Investing in Real Estate How and Why

If you are thinking about investing in real estate how and why are two very important questions that you should ask.

To begin with how... You need to find sources of information that are going to provide you with all the information you need to get you started with on your investment. You can use resources such as...

- The internet for research. If you utilize this tool it can be your starting point in respect to investing in real estate. Contemplating investing in real estate how and why are the two important questions to ask because It's your money and you don't want to lose it. That's why starting your research from the bottom up will lead you in the right direction.

- Reading Material. There is excellent reading material regarding real estate investment that can be obtained from the internet as well. Then you can also purchase this from book stores. Even the financial papers will provide you with some excellent information.

- Online courses. Once you begin thinking about investing in real estate how and why are the two questions that you not only need the answers to, but you must understand the concept of the answers. This can easily be achieved through many of the great online courses that are available for real estate investment.

- Ask the experts. Don't be afraid to ask questions of every expert that crosses your path regarding real estate investments. The majority of them would be more than willing to answer them. You can refer to professionals such as bankers, loans officers and other investors.

As we mentioned if you are thinking about investing how and why are two important questions, and after answering the how its important to address the why.

Why should you invest in real estate... To begin with its one of the safer types of investments. Stocks can be volatile. If the economy is bad then one stands to lose their entire investment. With investment in real estate in a bad economy most often you can just weather out the storm and hold onto your investment until things get better.

Its also an investment that you can maintain control over. You are the one making the decisions about your investment. Most often when you are involved in stocks the decisions are being made by the portfolio manager.

As you can see there are many advantages to real estate investment. This can be done with even a minimal amount of funds

What Do You Need to Do Before Starting a Debt Settlement Plan?

Having too much of debts makes us feel depressed and upset. We can't enjoy our life with this financial burden. People in debt always have the dilemma. They do not know which financial solution that suits them best. Sometimes, they are not too sure whether they should choose a debt settlement plan or filling for bankruptcy.

If you are facing the same problem, here is some guidance for you.



•Before you commit to either option, you are advised to weigh the pros and cons of both solutions first. You need to be clear that whichever solution you choose must not spoil your credit score completely. The solution is supposed to assist you to alleviate your financial woes.
•Make sure that you don't make your decision in a hurry. You are advised to request a copy of your credit report from the major credit reporting agency. Once you get the copy, review the report carefully. It is a must for you to know your credit score.
•Based on your report, find out your total debt amount. Then, start assessing your current financial position. You need to consider carefully whether you have sufficient income and funds to negotiate for debt reduction with your creditors. For instance, if you have zero income or insufficient fund in account, debt settlement is definitely not the right choice for you.
•Besides looking at your current problem, you need to include your future plan too. You are reminded not to simply make a decision. Filing for bankruptcy may help you to avoid those irritating debt collection calls but this solution will be stated in your credit report for 10 years. Do you think it is worth doing so?


To sum up, before making any final decision, think twice on the effects so that you won't regret in future.

How Does Real Estate Investment Work?

Any individual that has owned a home or property at some point in time has done some investment in real estate. This however is usually for their own residence and is by way of building up equity in their home. Once they have some money to invest they will ask how does real estate investment work?

There are many ways though that one can start investing in real estate and use it as a means of making extra income. It can be done either as a short-term venue or a long-term investment. For most individuals that want to do short-term investing this means purchasing some form of property and doing what is known as flipping. This means buying and selling it very quickly and putting it right back onto the market.

Basically if this is done right the answer to how does real estate investment work? can be very lucrative and it's a matter of just learning some basics on how to do this.

Setting up strategies There are certain strategies that you will want to set up for doing your real estate investments whether it is for long-term or short-term. The other thing to keep in mind is there are many different investment opportunities as well as the different types of investments for real estate that you can make.

Investment opportunities - If you want to go long-term you could do this by buying property that you are going to hold on to for several years that is going to increase in its equity.

- Then there is always property that you can invest in such as commercial property where you can glean a rent off of that particular property and at the same time it will grow in its equity.

- There are always the apartment rentals, home rentals and leasing options to consider as well. One of the easiest investments that newcomers usually like to venture into it is buying a second residence and renting it out.

- . Then there's always the option of buying a residence which is big enough that you could put in a basement apartment for extra rental income as well.

These are all starting grounds to get you going into real estate investment.

Chances are when you are starting out into real estate investment naturally your primary question is how does real estate investment work? but what you want to remember to do is something that is very basic for your first investment.

You are going to need a good understanding of what you are doing so that you're not investing in the wrong venues. So to begin with what you want to do is educate yourself on real estate investment and then take a look at just what you are prepared to do as far as the money you want to invest and the time as well.

Contractors Benefit from Construction Factoring

The economic downturn has been hard on a many businesses, especially the construction industry. This sector is responsible for building our nation's houses, corporate facilities, factories, apartments, offices, schools, roads and bridges. General contractors and sub-contractors still may be experiencing cash flow problems.

There are three basic areas, construction includes: 1) Building, including general contractors who build residential, industrial, commercial, and other buildings. 2) Civil engineering construction where contractors build roads, bridges, highways, and tunnels, and 3) Specialty trade contractors, who work on projects such as carpentry, painting, plumbing or electrical.

Construction jobs are not just about new structures, but often require site preparation, repairs, maintenance, or improvements to an older project

The construction industry supports architects, engineers, inspectors, appraisers, brick masons, carpenters, electrical and drywall contractors, flooring and tile contractors, and even asphalt companies, all of whom could take advantage of invoice factoring to help them get by during challenging economic times..

These jobs are usually done by general contractors, who specialize in one type of construction such as either residential or commercial building. They are in charge of the entire job, and although general contractors may do a portion of the work with their own crews, they often subcontract work to specialty trade contractors who typically do the work of one

These obtain orders for their work from general contractors, architects, or property owners. Repair work is almost always done on direct order from owners, occupants, architects, or rental agents.

dependent upon economic business cycles, the construction industry might face changes in interest rates and tax laws that affect individual and business decisions related to construction. Changes in state or local regulations or budgets can result in new construction or a cancelled job.

Thanks to factoring among contractors during the last year, this tactic has helped provide the cash flow needed to pay suppliers, meet payroll and pay for insurance, as well as workmans compensation. Construction factoring enables businesses to obtain funds based on their current accounts receivables, so they can go ahead with the next phase of a project, rather than wait till the invoices are paid.

Why does the construction industry benefit from factoring? Because when factoring is used, the sub-contractor, or construction company, does not have to wait for payment before starting on the next phase of a project, or begin construction on a new project. With invoice factoring, the sub-contractor or construction firm can realize quick turnaround, from 24 to 48 hours, on accounts receivable due for completed stages of a construction project. With construction invoice factoring, the construction company, or the sub-contractor, can be paid overnight for accounts receivable invoices, which speeds up cash flow and improves the company's ability to start immediately on the next phase of construction for each project.

What Do You Need to Do Before Starting a Debt Settlement Plan?

Having too much of debts makes us feel depressed and upset. We can't enjoy our life with this financial burden. People in debt always have the dilemma. They do not know which financial solution that suits them best. Sometimes, they are not too sure whether they should choose a debt settlement plan or filling for bankruptcy.

If you are facing the same problem, here is some guidance for you.



•Before you commit to either option, you are advised to weigh the pros and cons of both solutions first. You need to be clear that whichever solution you choose must not spoil your credit score completely. The solution is supposed to assist you to alleviate your financial woes.
•Make sure that you don't make your decision in a hurry. You are advised to request a copy of your credit report from the major credit reporting agency. Once you get the copy, review the report carefully. It is a must for you to know your credit score.
•Based on your report, find out your total debt amount. Then, start assessing your current financial position. You need to consider carefully whether you have sufficient income and funds to negotiate for debt reduction with your creditors. For instance, if you have zero income or insufficient fund in account, debt settlement is definitely not the right choice for you.
•Besides looking at your current problem, you need to include your future plan too. You are reminded not to simply make a decision. Filing for bankruptcy may help you to avoid those irritating debt collection calls but this solution will be stated in your credit report for 10 years. Do you think it is worth doing so?


To sum up, before making any final decision, think twice on the effects so that you won't regret in future.

Do You Need A Payday Loan

It is becoming more and more difficult to get fast financial help due to the current economic downslide. Many people are finding themselves having to write checks that they know they cannot cover just to get by. Perhaps even worse, some people are doing without some of life's basic necessities because their pay date is still a week or two away. There is an alternative to all these situations and while fairly expensive, payday loans are usually a better alternative.

With the economy in turmoil the banks have tightened up on their lending practices. Some people that were able at one time to walk in a bank and get a quick signature loan are no longer able to do so. It isn't because they have bad credit, it is because the banks simply don't have the money to lend. Aside from being rejected by the bank, another downside to bank loans is the fact that every time you apply and are approved or declined, you will have a negative mark on your credit report just for applying. It is just the way the system works these days.

Many consumers have even taken it upon themselves to be their own credit grantor by writing checks that they do not have the funds to cover. This is not a new practice by any means but it is becoming more common place as banks tighten up their purse strings. One might think that the banks would frown upon this activity, but in reality the banks make huge sums of money from these people who will end up paying large fees to the bank for the hot check. Even worse, if the consumer is not ale to cover the check in a timely manner they can actually be arrested and jailed for fraud!

On the opposite end of the scale are people who will do without some basic necessities for a while until they get their regular paycheck. These people resort to cutting back on the number of meals they may eat in a day or just don't eat at all. Many times these people will have their utilities disconnected because they are unable to pay them on a specific date which is quite often just a few days before their payday but they do not know of any alternative but to let the services be interrupted. Once they finally get paid, they end up paying staggering reconnect fees and late fees just to get the basic utilities restored.

It is these situations that payday loans are quite literally the best option. While this type of loan may seem expensive at the outset, compared to the fees and penalties for writing bad checks or having to pay reconnect fees for utilities, payday loans are very competitive. Some people will point out that these loans have an unusually high APR, which is true. But these are short term loans and can not honestly be based on APR. An average payday loan will cost the consumer approximately a total of 25%. Compare this rate with the cost of the options mentioned above and payday loans are clearly the best choice during these trying times. If you were to annualize the bounce check fees or reconnect fees toy would see an APR much higher than what you will pay for a payday loan.

Saving Money, Helpful Tips That Will Put More Money In Your Wallet

Saving money is a practice than more and more people are adopting everyday. Here are some common practices that cna put some extra money in your pocket.

•Conserve energy and electricity by pulling the plugs on all unused appliances in the house is a great factor in tucking away your money. It is not enough to just switch it off. Even if dormant, plugged devices consume 20% of electricity compared to when it is on. It still uses up energy which makes your monthly energy bill shoot up. Close the faucet when brushing your teeth. Use the shower only when washing and rinsing. Fill up pails rather than using a hose when cleaning your car. Try doing these small tips and in as little as one month, you will see a big difference in your utility statements. Pay on due date to avoid penalty and late payment surcharge on your next bill. Doing these activities for your real estate forms great habits over time.
•Will it be an inconvenience for you not to have a cellular phone and a home phone all together? The beauty of having a mobile cell is that wherever you go, you can be reached. What is the importance of a home phone when everyone else uses the cell? Technology has its benefits. If your purpose is to minimize on your expenses, you can drop the home phone for your mobile phone. That would be a few dollars saved up. Furthermore, send text messages if there is no urgency. Call only when it is necessary.
•Coupon-clipping. Cut out food coupons from magazines and newspapers or avail discount cards from grocery stores, supermarkets and establishments that offer such. Use them. It is not embarrassing to be economical. Try to avoid pointless purchases. Little amount procured on a day to day basis, when totaled, is a huge amount. Be frugal. Set up a budget that is enough for your monthly consumption. In this way, you will be able to add some more in that bank account.
•Prepare food at home to bring for lunch and snacks. A green salad and a home-made chicken sandwich is the healthier and more prudent choice. Limit eating out and spending too much on food when you can eat at home for a cheaper price.
These are only a few suggestions you can start at home which will significantly assist you on increasing your savings. In your own way, you can do some more which is compliant with your lifestyle. Anyway, the ultimate goal here is to save. You get to decide how you do it.

Saving Your Hard-Earned Money

Do you find yourself low on cash, and having to skimp on car insurance, health insurance, and even rent? If so this article is here to the rescue. In this economy, people are having to hold on to their pennies and having to borrow money from greedy car loan companies and banks that are only there to watch you fall on your knees. There are several simple ways which could save you money in more than one way.

First of all, If you see yourself throwing away those coupons that are in the Sunday newspapers, think again. Those coupons, when used at a retail store like Wal-Mart and Target, could really stack up the savings. Next, If you make less than two thousand dollars a month, than you could apply for government assistance in the form of food stamps which is now called SNAP. I know in my personal experience, it saved me and my fiancee from starving more than once. So look into it. Also, if your city has a farmers market, look there. They usually sale produce cheaper than Retail and grocery stores.

If you have a car and cannot keep gas in it for a long time, simply doing a few simple maintenance to your car could help. Keep the air in your tires properly inflated, and clean the fuel injector or carbuerator of your car by simply adding a cleaner to your gas at fillups.

I know how hard it is to keep afloat with rising food costs and gas prices, but if you just do a few simple things like coupons and car maintenance could really save you some serious money in the long run.

How I Went From $30,000 In Debt, To Debt-Free In 36 Months By Don Glasgow

Three years ago I was $30,000 in debt. I was making $35,000/year. Today (Oct. 2006), I am debt-free. I paid off all of that debt by changing how I looked at debt, by making the hard choices, and by doing “whatever it took” to get out of debt. I don’t work in the financial or lending field. The only reason I have put my thoughts into writing is to try to help other people. I am 46 years old. This is my story.

Three years ago I was $30,000 in debt.

I had $15,000 in consumer debt (credit cards and an auto loan), and I owed $15,000 to my mom. I felt like I was swimming in an ocean of debt with no sign of the shore.

My income as a real estate agent was around $35,000/ year. Scary, huh?

I got myself into this trouble the way most people get themselves into financial trouble…poor decisions based upon taking the easy, instant gratification, tons of justifications path.

Today, I am debt free except for my mortgage, which I consider “good” debt.

I’m going to tell you how I got out of debt. These ideas are a bit difficult to put into writing, but if you read this article carefully, my experiences and suggestions may help you to achieve the debt-free life you dream of.

What has worked for me can work for you if you are willing to follow a more difficult life path than you are on right now. The choices I made, so that I could get out of debt, only worked for me because I was willing to do “whatever it took” to get out of debt. This “whatever it takes” philosophy was very important to my success, and will also be very important to your success.

Selling your “future self” into slavery:

Most people, including me, prefer to take the easy path in life; “Buy now, pay later”. We do this not realizing that we are putting our “future selves” into slavery for the debt we create today. What you buy on credit today, your “future self” will have to try to pay back when you get your credit card statements.

If you think about it, why would you do that to yourself? You wouldn’t do that to a friend. You wouldn’t do that to your Grandma. Why do it to you? You need to learn to like yourself enough not to create this future slavery. You have a choice. You can look forward to a future filled with freedom and prosperity, or a future of slavery to your debt. Don’t intentionally give up your freedom. Your choices can create a future heaven or a future hell for you.

When I realized this important truth, I totally changed how I looked at life. I realized that, “If I am tough on myself today, my future self will have a gentle, more prosperous life, filled with exciting choices”.

With that truth firmly in mind, I started making the harder choices. The delayed gratification choices. The get of debt-slavery choices. I started walking the more challenging path towards getting out of debt.

How I freed myself from debt-slavery:

Easy Choice #1: I stopped creating more debt. Period.

Hard choice #1: I sold my home and bought a tiny condominium. I lived alone and didn’t need a home that big, and I didn’t need that big mortgage payment. I moved from my 1400 sq. ft. home into a 420 sq. ft. condo. My mortgage payments were cut in half. The money I freed up was used to pay off debt.

Hard choice #2: I got a second job. In my case I created a window cleaning business. Window cleaning is inexpensive to start and fairly lucrative…I averaged about $24/hour washing windows. I could set my own hours to fit my real estate business. I still do this business on a part-time basis. This extra income went to paying down my debt, and now that I am out of debt, is now being saved to buy a newer car with cash. By the way, I will be paying cash for that car.

Hard choice #3: While working on paying off my debt, the real estate market went crazy. Real Estate agents, including me, were making two or three times their regular incomes. In our area this boom went on for about 24 months. Most agents were buying themselves new, larger homes and beautiful, new luxury cars. Not me. I was busy paying off my debt. I admit that I would look longingly at the new cars in our office parking lot, but I knew that the good times would in due course end and those easy payments would starting getting hard to make.

Easy choice #2: Towards the end of the “hot” real estate market I had about $30,000 in equity in my little condo. I sold it and moved into a condo that was a little larger (800 sq. ft. vs. 420 sq. ft.) My mortgage payments were larger, but I used part of the profit to pay off my Mom. The rest was used to buy my new condo. Now my debt was down to about $9,000.

The good, the bad and the end of my debt:

I received an inheritance this year, some of which I used to pay off the rest of my debt. This inheritance was given to me by Betty, a woman I was dating. My sweetheart, Betty, died of cancer in December of 2005 and left me some money from her estate. Even though she wanted me to have the money, I would gladly have given it all back and everything I owned to have her back. The ability to pay off my debt using this money was truly bitter-sweet. While she was alive, Betty enjoyed debt-free prosperity and she knew how important it was to me to be debt free too. She left me once last blessing, freedom.

In the end I received an unexpected blessing which helped me get out of debt faster. I feel strongly that had I not been willing to do “whatever it took” to get out of debt, I may have never received that final blessing. I think life provides us with what we want, if we are willing to pay the price. You may not have to pay the full price to become debt-free, but you have to prove you are willing to pay the full price, before the universe helps you out.

It’s up to you. You can become free of your debt by being tough on yourself. Make the harder choices. Take the more difficult path. Don’t sell yourself into debt-slavery. If you do these things, your financial life will become gentler and easier as time passes. This concept works. Try it, I dare you. Then let me know about your success!

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=100540&ca=Finances

Affordable Student Health Insurance - Why Student Health Insurance Can Be Cheap By Elizabeth Newberry

Student health insurance can be affordable, and even cheap, if you choose a plan that offers the exact coverage your student needs, and if you understand the coverage your student has. By choosing the coverage your student needs, you won’t have to worry about paying for any medical costs that you know your student will acquire. And, by making sure you thoroughly understand your student’s coverage, you won’t be hit with any surprise costs along the way.

The first step to finding affordable student health insurance is to ask about any health coverage offered to your student by his or her school. Many colleges and universities provide medical services via on-campus clinics to students. These medical services may be available free or at a very low cost – and what’s more affordable than that?

Next, ask about pre-existing conditions. For example, your student may be diabetic; medical care for pre-existing conditions such as diabetes may not be offered through the school. If this is the case, consider purchasing a smaller, additional health insurance policy to cover treatment for diabetes while using the school-provided services for situations such as common colds. This will help keep student health insurance affordable.

Finally, find out everything you possibly can about the student health insurance plan and/or the medical services offered by the school. How much is covered if your student visits the emergency room? Is your student allowed to visit any health care professional, or is there a network of doctors from which he or she must choose? You may think you’ve purchased an affordable student health insurance plan, but if emergency room visits aren’t covered – or very little of the cost is covered – you’ll be faced with a bill that won’t make the student health insurance plan seem so affordable after all.

Know which services are available, which services aren’t, as well as how to obtain each and you’ll find affordable student health insurance.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=100881&ca=Finances

Credit Card Application: Getting Your First Credit Card By Mario Churchill

Credit cards are one of the most convenient tools that you can ever use today. Besides, you would really need this tool if you want to purchase something but you don't have the cash for it. With a credit card, you can virtually purchase the products or services you need even without carrying cash.

Credit cards are a very useful tool to manage your expenses.

However, before you apply for a credit card, you should first consider a few things in order for your first credit card application to be approved.

The first thing you should consider before applying for a credit card is your credit history. This is the most essential thing that a credit card company will look at when deciding if they should issue you a credit card or not.

If you have a bad credit history, it will be hard for you to apply for a credit card and vice versa. So, before you apply for a credit card, you should make sure that you have a good credit history in order for you to get approved for one easily.

However, if you don't have a credit history, then you need to make a one. You can do this by taking out a small loan or through a hire-purchase agreement. After you make payments, you are now making your first credit history. Make sure you pay it off on time in order to get a good credit history and get approved for your first credit card.

If you don't know whether you have a credit history or not, you can always apply for a copy of your credit history, by doing this, you can know if you have a good credit history or a bad credit history or if you have any credit history at all. You can apply from a credit reference agency in your area for this document.

After discovering that you have a good credit history, the next step would be deciding how much your credit card limit should be. This is usually determined by your income. And, usually your savings is also important.

Depending on your savings and your income, you can then apply for a regular credit card, a gold credit card or a platinum credit card. These types of cards vary in credit limit and also have different benefits that you can have.

Usually the higher the credit limit the higher the fees will be. However, the benefits you can get with a higher credit limit are better than regular credit cards. Two examples would be frequent credit card user money back, and discounts on purchases with credit cards.

The next step in credit card application is submitting your application form. The credit card company you chose will then review the application form, check your financial background and will also check your credit rating. They will also ask you to comply with certain conditions in order for your credit card application be approved; such as asking you to have some money on a deposit account with the company.

Sometimes, your credit card application may be rejected. You have to ask the company why your application was denied. There are usually two reasons why the company rejects an application. The first is that you failed the credit rating test and the second is that you probably filled the credit card application form all wrong.

If you failed the credit rating test, you will need to apply in another credit card company. However, if you just filled the credit card application wrong, you can still reapply with the same company. And, this time, fill up the application form correctly to avoid getting rejected again.

These are the things you should first consider when applying for a credit card. Meeting all the requirements and conditions of the credit card company will ensure you of getting your credit card application approved.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=100792&ca=Finances

Advice For Choosing Your Life Insurance Payments By Elizabeth Newberry

Although it’s a responsible choice, the choice to purchase a life insurance policy isn’t required. Other than not wanting to think about inevitable death, many people choose not to purchase a life insurance policy because they don’t want to take on the extra payments for something they will not immediately use. Electric bills, for example, are less painful to pay every month. You use electricity every day. Life insurance policies, on the other hand, are usually only used in case of a financial emergency or the death of the policyholder.

However, most life insurance companies offer the ability to make life insurance policy payments four different ways – monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, and annually – and your life insurance agent will be more than happy to offer advice about each payment option.

Monthly

Sometimes making monthly payments on your life insurance policy is the best choice, simply because you have the money right then. However, if you pay monthly, you may actually end up paying more than you would if you paid quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, because many life insurance companies offer discounts for other payment options.

Quarterly

Quarterly payments are sometimes the most convenient option, because they allow you to save for a few months before sending payment.

Semi-annually

Semi-annual payments aren’t quite as large as annual payments, yet they do offer the ability to save and pay twice a year.

Annually

Making annual payments on your life insurance policy in the form of one lump sum may leave a lump in your throat, but depending on the life insurance company, you may actually save money this way.

Whether you’re considering purchasing a life insurance policy, or already have one, talk with your life insurance agent about life insurance policy payment options. While you may think one payment option is best for you, the advice your life insurance agent gives you may help you see that another payment option is actually better.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=100878&ca=Finances

What To Do Before Buying That New Car Or Truck By Jake Rustenhoven

Ahhhh, that new car smell...

It's great isn't it? But it comes at a premium. We all know that it's cheaper to buy used instead of new, but if you still don't think you can live without that fragrance of a new car (the real one, not the one you buy from Wal-Mart in the little spray can) - then at least think about following these steps first:

1. Research! If you absolutely have to have a new car, do yourself a favor and spend some time at Edmunds.com and research some of the cars that you are thinking about buying. If you have a specific car in mind already, be sure to research the other cars in its class as well. You might even find another one you like better and is rated higher from consumers, has higher crash test scores, better resale value, higher mpg's, or whatever else floats your boat.

2. Once you have decided on a car, Edmunds has a great feature for pricing - it's called True Market Value. That is basically how much other people are paying for that specific car. This can give you great leverage when negotiating the price on your new vehicle. But you also must keep in mind that it's not a definite price level, but more of a guide for haggling with the salesman about the price.

3. Dare I say the 'L' word? Loan! There I said it, whew. Once you have settled on a fair price for the vehicle you are buying, it's time to think about how you're going to pay for it. Since most of us don't pay cash for new cars, most likely you'll need to obtain a loan for your new ride. If so, then you need to pay close attention to the interest rate on the loan. This is not something that can normally be negotiated, but you still need to be aware of what your interest rate will be - even 1 percentage point lower can save you over $700 on an average priced new vehicle, over the life of the loan.

My advice on this would be to go after those low APR loan offers that the dealerships sometimes have. You know, the 'buy now and receive 2.9% apr for up to 60 months' type of offers. That can save you some big bucks, lets take a closer look...

How much money can lower interest save?

Ok, lets use an interest rate comparison loan calculator and plug in some numbers, and see what we get.

Example 1 - lets say it's for a Chevy Impala:

Loan amount: $25,000
Regular interest rate: 6.9%
Special low interest rate: 3.9%
Loan length: 5 years
Total savings with lower rate: $2,073.94

That's right, for this example the lower interest rate would save you more than $2k over the 5 year length of the loan. That money would be much better off sitting in an interest bearing bank account, don't you think? Just for kicks, lets do a higher priced vehicle with the same comparison criteria...

Example 2 - Let's say you want a Tahoe instead:

Loan amount: $45,000
Regular interest rate: 6.9%
Special low interest rate: 3.9%
Loan length: 5 years
Total savings with lower rate: $3,733.08

With example 2, you would save almost $4k in interest over the life of the loan. That would be a nice down payment on your next vehicle don't you think?

There are many different things that factor in to what vehicle you actually end up purchasing - comfort, resale value, safety, style etc. Just make sure you add 'research' and 'interest rate' to that list, and stay informed!

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=100790&ca=Finances

Credit Card Balance Transfer: The Best Offer You Should Look For By Mario Churchill

In today's society, people purchase all their everyday needs by using a credit card. You can pay for everything by using a credit card, such as your groceries, electric bills, and even gas for your car. Just imagine, by just having a credit card, you can purchase anything you want without having to carry cash around.

Basically, what a credit card offers is that you don't have to worry about not having the cash, worry about the credit card bills you have to pay after a month.

It is a fact that credit cards are a very useful tool that you can use today. However, owning a credit card also has its risk. Since people don't have to worry about purchasing things with a credit card, they tend to overdo it. Sometimes people get that urge to buy that new pair of shoes they really want but don't have the money for it. They tend to use their credit cards for it.

Because of this uncontrollable spending, people get into credit card debt. With a high interest rate credit card, this can be bad news. You will likely end up paying more on interest rather than paying the actual debt itself. So, one way to get rid of this debt is through credit card balance transfers.

Credit card transfer is one of the best ways and the easiest way to avoid high interest on your monthly credit card bills. If you have a number of credit cards, you can basically use the other credit cards to pay for your debt.

The first thing you need to do is choose the credit card with a low interest or zero interest rate. This credit card is the best card to transfer your balance to. With a low interest or zero interest rate, you will certainly save a lot of money and is the best way to get rid of the debt.

However, credit card balance transfer also has its drawbacks. Some companies charge a credit card balance transfer fee that can be as high as four percent of the debt. You should also make sure that you pay on time to avoid rise in interest rates. Also, you have to watch out for hidden fees, make sure that the credit card you are transferring your balance to doesn't have hidden fees that you will be required to pay for.

Certain low interest or zero interest credit cards has expiration periods on the low or zero interest rate introductory periods. It is important that you should learn when the introductory period will end to help your prepare for another credit card balance transfer to another card with low interest or zero interest rate.

In order to get the best credit card offers, you have to shop around for it. It is a fact that there are a lot of zero interest and low interest rate credit card offers, but you should also keep in mind that these offers are usually offered on a limited time only. Make sure you read the small print in order to understand the promo and know when the introductory period will expire.

As much as possible, you should always consider the credit limit on the card you are considering to transfer the balance to. When it exceeds the credit limit, you will likely pay additional charges and will also make the interest rate rise. These are the things you should remember when making a credit card balance transfer.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=100793&ca=Finances

The Basics Of Investing In Stocks And Shares By Joseph Kenny

Stocks can be considered a tool for building wealth, as they are a part of almost every investment portfolio. They represent the ownership of a company and are bought in the form of shares. Shares refer to the stock of a particular company. Your stake in a company depends on how many shares you possess, because these are considered a part of the company’s capital.

The popularity of investing in the stock market is increasing constantly. Today, investment in stocks and shares is not limited to the well to do; even the average middle-class is getting into it in droves. The opening up of markets with advanced trading technologies has made owning shares easy for everyone. However, if you are planning to invest, do not depend on luck to get you returns. Investment in stocks is considered a very risky affair. It requires a high rate of return. You need to use a well thought out strategy and necessary tools to invest in the share market.

The allure of investing in shares and stocks, however, does not mean that every would-be investor has the know-how of this often-slippery market. If you feel that the get-rich-quick theory applies to stocks and shares, then it is a misguided notion, because stocks are not the answer to instant wealth. Just like the real estate market, the share market also involves a lot of risk. Yet, people are often under the misconception that they will get rich instantly if they invest in shares.

You can buy a share in a stock when a company first enlists on the stock market – that is, at flotation or privatization. Alternatively, you can purchase shares once they are in circulation and are traded.

You could go to a stockbroker if you want to buy stocks. Stockbrokers do business with the stock exchange. They hold the shares in an account that is created in the name of the nominee. You can also keep your shares in the form of a paper certificate. Once the buying and selling of shares is over the transaction is made complete through an electronic system. This system is responsible for linking all the banks along with the stockbroker and registrars of the respective companies.

You can invest in international stocks as well. When a company performs trading in a stock market of another country, their stocks are known as International stocks. These stocks are traded like the UK stocks or, for that matter those traded in the Nasdaq in the US. All the stock exchanges in the world work in the same manner.

There is no guarantee when it comes to Investment in stocks but if you are ready to take a big risk then you can expect great returns on your investment. Despite the risk factor this form of investment has outperformed other investment options like bonds or saving accounts. So if you have the right strategy and you make the right moves in the stock market then nothing can stop the money from rolling in.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=100434&ca=Finances

Low Interest Payday Loan By Rachel Silver

As the payday loan industry continually grow, becoming one of the largest businesses in the whole world, the concept of low interest payday loan is now so common among many people. In fact, several advertisements on the radio, television, the Internet and even the email have now featured low interest payday loan offers. And, even if you walk down your high street and look in the windows of banks and building societies in your neighborhood, you will find out they will no doubt be advertising their low interest payday loans available. Of course, they will no wonder be talking about how low their interest rates are. And, they may even present to you their low interest payday loan deals available.

Given such facts, you must then know that as low interest payday loans are becoming so common among many people, several companies are taking advantage of the situation. Yes, they may present their low interest payday loan deals to you, but you will have nothing to compare that with. Just understand and note that in general, the longer your payday loan repayment period is, or the higher the amount, the lower the payday loan interest rate will be. So, it is then somehow understandable that if a high street bank or building society, in particular, makes some propaganda on low interest payday loans; you should consider then that it could be for, say $25,000 over a repayment period of 15 years, which basically connotes that you would pay a great deal more interest in the end.

Aside from that, many of the said “low interest payday loan” providers these days do not actually have a high-street presence, which is also true as with credit cards. Perhaps you will find a number of adverts for products and deals on the television, radio, billboards, and even in adverts through the post. As usual, these “low interest payday loan” deals or products would be presented as catchy and attractively as possible, with the amounts as well as the periods and the Annual Percentage Rates (APRs). However, the bottom line is, it will be too tough to compare against other providers and products, right?

As with the newspapers and magazines, you may find that these media can present the lowest rates of the said “low interest payday loans”, but making comparisons on the low interest payday loan deals offered for particular amounts over particular periods in what are known as “best-buy” tables could also be somewhat tough. However, you have the options. You can run into the personal finance or money sections for this, as it can give you a good basis of comparison. Nevertheless, the information is not that dynamic, and so for that, you are not sure that you will find the best low interest payday loan deal for you.

It is with that situation that the internet comes in most handy. As you all know, you could find and select application for low interest payday loans on most personal finance sites. These will then allow you to enter the amount you wish to borrow, the period over which you wish to pay the “low interest payday loan” back, as well as the other information that might be pertinent to you. The sites will then present the best low interest payday loans for you and you will be given the chance to sort the low interest payday loans by, of course, interest rate or any other way you want, and in some instances buy online. Lastly, through this way, you can be shown how likely you are to be granted the lending since different low interest payday loan providers criteria can be presented online.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=84476&ca=Finances

A Florida Reverse Mortgage Can Help You Deal With Financial Crisis By Antonio Redford

A financial crisis can confront a person at any time during their lives. When you are young and earning, you possess the mental and physical capacity to bounce back in spite of major setbacks. However, old age can be a different story, especially after retirement from active service. If you have not saved for the rainy days, or in case the savings do not prove to be enough for a financial emergency, it can be a major crisis for an aged person. An asset like your own home, can at that time, prove to be a major blessing and help you arrange for finances when you need it the most. A reverse mortgage on your home after the age of sixty two can help you deal with any financial requirement with dignity and self respect. Citizens of the United States of America have greatly benefited from the concept of reverse mortgage for raising funds when required.

A Florida reverse mortgage would allow a home owner to mortgage their property to a third party or lending institution in lieu of a lump sum of money, which is calculated on the basis of the equity of the property. The main difference between reverse mortgage and any ordinary mortgage is that, the ownership continues to remain with the original owner and he can continue to reside in the property till the time of his death. Also, the borrower is not expected to repay his debt during his lifetime, as long as he continues to pay the house taxes and other costs associated with the property. The loan is also not a burden on the heirs of the borrower, as the property is sold off by the lender and once the mortgage has been repaid the heirs can get access to the remaining amount received from the sale of the house.

In case a home owner decides to sell off the property that has been put up for a Florida reverse mortgage, he can do so, provided he first pays off the loan amount to the lending agency before claiming any money from the sale of the house. A reverse mortgage, therefore, is the most dignified manner in which a property owner, who is already retired and beyond the age of sixty two can raise money in times of need. The money can be paid to the borrower either as a lump sum amount or in small monthly installments; the choice depends on the borrower and his financial requirements.

A reverse mortgage can prevent you from asking for financial help in times of emergency from any family or friend and be self sufficient till the very end. It is one of the best methods to utilize your property, while raising money against it at the same time, as it allows you to continue to reside in the same house that has been put up for mortgage. However, if you are seriously considering a reverse mortgage, it might be good idea to seek the advice of a financial consultant before you finalize any deal.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=200489&ca=Finances