Steps You Should Take If Victim of Identity Theft - 08/23/10 12:58 PM
In today's society, most people are using computers and/or credit cards to handle their business transactions.  Sometime during your lifetime you may be a victim of identity theft.  In case you are the unfortunate victim of identity theft you need to be award of the necessary steps to terminate your exposure and reduce your loss.  Prior to identity theft you should be maintaining detail records of all your financial transactions.  When identity theft occurs, file a claim immediately with your financial institution and have your accounts frozen.  Also, keep records of all verbal and written communications.  Following list provides you a list … (1 comments)

Avoid Home Loan Scams - 08/20/10 05:50 PM
Sometimes homeowners have contractors coming to their front door seeking work that will improve their property.  The types of projects may include roof replacement, trimming trees, or remodeling your kitchen, etc.  Let's say you are interested, but unable to afford the project.  The contractor states he can arrange financing with a lender.  At this point beware, do not sign a contract immediately that allows the contractor to begin work, or agree to terms with the lender.  If you do not have the immediate cash for the improvement, interview multiple lenders to insure you are getting a similar story and interest rate before … (1 comments)

Home Improvement Payment Options - 08/16/10 09:42 PM
A homeowner, who plans a repair, maintenance and/or improvement project, may consider getting their loan through a financial institution or financing with the contractor.  Financing with a contractor, usually will only be feasible with larger projects.     All other projects should be paid by using check or credit card.  If paying with cash, homeowner needs to require a written receipt that provides a description of service and/or merchandise provided, date and amount paid.  However you decide to pay for the project, be sure you have a reasonable payment schedule and interest rate.  Following are some additional tips:
•  Limit your down payment.  … (1 comments)

Questions for Contractor References - 08/09/10 09:44 PM
After you interview a contractor and before you hire this individual to do home improvements, recommend you request and receive references from the contractor.  The next step is to contact a lease 3 of these references asking some or all of the following questions:
•  Would it be possible if I could visit your home and see the completed job?
•  How satisfy were you with the completed project?
•  Was the job completed on time?
•  Did the contractor keep you informed of the project status and update you on any problems with the project?
•  As a consumer, did … (1 comments)

Questions When Hiring a Contractor - 08/02/10 10:19 PM
As a homeowner, there will be times when it will be necessary to hire a contractor to make either home repairs or add an addition to your home.  Prior to hiring a contractor there are several questions you should be prepared to ask when interviewing potential contractors:
•  Be sure to find out how long the contractor has been in business.  Determine if the business is a well-established company and member of the Better Business Bureau.  Contact the Better Business Bureau to determine if complaints have been filed against the company.
• Insured that the company is licensed and register in … (3 comments)

 

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