Get Free Housing

According to Habitat for Humanity, fully 16 percent of Americans spend over half of their incomes on housing expenses and "roughly one in six Americans are in need of a decent, affordable place to live." For those who are homeless, who are struggling to pay rent or mortgage or who are simply looking for a way to spend less on housing, there are free or at least reduced-cost housing alternatives.

Staying Put for Less -- or Nothing

If you are not already homeless and you wish to remain in your present housing situation, you might be able to stay there for less, or nothing at all. Talk with your landlord about establishing an arrangement whereby you exchange goods or services for all or part of your rent. Look into renting part of your living space, such as a spare room, to someone else.

Housesitting

According to House Sitters America, a housesitter usually performs caretaking duties, such as gardening and pet care, in exchange for temporary free housing while the owners or residents are elsewhere. These opportunities frequently last one week to four months, but possibly as long as six months to one year.

Jobs With Free Housing

In the United States and abroad, some jobs offer free housing as a benefit. Examples include permanent property caretaker/manager and live-in caregiver, such as a disabled or elderly individual's personal assistant, a nanny or a houseparent in a group home for foster children. The Canadian government places foreigners as live-in caregivers in private homes. Many Americans secure free housing in countries like Japan or Poland when they teach within English as a Second Language programs (ESL).

Government Assistance

If you have a low income and/or are disabled, you may qualify for government housing assistance programs, whether at the federal, tribal, state, county or city level. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD, is a good resource for learning about programs for the homeless, renters and homeowners.

Cooperative Housing

You might wish to consider applying for membership in a housing cooperative. Housing cooperatives are democratically run, often nonprofit, property owning and managing organizations. They are known for offering below-market rate housing costs or other arrangements friendly to low-income people.

Specialized Programs

Some groups are specifically targeted for free or reduced-cost housing programs, whether governmental, private sector, or combined public and private. Examples of groups served include single mothers, victims of domestic violence, recovering substance abusers, chronically mentally ill persons, people with HIV/AIDS, military veterans and professional artists.

Cautions

In your search for a free or more affordable residence, you can prevent many problems if you take the time to learn from the Housing Rights Center about housing-related civil rights laws, such as those against racial or disability-related discrimination. Any housing arrangements you make with others should respect these rights, be put into writing and spell out the expectations that the involved parties have of one another.

Tags: free housing, part your, programs whether, reduced-cost housing

Olive Oil Diy Home Hair Repair Mask

Olive oil is a great hair and skin conditioner.

Olive oil has many uses in natural skin care, hair care and healthy living. It is good for the body eaten on salads and bread, makes a moisturizing skin treatment and repairs damaged hair. Olive oil is made from pressed olives and comes in many grades such as refined and extra virgin. This refers to how the oil is processed. Extra virgin olive oil is the purest because it is made with no chemical processes or filtering. This is considered the best type of oil for cooking but any type of olive oil will work for hair and skin care products. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Make a moisturizing hair treatment with 5 tbsp. of olive oil and two eggs. Mix well and apply to hair and scalp. Lightly massage for approximately five minutes and cover with a plastic cap. Leave in for 15 to 20 minutes.

2. Mix 3 tbsp. of olive oil with 2 tbsp. of honey for a soothing hair mask. Honey is a natural moisturizer and softens skin and hair. Mix and apply to hair and scalp. Wrap in a plastic cap and cover for 30 minutes. Wash and style as usual.

3. Give your hair a weekly hot oil treatment of 2 tbsp. olive oil and 3 tbsp. coconut oil. Heat oils in double boiler just to warm but not hot. Massage into hair and scalp and cover with a plastic cap. Wrap a towel around the cap and leave in 30 minutes. This makes the hair soft and shiny and reduces frizz.

4. Apply a deep conditioner once a month to make hair shine. Combine 1/2 oz. olive oil, 2 oz. apple cider vinegar, 2 oz. aloe vera gel and 1 oz. powdered milk. Massage into damp hair and cover with plastic cap. Wrap a hot towel over the cap and leave in for 30 minutes.

Tags: cover with, cover with plastic, hair scalp, tbsp olive, with plastic, apply hair

Sell Car Parts Online

Specialize in collectible or hard- to-find parts.

An increase in used car sales is due to depressed economic conditions, according to a September 2010 ABC News story. If the lives of used cars are being extended longer than normal, more replacement parts will be necessary to keep them running smoothly. Many consumers start their car part searches online to compare prices and to get more information about the part. Selling car parts online could be a lucrative business venture.

Instructions

1. Find enough space to store an inventory of car parts. Contact a real estate agent to help you find a deal on commercial space to buy or lease.

2. Find car parts at the lowest possible price to increase your profits. Make a list of parts manufacturers and compare prices. To find suppliers, Jeremy Shepherd writes in "Start a Home-Based Online Retail Business" that you should "Scout national and international trade shows for potential suppliers." Auto Parts & Accessories Trade Shows take place all over the world. Attend the events nearest to you. Review the newspapers weekly and network with mechanics and other auto parts sellers to keep abreast of upcoming shows.

3. Purchase parts for the most popular cars directly from the manufacturers. Don't overstock. You can always order the parts for customers as you run out. Consider specializing in a particular market niche, such as parts for antique cars or hard-to-find parts.

4. Develop a slogan for your car parts venture. Focus on the most important benefits for parts buyers, such as "fast, free delivery" or "We can get any part for any car." Add some of your personality in your message.

5. Expand your slogan into a digestible marketing message that you can disseminate through articles, brochures and direct mail. Pick a mood, such as funny fender benders or serious about safety. Make sure anyone that hears or reads your message remembers it.

6. Choose an unforgettable domain name. Zappos and Yahoo are two examples of names that get stuck in your head. Choose a name that is relevant to the auto industry.

7. Build a website. Web users expect interactive websites and not simply just a catalogue. Hire a professional web designer to create a website with interactive features, such as engines with clickable parts that teach buyers how parts function in a car.

8. Add relevant content to your website. Include useful tips on do-it-yourself car repairs and preventative maintenance tips. Create an app that alerts users when it's time to perform a preventative maintenance check. Upload pictures of car parts and include a shopping cart that will allow them to place their order online.

9. Sign up for merchant accounts or payment processor in order to be able to accept credit cards online. In the book, "Design and Launch an Online E-Commerce Business in a Week" Jason R. Rich writes, "This typically means paying an application fee, filling out paperwork, and then paying a per-transaction fee, plus a small percentage of each credit card sale to the merchant account provider."

10. Print brochures and business cards. Continue to attend auto trade shows as often as possible. Pass out your business cards and brochures. Rent a booth at these auto shows so that you can get to meet some of your potential customers.

11. Develop a return policy. Create a policy that puts buyers at ease about ordering from you online. Offer to pay for shipping to return defective parts. Or offer full refunds if customer accidentally orders the wrong part. Review return policies from other parts sellers and adopt the elements you like.

12. Advertise online. Create banner ads and direct them to your website. In the book, "55 Surefire Internet Businesses You Can Start for Under $5000" Melissa Campanelli (p.95) "you would need to market to car enthusiasts, in addition to body and fender repair shops and mechanics."

13. Advertise offline. Print ads in newspapers, magazines and any other place your budget will allow. Try to get your message in front of motorists as often as possible. Use alternative forms of advertise such as car stickers, bus benches, and painting your website address on the public transportation buses.

Tags: your message, your website, business cards, compare prices, often possible

Choose A Company To Repair A Basement Leak

When a house foundation with a basement is built, the area around the foundation often is filled in with the removed dirt. According to the website Basement Systems.com, over time water can seep into the space around the foundation. Water pools up around and under the foundation and can flow into any cracks or gaps in the foundation (see Reference 1). Choosing a repair company to fix basement leaks requires looking at the quality of its work, the materials used, its willingness to discuss repair processes, and availability of free estimates. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Talk to friends and family who have had basement leaks repaired. Firsthand reviews of a company's reputation and a job well done can be a good indicator of how well a company handles basement leaks. Ask about cost, quality of the work, and if their basement leaks have stopped.

2. Look for basement repair companies in your area using the phone book or online directories. You'll want to find at least two to three companies to compare.

3. Ask about these companies' services and if free estimates are offered. Reputable companies should be willing to come look at your basement and give an estimate of the damage done and the cost to repair it.

4. Evaluate the overall knowledge and skill level of the companies you are comparing. Going with the cheapest company might save you money right away, but the job quality could unsatisfactory. Ask about repair methods and materials. High-quality leak-repairing businesses will not hesitate to discuss their materials and methods.

5. Determine how quickly you need the work done. If you have excessive leaking or flooding in your basement due to cracks and water damage, work should begin as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the foundation. Concrete can soften from excessive exposure to water, causing crumbling and structural weakness (see Reference 1).

Tags: basement leaks, around foundation, free estimates, quality work, your basement

Apply A Selfleveling Overlay On A Garage Floor

A self-leveling overlay is a good way to repair a garage floor that's seen better days. It can cover old cracks, uneven spots and ugly stains. You can leave the new overlay as a plain color, or you can spruce up your garage floor with decorative engraving and colors. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Prepare the Garage Floor

1. Clean the garage floor surface. Remove all grease, wax, paint and whatever else might be on the floor.

2. Repair any cracks. Level any uneven patches in the flooring with concrete mix. Feather the edges to make the old floor as level as possible. Let the cement patches dry, according to product specifications.

3. Create metal or wooden dams all around the garage perimeter to hold the overlay. Depending on how thick you are pouring the overlay, they can be slightly taller.

4. Use duct tape to provide an additional barrier between the overlay and floor joints.

5. Apply primer to the floor. Use a brush, or spray it on. Leave no puddles. The primer needs a couple hours to dry-if you are applying the overlay to old cement, you need to apply two coats.

Apply the Overlay

6. Mix the overlay into the water following manufacturer's directions exactly. Stir with a paddle attached to a drill.

7. Begin the pour. Once you start, don't stop. You must have at least two people working. One person keeps the overlay mixed, and one person pours.

8. Work from one corner to the other across the narrow width of the room. Pour the overlay material directly from the bucket in foot-wide strips. Allow the overlay to find its own level. Use the trowel to push overlay into tight corners.

9. Allow no more than 15 minutes between batches. When you finish the first strip across the room, start a second strip from the original side. Continue until you finish the entire garage floor.

10. Let the overlay air dry according to manufacturer's directions. Also, apply any finishes according to manufacturer's directions.

Tags: garage floor, manufacturer directions, according manufacturer, according manufacturer directions, overlay into

Automotive Colleges In Colorado

The Colorado Department of Labor & Employment predicts that the demand for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the state will increase by more than 7 percent from 2009 through 2019. A number of colleges in the state offer certificate and degree programs in automotive technology. Accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, these colleges qualify graduates for the examinations needed for national certification in the field of automotive repair, which can greatly improve their chances of finding employment.

Pikes Peak Community College

A public institution, Pikes Peak Community College is in Colorado Springs that opened in 1968. The college offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science in automotive technology. The program includes coursework in computer science, organizational communications, brakes, batteries and starters, emissions, diagnostics, suspensions, axle service, engines, transmissions and heating and air conditioning. A combined associate degree program is also available for students who wish to learn repair diesel engines in addition to standard vehicles. The college also offers 12 short certificate programs related to specific topics in the field, such as parts, engine performance and manual drivetrains.

Eligible students can receive federal and state loans and grants, institutional scholarships, veterans' benefits and work-study placements. Job placement assistance is available. Pikes Peak Community College is known for its programs for minority students, designed to provide additional advising, career counseling and tutoring to help students succeed in their chosen courses of study.

Pikes Peak Community College

5675 S. Academy Blvd.

Colorado Springs, CO 80906

800-456-6847

ppcc.edu

Arapahoe Community College

With an enrollment of around 8,200 students, Arapahoe Community College is a public, two-year institution in Littleton, a community around 12 miles south of Denver. The college offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science program in automotive service technology. Students can elect to study general automotive repair, taking classes in topics like brakes, driveability diagnostics, engine diagnosis and assembly and four-wheel drive systems. Alternately, students can elect to specialize in one of four manufacturers' programs, which concentrate on the repair of General Motors, Chrysler, Honda or Nissan vehicles. Graduates of the manufacturers' programs can gain certification both through the automobile maker in addition to the general automotive certification offered through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. All of the associate degree programs require students to complete a formal, hands-on apprenticeship placement in a real auto repair shop.

The college participates in government and military financial aid programs and offers a limited number of scholarships and work-study placements. Arapahoe Community College provides job placement assistance for all students. An on-site day care offers low-cost child care for students' children.

Arapahoe Community College

5900 S. Santa Fe Drive

Littleton, CO 80120

303-797-4222

arapahoe.edu

Western Colorado Community College

Located in rural Grand Junction, Western Colorado Community College is a public, two-year school affiliated with Mesa State College, a public, four-year institution. The college offers both a two-year Associate of Applied Science and a one-year certificate in automotive technology. Both programs require classes in vehicle service and inspection, engines, electrical systems, drivetrains, chassis, brakes, welding, mathematics and cooling systems. The degree program also requires students to take classes in English, kinesiology and humanities or behavioral sciences, where the certificate program only includes coursework directly related to automotive technology.

Among the financial aid options available to students at Western Colorado Community College are federal and state grants and loans, scholarships, veterans' benefits and work-study. Through a mentoring program, the college pairs minority students and those struggling with coursework with an faculty or staff member who provides one-on-one support to help ensure success. The college operates an on-campus day care.

Western Colorado Community College

2508 Blichman Ave.

Grand Junction, CO 81505

970-255-2600

mesastate.edu

Tags: Community College, Arapahoe Community, Arapahoe Community College, automotive technology, College public, Colorado Community, Colorado Community College

Hurricane Grants For A Home In Florida

Homeowners often need help preparing for, or recovering from, hurricanes.

Buying a home is one of the most important investments a person can make. It creates a feeling of safety and protection. But for that feeling to be a realistic one, the home must provide a safe haven from storms, such as hurricanes experienced along the Gulf Coast of the United States. Government grants and other assistance programs help Florida homeowners use building standards and techniques to strengthen homes against catastrophic damage inflicted by hurricanes---or get back on their feet after disaster strikes. Does this Spark an idea?

My Safe Florida Home Program

The Hurricane Damage Mitigation Program, more commonly known as the My Safe Florida Home Program, was created by Florida Legislature in 2006. It covers a free inspection and a matching grant of up to $5,000 for costs associated with seven specific categories of hurricane mitigation improvements. Categories include upgrading door and roof deck strength, installing storm shutters and roof water barriers, and reinforcing the structure. The program is only available for site-built homes, not for mobile or manufactured homes. Due to budget limitations, the program administered by the Florida Department of Financial Services concluded June 30, 2009; however, the program is planned to reopen sometime in 2010.

My Safe Florida Home Program

Florida Department of Financial Services

200 E. Gaines St.

Tallahassee, FL 32399

1-866-513-6734 (toll-free)

mysafefloridahome.com

Florida Disaster Recovery Fund

The Florida Disaster Recovery Fund is sponsored entirely by private-sector donations. It began in 2004 as the Florida Hurricane Relief Fund, following a five-storm hit taken by the state. The fund serves as a funding and management source for needs not met by insurance, government funding, and immediate relief organizations such as the American Red Cross.

Florida Disaster Recovery Fund

Volunteer Florida Foundation

839 E. Park Ave., Suite B

Tallahassee, FL 32301

850-410-0696

FlaDisasterFund.org

Residential Construction Mitigation Program

Each year, the Residential Construction Mitigation Program receives $7 million from the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Trust Fund to help improve the wind resistance of residences through the Low to Moderate Income Retrofit Project and to fund the Mobile Home Tie-Down Program, administered through Tallahassee Community College. All grants are awarded on a competitive basis to local governments and for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, and are istributed as needed in the community. Notice of Funding Availability is advertised in the "Florida Administrative Weekly." All requests are handled through the myflorida.com Web portal.

Division of Emergency Management

Bureau of Recovery and Mitigation

2555 Shumard Oak Blvd.

Tallahassee, FL 32399

850-922-4079

floridadisaster.org

U.S. Department of Homeland Security---Federal Emergency Management Agency

The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides emergency assistance and disaster relief to support American citizens and first responders. According to the agency's website, it uses funding to "help prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards." Assistance for housing and other needs may be applied for online or by telephone.

Federal Emergency Management Agency

500 C Street S.W.

Washington, D.C. 20472

or

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055

1-800-621-3362 (toll-free)

fema.gov

Tags: Emergency Management, Disaster Recovery, Disaster Recovery Fund, Emergency Management Agency, Florida Disaster, Florida Disaster Recovery

Repair Plaster Nail Holes

Repairing nail holes in plaster is an easy task.

Repairing nail holes is an easy do-it-yourself home repair. The newest of homeowners can repair nail holes, which improves the appearance of a plaster wall. Holes in plaster can be easier to repair than drywall because of the underlying lathe that anchors the repairing compound to the wall. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Scrape away any loose plaster around the hole. Chipped or loose plaster will prevent the patch from adhering to the wall properly.

2. Widen the hole to about 1/8 inch, using a utility knife or a large tool. This gives the patch better footing to adhere to the wall.

3. Blow away the plaster dust.

4. Fill the hole with patching plaster or spackle compound, using a putty knife.

5. Allow the compound to dry for at least 24 hours, or according to package directions.

6. Sand the patched area lightly with sandpaper, paying attention to blending the edges.

7. Prime the patched area with a sealing coat, and paint it to match the surrounding wall.

Tags: nail holes, loose plaster, patched area, Repairing nail, Repairing nail holes

Outline For Elderly Abuse Prevention

All states have laws againsts elder abuse.

Elder abuse is defined as committing an act that will put a senior person into harm's ways, according to the National Center on Elder Abuse. Abuse can occur in a number ways, including among family members, in care settings and in hospitals. Preventing elder abuse includes a variety of factors from understanding the different types of abuse to being educated about different resources available.

Types

Elder abuse can include physical, financial, mental and emotional abuse.

Resident's Rights

Know your rights as a resident of a care facility. Nursing home and care center residents have legal rights. Most state's require resident's rights to be posted in the facility.

Identify Signs

Bedsores, bruises, poor hygiene and weight loss are all symptoms of physical abuse. Withdrawal from social situations and tense situations between caregivers and the elderly are signs abuse can occur.

Find Support

Support groups and resources can prevent elder abuse--support groups provide an emotional outlet for caregivers, and educate family members identify when abuse is taking place. Local groups such can be found through the Eldercare Locator. The locator is a free service provided by The U.S. Administration on Aging.

Detection and Reporting

Prevent further abuse by understanding report suspected abuse. Contact the National Center of Elder Abuse for local reporting agencies information.

Stay Involved

Stay involved in all care plan meetings for a loved one who is at a care center. Join the family Council group which often meets on a monthly basis. Connect with other family members at the community who also have loved ones as residents to share concerns and feedback.

Tags: family members, care center, Center Elder, Center Elder Abuse, elder abuse

Grants For Caregivers In Florida

Caregivers assist the elderly, infirm, or chronically ill with daily tasks, such as cooking, paying bills, and getting around.

Caregivers provide a valuable service in attending to those with special medical needs, sometimes on a round-the-clock basis. In Florida, several organizations offer grants to support and encourage caregivers. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, those over 65 make up a higher percentage of the population in Florida than in any other state: 17 percent as of 2004. This demographic indicates a higher demand for personal caregivers.

RELIEF Program

Through grants and government funding, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs offers the RELIEF (Respite for Elders Living in Everyday Families) Program. This program gives respite to caregivers who provide for homebound or elderly family members or loved ones. A network of volunteers provides evening and weekend respite of up to four hours per visit, allowing the primary caregivers to take a break from their responsibilities.

Cash and Counseling Program

Florida also offers the Cash and Counseling Program for senior citizens and their caregivers. This is a nontraditional Medicaid program established with grants from the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Administration on Aging, and The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Participants in the program are senior citizens who receive budgets from Medicaid to hire their own caregivers or provide funds for exisiting caregivers to help cover the expenses of daily care.

Alzheimer's Disease Supportive Services Program

The Administration on Aging's Alzheimer's Disease Supportive Services Program offers grants to support caregivers indirectly. Money is awarded by the state to organizations that develop ways to assist people with Alzheimer's or dementia, and their caregivers. Organizations receiving grants may be awarded up to $1 million over the course of three years for such programs.

Tags: their caregivers, Administration Aging, Alzheimer Disease, Alzheimer Disease Supportive, Cash Counseling, Cash Counseling Program, Counseling Program

Grants For Cancer Survivors

Cancer patients become survivors from the day they are diagnosed with this dread disease until the day they die, whether death comes from cancer or another cause. No matter what the outcome, a cancer diagnosis is always traumatic, and the survivor's life is forever changed. Such changes can be beneficial, as the cancer survivor may gain a new outlook on the important things in life. Grants are available to help survivors battle their disease and continue moving forward in life.

Sarcoma Alliance

The Sarcoma Alliance provides small grants of $350 or less to sarcoma survivors. No means test is necessary for consideration. Grants must be used for survivors to pay for a second medical opinion from a sarcoma specialist after diagnosis. Eligible expenses include travel to and from the office/hospital for the second opinion, related meals and lodging, parking, caregiver expenses and prosthetics.

The Brenda Mehling Cancer Fund

This fund provides moneys to a young cancer survivor between the ages of 18 and 40 for services not covered by her insurance. Grant money may be used for mortgage or rent payments, transportation, food and car repairs and insurance. Started by a young woman diagnosed with breast cancer in her 20s who lost the battle in 2004, Mehling wanted her fund to assist "young adults her age to maintain self-respect during months of treatment and minimize the stress of associated financial challenges."

The Nicki Leach Foundation

Named after a young woman who lost her battle with a brain tumor, the Nicki Leach Foundation provides financial assistance to young cancer survivors between the ages of 16 and 25. Eligible expenses include college tuition, clothing, bill-paying and "the opportunity to enjoy normal or unusual activities they might otherwise not be able to afford." Special grants may enable purchase of equipment such as cameras or computers, or a special something that an individual cancer survivor might like to receive.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation funds the Komen College Scholarship program for young breast cancer survivors or for those who have lost a parent to breast cancer. Eligible applicants must be under the age of 25 and plan to attend a state school in their home state. Only U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents may apply. Renewable grants of up to $5,000 per semester may be awarded.

Tags: breast cancer, cancer survivor, between ages, diagnosed with, Eligible expenses

Fix A Scratched Laptop Screen

Fix a Scratched Laptop Screen

Clean the Screen

Before you try anything else, clean the surface of your laptop screen. If there is any dirt or debris on it and you rub it in, you may cause more scratches or smudges to appear. This will also allow you to get a better look to determine where the scratch is or if it is simply a smudge. Take a soft cloth and spray distilled water on it. Gently rub the cloth in a circle across the screen and allow it to dry. Repeat this if it is necessary to clean the screen. For stubborn smudges, mix 1/2 part distilled water and 1/2 part white vinegar and clean the screen with this mixture.

Remove the Scratch

Once the screen is completely dry, there are two methods you can use at home to repair a scratch.

The first is the petroleum jelly method. Take a cotton swab and coat it in petroleum jelly. Rub the petroleum jelly into the scratch until it is completely covered. Use a soft cloth, dampen it if needed, to rub the petroleum jelly off the screen, but make sure not to rub it out of the scratch. The petroleum jelly should cause the scratch to blend in with the rest of the screen, unless it is a particularly large cut.

The second method is the pencil eraser method and works best for small scratches that are not in the middle of the screen and are less noticeable. Take a new, clean eraser that has not been used and gently erase the scratch. Keep applying pressure until it disappears. This only works for scratches on the very surface of the screen.

Clean with a Kit

If the scratch doesn't disappear with these two methods, or is unusually deep, you may need to buy a repair product (see link in Resources). While a repair product for a laptop screen is uncommon, often a CD repair solution will work. Once you get the repair solution, follow the instructions exactly to try and eliminate the scratch once and for all. Test the product on something unimportant before trying it on your laptop. Chemicals in products vary and one may work while another may not.

Consider buying a screen protector to prevent scratches from occurring in the future.

Tags: petroleum jelly, clean screen, distilled water, Laptop Screen, repair product, repair solution, Scratched Laptop

Program A Toshiba Remote Control

You can program your Toshiba remote control.

To use a new or replacement TV, DVD or VHS remote control, you may have to program the remote to the device first. Your Toshiba remote control will come with a manual or card with instructions on how this is done. If you have lost that manual and forgotten the program code for the Toshiba remote, you can still program the remote without any headaches.

Instructions

1. Make sure there are working batteries in the Toshiba remote control.

2. Turn on your television set, DVD player or other device that you want to control with the Toshiba remote.

3. Find the "Recall" or "Setup" button on the Toshiba remote control. After you find it, press and hold down that button until the lights on the remote control turn on and remain lit.

4. Point the Toshiba remote at the device you turned on in Step 2 and press the button on the remote for that device.

5. Begin pressing the "Power" button on the Toshiba remote. Continue doing this until you have turned the device off using the Toshiba remote. Once it shuts off, press "Enter" on the Toshiba remote. The remote will then be programmed.

Tags: Toshiba remote, remote control, Toshiba remote control, button Toshiba, button Toshiba remote, program remote

Buy A Trampoline Replacement Mat

If your trampoline mat is starting to wear out, you don't need to replace the whole set. Instead, save money by purchasing a trampoline replacement mat. If you don't purchase another mat when your old one starts wearing out, a person using the trampoline may be injured.

Instructions

Buy a Trampoline Replacement Mat

1. Measure the trampoline mat that you are currently using. If you have a rectangular trampoline, measure the length and width from one outside corner to the other. If you have a round trampoline, measure the diameter. If you have an octagonal trampoline, measure from one point directly across to the far side.

2. Go to a sporting goods store. Or browse online to find a place where you can buy a new trampoline mat.

3. Find a mat that is the right shape and size for your trampoline. If you are shopping in a store, provide your measurements to a salesperson who can help you find a replacement mat in the right size.

Tags: trampoline measure, Trampoline Replacement, your trampoline

Buy A Mobile Home On A Residential Site

Mobile homes may be purchased as part of a land/home package.

If you have chosen to purchase a mobile home, you may also be looking for land on which to park it. Unless you intend to rent a lot for your mobile home in a typical trailer park, you may be able to find dealers or realtors who have land/home packages. In this type of transaction, you will be purchasing the lot as well as the mobile home. Does this Spark an idea?

Quality of Neighborhood

Several reputable land/home dealers may have developed mobile home subdivisions. These subdivisions may have stringent requirements that the residents maintain their mobile homes and lots to quality standards. Some may be retirement villages where the owners have sold their large homes and tracts of land to scale down as they approach their golden years.

Affixation of Mobile Home

If you purchased a mobile home on an existing half-acre tract out in the countryside, you may decide to affix the mobile home to the property by removing the wheels, axles and skirting. In many states this action, along with surrendering the mobile home title, actually makes the mobile home a part of real estate so that, for all practical purposes, the home is considered a house.

Financing Land/Home Packages

Many land/home package dealers may agree to finance the property for you. The drawback to financing the package as a whole is that you may have paid down enough money to own the mobile home actually outright. However, if it is financed as a combination package or if you have affixed the mobile home to the property and can't make your payments, any foreclosure may take both the mobile home and the land.

Tags: mobile home, mobile home, land home, home package, home property, land home package

Lowincome Help With Homes

Finding and keeping a place to live is a basic need and one of the first things you might start to worry about when you run into problems with your income. Whether it's a disability, loss of a job or reduced hours at work, a low income can make it difficult even to supply your family with the basics. But there is help for homeowners and renters with low incomes.

Rent Control

Rent control helps home renters who qualify under state or city guidelines. In a municipality that enforces rent control, landlords can only raise monthly rent by a given percentage each year. Rent control laws also limit other fees landlords can charge, making it easier for renters with low incomes to retain their housing. Although rent control sometimes excludes single-family homes, it applies to multi-family homes and larger rental units that serve as homes for many urban residents with limited incomes.

Refinancing

Homeowners whose income falls below the threshold that allows them to meet a monthly mortgage payment can get help by refinancing. Because mortgage obligations don't change as a result of a drop in income, refinancing seeks to get a lower monthly payment by getting an entirely new loan to pay off an existing mortgage, The new loan may have a lower interest rate or a longer term that allows the homeowner to pay it off at a slower rate but within a more limited household budget. Mortgage lenders offer refinancing and the federal government insures some loans for eligible homeowners who face foreclosure but can't get refinancing through traditional means.

Public Housing

Public housing is an alternative available to some of the lowest-earning citizens. Public housing, which is administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development through each state, consists of publicly owned subsidized housing in multi-unit buildings and voucher programs that allow renters to get reduced rates in privately owned rental housing. In both cases the state and federal government contribute to the cost of housing to keep the price to the tenant affordable.

Mortgage Modification

As an alternative to refinancing, homeowners with reduced incomes can seek mortgage modification. Instead of replacing a mortgage with a new loan, modification changes the terms of the existing loan if the lender is willing. Lenders can offer temporary stoppages of payment, extended payoff terms or lower interest rates to keep homeowners in their homes and paying their bills regularly. If mortgage modification fails, homeowners may need to seek help by filing for bankruptcy, which can discharge debt and result in a court-ordered plan for paying a mortgage based on what little income the homeowner has.

Tags: federal government, lower interest, mortgage modification, Public housing, renters with, renters with incomes, that allows

Housing Grants For Disabled Veterans

The HUD-VASH program provides housing vouchers to benefit homeless veterans,

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers housing grants for disabled veterans who are at risk of homelessness or who need help making repairs to their homes. You can connect with a homelessness prevention counselor on the VA website or on the National Call Center hotline 24 hours a day. This service is provided at no cost to veterans and their family members.

Supportive Services for Veteran Families

The VA awards funding to nonprofit organizations for the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program. Grants can be used to help homeless veteran families or those at risk of becoming homeless. Disabled veterans also qualify for this program. The family can get temporary help to pay for rent, deposits, utility fees and other moving expenses. The money is paid directly to the property owner or moving company. To qualify for help, the family's income cannot exceed 50 percent of the area's median income and the veteran must be the head of household.

Specially Adapted Housing Grant

The Specially Adapted Housing Grant is provided to veterans with a service-related injury. Eligible veterans can qualify to receive up to $63,780 to acquire a home with special adaptations, construct a home or make adaptations to a home that she already owns. To qualify for help, the veteran must be certified with injuries that include the loss of use of either both arms or both legs, blindness, a disability due to a severe burn injury or a combination of any of these. Typical housing adaptations include widening doorways, installing ramps or creating bathrooms with easier access.

Special Housing Adaptations Grant

The VA also provides a Special Housing Adaptations Grant to veterans with less severe service-related injuries. Grants can be awarded for up to $12,756 to be used toward the purchase of an adapted home or to remodel a home that is already owned. To qualify for help, the veteran must have an injury that includes blindness in both eyes, the loss of use in both hands or a permanent disability due to a severe burn. Typical adaptations include the installation of sliding doors, special lighting or an intercom system.

HUD-VASH

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the VA have created the HUD-VASH voucher program to help homeless veterans obtain permanent housing. Veterans with physical disabilities, mental illness or a history or substance abuse benefit the most from this program. The voucher subsidizes a portion of the veteran's rent. To qualify for help, the veteran must lack an adequate nighttime residence. Veterans in emergency shelters also qualify for help. The veteran must agree to participate in case management services to ensure that he can maintain his residential stability. These supportive services can include substance abuse counseling or job skills training.

Tags: qualify help, veteran must, help veteran, help veteran must, qualify help veteran, Adaptations Grant, adaptations include

Start A Business Cleaning Hud Properties

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sells its home foreclosures in an "as-is" state. While it won't make major repairs, it may employ services to make them more presentable for sale. Here's start a business cleaning HUD properties.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Contact the HUD office and/or HUD real-estate agents about the need for your services. You can save yourself time and money by finding out if you'll have clients before launching your business. It's likely that the office already contracts the service to another company, but you can offer to be a backup service if needed.

2. Tour HUD homes in your area. Make a note of where they are and what kinds of homes they are. Doing this will show you're thorough and aware of the inventory when it comes time to bid for cleaning business.

3. Set up your business. You'll need a business license or permit that conforms to the legal requirements of your area. You may want to consider becoming bonded, which provides additional assurances that you'll complete contracted work. Additional tasks include determining your prices and writing contracts and forms.

4. Make a presentation to local HUD representatives. You can find your local HUD office by finding your state and then clicking "Contact Local Office" at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/states. Then make an appointment to present your business and services.

5. Contact HUD-approved real estate agents. In addition to contacting the local offices, you can talk directly to the agents HUD uses to help sell its homes. These agents can help you with introductions and understanding the problems of selling homes that are unkempt.

Tags: your business, your area

Clean Your Entire House In One Day

Vacuum at least once a week to keep your house free of allergens and dander.

If you procrastinate in cleaning your house, when you do finally get around to it, you may be overwhelmed as to where to begin and how long it will take. Cleaning the entire house in one fell swoop will take a large portion of your day, but once it's done, you can relax for the week. Have a plan of attack, group your tasks and roll up your sleeves. It's possible to clean your entire house in one day. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Draw up a checklist and plan of attack so you don't forget anything. Prioritize your chores and follow through for quickest results. Putting your plan on paper will help you visualize the details of your tasks ahead and keep your plan organized.

2. Don your gloves. Gather your cleaning supplies, paper towels, sponges and rags. Keep them in a central place so you can get what you need quickly.

3. Begin by removing all the linens from all beds. Remove towels and washcloths from the bathrooms. Throw them into the washing machine. By the time you're finished cleaning the house, the linens will be cleaned and dry and ready to put back on the bed and replaced in the bathroom.

4. Get rid of any clutter first so you'll be unencumbered when you clean. Hang clothes, put shoes in the closet, replace books on the bookshelves or put away toys.

5. Pour toilet bowl cleaner in the toilets and sprinkle cleanser in all the sinks. Let this sit and work while you get on with other tasks.

6. Vacuum rugs or sweep hardwood floors with a broom. Go from room to room and don't stop to do anything else. Mop the floors. Use a multipurpose cleaner that is suitable for both tile, hardwood and linoleum.

7. Quickly spot-dust the furniture, mantel, wide-screen TV or bric-a-brac with a duster.

8. Clean kitchen counters and stove. Wipe down refrigerator front and other appliances quickly. Load the dishwasher and let it run through its usual cycle.

9. Return to the bathroom and clean the toilets and sinks. Wipe down mirrors and put away any toiletries. Clean the bathtub and wipe down the shower. Hang the towels and put away the washcloths.

10. Put the clean sheets back on the beds.

11. Clean windows with a household window cleaner. Wipe with a lint-free cloth or newsprint for best results.

Tags: entire house, keep your, plan attack, will take, Wipe down, your house

Keep Cold Floors Warm

Keep Cold Floors Warm

Cold floors make an otherwise welcoming house uncomfortable. Determining the cause of cold floors, however, is usually fairly simple and can be addressed without massive expenditure. Some issues are structural and logical: you can expect the stone floor of your screen porch or the basement linoleum laid on cement to be cold, and carpet is the logical warmer. Different strategies, however, are needed for floors that should be warmer than they are. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Crawlspace floors

1. Perform a simple test to determine whether cold is radiating from a floor over a crawlspace. Dampen your bare hand with a wet rag and hold it 1 to 2 inches above the floor. If you can feel cold radiating toward your hand, you have found your problem.

2. Address the damp and cold coming up from the crawlspace by covering the entire area with a plastic ground cloth. Spread one or more pieces of heavy weight plastic sheeting and anchor it down with rocks, bricks or lumber scraps. Do not pile sheeting against the crawlspace walls or supporting pillars, and do not tape sheeting to them either. Although this seems like it would provide more insulation,, it can produce moisture collection against structural surfaces and promote water damage. Loose edges allow runoff or moisture to dissipate in case of a soaking storm or thawing ground.

3. Measure spaces between the floor support beams and purchase roll type fiberglass or foam slab insulation to fill the spaces. Install the insulation with the moisture barrier facing the floor, not the ground. Roll insulation can be attached to beams with a heavy duty staple gun. Find brackets or use large nails, hammered into support beams, not the floor, to hold foam slab insulation in place.

Drafty floors

4. Do the wet-hand test again to locate the source of drafts. Follow it up by holding a lit candle within 4 to 6 inches of possible draft sources. Some, like a fireplace, are obvious. Make certain the damper closes completely, and cut a piece of plywood to fit into the fireplace opening if heat loss is chronic and severe. Remove it only when you want a festive fire for a special occasion.

5. Weatherstrip doors that cause frequent drafts. Whether you need to do the whole door or just put a draft blocking strip at the bottom will depend on the door and the severity of the drafts. This usually requires only weatherstripping supplies from the hardware store and a hammer or screwdriver.

6. Examine floor edges for draftiness. Especially in an older house, baseboards and quarter-round may have been removed to accommodate wall-to-wall carpeting. If they were not replaced, putting in new moldings will reduce drafts noticeably. In older houses, aging makes wood shrink and dry. Even existing floor moldings may let drafts through. In this case, remove the moldings carefully. Place roll-type insulating putty or a small line of spray insulation foam where the wall and floor meet. Replace the moldings. Again, the change will be noticeable.

Tags: Cold Floors, Cold Floors Warm, cold radiating, Floors Warm, foam slab, foam slab insulation

Home Remedies For Repairing Scratched Dvds

Use home remedies to repair minor scratches on your DVDs.

Scratches on DVDs can cause the discs to skip, freeze or not play at all. Proper care and handling of DVDs can help prevent scratches from occurring, but if a scratch does appear on a DVD, it is possible to repair at home. Using home remedies can save you time and money. Does this Spark an idea?

Baking Soda Toothpaste

Toothpaste works to remove scratches from DVDs; make sure to use a baking soda toothpaste, not a gel-based toothpaste. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft clean cloth and rub on the scratch in a non-radial motion. Do not rub in a circular motion as that can cause minute scratches that can hinder the laser tracking system in the DVD reader. Rinse the disc with warm water and allow it to dry.

Metal Polish

Polishing a DVD with a metal polish can repair it as the polish removes some of the outer plastic coating, making any existing scratches shallower. Apply a small amount of the polish to a soft, lint-free cloth and gently rub on the scratched areas of the DVD. Wipe off excess polish and allow the rest to dry. When dry, use a new clean cloth to wipe the DVD, removing the polish completely. Caution: metal polish often emits fumes so use in a well-ventilated area.

Eye Glass Cleaner

Use eye glass cleaner to clean a scratched DVD and remove any light, superficial scratches the disc may have. Apply a small amount of cleaner onto a soft microfiber cloth and gently wipe the affected areas of the disc. When wiping, rub in a straight line starting at the center of the disc and move toward the outside edge.

Tags: Apply small, Apply small amount, small amount, clean cloth, cloth gently, metal polish

Grants For Adult Group Homes

Group Homes

There are several types of grants available for the many types of adult group homes that exist today. There are thousands of group homes throughout the U.S. aimed at adults with disabilities (including physically handicapped and adults with learning, social or developmental disabilities, such as autism), homes with adults recovering from substance abuse, or homes caring for elderly adults. In general, group homes consist of six to 25 individuals, depending on the size of the home.

Developing Center Grants

This federal grant is aimed primarily at group homes dedicated to helping adults with mental disabilities. A Developing Center Grant can be awarded in various amounts, depending on the amount of research done at the facility, and help the group home needs in caring for the adults at this type of group home.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) sponsors and awards this grant on a yearly basis, and awards multiple grants throughout the U.S. According to the NIMH, a Developing Center Grant is aimed at reducing "the burden of mental and behavioral disorders through research on mind, brain, and behavior" of the adults for whom they care.

Since this is a federal grant, no paper format applications are accepted. Applicants must apply online at www.grants.gov.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Science Writing, Press, and Dissemination Branch

6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 8184, MSC 9663

Bethesda, MD 20892-9663

301-443-4513 (local)

1-866-615-6464 (toll-free)

301-443-8431 (TTY)

1-866-415-8051 (TTY toll-free)

301-443-4279 (Fax)

Treatment and Prevention Services for Drug and Alcohol Abuse

There are several types of grants offered by both the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) to assist group homes with adults recovering from drug and alcohol abuse. These grants range in funding for a two-year period maximum, depending on the amount of care needed for the adults in this type of group home.

These grants are awarded yearly, and can be distributed in different amounts each year, but for no more than two consecutive years. This grant is aimed at assisting group homes develop new programs for helping drug and alcohol abusers combat their addiction, and develop alternative cost-effective methods for overcoming addiction.

Since this is a federal grant, no paper format applications are accepted. Applicants must apply online through www.grants.gov. In addition, group home coordinators can contact the NIDA or NIAAA directly with questions.

NIDA's Grants Management Branch

6001 Executive Blvd.

Bethesda, Maryland 20892

301-443-6710

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

5635 Fishers Lane, MSC 9304

Bethesda, MD 20892-9304

Communications/Public Info: 301-443-3860

Elderly and Adult Care Group Home Grants

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) also offers federal grants to group homes specifically aimed at researching various aspects of aging and caring for the adults at these homes. According to the NIA, this type of research includes "mechanisms of aging, the processes of aging, aging and the nervous system, aging in relation to health and disease." A unique aspect of this grant is that it is targeted to homes associated with a research facility such as a hospital, clinic, university or similar organization. These grants range in award, depending on the type of care needed for the level of elderly care being conducted.

Typically, group homes aimed at elderly and adult care have various physical therapy sessions, specific meal and diet plans and a facility much more friendly to the elderly, and may require much higher costs (more ramps than stairs, elevators if there is more than one floor, rails along the walls to assist with walking, etc).

Group home coordinators looking to receive such grants can contact NIA at:

www.nia.nih.gov/GrantsAndTraining/GrantProcess/

National Institute on Aging

Building 31, Room 5C27

31 Center Drive, MSC 2292

Bethesda, MD 20892

Phone: 301-496-1752

TTY: 1-800-222-4225

Fax: 301-496-1072

Tags: National Institute, adults with, Alcohol Abuse, Developing Center, federal grant, group homes

Repair Windows Vista Without A Cd

Repair Windows Vista Without a CD

Although you can repair a computer that uses the Windows Vista operating system with a repair disc, the disc is not necessary to perform the repair as long as Startup Repair is pre-installed on your computer. Many computers that run on Windows Vista do have Startup Repair pre-installed. Repairing the Vista computer using Startup Repair is a fairly simple process, although it can take several minutes to complete.

Instructions

1. Remove any DVDs or CDs from your computer.

2. Click "Start." Select the lock icon and choose "Restart."

3. Press and hold the "F8" key on your keyboard as Windows restarts, before the Windows logo appears. The "Advanced Boot Options" screen will appear.

4. Use the arrow keys to highlight "Repair your computer" and press "Enter."

5. Select the representative keyboard layout from the screen and click "Next."

6. Select the administrator's username and type the admin password. Click "OK."

7. Click "Startup Repair" in the "System Recovery Options" screen. Vista might ask you questions to help it diagnose what it needs to repair. Vista also may restart your computer when the repair is complete.

Tags: Startup Repair, Windows Vista, your computer, Options screen, Repair pre-installed

Repair A Concrete Driveway Expansion Joint

Repairing expansion joints

Expansion joints on concrete driveways are typically 1-inch thin strips of wood running the from side to side across the slab. Expansion joints allow the concrete to expand and contract based on the weather conditions. Without expansion joints a concrete driveway will crack and lift. Over the course of time, the weather causes the wood to rot and degrade rendering the expansion joint useless. If left damaged or missing, water seeps into the exposed area, lifts and cracks the concrete due to the freeze/thaw pattern. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Strike a chisel with a hammer to break the old expansion joint and lift it from between the concrete slabs.

2. Scrape out old caulking and pieces of wood with a metal scraper.

3. Sweep the debris out of the gap.

4. Roll out foam backer rod running the length of the expansion joint and cut a piece long enough to fit in between the concrete slabs with a utility knife. Foam backer rod is a dense, solid foam that is much more resilient than wood.

5. Push the foam backer rod forcefully into the gap. Place a wood stake over the foam and tap with a rubber mallet to set it in just below the surface of the existing concrete.

6. Apply a thick layer of self-leveling expansion joint sealer over the length of foam backer rod up to the surface of the driveway. Apply the self-leveling compound from a tube or with a caulking gun.

Tags: expansion joint, between concrete, between concrete slabs, concrete slabs, Expansion joints

Is It Safe To Use Wood Stoves In Mobile Homes

Wood stoves are safe to use in mobile homes when installed and used correctly. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development allows you to install a wood stove in your mobile home. The wood stove, however, must be designed specifically for use in a mobile, or manufactured, home and must be installed according to HUD regulations and your local fire and building code. Does this Spark an idea?

Features

Wood stoves made for use in mobile homes are constructed out of the same materials as regular wood stoves: cast iron, bricks and heat-resistant glass, if the stove has a window. The stoves also come equipped with dampers to control the amount of heat produced and blowers to spread the heat throughout the space.

HUD Regulations

HUD indicates that you must use a pipe specially constructed from heat-resistant materials to connect the wood stove to the chimney and that the wood stove must be bolted to the floor in a mobile home. Additionally, HUD requires mobile home-approved wood stoves to be properly vented to the outside.

Warnings

Never install a mobile home wood stove in a bedroom or in a narrow hallway. Purchase only regulation accessories designed for mobile home wood stoves. Additionally, have your wood stove installed in your mobile home by a professional. Improperly installed wood stoves could cause a fire that could put you and your family's safety at risk.

Tags: wood stove, mobile home, wood stoves, home wood, mobile home wood, home wood stove

Florida Home Improvement Grants

Florida offers grant assistance to residents who otherwise may not be able to afford necessary repairs to their homes.

Florida receives grant money from various government entities and programs, such as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Funds are used to assist homeowners with improving and repairing their property. Grants are administered by the state's Department of Community Affairs. Does this Spark an idea?

Small Cities CDBG Program

Areas with low- to moderate- income property owners can receive funding through the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program to rehabilitate homes. No less than 51 percent of the homeowners receiving money must be classified as low- and moderate-income homeowners, and the neighborhood must be defined as blighted. Rehabilitation projects funded by these grants are required to relieve conditions that are considered dangerous to people living in the surrounding area.

Weatherization Assistance Program

Florida provides assistance to low-income homeowners who wish to lower energy bills by upgrading their home's energy efficiency. Priority is given to households that have young children and pay high utility bills; households with seniors; households with residents who are physically handicapped. Project funds may be used for activities such as replacing water heaters, installing insulation and weather stripping, and making small repairs to floors, walls, ceilings, windows and doors.

Disaster Recovery Initiative

Florida cities and counties can apply for recovery grants if the area receives heavy damage from an event such as a hurricane and is declared a federal disaster area by the president. Funding may be used to repair damaged homes in low-income neighborhoods and provide upgrades to property in an attempt to lessen the effects of future disasters.

Tags: Block Grant, Community Development, Community Development Block, Development Block, Development Block Grant, households with, Small Cities

Government Home Repair Grants For Senior Citizens In Texas

For many senior citizens, living on a fixed income means not enough disposable cash available to allocate for home repairs or maintenance. In light of this, there are several federal programs designed to help low-income and elderly individuals in these circumstances, combined with Texas state funded programs that help defray repair and maintenance costs with little or no out-of-pocket expense. Does this Spark an idea?

Low-Income Federal Programs

There are several low-income federal home-repair grants and loans available to senior citizens. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has a grant program that gifts up to $7,500 for home repair and maintenance, geared to low-income and elderly individuals residing in rural areas of Texas. The USDA program also offers separate grant funding for individuals in the Southwest who live in colonial-style homes, to rehabilitate plumbing and pipes in older houses.

The United States Department of Energy has weatherization grants available to low-income and senior citizens designed to help make a home more energy-efficient. This includes window upgrades, insulation, and alternative energy sources, reducing the cost of electric bills in the process.

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also has federal funds available to senior citizens with disabilities to make a home compliant for individuals with handicaps and special needs.

Texas Programs

The Community Services Block Grant Program (CSBG) funds health and human services needs for elderly and low-income homeowners in Texas. Funding is limited, and the application process is very time-consuming.

The Housing Resource center also provides additional grants and funds to low-income and elderly homeowners to help with home ownership and repairs, depending on need and circumstance.

Tax Credits

Senior citizens also get a break on property tax bills after they reach age 65, and are eligible for a tax credit of up to $2,000 annually. While not a grant program specifically, the savings provided to the elderly make a difference in annual expenses.

Considerations

While federal and state programs exist to help senior citizens with home repairs, the application process is lengthy and funds limited. Many seniors opt to take out low-interest loans backed by USDA or HUD programs as a subsidy or in lieu of grant money. In addition, some seniors select home equity loans or reverse mortgages; cashing out their equity, eliminating a mortgage payment and giving seniors sufficient funds for living expenses and home repairs.

Tags: home repairs, low-income elderly, application process, available senior, available senior citizens, citizens with, designed help

Georgia Rural Development Grants

Residents of rural Georgia are eligible for many USDA grants.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development program administers housing and business grant programs in Georgia to promote rural economic development. From fiscal year 2008 to fiscal year 2010, the USDA invested $1.2 billion in rural Georgia on a host of initiatives, including affordable housing development, improved sewage services and renewable energy projects.

As of 2010, Georgia Rural Development grants are available in these areas: rural business enterprise, rural business opportunity, rural cooperative development, rural economic development, technical assistance, home repair and housing preservation.

Determine Your Area of Need

Rural Development grants spur industry, affordable housing and community services.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers Rural Development grants in four categories. Rural Business and Cooperative Service grants promote and support local businesses through strategic private/public partnerships. Most Georgia Rural Development grant opportunities fall in this category.

Community Program grants provide financial assistance for rural municipal sewage and water systems. Rural Housing Program grants provide assistance to repair and rehabilitate rural single-family homes. Multifamily Program grants provide grant assistance to repair and rehabilitate multifamily rental units.

Consider Rural Georgia Business Grants

Agri-business can bring new economic growth to rural communities.

Rural Business Enterprise Grants are made to public bodies or private nonprofit organizations. These grants support small emerging private businesses in rural areas. Eligible businesses must have fewer than 50 employees and projected annual revenue less than $1 million. Grant funds should be used to provide third-party financing, land acquisition, technical assistance, etc.

Rural Business Opportunity Grants are made to nonprofit corporations, public bodies, Indian tribes and rural cooperatives. These grants fund sustainable economic efforts in areas with acute need. Target communities may have experienced a natural disaster, cyclical poverty, economic decline or a combination of factors. Funding may be used to identify economic opportunity, establish job training, support rural entrepreneurship, etc.

Rural Cooperative Development Grants are made to nonprofit institutions including institutions of higher education. These grants fund the creation or improvement of rural cooperative organizations by establishing rural cooperative centers.

Value Added Producer loans and grants are made to agriculture commodity producers and farming/ranching cooperatives. These grants are used to encourage processing raw agricultural commodities into consumer goods--for example, processing corn into ethanol.

Rural Economic Development Grants are made to Rural Utilities Service Electric and Telephone borrowers. These grants stimulate economic activity and jobs in rural communities.

Consider Rural Georgia Community Services Grants

Many rural areas need updated wastewater and sewage systems.

Technical Assistance Grants are made to public bodies, including multi-jurisdictional government bodies. These grants fund training and technical assistance for wastewater and sewage disposal facilities.

Consider Rural Georgia Housing Grants

Very-low-income homeowners may qualify for grant assistance.

Single Family Housing Repair Grants are made to very-low-income owners of single-family homes. These grants can be used to modernize, upgrade and remove unsafe/hazardous structures from a home.

Consider Rural Georgia Multifamily Housing Grants

Housing Preservation Grants are made to public bodies or non-profit organizations. These grant funds the repair and rehabilitation of rental properties for low-income rural tenants.

Contact Georgia USDA Offices

Contact your local USDA office (see Resources). Employees at the offices will walk you through the application process and find the best program for your project needs.

Tags: These grants, Rural Development, Consider Rural, Consider Rural Georgia, Grants made, public bodies, Development Grants

Find Used Cars For Sale In Las Vegas

Find used cars in Las Vegas

Although that new car smell is quite alluring, many of us can't afford a new car these days. If the state of the economy has affected your finances a used car is probably a better choice. There are plenty of quality used cars with low mileage and no damage. Make sure to take your time examining your used vehicle before purchasing it. There are plenty of used car lots in the Las Vegas area. There are dealerships that feature one particular car brand, and those that feature a variety of used cars. Either way, take your time in picking the right used vehicle.

Instructions

Finding a Used Car in Vegas

1. Search online for used car lots in the Las Vegas area. Las Vegas has a variety of lots to choose from. Some carry just one car brand, while others carry a wide variety.

2. Pick a dealership. A list of car dealerships in Las Vegas will appear. There is a Toyota dealership, Volkswagen dealer, BMW and Lexus dealerships all carrying used vehicles.

3. Find the address online. Many of the dealerships are located on Sahara Boulevard in Las Vegas.

4. Visit the dealership.

5. Ask a salesman. Instead of browsing the lot alone, ask a salesman to direct you to the used or previously owned vehicles.

6. Find your used vehicle. Once directed to the right area of the dealership, you can browse all used vehicles and take test drives. Ask questions and find the used vehicle you desire.

Tags: used vehicle, your used vehicle, lots Vegas, lots Vegas area, take your, take your time, that feature

Government Grants To Pay For Home Repairs For The Homeowner

Home buyers can get money for repairing their new home.

Many federal agencies provide home repair grants to income-qualified households. These programs typically serve families in the very low-to-low income range. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has developed these income limits based on the average household income for each county, or the area median income. Since some counties have higher household incomes than others, the income limit levels vary across the country. Participants who accept government home repair funding must comply with the guidelines of the grant award.

American Dream Downpayment Initiative

Homebuyers can receive up to $10,000 to purchase and rehabilitate a home through the American Dream Downpayment initiative. To qualify for help, the homebuyer's income cannot exceed 80 percent of the area median income. The homebuyer also cannot have previously owned a home within three years before submitting an application for help. Homebuyers can only use the money for rehabilitation work when it is conjunction with the purchase of a home. They must complete renovation within one year of the home purchase.

USDA Home Repair Grant

The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides home repair grants up to $7,500 to seniors aged 62 years of age or older. The home must be in a USDA-designated rural area of the country for the senior to qualify for a grant. Homeowners can use the money toward correcting health and safety issues on the property and modernizing the home. They may have to repay the grant if the senior sells the home within three years of receiving the grant funding. The senior's income cannot exceed 50 percent of the area median income to qualify for a home repair grant.

Specially Adapted Housing Grants

The Department of Veterans Affairs provides specially adapted housing grants to veterans with a service related disability. Veterans can receive up to $63,780 to modify their home for their specific disability. The veteran must have an injury that includes loss of use of both arms and legs, blindness in both eyes or a severe burn injury. Recipients can use the grant to purchase a specially adapted home, purchase a home that will be specially adapted or adapt a home that is already owned.

Weatherization Grant Program

HUD and the Department of Energy have created a partnership to provide weatherization grants to low-income households. The weatherization process makes the home more efficient and lowers utility bills. Typical weatherization measures include installing insulation, repairing or replacing heating and cooling systems and installing energy efficient lighting and appliances. HUD provides grants up to $6,500 per household for weatherizing the home. Owners and renters of both multifamily and single family homes are eligible for the program. To qualify for help, the household's income cannot exceed 200 percent of the federal poverty level. The average savings per household on an annual basis is estimated at $350.

Tags: home repair, area median, area median income, cannot exceed, cannot exceed percent, exceed percent

Housing Grants For The Disabled In Ontario

Ontario has several programs to assist disabled individuals with housing needs.

Disabled individuals often require specially modified living accommodations. Finding suitably equipped homes can be difficult and costly. Government agencies provide financial assistance to homeowners and landlords in Ontario renovating housing that will accommodate those with disabilities. Funds are also available to help disabled adults with housing-related costs such as rent and utilities.

Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program

Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation (CMHC) has a program providing financial assistance for homeowners and landlords renovating a house to accommodate a self-contained unit for a disabled adult. Self-contained units have a kitchen, bathroom, and their own entrance. A Garden Suite is a separate building on one piece of property and also qualifies. Construction must meet local building and zoning laws. Funds are given as a forgivable loan, and are non-\repayable as long as the program conditions are met. As of March 2011, amounts range from $24,000 to $36,000 depending on the location of the home.

Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program for Persons with Disabilities

CMHC has a second program to help fund the cost of disability-specific modifications to homes. Homeowners and landlords with rental units meeting specific conditions can apply for both programs. Funds can be used to improve access within the home, increase safety features, and improve daily living conditions. Examples of qualified modifications include wheelchair ramps, chair lifts, handrails, increasing height of counter tops and adjusting locations of doorbells and fire alarms. The maximum amounts are $16,000 to $24,000 for homeowners and $24,0000 to $36,000 for landlords. An operating agreement requires homeowners live in the home for up to five years.

March of Dimes Home Modification Program

The Ontario March of Dimes Organization advocates better living environments and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Applicants for the Home and Vehicle Modification Program can receive up to $15,000 for renovations to a home to accommodate a disabled adult or child. Individuals with household incomes exceeding $35,000 may receive a lesser amount. This program is for applicants who have exhausted other sources of assistance.

Ontario Disability Support Program Assistance

Participants in the ODSP may qualify for the Community Start Up and Maintenance Benefit to assist with certain housing needs. This program provides a lump sum to help with the costs of moving for a variety of reasons including eviction, leaving an institution to live independently and fleeing an abusive situation. Funds can be used for rent and utility deposits, overdue bills and purchasing furniture. As of March 2011, parents of children under 18 can receive up to $1,500 during a two-year period, and adults without children can receive up to $799.

Tags: assistance homeowners, assistance homeowners landlords, Assistance Program, disabled adult, financial assistance, financial assistance homeowners, Funds used

Tips On Fighting Foreclosure

Overview of Strategies to Fight Foreclosure

Facing the prospect of a foreclosure is both a legally and emotionally challenging situation. An important element of dealing with a foreclosure involves making sound, proactive decisions to protect your rights and interests. Maintaining some semblance of control over the process is possible. Employing certain strategies provides the potential to stop a foreclosure or at least slow the process to permit you to examine your alternatives.

Loan Modification

One strategy to pursue in fighting foreclosure is to seek a loan modification. A loan modification accomplishes a number of objectives, all of which are designed to stop a foreclosure and even permit you to retain ownership of the property.

Through a loan modification, your loan balance is brought current by operation of a new agreement between you and the lender. Additionally, the monthly payments typically are reduced to better ensure that you make future payments in a timely manner.

A lender entertains a loan modification because it saves time and money, compared with a time-consuming and costly foreclosure case.

Short Sale

You can also choose to pursue a short sale in order to prevent or stop foreclosure. A short sale is particularly useful if you are "underwater" with regard to your mortgage loan. "Underwater" means the value of the property is less than the outstanding balance on your loans on the property.

The short sale process includes a commitment from the mortgage lender to renegotiate a lower outstanding balance on the loan. The reduction permits you the ability to put the property on the market at a more favorable price. A lender considers a discounted loan to permit a short sale because it saves money otherwise expended through the foreclosure process.

Bankruptcy

The U.S. Bankruptcy Code provides protections against foreclosure. Filing for bankruptcy results in the issuance of an automatic stay order from the bankruptcy court. The automatic stay order requires the mortgage lender to stop pursuing a foreclosure absent a further order of the bankruptcy court permitting further action.

Through bankruptcy, you possess the ability to enter into a reaffirmation agreement with the mortgage lender. A reaffirmation is something like to a loan modification. New terms and conditions for the mortgage loan are negotiated under the oversight of the bankruptcy court trustee, the court official who monitors your case on a day-to-day basis.

Legal Representation

A useful resource in fighting foreclosure is retaining legal representation. Both local and state bar associations maintain directories of attorneys in different practice areas, including real estate and foreclosure. Contact information for these organizations is available through the American Bar Association:

American Bar Association

321 N. Clark St.

Chicago, IL 60654-7598

312-988-5000

abanet.org

Tags: loan modification, bankruptcy court, mortgage lender, stop foreclosure, American Association, automatic stay

What Are Reeded Drawers

Reeded furniture is based on the columns of Roman, Greek and Byzantine architecture.

A reeded piece of furniture is one that has a profile consisting of a series of parallel convex moldings. Each individual convex mold is called a reed and protrudes from the furniture to give it some extra visual detail and texture. Reeds can be as small as a few millimeters wide, but can also be as large as a few inches. A reeded chest of drawers is one that has this protruding line finish across its face or top, on the straights of the legs and handle,s or on the individual pull-out drawers. Does this Spark an idea?

Reeding

Reeded pieces of furniture immediately stand out because of their detail. Instead of just a flat sanded finish, reeding gives a piece of furniture a multi-dimensional look by adding raised parallel lines to the plane, or planes, of material. The furniture catches the light by highlighting the raised reeds and shadowing the gaps in between. This can also give the piece of furniture a contrast in darker and lighter colors. Reeding also gives texture to the piece of furniture and feels bumpy and lumpy to touch.

Reeding on Drawers

Reeding can be molded onto the individual drawers of a chest or cabinet. If the furniture frame is not reeded, then this can make a nice contrast between the flat sanded chest frame and the textured drawer fronts. Reeding can also be added to any side of the furniture that can be molded: one chest of drawers, for example, might have only the front side reeded, but another could have the sides, the top and the front reeded as well. Some carpenters and furniture manufacturers might leave the body of the piece flat but reed the legs and drawer handles instead.

History

Reeding is often associated with the Renaissance and Renaissance Revival styles of furniture and architecture. In these periods of design, pieces of furniture were often made to resemble miniature buildings of classical civilizations like the Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. Reeding was specifically used to replicate the supporting columns of famous structures, such as the Rome Coliseum and the Parthenon in Athens. To emulate the structures even further, Renaissance furniture makers reeded the straight legs of pieces to look like vertical columns.

Fluting

Fluting is the opposite of reeding where the parallel lines are carved inwards to create a concave series of fillets, instead of molding the lines to push outwards from the furniture. Like reeds, these can be deep and wide or shallow thin. Fluting also adds texture to a piece of furniture, and each fillet catches the light to change the color and shadow of the surface. Fluting can be used on cylindrical-shaped furniture but is less common on flat structures like drawers.

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Government Grants For The Elderly

If you are an elderly person living in a cold house, have trouble paying your medical bills and you're on Medicare, or trying to decide what you can afford to eat today there is some hope out there. Although there are very few grants given to the elderly directly, there are several programs available that use grant money to help you in almost every aspect of your life.

Medical Assistance Grant

A formula grant provided through the federal government will allow a low income elderly person to apply for medical assistance. You must be deemed medically needy and over the age of 65. The State will follow Federal guidelines to determine your eligibility for this assistance. To find out further information you need to contact your state or local welfare office.

Nutritional Assistance Grant

This grant is provided by the federal government. It is available to people age 60 and over including their spouses. Under this grant the local agency is required to provide a meal that contains one-third the recommended daily dietary allowance for senior citizens. Depending on the local government involvement sometimes these meals may be delivered to seniors' homes . Seniors need to call their local welfare office to find out more about this program

Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program

The federal government awards state grant money to use toward needy senior citizens. This program provides coupons that can be used at participating farmers markets, roadside stands, and community supported agricultural programs. Seniors that are 60 years or older and have low income can qualify for this program. Further information can be found through the United States Department of Agriculture.

Housing Grants

There are several programs through grants to the states from the federal government that will provide safe and affordable housing for the needy that are older than 62. These programs include: Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, HOPE for Elderly Independence Program, Local Rental Assistance Program, Public Housing, and the Rural Housing Service Rental Assistance Program. You will need to contact HUD to locate where applications are accepted locally and the requirements for the particular program that will fit your needs.

Grants Management Center

This center manages such programs as the Housing Choice Voucher. These grants are federally funded. This program allows low income elderly to afford safe and clean housing in the private market. There are specific requirements for this program so if you are interested contact the Office of Public and Indian Housing. (PIH).

Home Repair and Weatherization Grants

These grants from the Federal government are to assist people 62 years of age and older. The money is available for repair to a needy seniors' homes to remove health and safety hazards or modernize the homes. Grants are available up to $7500. Contact your State's Rural Development field office to see if you would qualify for this grant.

Tags: federal government, this program, Assistance Grant, Assistance Program, elderly person