Christmas and family. Don't get wrapped up in the material. Change the direction away from the usual and start some new traditions.

3 Banks Where Checking and Debit Cards Are Still Free

Lately who isn't  upset  about bank fees like few other personal finance issues in memory.

Bank of America's announcement of a $5 monthly fee for debit card transactions was the last straw for many who feel they're being nickel and dimed in a tough economy.

There's an increasing frustration that seemingly any banking activity may now incur an extra charge. PNC Bank, for example, docks some customers $2 to $3 if they call a representative to transfer money.

The fees are still going up at more banks. All told, 60 percent more bank accounts carry fees and balance requirements than a year ago, an August survey by Bankrate.com found.

It's up to consumers to tackle their own fees head on.

The new charges have at least accomplished one positive thing: serving as a virtual call to arms for consumers to take action by changing accounts, switching banks or otherwise trying to get around or reduce fees.

There are safe alternatives to your local banks online. Most have no monthy fee or debit card charges. They give free checks and reimburse your fees for using other banks ATM's.

Below are 3 online banks that I believe are at the top of the list.

1. EverBank

This was a late addition, but EverBank has perhaps the best offering right now with no fees, an interest bearing account, reimbursed ATM fees and they’ll even pay you $60 to switch to them!

• Monthly Account Fee: $0
• Debit Card Fee: $0
• Opening Deposit: $1,500 deposit to open
• Checks: free checks
• ATM Fees: zero ATM fees – if your balance is over $5,000 they will reimburse you the ATM fees from other banks.
• Interest: EverBank guarantees that you will earn interest that is in the top 5% of what all banks offer.
• Cashback Rewards on Debit Card: n/a

Official EverBank Site, FDIC-Insured, High-Yield CDs, Safely Secure Large Deposits, www.EverBank.com

Image via CrunchBase

2. PerkStreet Financial

PerkStreet Financial offers a no fee MasterCard debit card and checking account. With PerkStreet, online bill pay and banking and banking are free and there is:

• Monthly Account Fee: $0 monthly account fee if you have at least one debit card transaction.
• Debit Card Fee: $0
• Opening Deposit: A$25 deposit will get you started.
• Checks: free checks
• ATM fees: 37,000 ATM’s nationally that you can withdraw from without surcharge, otherwise $2 surcharge.
• Interest: no interest earned on your balance.
• Cashback Rewards on Debit Card: Perkstreet’s biggest appeal is that at a time when other banks are beginning to charge you for debit cards, they offer you cash back! If you maintain a $5,000 balance, you get an outstanding 2% cashback. If under $5,000, you’ll get 1%. There are also 5% cash back categories throughout the year with PerkStreet.

PerkStreet Financial^SM offers you the only unlimited 2% cash back debit card. Instead of creating more debt when you're shopping, you're creating more cash. So be Super Smart and sign up today.

Image via Wikipedia3. Ally Bank

I’m a big fan of Ally Bank because they don’t do business like other large, national banks. They create appealing products that don’t take advantage of their customers. Ally Bank Interest Checking offers:

• Monthly Account Fee: $0
• Debit Card Fee: $0
• Opening Deposit: $0 deposit to open
• Checks: free checks
• ATM Fees: zero ATM fees – they actually pay for fees charged by other banks!
• Interest: you earn interest on your balance.
• Cashback Rewards on Debit Card: n/a

Open an Interest Checking Account from Ally Bank today!


These big bank fee increases are the blow back for changing government regulations. Like always the consumer gets stuck with the bill when Washington trys to help us. Don't stand for the fee increases and send the big banks a message.

Are You Joining Bank Transfer Day on Nov. 5

Alright, who is fed up with their bank? The anger at banks these days is incredible high. Bank of America probably never could of realized just how much of an uproar its planned $5/month debit fee would cause. 

Other banks had already announced such fees, but the fees were smaller and were only introduced in select markets. It was Bank of America's announcement that was the last straw. People are mad and they are closing account and doing their banking elsewhere. One consumer, Kristen Christian, has decided to do something about it.

Christian launched the now viral Bank Transfer Day movement. On Nov. 5, Christian and her thousands of followers have vowed to close their accounts at big banks and transfer their money to credit unions, banking institutions known to provide more personalized customer service.

Bank Transfer Day has its very own Facebook page filled with information about the day and what you can do to help spread the message. The page already has more than 21,000 Likes.

So why did Christian decide to do more than simply close her own account?

Kristen Christian says, "I started this because I felt like many of you do. I was tired — tired of the fee increases, tired of not being able to access my money when I need to, tired of them using what little money I have to oppress my brothers & sisters. So I stood up. I've been shocked at how many people have stood up alongside me. 

With each person who RSVPs to this event, my heart swells. Me closing my account all on my lonesome wouldn't have made a difference to these fat cats. But each of YOU standing up with me ... they can't drown out the noise we'll make." Source: Facebook.

Join Christian on facebook at "Bank Transfer Day"

Money saving energy tax credits due to expire by year end

Image via WikipediaWe are only a few months away from the end of the year and money saving tax credits are soon expiring. These tax credits for energy-saving new windows, air conditioning, doors, water heaters, and insulation will soon end. Local contractors are seeing a last minute rush to get the upgrades done.

The reason your power bill will shrink. A new air conditioner is typically 30% more efficient than a 10-year-old model, and insulation can reduce air leakage by 20% to 30%. Adding insulation, replacing duct work, getting a central air cooling system and replacing water heaters — are the most cost-effective home improvements.

New windows can save homeowners up to $500 on energy costs a year while a new water heater will pay itself off in five years — not counting the tax breaks—according to calculations by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Energy Star and home-improvement retailer Home Depot.

Insulating your home can save you about $220 a year and you could recoup your costs after 2.5 years.

Some of the energy-saving home improvements that are part of the tax-credit program are easy to do yourself, while other projects require professional installation.

Make sure your purchases qualify for the tax breaks, as not all Energy Star appliances are covered under the tax-credit program. Energy Star is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy that promotes energy efficiency.

And keep receipts for tax purposes. Keep the receipts for several years in case you get audited.

There are many Federal tax credits available for homeowners and business. Here is only a partial list.

Insulation

Credit: 10 percent of the cost, not including labor, up to $500

Requirements: Bulk insulation products such as batts, rolls and blow-in fibers may qualify.

Savings: Homeowners can save up to 10 percent on their total annual energy bill by sealing and insulating a home's outer walls, ceiling, windows, doors and floors.

Reflective metal and asphalt roofs

Credit: 10 percent of the cost, not including labor, up to $500

Requirements: Metal roofs with appropriate pigmented coatings and asphalt roofs with appropriate cooling granules and they also must meet ENERGY STAR requirements.

Savings: Homeowners could save about $200 with a highly reflective roof.

Windows, skylights and doors

Credit: 10 percent of the cost, not including labor, up to $500. Windows are capped at $200.

Requirements: Must be ENERGY STAR qualified.

Savings: Windows, for instance, can reduce energy bills by 7 percent to 24 percent.

Gas, oil, propane and electric heat pump water heaters

Credit: $300

Requirements: Gas, oil and propane water heaters must have a thermal efficiency of at least 90 percent or have an energy factor of at least 0.82. Electric heat pump water waters must have an energy factor of at least 2.

Savings: It could take an estimated five years or more to recoup costs for the upgrade, according to JEA, a municipal utility in Jacksonville.

HVAC systems

Credit: $300 for central air conditioning.

Requirements: A Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio of at least 16 for split systems and at least 14 for package systems or an Energy Efficiency Ratio of at least 13 for split systems and at least 12 for package systems.

Savings: One way to calculate savings is to use the AC rebate and calculator link at FPL.com/programs.

Credit: $50 for efficient fans or blower motors.

Requirements: Must use 2 percent or less of the furnace's total energy.

Credit: $150 for natural gas or propane furnace or a gas, propane, or oil hot water boiler

Requirements: An Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of at least 95.

Credit: $500 for air source heat pumps

Requirements: The energy efficiency rating varies depending on whether it's a split or package system.

Savings: An estimated $30 a year can be saved.

Other rebates and credits

There are plenty of other options for homeowners who want to cash in on tax credits and rebates and save money on their electricity bills. They include:

Federal loans of up to $25,000 for single-family homeowners who want to make energy-efficient improvements;

Federal tax credits covering 30 percent of the cost of geothermal heat pumps, and solar and wind energy systems;

Money for insulation and other energy-saving upgrades through low-income weatherization programs that is available by contacting community action agencies within county governments; and

Rebates for energy-efficiency improvements available through some cities and counties.
Check out the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency for your state specific rebates and credits.http://www.dsireusa.org/

 Also the U.S. Department of Energy for a complete list of federal tax credits and incentives.    http://www.energysavers.gov/financial/70010.html

How To Move Your Checking Account In 7 Easy Steps

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There is a lot of anger out there between banks and their customers these days. The announcement of increased ATM fees has put the public on the war path. People want to move their accounts to a bank that has free checking and no fees. It's going to be hard to find such a thing from now on.

Over the last few years the banking industry has just continued to keep the general public angry at them. These new fees and signs of even more fees is driving an even bigger wedge between the two. What other industry continues to work so hard to maintain such a low opinion of themselves.

Related Post Your Bank Fees Are Increasing - Here's Why

Over this last year and increasing the last two months credit unions have seen a 300 percent rise in new accounts being opened. People are leaving Bank of America and other banks also.

If your thinking about moving to another bank, double check with your present bank if you can change to an account that will not have any fees. Don't be in a hurry. Do your research into the new institution first.

Some resources that might prove helpful when looking for another bank include MyBankTracker.com, Bankrate.com, FindABetterBank.com and FindACreditUnion.com.

Moving Your Money to a New Checking Account. Steps to Make it Safe and Easy

1.Open your new bank account with a small deposit.

Why? Once you choose a bank or credit union, make sure to open a new account before taking any steps to close your old account. Deposit just enough to open the account and avoid any fees the bank may charge for maintaining a low balance.

2. Make a list of all the automatic payments and deposits that are scheduled to go in and out of your old account each month. See the chart below as an example.

Why? This is to help you organize and keep track of all of the automatic transfers that are tied to your old account, so that you can make sure there is enough money in the old account for all your payments to clear during the process of moving your money to your new account.

3. If you have direct deposit, ask your employer to reroute your paychecks to your new account. Ask what date the first deposit will occur and use this date to guide you through Step 4.

Why? Sometimes it can take more than one pay cycle to complete the rerouting. If so, you should make sure that your automatic payments are not transferred to the new account until your paycheck is transferred.

4. Once you know what date your direct deposits will transfer, reschedule each automatic payment or debit to come out of your new account. Make sure to ask the company what date the change will apply.

Why? Sometimes it could take one whole statement period to reflect the change. If
this is the case, make sure you leave enough money in the old account to
cover the payment when it occurs.

Image by RambergMediaImages via Flickr

5.Leave at least a small amount of cash in your old checking account for at least one more month.

Why? This will ensure that every payment will be covered if you happen to forget about something. The amount you leave may depend on whether your old bank or credit union charges you a fee for maintaining a low balance. If so, try to leave the required amount to avoid a charge.

6. Once you are sure that all automatic payments and all direct deposits are coming and going from your new account, electronically transfer the final funds from your old account into the new account.

Why? Though it may take a few days before an electronic transfer clears, transferring money electronically is generally the fastest, cheapest, and safest way to move money from one account to another.

7. Once the transfer clears in your new account, follow the procedures for closing an account at your old financial institution. Make sure to obtain written confirmation that your account is closed.

Why? Your account does not automatically close when you withdraw all of the money; you must follow the process laid out by your financial institution to make sure you close the account properly. By obtaining written confirmation that your account is closed, you can rest easy that you’ve taken the appropriate steps. If you don’t close the account, you might get hit with a monthly account maintenance fee even after you stop using it.

Why Is Over 50’s Life Insurance Different?

Image by Thomas Hawk via FlickrIn some respects, over 50’s life insurance isn’t much different from other forms of life cover – it exists to offer you and your family a degree of financial protection should the worst happen.


Yet in other respects it may be – and those differences relate to the typical nature of people’s lives, as they get older:

• If you are in your younger years, perhaps with a young family and a heavy debt burden (mortgage etc), then you may typically be looking for a different profile of life cover than someone who is older and with perhaps less extensive long-term financial commitments;
• By contrast, if you are over 50, you may incline towards a form of policy that you know is open-ended, in other words, it will pay out a fixed sum upon your death, at whatever age you die;
• Someone younger and with a larger debt profile to cover, may require a larger sum insured but one which is only in effect for a number of years (called the term of a policy and something that may typically be seen running in parallel with a mortgage);
• Over 50’s life insurance that is unconstrained by a term, is sometimes referred to as whole life cover or traditionally, life assurance, as assurance is against something that you know will happen eventually whereas insurance is cover for something that may happen in the future;
• Nobody can really decide what form of over 50’s life insurance would be suitable for you – only you can decide that having carefully reviewed your financial position and that of those you care for, however, it may be prudent to keep in mind just how expensive things such as funerals may prove to be;
• Unfortunately, death isn't the only thing that you may need to worry about – if you are still responsible for supporting your family through income earning, then something such as critical illness may deprive you of the ability to continue working, so it might be sensible to consider loss of income cover insurance at the same time;
• In our modern society, increasing numbers of people are living and working longer and that is something that implies that they may have longer-term financial commitments than was the case for the over 50’s of previous generations - that may be another reason why it may be sensible to look further at your options for over 50’s life insurance.

5 Reasons Reading Books Is Important To Your Well Being

Image by Earl - What I Saw 2.0 via FlickrWhen I was a kid reading books was more important. Through the many years of education reading books and writing a book report was as common as peanut butter sandwiches for lunch. With all this reading I grew to love books. I was a scifi geek so i devoured many books in that genre. But as the years pass and life happened, I lost my love for books. I tried along the many years to start again. But every time I started to read, the book would put me to sleep. I finally solved this problem, but you'll have to wait till the end of the post to find out.

I believe in reading so much, the benefits are many and I could probably come up with many more but I have only included in this post just a few of my favorites.

1. Reading keeps your mind thinking. You have to use your mind and the best way to do it is by putting something in it that will stimulate it. Reading about a subject you would like to explore further is a good way. It's not like watching TV. With TV, all the work is done for you. You don't have to use your mind. With books you have to work. 
2. Reading builds your concentration. Reading a book forces you to concentrate. A good book grabs you and takes you down a path that exercises your brain to keep up. 
3. Reading helps you learn new things. When you read articles on line, like this article, you get a little snippet of a particular subject. It's a little taste of what reading a book is like. Your natural curiosity kicks in and you become enveloped in a much larger more involved treatment of that subject. Thus giving you a broader and deeper explanation of the subject.
4. Reading gives you a new perspective. It's a lot like going to school about a particular subject. A book makes you an explorer of a new world that opens up to you page by page.
5. Reading gives you purpose and direction. Just pick up a self help book on something you need direction on. You now have a one on one relationship with that author who is giving everything they know, only to you. If your open and it makes sense to you, your whole outlook may improve. A book could just push you in a direction you need to go.

Since I have started reading again, I have found reading a paper book just puts me to sleep.  My eyes get tired and before you know it, asleep. I have tried reading them on the computer screen but again, eyestrain happens. 

By chance I stumbled upon an audio book company called Audible. They have all the latest books and many other great books. With over 100,000 books on their website you should find something you like. With Audible you can have the entire unabridged book read to you. For me, it's a blessing to go through a book on the way to work, before bed, or whenever I am on the road. 

As an example, I always wanted to read Tim Ferriss' book "The 4-Hour Workweek". I have the pdf that he gave away for free when he debuted his new book. It's been on my computer for almost a year and I never read it. I got it from Audible on sale for $4.95 last month and I am almost done with it. I enjoyed it so much and learned a lot. It gave me a new perspective and something new to think about.

Reading is important and if your like me and picking up a book doesn't work for you why not try Audible. You get a free book, any book, on a 14 day trial period. Listen for 14 days, if you don't like it cancel the account and keep the book at no charge. But I bet once you get hooked you'll see how great it is and keep on the program.

Just click the banner below to get started.  

Your Bank Fees Are Increasing - Here's Why

Image via WikipediaIt’s time to add free checking to the endangered species list. No-cost access to your own money may soon go the way of the passenger pigeon. But this extinction can’t be blamed on global climate change or habitat loss. Blame the shaky status of free checking on regulatory climate change and profit loss for banks.

Recently enacted federal banking regulations restrict previously profitable practices by banks such as big overdraft fees and jacking up credit card interest rates for customers who are late on a payment. And earlier this summer, efforts by the banking industry to block a cap on debit card swipe fees failed. The fees banks charge grocery stores, restaurants, big box stores and other businesses every time they swipe a customer’s debit card will drop from about 45 cents a swipe to 12 cent swipes. That change, set to go into effect on Oct. 1, adds up to a loss of revenue of billions of dollars for the nation’s banks.

The Banks’ Loss Is Your Loss. 

The banks need to make up that loss of revenue somewhere and many banks have plans to recover it up by hitting you with new fees: checking account maintenance fees, ATM fees, debit card use fees.

Fight Back!

With a little due diligence, you can keep money in the bank without paying money to the bank. Most bank customers — 71 percent — find ways to avoid paying any bank fees, according to a survey by the American Bankers Association (ABA) released Sept. 1. The survey also shows that 82 percent of consumers spend $3 or less in monthly bank fees for services such as checking account maintenance and ATM access.

"It's impressive that so many customers avoid paying any bank fees," said Nessa Feddis, ABA vice president. "It shows that consumers are savvy and able to navigate the new banking landscape with skill. Often, avoiding bank fees can be as simple as maintaining a minimum balance or accepting a paycheck by direct deposit.”

But … the annual survey of 2,000 adults was conducted in mid-August. Many of the new fees announced by some big banks don’t kick in until fall. For example, SunTrust, a major player in the South, will begin imposing $5-a-month charge for debit card use in November. Regions Bank will impose a $4-a-month fee for debit-card use starting Oct. 1. Wells Fargo — a large national bank — will begin charging a monthly $3 fee for debit cards in October for purchases in Georgia, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

More Fees Coming

Banks have an assortment of other tactics to get some of your money — charging for a paper monthly statement or receiving a wire transfer. Another example, Bank of America charges a $3 fee if you make more than three transfers a month from your savings account to your checking account. It pays to read the fine print when opening your checking account and asking questions about fees.

What To Do

Getting a deal on bank fees — like finding a deal at the mall — requires a bit of legwork. Online banks still offer free checking and if virtual banking fits you, that is an option. Moving your account to a credit union is another option. Credit unions are nonprofit and typically offer better deals on checking accounts, consumer loans and interest rates on deposits. 

Some resources that might prove helpful when looking for another bank include MyBankTracker.com, Bankrate.com, FindABetterBank.com and FindACreditUnion.com.

You may also avoid bank fees by giving your present bank more business. Many banks offer better deals to customers who maintain a higher checking account and/or savings account balance. You may also get the bank to waive fees if you have an automobile loan or home mortgage at the bank.

Should I buy the iphone 4S or wait till next year for the iphone 5

Image by Witer via FlickrThe iPhone 4S came out on Friday are you going buy one? Already millions have been sold. The market for Apple products seems unlimited. But is it really smart to keep buying a new iPhone every year.

Some people with older iPhones have been waiting for this new release to upgrade. If you have the original iPhone or the 3g or 3gs it makes sense to upgrade. Your phone is at least 2 years old and probably starting to slow down. Apple upgrades its OS fairly regularly and the upgraded software is getting more advanced and is having a problem running on the older hardware. This planned obsolescence forces you to upgrade just to get a phone that runs correctly.

Should I upgrade if I have an iPhone 4?

The iPhone 4 is almost identical in looks and function. The only difference is that it has the new voice recognition software and a better camera. If you have an iPhone 4, the benefits of the new phone aren't reason enough to upgrade. The new iPhone is really aimed at the people who have an iPhone 3 or 3G. They need to upgrade. Still have iPhone envy, according to Apple's track record, The new iPhone 5 should be released next summer.

I want a new iPhone but I am short of money.

If you are short of cash and still want to own an iPhone, AT&T is selling the iPhone 4 for $99 with a two year contract. Want it even cheaper, the iPhone 3gs is free with a new two year contract.

Why You CAN Afford That Overseas Vacation

Image by Kenzoka via FlickrThe worldwide economy is in a state of flux right now, and while this might not therefore seem like the ideal time to take a trip overseas, you can easily make such a trip more affordable by eliminating avoidable costs that can add up to 15% of your trip’s budget. No, I’m not about to start lecturing you on the importance of shopping around to find the cheapest airfare or waxing poetic about backpacking and staying in hostels. Rather, I have a few perhaps less obvious tips that can help you minimize the cost of any trip out of the country. After all, whether you’ve done the miraculous and retired early or simply want to see the world with your kids, grandkids or significant other, we all deserve a vacation from time to time and everyone loves saving money.

Choose your credit card wisely

As you likely know, Visa and MasterCard are the largest card networks in the world and the only ones that are accepted anywhere plastic can be used. What you might not know is that Visa and MasterCard also offer some of the lowest exchange rates possible. According to a Card Hub study, a MasterCard or Visa card can, in fact, save you 14.7% on currency exchange relative to cash converted at an airport kiosk and 7.9% as compared to cash conversions made at a local bank. Still, you cannot simply use whatever Visa or MasterCard card happens to be in your wallet and expect to save that much. Card Hub data shows that over 90% of all credit cards have foreign transaction fees, which are typically 2-3% of any purchase that is processed abroad, no matter where you may physically be located when you make it. You therefore need to get a no foreign transaction fee credit card, not just before you depart on your voyage, but even before booking any flights, hotels or activities.

Plan how you will access cash

Though I recommend using a credit card for the majority of the purchases you make while abroad, given how easy it will be to carry around as well as the piece of mind that comes with knowing you won’t be held liable for unauthorized purchases, you’ll still need cash for some things. You have two primary options for getting your hands on some foreign currency: opening a low-foreign-fee debit card or exchanging cash at a bank before leaving. The debit card course of action would allow you to garner the low Visa/MasterCard exchange rate and simply withdraw cash from overseas ATMs as needed. Exchanging cash at a local bank will result in more money being lost in translation and will force you to travel with all the cash you plan to use on your entire trip. Ultimately, your decision will rest on the debit card offers and cash currency exchange deals you can find.

Say goodbye to your issuer

Before leaving, there are some logistics to take care of in order to “activate” your credit card and/or debit card for international use. If you do not notify your issuer(s) about the dates and destinations of your travel plans, your card(s) will likely be suspended due to fraud suspicions. What’s more, it’s a good idea to get your bank’s international toll-free number so that you have a means of requesting a new card if your original gets misplaced or stolen.

Beware dynamic currency conversion

Finally, once you reach your destination, only pay for things in the local currency. While this might seem like rather obvious advice for cash purchases, when it comes to plastic, merchants may offer to convert your purchase totals to U.S. dollars. On the surface, this might seem like a rare act of kindness, but many merchants use unfavorable exchange rates (up to 10% higher than those offered by Visa and MasterCard) when converting your totals in order to pad their pockets. This is just the kind of extraneous cost that can really add up over the course of a trip, so you’d be best served making sure to only sign receipts expressed in the local currency.


Hopefully, these tips will both help bring your long-anticipated overseas adventure to fruition despite this shaky economic climate and eliminate any surprises on your post-trip credit card statement. After all, your concern should be exactly how much fun you’re going to have, not how much it’s going to cost!

5 Rules When Loaning Money To A Friend

Image via WikipediaBorrowing money from a friend is the fastest way to ruin a relationship. The borrower usually has tried every other source for credit. Their credit cards are maxed out. The house is mortgaged fully and lines of credit are closed. The party may have lost their job or an emergency has happened. By the time they get to you the situation is desperate.

In this time of recession who doesn't know someone or a family who is having very hard times. They were unprepared and life hit them broadside. You want to help because your friend is in need. But should you? Will they be able to pay you back. 

They probably will, but be prepared to lose the money. Through their own fault or fate they are showing their lack of financial knowledge. The mistakes they made could possibly be made again with your money. If you must make a personal loan why not take a few precautions and do it right.

1. Consider alternatives

Borrowers who fail to repay bank loans may face legal problems, but those who can’t make good on loans to friends or family can be hit not only with legal trouble but also the loss of a personal relationship. That’s why it’s a good idea to think about all your options before approaching someone you’re close to for a loan. Consider trying more than one bank, for example, or exploring borrowing possibilities at credit unions or other sources. It may also be possible to cut back on your spending instead of taking a loan or to postpone your plans for a big purchase until you have saved the money you need.

2. Get it in writing

One of the potential pitfalls of a loan between friends or family is their informality. A handshake is a popular way to cement a deal, but a written document is a better idea for both sides. That’s because problems can arise when the friend lending the money expects it to be returned within a short time, while the borrower believes he or she can pay it back over an indefinite period. When lending money to a loved one, it’s often hard to insist on knowing when the loan will be paid or to ask for regular payments. 

To protect your relationship and your wallet, it’s best to put it in writing. Write down the amount of the loan, when and how it will be paid off and if the borrower will pay any interest. This kind of promissory note clarifies the borrower’s responsibilities and can help prevent misunderstandings later. The note should be signed by both borrower and lender, and each one should keep a copy.

3. Be realistic

While written documentation is a great idea, remember that it will not prevent potential payment problems. That’s why it’s important for both people to be realistic before they enter into the deal. If you know that a loved one likely won’t be able to repay you, for example, offer instead to help him or her solve problems by developing a monthly budget or working out a payment plan with creditors. 

If you are uncertain you will be able to repay a loan, consider asking loved ones to brainstorm other borrowing options. Doing so may preserve your relationship so that it is still in force long after any money problems are over.

4. Give honest updates

If you borrow money from a friend or family member and find that you are unable to repay it as expected, let them know about the problem right away. Explain what went wrong and when you do think you’ll be able to make good. It may be a difficult conversation, but your candor and consideration for the other person will go a long way in helping to preserve the relationship.

5. Give the money as a gift.

Personal loan are notorious for not being repaided. If you have the means, offer them the money as a gift. If not the full amount, a percentage of the amount needed. Doing this heads off a possible confrontation or uncomfortable situation that could come down the line. It's better to keep the friend and lose the money instead of the reverse.

How To Overcome A Bad Financial Habit - Procrastination

It takes work and having a plan if you want to have control of your money. Whether it is budgeting, saving, planning, investing or organizing; to get good results it takes an investment of time. But that's the tough part, finding the time to do it right. 

Many people fail in their financial goals because they just don't plan. They want to do it right but just keep putting it off. To some of us, like myself, seeing a monthly budget just doesn't thrill me. I know many people enjoy these types of things but actually doing it is no fun. I like to write about personal finance but I can find more fun things to do than balance my checkbook.

I admit it I am a procrastinator. So what do you do? Need some help? Here are a few tips:

Schedule financial tasks

Scheduling financial tasks and completing them in small chunks will help you feel a sense of accomplishment. For example, most consumers receive several types of financial mail, including bills, brokerage statements and bank reconciliations. Place all financial mail in a basket and set aside some time periodically to go through them at one time. You will develop a habit that will become part of your routine. This routine will eliminate procrastination. Also, try to save time by using online bill payment services or developing a system that works for you.

Create a savings strategy

You may believe that you do not have enough money to save, and therefore, you develop inertia. Also, retirement may seem like such a distant dream. However, saving a little now will help get you started, and over time you will see how the investment grows in value. Watching your money grow will motivate you to create additional savings.

Divide and conquer

If you have a spouse or significant other, work together at the same time and split the duties. People who make commitments and have a “buddy” in the task will not be as likely to delay. One person can pay the bills while the other files statements. At this time, you may also have the opportunity to talk and discuss financial matters which will reduce uncertainty and stress. After you have worked together, reward yourself for staying on task.

Remember late fees

In many instances, handling financial matters early can actually save considerable money — but it involves planning ahead. For example, try to pay January’s mortgage near the end of December to get the mortgage interest deduction on the current year tax return. Many people save on Christmas supplies, such as wrapping paper and ornaments, for next year by purchasing them immediately after Christmas. Also, irrigation companies will offer substantial discounts to install irrigation equipment during off-season times. Even some colleges give substantial discounts for getting tuition paid early.

Because many businesses want smooth cash flow, it makes sense for them to offer such discounts. Of course, it is very important to weigh the discount you will be getting with any interest or investment income you might have earned by retaining the money. While savings can be the reward for paying early, late fees, penalties and interest can be the penalty for not getting financial tasks done by the due date. It is especially important to pay credit card bills on time, as just a short delay can add considerable late fees to a bill.

Remember procrastination is a bad habit that can take some work to overcome. The trouble is it takes time to set up procedures to help you change old habits. But it is necessary to succeed with your money plans.

Don't Wait For Occupy Wall Street To Fix Your Finances

Image by Mathew Knott via FlickrWith the ongoing coverage of Occupy Wall Street you may be thinking that finally someone is standing up to the big greedy financial institutions. The protesters are angry because they don't feel like they are not in control or have the power to change the terrible state of their own financial problems much less that of our entire country.







For the rest of this article go to Austin Personal Finance Examiner Shabana Shiliwala's article 'Why wait for Occupy Wall Street to fix your finances?'.  

When Is the Right Time To Buy A Home?

Someday, my 27-year-old daughter would like to own her own home. But right now, she’s happy sharing a rented townhouse with a friend. She says, “I am trying to make sure I can afford it before making that leap”. “I don’t want to be house poor.” 

There’s no question that owning a home is a desirable goal, and low interest rates in recent years have made it possible for millions of Americans to buy their first houses, invest in income property or trade up to a larger home. For many others, though, there are good reasons to continue to rent. You really need to assess your overall expenditures, not just your housing expenditures, and ask yourself if you really can afford to buy.

Home buying is not for everyone and certainly not for everyone at every point in their lives. For young people like my daughter, it’s not a bad strategy to get one’s financial life in order before taking on the kind of debt required to buy even a modest condominium or starter house. My daughter, who works at a local hospital, said she is focusing on paying off her college debt, then will turn her attention to accumulating money for a down payment on a house. She said that she’s wary of moving too fast because she’s seen friends struggle when they were financially unprepared to buy.

“Some have had trouble keeping up with their mortgage payments,” she said. “Or a condo association will raise fees and they can’t afford their place anymore. Home prices are still so high and rents are so low that many find it advantageous to rent. “But, of course, renters are missing out on the appreciation of a home,” she said. “There are renters who say they could put money aside, invest it smart and get that kind of appreciation — but most people don’t do that.”

There are also times when it doesn’t make sense to own. We see older people who have large houses that they’re selling. In some cases, given their age and lifestyle, it doesn’t pay to for them to buy a smaller house. But buying can also be a problem for young people who think they’ll have to move frequently for their jobs.

Residential real estate has relatively huge transaction costs like brokers’ fees, closing costs, registration fees and other expenses associated with the purchase of a home. To buy and later resell, figure it at about 15 percent of the home’s value. That’s huge, and it means you have to stay put, ideally for at least five years, to recoup that 15 percent.”

The key to making the move from renting to buying is cash flow. People need to make sure they have the money not only for the mortgage but for other expenses that come with ownership including real estate taxes, insurance, and repair and maintenance costs.

Most people need to buy property at some point in their lives. It gives you your own little piece of the American dream,it’s something that’s all yours. And, from a financial point of view, it’s also a good long-term investment. It’s an appreciating asset that will behave very differently from stocks and bonds, especially over a 30-year window.