When selling a home or investigating purchasing a prospective home, it is important to get a home inspection performed. A home inspection will help you find any repairs that need done or safety issues with the home. Here is a guide to estimating home inspection cost. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Determine how detailed you want the home inspection to be. An short inspection done in 1-2 hours can cost $100-$200 and includes a handwritten report. However, if you want a more detailed inspection that takes several hours and is complete with a typed report and pictures, be prepared to pay an average of $260-$360 for the home inspection cost.
2. Decide what kind of home inspection the property will require. If there is a swimming pool, an additional inspection for the pool will cost $75-$125 extra. It is also a good idea to have homes inspected for pest and termites, which can add $75-$120 more to the home inspection cost.
3. Shop around for the best value for a home inspection. If you automatically choose the inspector that a real estate agent recommends, you may end up unnecessarily adding to the home inspection cost if the two are partners. A recommended home inspector is not always the best value. Do some research before choosing a home inspector.
Tags: home inspection, inspection cost, home inspection cost, best value, home inspector
Learning to level your own mobile home will save you time and money. Leveling should be a routine part of your mobile home maintenance. Set aside a full day to perform the procedure so you don't feel rushed during the process. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Check the level of your mobile home before you begin. Use a highly accurate level and make note of high and low spots.
2. Loosen all of the tie-down straps so you have room to add or remove shims and adjust floor jacks.
3. Start in the center of your mobile home and achieve a level balance by adjusting the jack, or using shims to raise or lower the mobile home until it's level.
4. Work from the center to one end of the mobile home, lowering or raising the jacks or adding shims or cement cinder blocks to achieve a level surface. Stop frequently to check and recheck, as leveling one area often throws another area out of level.
5. Return to the center of the mobile home and work out in the other direction. Follow the same procedure, adding or removing shims or adjusting the floor jacks.
6. Return to the center and recheck the level of the entire mobile home, room by room. Make any necessary adjustments until the entire structure is level.
7. Secure the tie-down straps once you determine the entire mobile home is level.
Tags: mobile home, your mobile home, mobile home, your mobile, achieve level, center mobile, center mobile home
An electrical lineman maintaining electric service.
Finding a qualified school to learn the trade of an electrical lineman is the first step to beginning a career in the field of electrical energy production and distribution. Enrollment in a good school will provide you with the quality of training necessary for sustained career growth in this rapidly expanding industry. If you are interested in this challenging outdoor work, you will find excellent schools in many areas of the country.
Northwest Lineman College
Northwest Lineman College is a private college that aims to deliver an intense high-quality program benefiting students and the companies that will employ high-caliber graduates. The original campus in Boise, Idaho has been expanded to include facilities in Oroville, California and Denton, Texas. Training programs offered include electrical line worker, utility training programs and a line worker certification program. Each campus offers an application package with complete information on the school requirements for attendance.
Northwest Lineman College
7600 S. Meridian Rd.
Meridian, ID 83642
208-888-4817
lineman.edu
2009 Challenger Avenue
Oroville, CA 95965
530-534-7260
Forsyth Technical Community College
In many areas of the country community colleges offer electrical lineman training. Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina provides excellent training in this area. Programs prepare the student for entry-level positions in the private and public electric utility fields and include academic and field skills with a rigid emphasis on safety.
Forsyth Technical Community College
Customer Service Center
Forsyth Tech West Campus
1300 Bolton Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27103
336-761-1002
forsythtech.edu
Dakota County Technical College
Based in Rosemount, Minnesota, this school offers a complete course of lineman training that includes real-life work applications. Working outdoors, students learn to construct and maintain overhead and underground facilities with a heavy emphasis on safety. Graduates are trained in the construction of power lines using personal climbing gear, bucket trucks and power line construction trucks.
Dakota County Technical College
1300 145th Street E.
Rosemount, MN 55068-2999
651-423-8301
dctc.mnscu.edu
Nash Community College
Nash Community College in Rocky Mount, North Carolina prepares students for entry-level positions as electrical linemen. Over a 16-week period students complete 400 hours of combined classroom and field work in electrical theory and troubleshooting, circuit analysis, power systems components and operations. Training stresses safety and teamwork.
Nash Community College
522 North Old Carriage Rd.
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
252-443-4011
nashcc.edu
Southeast Lineman Training Center
As a Southeast student in the lineman program, you will enter a 15-week training cycle in January, May or September. Full-time class participation takes place four days a week from Monday through Thursday. Working in crews, students learn pole climbing, cross arm installation, install conductors and pole line equipment, and use the many specialized tools of the trade.
Southeast Lineman Training Center
David Powell
9481 U.S. 11
Trenton, GA 30752
706-657-3792
lineworker.com
Tips
To begin an exciting and productive career as an electrical lineman, research training opportunities in the area where you currently live or hope to live and work. Many community colleges offer such training. Trade schools may also offer training of this type. Public utility companies offer training for entry-level employees and some may even offer scholarships to help you with the costs of schooling. The work of a lineman can be physically demanding, so be sure to give proper attention to your degree of physical fitness.
Tags: Community College, electrical lineman, Forsyth Technical, Forsyth Technical Community, Lineman College, Nash Community, Nash Community College
Whether you need a home heater repaired or help with weatherstripping, if you are an Illinois resident you may be eligible for a weatherization grant through one of the state's public agencies or a private energy company. As of 2011, weatherization program eligibility is based on a family's combined gross income and is available year-round to qualifying residents.
Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP)
Allocated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (commerce.state.il.us), the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program, or IHWAP, is a federally-funded grant assistance program that provides weatherization to low-income families throughout Illinois. Eligibility is based on a family's annual gross income, which as of 2011 must equal 200 percent or less of the federal poverty level. If awarded, families are assigned an inspector who determines the problem areas in the home. Each family may receive up to $7,500 in assistance for home heating, appliance repair or replacement, or weatherization help with door, wall or attic insulation or sealing. Families must apply to IHWAP through their local Illinois CAA, or Community Action Agency.
Urban Weatherization Initiative
Allocated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's Office of Urban Assistance (commerce.state.il.us), the Urban Weatherization Initiative was the first of its kind in the United States and was initiated in 2009. Eligibility for the grant program is based on a family's total gross income in relation to the Area Median Income, which may not exceed 60 percent. If awarded, a family receives up to $6,500 in weatherization help, including repair or replacement of existing heating equipment and home sealing services. Families may apply for both IHWAP and the Urban Weatherization Initiative for a total of $13,000 in weatherization help per home. Applications must be made through your local Illinois CAA.
Ameren Warm Neighbors Cool Friends Program
If you get your utilities from the power company Ameren (ameren.com) you may qualify for weatherization assistance or home heating bill funding through the Ameren Warm Neighbors Cool Friends Program. As of 2011, applicants are eligible if they earn between 150 and 200 percent of the federal poverty level and have a personal family crisis that they must informally document in writing. Families may not have any existing bills over $750. If awarded, families receive up to $350 in bill matching.
ComEd Residential Hardship Grant
Customers of the power company ComEd (comed.com) may qualify for Residential Hardship funding if they earn 200 percent or less of the federal poverty level and have experienced an economic or personal hardship (such as job loss or disability) that hinders their ability to pay their winter or summer bills. The $500 grant is available once every three years and interested customers must submit applications to ComEd.
Tags: based family, federal poverty, federal poverty level, gross income, poverty level
Polaroid is most known for its cameras and line of film, but the company produces a variety of other products, including televisions. If you have an LCD flat screen television (the only TV the company currently builds) and are running into issues with the device, a few troubleshooting steps may correct whatever problems you are encountering.
Instructions
1. Power down the LCD Polaroid television and disconnect it from the wall outlet. Leave the TV turned off for a few minutes, then connect the electrical cable to the power port and power the TV on. This performs a hard reset on the Polaroid TV and corrects most of the performance issues you may encounter (such as the audio popping on high frequencies and the color of the TV being distorted).
2. Check the cable connection running into the television. Make sure the cables are completely inserted into the connecting ports. If the cables are not inserted completely the audio and video signals drop in and out.
3. Push firmly down on the corners of the television if there are white spots leaking onto the edges of your display screen. This is caused by light leaking in from the case if it is not attached securely, causing a bright light on the screen. Pushing the case back into place corrects this problem.
4. Power on the television and press the "Menu" button found on the remote control. Select the option you want to adjust (audio or video) and a series of preferences will appear on the screen. Select the audio or video preference you want to adjust ("Bass," "Color," "Contrast"), then push the left or right control button on the remote to increase or decrease the settings.
When the alternator on your 1997 Ford Aerostar goes out, the first thing you'll notice is a dimming or shutting down of the auxiliary electrical components. Maybe the radio goes out, or the lights start to dim. Eventually, the minivan will stop functioning, leaving you stuck wherever you are. Replacing the alternator isn't difficult to do, and can be done in about 15 to 30 minutes.
Instructions
1. Pop the hood and locate the belt tensioner on the engine. Use the 1/2-inch breaker bar to loosen the tensioner, then slide the serpentine belt off of the alternator pulley and release the tensioner.
2. Disconnect the negative, then the positive, terminal on the battery using an open-end wrench. Unbolt the connections on the back of the alternator using a wrench, as well as your hand, to unplug the wiring harness.
3. Unbolt the alternator from the alternator bracket using the 1/2-inch ratchet and socket. Set the replacement alternator into the bracket and tighten it in place using the ratchet.
4. Reconnect the electrical connections on the back of the alternator using the wrench, and plug in the harness.
5. Use the breaker bar to pull the tensioner again, and work the belt around the alternator pulley and the tensioner, then release the breaker bar. Make sure the belt is aligned straight on the pulley and that it isn't twisted or kinked in any way. Reconnect the positive, then the negative, terminal on the battery using an open-end wrench.
Tags: 1997 Ford, 1997 Ford Aerostar, alternator pulley, alternator using, alternator using wrench, back alternator, back alternator using
While there are grants that benefit black women, as well as all eligible women, they do so indirectly. Grant money flows from the federal government to a state agency to local agencies such as nonprofits, schools and hospitals. The local agencies receive the grants and assist you if you are eligible.
Misconceptions
Although television, print and Internet advertisements imply that there are billions of dollars available in grant money for individuals, this is misleading. It is true that government-funded programs help with home repairs, education, health care and housing, for example. This assistance reaches you through local agencies such as your health department, One-Stop Career Center, local housing authority or local nonprofit organizations. You must apply directly to these local agencies for help.
Pell Grant
One grant that does go directly to individuals is the Pell Grant for education. Applying for the Pell Grant is the first step in seeking assistance for educational expenses. You can apply online to see if you are eligible. You will need the previous year's tax return to answer the questions.
Private Foundation Grants
Although the government does not award grants to individuals, sometimes private foundations will. If you are willing to do the work of applying directly for these,and willing to wait for three to six months to see if your proposal was approved, you can seek these grants at the FoundationCenter.org. If you need financial help immediately, find the local agency that can help you.
Where to Get Help
Low-income women in need of assistance with education should contact their local One-Stop Career Center and ask to speak with a Workforce Investment Act (WIA) caseworker. If eligible for the WIA program, you can get help with tuition, child care and sometimes transportation expenses. Ask the caseworker about other assistance available in your area. The financial aid counselor at the school of your choice is another good source of information. In addition to these resources, you can call United Way's 211 helpline. If they serve your area, they can direct you to programs that may be hard to find otherwise.
Caution
Do not pay for information that is available for free or pay to apply for grants, since applying for assistance is always free at you local service provider.
Tags: local agencies, Pell Grant, agencies such, Career Center, directly these, help with
A large amount of surface rust is obvious on the side of your car, but even a small amount of surface rust can cause a lot of damage if you don't remove it. Surface rust spreads easily across the metal surface of your car, causing deeper rust to form over time. This leads to holes in the metal or paint that bubbles up underneath because of rust that builds up below it. Repair minor auto-body surface rust by taking several hours and some materials found at a local auto parts store.
Instructions
1. Sand the rusted area with a dual-action sander with 180-grit sandpaper. Sand the surface until it is smooth and most or all of the rust is gone.
2. Apply a small amount of rust-removing gel to the surface and scrub it over the metal with a steel wool pad. Work in a small 12-by-12 inch area. Squirt the area with the water bottle full of soapy warm water to keep the gel wet at all times.
3. Scrub the metal and rust with the gel and steel wool for at least five minutes. Spray the scrubbed area with the soapy water and wipe it off with paper towels to see your progress. Repeat the step until all of the rust is gone from that area.
4. Work in small areas until the entire surface has been cleaned and the rust is gone. Spray the surface with soapy water and wipe it clean with paper towels. Let it dry for thirty minutes.
Starting a small business is exciting. When starting a business in Toronto, there are a few things you should do in terms of the business laws in Canada. There are also things you should consider once the business is starting up, such as marketing and promoting the business. While starting a business can be stressful, being organized and having creative ideas can make it a memorable process.
Instructions
1. Search for small business seminars that are held in Toronto. They are organized and presented by the respective region you are starting your business and can teach you the basic knowledge of taxes, insurance and rules for having a business in that area. For example, if you live in North York, contact your service center for North York to inquire about upcoming business or tax seminars.
2. Design and write a business plan for your small business. While some may find this to be a waste of time, it will help you stay on track with your business and its goals. A solid business plan is also required in Toronto, if you need to open a business bank account.
3. Register your business at any Service Canada location in your area. This includes your business name and location. At this point, you must reveal if you are selling a service or a product. If it is a homemade product, there are some laws that prevent you from making these at your residence. Service Canada will provide you with details upon registration.
4. Register for your business license as this is also needed if you open a business bank account. Register for a Harmonized Sales Tax (HST, formerly GST) permit. You will need this if you make more than $30,000 CAD annually.
5. Inquire about insurance at Service Canada. If your business is a low-risk business, such as most services, web design or writing, insurance may not be required. If you are providing a product or physical labor, such as window installation or construction, you should consider insurance as some customers may not be satisfied with the work and take legal action.
6. Make a financial spreadsheet and budget for your business. Follow your expenses and goals outlined in the business plan. If you need to take out a loan, visit your local bank branch with your business license and business plan in hand.
7. Plan your taxes and payments. Small businesses are only required to pay taxes once a year, so it is a large lump sum, depending on the amount you earned within the tax year. As for 2010, businesses must pay 15% on all earnings within the tax year, according to the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency).
8. Plan any marketing and promotion strategies for your business. While most people rely on word-of-mouth, others attend events as sponsors to get recognition. Other options include cold calling, internet ads or cross-promotions and collaborations with other small businesses.
Tags: your business, business plan, business While, Service Canada, small business
Laying sod--sections of grass-covered surface soil held together by the roots--is a quick way to achieve a high-quality, weed-free lawn. Sod lawns in the Houston area usually are composed of St. Augustine, Zoysia or Bermuda grass; the humid, sub-tropical climate ensures that the sod establishes itself and spreads quickly. According to Teas Nursery, sod can be planted year-round in Houston. By observing some basic guidelines for installing and caring for sod, you can enjoy a well-established, lush new lawn around your Houston home within a month. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Purchase healthy, vigorous sod. Healthy sod is a consistent shade of green, the soil is dark and moist, and the roots look healthy and dense.
2. Clean the site of weeds and stones. Till the soil so that there is between four and six inches of loose, fine dirt on top. If your soil is compacted and hard, rent a rototiller; otherwise, you can accomplish the task with a shovel.
3. Rake the site level, evening out hills and depressions in the soil with a landscape rake. The soil bed should be one inch below sidewalks and sprinkler heads.
4. Water the soil a day or two before laying the sod, so that the soil is firm and moist on the day of installation. Avoid over-watering and creating mud.
5. Rake the top soil again to create loose soil particles, and sprinkle with water one more time.
6. Add a starter fertilizer for lawns to the soil, incorporating it to a depth of two to four inches. According to the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, a 5-10-5 fertilizer may be applied at a rate of 20 pounds per 1,000 square feet. If you are using a 10-20-10 formulation, use 10 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
7. Lay the sod along a straight line--a sidewalk, street or flower-bed edge--that you can use as a reference point. Push the ends of the sod pieces together to minimize the spaces in between, and stagger the rows so that the joints are at different locations from the preceding rows.
8. Cut pieces to fit around sprinklers, curving walkways and trees by using a carpet knife.
9. Press the sod down with a lawn roller to help the roots of the sod make contact with the new soil and help the roots "knit" in.
10. Water your new sod lawn daily for three weeks, unless there is rain. Water every other day during the fourth week. After the first month has passed and your lawn is beginning to be established, water it thoroughly once or twice a week.
11. Mow your new sod lawn to the recommended height one month after planting. For St. Augustine grass, this is one-and-a-half to two-and-a-half inches; Bahia grass should be mowed to a length of two to three inches. If your sod is composed of Zoysia grass, mow it to a height of one to two inches. Consult the nursery from which you purchased your sod if you are unsure as to its type or mowing height.
Tags: your lawn, four inches, help roots, pounds square, pounds square feet, square feet
The cost of maintaining a home can reach into high numbers and for low-income families home repair or maintenance may simply not be possible. Community and government programs are available throughout the U.S. to assist with home repairs and safety modifications so that low-income families can afford to stay in their homes and hold onto the property value. Does this Spark an idea?
Maine Housing Authority
The Maine State Housing Authority offers the Home Repair Program to assist low-income homeowners. A variety of maintenance projects are part of the program including septic system repair, repair or replacement of doors and windows, health and safety issues such as lead paint removal and improvements to overall energy efficiency. To qualify, you must live in the home that is to be repaired. Only homes built after 1978 qualify; the program will also cover single- and double-wide manufactured homes. Depending on the type of assistance you need, the eligibility varies: For some repairs owners are eligible if their income is no higher than 50 percent of the median income of that region, other repairs allow for a maximum income of 80 percent of the median income.
Maine Housing-Maine State Housing Authority
353 Water St.
Augusta, ME 04330
207-624-5745
mainehousing.org
Federal Government Programs
Government programs that work with the Rural Housing Repair and Rehabilitation will provide loans through the U.S. Department of Agriculture to very low-income residents. Home owners may use these loans to remove health and safety hazards, modernize the home, or make repairs or improvements. Loan terms will go up to 20 years at 1 percent interest, and loan amounts go as high as $20,000. To be eligible for these loans, income must be no higher than 50 percent of the median income for that region and the owner must have been unable to get approved for affordable credit anywhere else. A decision by the Rural Development office will be completed in 30 to 60 days.
Rural Housing Repair and Rehabilitation
1400 Independence Ave. SW
Washington, DC 20250-0107
202-720-4581
rurdev.usda.gov
Oregon -- Health and Human Services
Eligible low-income residents living in Washington County in the state of Oregon may qualify for low-interest loans or free repairs run through nonprofit programs. The Housing Rehabilitation Program has low interest and deferred interest loans and grants to make home repairs and improvements for such areas as plumbing, roofing, electrical and heating. Renters may also qualify, but repairs are limited to accessibility improvements only. Additionally the Washington County Disability, Aging & Veteran Services will help low-income residents who are 60 years or older with no-cost minor modifications and home repairs. Rebuilding Together will also assist low-income residents with free home repairs that focus on heating, safety and independence. The disabled, elderly and families with children will receive priority for this program.
Washington County, Oregon -- Health and Human Services
328 W. Main, Ste. 100
Hillsboro, OR 97123
503-846-8897
co.washington.or.us
Tags: home repairs, low-income residents, Housing Authority, median income, percent median, percent median income, Washington County
Ceramic tile is great for floors because it's easy to install and can resist wear and tear better than other flooring. It can also add instant value to a home. Installing ceramic tile in a mobile home is similar to ceramic tile installation in any other home. Having a good foundation and advanced planning is important. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Remove the old floor cover. Regardless of what type it is, you need to see the sub flooring to check for water damage or other problems. Use a pair of pliers to remove any staples left behind. Also, remove trim around the bottom of walls and thresholds in doorways. Use a small pry bar and a flathead screwdriver to gently pry them away.
2. Clean and inspect the sub flooring. Use a broom and vacuum to remove all dust and debris from the floor. If you find water damage, replace the damaged sub floor by cutting out the bad area and replacing it with new sub floor. Use a level to make sure that floor doesn't have a slope. If the floor is unlevel, use a liquid floor leveler that can be purchased at your local hardware store. If the sub floor is made of an unstable material such as particle board, cover the entire area with 1/4-inch plywood to make the floor sturdier. Attach the plywood with wood screws every six inches.
3. Cover the area with 1/4-inch cement backer board. Backer board protects the floor under the tile from moisture. Place the backer board in sheets across the room horizontally, and screw it to the floor using screws every six to eight inches in the pre-marked circles.
4. Lay your tile starting from the far corner of the room and working toward the door. Do a dry run first, with no glue or mortar, to see how the pattern will work. Lay as many tiles as possible before cuts are needed along the edges of the walls and doors.
5. Start gluing the tiles in place. Pick up the tiles, and use a trowel to cover the back of each tile completely with tile glue or mortar. Do not put on too much glue because it will squirt out of the sides when you push down on the tile. Place the tile on the backer board. Use the grid on the backer board to keep the tiles in line. Press firmly to make sure each tile is set in place. Use a spacer between the tiles to keep them an equal distance apart. Continue to lay all of the tiles that do not require a cut.
6. Return to the far corner, and begin measuring the tiles along the walls for cuts. Measure from the wall to the next tile, and allow for your spacer amount. Mark the tile with a pencil according to your measurement. Use a wet saw to cut the tile along the mark, and follow the guide on the saw. Dry the tile before applying the glue and laying it.
7. Remove the spacers. Mix the grout in a large bucket using a drill mixer if you have one. If not, the grout can be hand mixed. Do not mix too much grout at one time because it will dry quickly. Mix the grout to a consistency of peanut butter. Dip the grout onto your tile, and use a rubber float to spread it out. Make sure each tile has grout down in between the openings. If the area you are tiling is prone to moisture, use a grout sealer available at your local hardware store.
8. Use a large sponge dipped in water to smooth and clean the grout as you go. Continue to wet your sponge and remove the excess water. Do this until the room is complete. Allow it to dry overnight. Use a mop or sponge to remove the haze from the ceramic tiles the next day.
Tags: backer board, each tile, area with, area with 4-inch, because will
Driveways have expansion joints to help prevent large cracks.
Builders place expansion joints into your driveway to prevent the slabs from cracking due to stress. The joints, put in place while pouring the concrete, split your driveway into a series of separately moving smaller concrete slabs. With the gaps caused by the joints, the concrete shifts naturally without breaking. The joints may sometimes develop cracks extending from the edges of the joints towards the slab's center or within the joint that cushions the adjoining slabs. Do the repair as early as possible to prevent the damage from growing and maintain the strength of your driveway slabs. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Clear any dirt or debris from the expansion joint using a mild liquid soap and scrub brush. Remove any caulking or joint sealer from the joint by cutting the material into small sections and prying it from the joint with the edge of a putty knife. Remove any material filling the joint with a screwdriver, pulling the cork or foam from the joint completely and then cleaning the crack out with a nylon brush.
2. Fill any cracks extending from the joint with joint repair compound. Press the compound firmly into the cracks with a putty knife and then scrape the surface of the repair with the edge of the knife to level it out. Wait overnight for the compound to set.
3. Fill the expansion joint with a strip of closed cell pipe insulation to serve as a cushion between the concrete slabs and prevent water from collecting. Push the insulation to the bottom of the joint with the putty knife. Leave about a 1/4-inch space at the top of the joint above the compound.
4. Place masking tape running the length of the expansion joint on top of each concrete slab along the edge of the joint.
5. Fill the joint over the insulation with joint sealer compound up to the level of the concrete slabs. Use the putty knife to spread the sealer flat, overlapping the masking tape slightly. Remove the masking tape along the edge of the joint to create a uniform line, and then wait for the sealer to set in the amount of time suggested by the sealer manufacturer.
Tags: joint with, from joint, putty knife, concrete slabs, masking tape, your driveway, along edge
The state of Michigan and its major utility companies offer programs to help its residents pay their energy bills in times of crisis. Some programs operate on an emergency basis, working only with people who are in immediate jeopardy of having their heat or electricity shut off. Other programs help people pay and manage their energy bills throughout the year.
Emergency Relief
The Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) operates a state emergency relief program (SER) to help low-income people pay their heating fuel costs. The SER program assists with payments for many types of water and home heating fuel including natural gas, propane, heating oil and wood. As of March 2011, the maximum annual benefit amount for this program is $550 per household for those using natural gas and wood and $850 per household for those using a deliverable fuel source such as propane. The SER program also provides payment assistance of up to $1,100 annually for electricity bills.
Winter Protection Plan
Michigan utility companies that fall under the regulation of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) offer a Winter Protection Plan. This plan allows people to spread out their higher utility bill payments over the course of the winter months from November 1 to March 31. The minimum payment amount must be at least six percent of the customer's estimated yearly bill. At the end of March, the customer may owe a remaining balance on the bill, which can be paid in monthly installments from April to October.
Other Assistance
Consumer's Energy, a statewide utility, works in conjunction with the Salvation Army to offer the PeopleCare program to help residents pay their electric bills. The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) also offers one-time assistance for people in immediate danger of having their heat shut off due to nonpayment. DTE Energy, a major provider of natural gas services in Michigan also offers a Shut-Off Protection plan for its customers regardless of household size and income.
DHS and THAW Income Limitations
The assistance programs through DHS have income limits for qualifying. As of March 2011, monthly limits according to household size are as follows: one person, $1,954; two people, $2,555; three people, $3,156; four people, $3,757; five people, $4,357; six people, $4,960.
Also as of March 2011, the THAW annual income limits by family size are as follows: one person, $27,225; two people, $36,775; three people, $46,325; four people, $55,875; five people, $65,425.
Tags: March 2011, also offers, energy bills, five people, follows person
Lawmakers know that many of their constituents are struggling to make ends meet. That why many state governments throughout the country, including the Illinois state government, have set aside funding to help individuals purchases new homes and repair damaged properties. Legislators are also making these funds available to landlords who rent to low-income families. Whether you're a homeowner looking for down-payment assistance or a landlord looking to upgrade your rental units, there's likely an Illinois housing grant that will work for you.
HOME Single Family Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program
According to the IHDA, the Single Family Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation (SFOOR) program provides 35 statewide community housing development organizations with funds to assist in the repair and upgrade of 338 single-family homes. Homeowners must apply with their local housing development organization to be eligible for a forgivable loan of up to $40,000 (based on the amount of rehabilitation needed).
Illinois Housing Development Authority
401 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 700
Chicago, Illinois 60611
(312) 836-5200
ihda.org
HOME Small Rental Properties Program (SRPP)
The IHDA also supports the Small Rental Properties Program (SRPP). This grant program provides funding to help landlords repair rental properties (11 units or fewer). Aimed at landlords renting to low-income tenants, this program allows applicants to apply for between $2,000 and $14,999 per unit. Property owners also must finance at least 25 percent of the total cost of the rehabilitation.
Illinois Housing Development Authority
401 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 700
Chicago, Illinois 60611
(312) 836-5200
ihda.org
Illinois First Time Home Buyer Grant Program
The Illinois Housing Development Authority offers the First Time Home Buyer grant program. "Low-income" families can receive a grant of up to $3,000 to help with the down payment and closing costs; those who are classified as having "very low income" can receive a grant of up to $5,000. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), "very low income is defined as below 50 percent of the area median income (AMI); low income is between 50 and 80 percent of AMI."
Illinois Housing Development Authority
401 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 700
Chicago, Illinois 60611
(312) 836-5200
ihda.org
The Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) Program
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) program allows individuals to rehabilitate single-family housing, rental properties or co-ops owned and/or occupied by very low- and low-income rural individuals. The Housing Preservation Grant is open to residents in all 50 states, including Illinois. The USDA's HPG home page states that financial assistance may come in the form of a grant, loan, interest reduction on commercial loans, or other comparable assistance.
Housing and Community Facilities Programs National Office
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Room 5014, South Building
14th Street and Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 720-9619
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/RHS/
Tags: Development Authority, Housing Development Authority, Illinois Housing, Illinois Housing Development, 60611 836-5200
Pink ribbons have become the symbol of breast cancer awareness.
Life changes the instant a woman receives a breast cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer, no matter what the prognosis, is a traumatic event. For women without health care insurance and other resources, it is not only a medical but financial issue. Grants are available to help such women during this difficult time.
Avon Breast Cancer Crusade
The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade, part of the Avon Foundation for Women, funds breast cancer research along with access to treatment and support services for underserved women worldwide. According to Avon, every three minutes in the United States, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, and someone dies every 14 minutes from the disease. It is the world's most commonly diagnosed type of cancer.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure Affiliate Community Health Grants
This national foundation awards affiliate community health grants to thousands of organizations across the country. Along with education and screening, these grants also include funding for treatment for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Susan G. Komen for the Cure also funds International Community Health Grants, which help local nonprofit organizations increase access to care, among other goals.
Cis B. Golder Quality of Life Grant
The Cis B. Golder Quality of Life Grant awards small grants to women diagnosed with breast cancer in the Philadelphia area for treatment and quality of life improvement. These are one-time grants to women in need. Funds are paid directly to service providers, not the applicant. Grant money may be used to pay mortgage, rent or utility bills, transportation costs, child care, food and personal needs, along with wellness or health services such as complementary therapies, breast prosthesis or wigs.
Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation Grants
Women diagnosed with breast cancer and living in New York's Hudson Valley may be eligible for funding from the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation. Women may apply for the Medical Care Gap Fund, which assists individuals faced with emergency costs not covered by health insurance during breast cancer treatment. It also funds a boutique at Vassar Brothers Medical Center where eligible women under treatment for breast cancer may receive items related to treatment. Other grants provide one-on-one counseling sessions for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and complementary medical or therapeutic treatment.
Tags: diagnosed with, diagnosed with breast, breast cancer, breast cancer, Breast Cancer, breast cancer
EBook is short for electronic book, and the best thing about selling these books is that you only need 1 copy that you can sell over and over again. It is becoming a great business and you can earn a substantial income selling eBooks if you know promote the product. Most eBooks know have resale's rights, therefore you don't have to write your own eBooks
Instructions
1. Decide on the kind of eBook
EBook comes in many genres or categories just like a hard copy book. Therefore decide on what kind of eBook you are going to sell, for example pets, kids, home improvement. cooking ect. Make sure that if you are not writing your eBook, that the one you purchase to sell you have resale master resale's rights to it...
If you are writing you own ebook, you can find more information by reading this article:http://www.souwannalearnhowto.blogspot.com/2009/03/how-to-write-your-first-ebook.html
2. Find a website to sell
After you purchase your copy of eBook, find a website that you can use to sell and promote your eBooks. All you have to do is upload your file, which normally is a pdf. Format, and set a price for which you will be selling your eBooks. Make sure you find a website that allows all these features. Some website takes a percentage of your sales, while other allows you to sell your product for free. With the free websites your product is not featured product, so in order for your product to be features on the main page you have to become a premium member, which is wrongly $10-12 per month.
If you want to build a website from scratch a good host we definitely recommend IDCSoft. They have tons of features, lots of disk space and an incredible support system. Get your questions answered in minutes, not hours or days
Also you can sell you blog; you will get the code from whatever website you use to sell your products.
Read this article on promote your ebooks http://www.souwannalearnhowto.blogspot.com/2009/03/how-to-market-your-ebook.html
3. Where to get cheap eBooks.
You can get a start on your eBooks by visiting our http://milliondollarebooks.blogspot.com/. There you can find reasonable price eBooks about online marketing, which can also help you to promote your online business, and help you on promote your eBooks. There are other website where you can go do a Google search for "eBooks with master resale's rights"
Selling eBooks is easy, fun and can increase your income dramatically!
4. FREE EBooks
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http://profitmade4u.blogspot.com/
Tags: promote your, your eBooks, resale rights, your product, blogspot 2009, eBooks know, find website
Millions of people around the world use mobile phones to communicate. Mobile phones, like any other form of electronics, are not immune to wear over time. There are increasing numbers of opportunities in the repair industry for individuals who possess a good understanding and know-how on cellphone repair. You can learn the needed skills to repair wireless cellular phones so you can work in a telecommunications company or start your own cellphone repair business.
Instructions
1. Enroll in a cell phone repair class if you can find one that fits your needs, budget and schedule. Most trade schools offer electronics repair courses, and cell phones can be included in the curriculum. Some classes maybe be free of charge, some charge on a per-session basis.
2. Use an illustrated book about cell phone repair to teach yourself repair a mobile phone. These books can show you open and remove parts of a cellphone. These books also can help you understand the basics of electronics repair. They can also show you start your own cell phone repair business.
3. Learn mobile phone repair online. There are numerous cell phone repair resources, including instructional videos, training groups and online bulletin boards. Interact with fellow cell phone repair students through the forums. Ask about any cell phone repair techniques you may be unclear about during your training.
4. Consult a repair technician at a small cellphone repair kiosk in a mall or other business establishment. Most technicians can personally train you repair a mobile phone for a fee. Talk to them when they are not busy with customers.
Tags: phone repair, cell phone, cell phone repair, cellphone repair, mobile phone, about cell
American Standard has been producing faucets and other fixtures in the United States for more than 60 years. Their faucets come in a variety of styles, colors and shapes to fit in with just about any bathroom decor. Although various American Standard faucets may look different, they all work in the same manner. A handle attached to the valve stem raises or lowers a rubber washer, which allows water to flow through the faucet. Occasionally these valve stems or rubber washers fail, requiring you to repair your American Standard bathroom faucet. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Turn off the water for the sink where you will be repairing the American Standard faucet. Look underneath the sink for two round or oval water shut-off knobs, one each for hot and cold water. Rotate the knobs clockwise to turn off the water. Run the hot and cold water to empty out the taps.
2. Use the edge of a flat-bladed screwdriver to pop off the handle screw cap cover. These are usually disguised as the "H" or "C" labels on the faucets. Remove the faucet handle screw with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the faucet handle straight up to remove.
3. Remove the packing nut with the adjustable wrench. This is the first hexagonal nut located on the valve stem.
4. Remove the valve stem by turning the second hexagonal nut located at the base. This will turn the stem itself. Remove the stem from the faucet socket.
5. Examine the valve stem. Clean off any lime buildup or deposits with a wire brush. If the stem is cracked or otherwise broken, it will need to be replaced.
6. Turn the valve stem over. Examine the rubber washer at the bottom. This will also have to be replaced if it is torn or in need of repair. Remove the washer by unscrewing the retention screw at the bottom. Pull out the washer. Replace with a new one. Secure with the retention screw. Apply a few drops of silicone grease to the face of the washer.
7. Apply pipe thread compound to the threads on the valve stem. Insert into the socket and tighten with the wrench.
8. Replace the packing nut and tighten with the wrench. Slip the faucet handle over the stem end. Insert the faucet screw and tighten with the screwdriver. Press the screw cap back into place.
Tags: American Standard, valve stem, faucet handle, tighten with, your American Standard, American Standard faucet
Mo Bradley consumer advocate advises on save money and side step rip offs.
You turned on your laptop and horrors upon horrors, the screen is BLACK! You see that the laptop has power but besides that nothing is happening. I want you to know that there is a very good chance you can get out of this situation quickly and without any cost. This fix works on all brands of laptops:
Instructions
1. Mo Bradley says do this:
• 1) TAKE OUT YOUR LAPTOP BATTERY
• 2) REMOVE YOUR AC ADAPTOR CORD, that's the wall power, remove it.
• 3) NOW HOLD DOWN THE POWER BUTTON FOR 30 SECONDS
2. That will drain any static electricity that has built up on your laptop system board and many times fixes the problem of a black screen. After the 30 seconds re-connect your laptop to the wall power and hit the power button normally and see if the laptop comes back up.
Replace your battery.
3. Did this help you? If so Mo Bradley has one more quick tip to save your pocket.
I would like you to save on the high cost of replacement printer ink and I implore you not to buy Original Brand replacement ink. This is the rip off of the century and the Original Brand companies are not even ashamed. Try this website http://www.usainktank.com/ for ink which is mostly under $4.00 each (even HP ink) or if they don't have your printer model try some of the other suppliers of off brand printer ink. In the past I have used http://www.4inks.com/ and http://www.123inks.com/. They all have good quality off brand cartridges that will save you so much money.
Pulling wire through conduit requires the right tools.
Conduit is a small diameter metal tube used to protect long runs of electrical wire in residential and commercial properties. Run along walls and ceilings, conduit is attached to the wall or ceiling for support. Pulling new electrical wires through a conduit can be necessary when installing new wire or upgrading and replacing older wire. Taking the time to safely and properly perform the task is essential to avoid potential injury while working with electrical wiring. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Turn off the power, if necessary, to any old lines in the conduit. Disconnect the old line from lights, switches or panels so they can be easily removed. Pull old wires from the conduit.
2. Hold the end of the new wires that will be fed through the conduit. Remove 1 to 2 inches of insulation from the end of each wire with a pair of wire cutters with strippers.
3. Feed a fish tape through the conduit from the opposite end of the conduit. Push the tape out the end of the conduit so the new electrical wires can be attached.
4. Feed the stripped end of each wire through the loop in the end of the fish tape. Bend the wire back and around itself. Repeat the process with each wire and tape the wires with electrical tape to hold them in place when pulled through the conduit.
5. Spray the wires with wire lubricant to help them slide through the conduit more easily. Pull the fish tape back through the conduit length slowly to avoid pulling the wire loose from the end of the fish tape.
Tags: fish tape, through conduit, each wire, through conduit, electrical wires, wires with
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, applying for a business license is the final step in the process of obtaining the permits, registrations and other licenses required for your particular business. A Virginia business license is actually issued by your local (city or county) government, but they will not process your application until you have completed the preliminary steps. You will need to get a Virginia business license for each business location. Fortunately, most of the preliminary documentation you must have is used for all locations, so you won't need to go through the entire process for each license.
Instructions
1. Begin by checking with your local zoning commission to be sure your proposed business location is zoned for your type of business. In some cases, you will need a special permit (to serve food or alcohol, for example). If it's a home-based business, you need to check to see if your business activities are allowed in a residential setting.
2. Apply to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). You need an EIN to file and pay federal payroll taxes, including Social Security, Medicare, and FUTA (unemployment) taxes. You may download the application and instructions from the IRS website (irs.gov).
3. Contact the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Registration to obtain any required licenses and certifications. Some business activities (such as health care and skilled trades) require specific educational credentials and/or certification. Their phone number is (804) 367-8500.
4. Register your business name. Sometimes called a Fictitious Business Name (FBN), a registered business name is required if you are doing business under any name other than your own. It allows you to accept checks and make other transactions in the name of the business. Once you have registered your business name, it cannot be used by anyone else. Contact the Virginia State Corporation Commission at (804) 371-9733 (outside Richmond 1-866-772-2551) for details and the county office where you need to apply for an FBN.
5. Get a Sales and Use Tax number from the Virginia Department of Taxation You can contact them at (804) 367-8037. You also must file with the Virginia Employment Commission to arrange payment of state unemployment (SUTA) taxes. Their phone number is (804) 786-1485. Finally, arrange for worker's compensation insurance through the Virginia Worker's Compensation Commission (toll free number 1-877-664-2566).
6. Get a Virginia business license from your city or county once you have obtained all the necessary documents (Steps 1-5). Normally this is handled through the local tax revenue office and your business license will also serve as your local tax identification number.
Tags: your business, business license, business name, Virginia business, Virginia business license, your local, business activities
If you retired from military service or became disabled while serving in the military, there are many sources of funding available to you that will pay for a lot more than just your medical expenses and a monthly pension. Below are a few ways you can apply to receive some of that extra cash.
Instructions
1. Check with the Department of Veterans Affairs to see if you qualify for a specially adapted housing grant. The VA will pay a large sum to assist you in modifying an existing structure to meet disability-related requirements. They will also pay for adapting a house that is classified as a temporary residence or is owned by a family member.
2. Ask the VA if you also qualify for a grant toward the purchase of a motor vehicle that is specially adapted to your disability.
3. Converse with the VA to see if you qualify for an annual clothing allowance. These are given to disabled veterans who use prosthetic or orthopedic appliances.
4. Check with your state to see if it offers additional benefits for retired or disabled veterans. Many states have several programs ranging from housing assistance to education funding to aid veterans.
5. Question the VA to see if you qualify for additional funding to support children under the age of 18 or children still in school up to the age of 23. Ex-wives of retired or disabled military personnel are also eligible for funds.
Landlords in the United States who refuse to fix damaged heating and cooling systems are in violation of the law and have the responsibility of fixing the system within a reasonable time frame. Tenants have the right to vacate the property within a certain amount of days after giving notice to their landlord of property damage if the landlord does not make repairs. The tenant will not pay a penalty for breaking his lease under these circumstances.
Considerations
All 50 states and the District of Columbia require landlords to maintain a habitable living environment for tenants, which complies with all health safety codes, including the maintenance and repair of structural components and heating, electrical and plumbing systems. In most states, renters can report their landlord to their local department of building inspections if the landlord refuses to fix a damaged heating and air system.
Notice
Before complaining to a local or state agency, tenants must give the landlord notice of the damaged system so that the landlord has the opportunity to make repairs. Tenants should send written notice to their landlord by certified mail so that they have proof of notice given, because some disreputable landlords may deny receiving verbal notice, making it difficult for a tenant to prove her case in court. Tenants should receive a response back from their landlord that outlines when repairs will occur within a reasonable amount of days after sending notice. For example, the state of California allows the tenant to send his landlord a written notice that requires a response within a reasonable time period (five to 10 days) that the tenant determines.
Time Frame
Some states set strict time limits on the time a landlord has to make repairs. For example, the state of Florida requires a landlord to fix the tenant's heating system within seven days of notice, or the tenant can move out. Landlords must make repairs to heating systems quickly in emergency situations, such as when weather conditions are below freezing and the tenant does not have an alternative heat source. Landlords can provide alternative housing if emergency conditions put the tenant's health in jeopardy.
Termination
If a landlord refuses to fix a heating system within a set number of days or a reasonable amount of time, the tenant may terminate his rental lease early with no penalties. The exact time frame depends upon the state. Many states allow a tenant to terminate his lease in 15 days or less after giving written notice if the landlord fails to make repairs. If the tenant terminates his lease early, the landlord must return his security deposit minus any charges for property damage.
Tags: make repairs, their landlord, heating system, system within, within reasonable
Roofs on mobile homes are generally made from a coated metal with an asphalt sealant around the pipes. When repairs to the roof are necessary, it does not have to be a complicated or expensive job. Fix the roof whenever you see cracks, weak spots or leaking. Here's how. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Set up a ladder near the roof so you can climb up and see what cracks need to be repaired. Start at one side of the roof and work your way across, checking for damage as you go.
2. Fill the cracks or holes. For small cracks, those less than 1/4-inch wide, fill the crack with the patching cement. If the crack is larger than 1/4 inch, insert glass fiber or melted plastic into the crack and smooth the cement across the crack. If there are open spaces around any pipes, fill the gap with the glass fiber or melted plastic. Try melting a plastic spatula to fill and smooth out the holes.
3. Spread at least two coats of cement sealer over the cracks in a clockwise direction. Let the sealer set for at least 12 hours. Check that it is completely dry before you continue.
4. Apply the roof coating. Use paintbrushes and paint rollers to cover the cement patches. Coat the whole roof to lessen the chance of future leaks or cracks. A regular elastomeric roof coating will last 10 years. A silver roof coating will last 5 years.
5. Paint the roof in the patched places if it was already painted. Check that the coating is dry before you begin to paint.
Tags: roof coating, around pipes, Check that, coating will, coating will last, fiber melted, fiber melted plastic
One of the hardest parts of owning and operating your own business is building clients. While businesses that have been in operation a few years will benefit from word-of-mouth referrals, finding new clients is always a challenge. Using flyers to promote your business is a great way to build brand awareness and alert potential clients to your services at a very low cost to you. Designing a great cleaning business flyer doesn't require an advanced knowledge of editing software or design principles; all you need to do is hit a few key points.
Instructions
1. Create a tag line for your company. Your tag line should be present on all of your advertising, as well as your business cards. Think of popular brands and their tag lines -- how many shoe companies, for instance, have posters that say "We Make Good Shoes" instead of a catchy slogan? Create a tag line that works for you and use it as the headline of your flyer, in large print.
2. Aim for clarity. A well-designed and attractive flyer isn't very helpful if it doesn't get the point across. Does your cleaning business do carpets? Are you a housekeeping service? Do you focus on windows or yard work? Make sure that potential clients can read your flyer and know exactly what services you provide.
3. Use negative space. In the design world, "negative space" describes all of the parts of an ad that don't have images or text. Negative space can draw attention to important parts of your flyer and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the design. Additionally, using negative space helps prevent overly wordy flyers. Think about flyers you've read in the past -- how many words does it take before you stop reading?
4. Create a reason for clients to contact you. As an example, a free estimate is a great thing to offer on your flyers. This provides a risk-free reason for clients to reach out to you and gives you a second chance to explain your services and sell your business. Make sure your contact information is easy to find.
Tags: your business, your flyer, cleaning business, Create line, Make sure
If you're ready to put in the time, you can do plenty of mobile home renovations on your own. Hire experts to perform renovations you're unable to complete, like rewiring the electrical system or moving water lines. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Remove the press board paneling and replace it with lightweight sheetrock. Wear protective masks so you breathe clean air. Consider adding fireproof insulation before you put up new sheetrock.
2. Pull out the carpeting and inspect the sub flooring. Replace any parts of the sub flooring that are damaged and lay a new wooden surface.
3. Tear down the existing ceiling and install a drop ceiling or sheetrock ceiling if you have enough joists to support the weight of the sheetrock.
4. Renovate the bathrooms and kitchen with new fixtures that match throughout the entire mobile home. Use white tubs and toilets in the bathrooms and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen.
5. Install granite counter tops in the kitchen and bathrooms. If a full granite slab is beyond your budget, consider using granite in the kitchen only, or opt for granite tiles.
6. Replace the kitchen cabinets with new cabinets. Choose some with glass doors and add spot lighting as well.
7. Change out the light fixtures throughout the mobile home with updated, matching fixtures to complete your renovation project.
Intex, the company behind several pool and pool accessory products, offers the Easy Set pool line. These pools are comprised of primarily a vinyl liner and inflatable top ring with the option to purchase a filter pump to keep the water clean. Because of the pool's simple design, most repairs will involve the pump mechanism or liner holes. Intex provides a few guidelines for performing these repairs. Contact Intex directly if necessary. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Tighten all hoses, seals, nozzles and connectors around the pump securely if the pump starts to leak. Inspect the hoses if a leak continues and replace any damaged ones.
2. Twist off the pump top and look for the O-ring, if the pump leaks around the filter. Replace the O-ring if necessary. Spray the filter cartridge with a garden hose if it appears dirty. Tighten the cover securely on top of the pump.
3. Remove the intake hose connecting the pool and the pump by turning the connecting nut counterclockwise. Empty the hose into the pool to clear clogs when the pump stops pumping water.
4. Twist off the pump top, remove the filter and replace with a new filter cartridge, if the pump becomes clogged or pumps slowly. The filter may become dirty or damaged and cause this issue.
5. Clean any holes in the vinyl liner with a cloth dampened with a solution of water and mild liquid detergent. Cut a circular vinyl patch about twice as large as the hole. Apply the included adhesive to the back of the patch and center it over the hole. Hold the patch on the hole for a few minutes until it sticks to the liner completely.
Leaky roofs, squeaky faucets and drafty windows may not seem like such a big deal when you're first buying a home, but fixing up a house can drain your bank account fast. But don't stress yet. Whether you're just starting out or a long-time homeowner, you may be eligible for a grant to rehabilitate your home. Does this Spark an idea?
Purpose
Rehabilitation grants are offered by a variety of government and non-profit agencies for individuals to repair their homes either before or after purchase. Grants may be open-ended, offering the homeowner a sum of money to fix a wide range of items, or they may have strict regulations, stating a specific use for the money, like a new energy-efficient furnace.
Types
Housing rehabilitation grants are available from government and, in some cases, non-profit agencies at the federal, state and local levels. The federal government offers a variety of housing grants through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for individuals living in urban areas, and through the U.S. Department of Agriculture for those in more rural places.
A number of states, like California, offer grants and low-interest loans through programs sponsored by both the federal and state government, but amounts and criteria for these loans vary by state.
Local programs, such as the Homeownership Center of Greater Cincinnati, also offer grants and loans for home repair to individuals who meet their strict requirements. Check with your city and county offices to learn more about local opportunities in your area.
Qualifications and Requirements
Qualifications and requirements to receive a grant vary by program and the agency awarding the grant. Many grants through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development require applicants to be either low- or middle-income families and to make below a certain income level based on their figures. Other grants, such as the Home Repair Grant offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, require that the applicant be over age 62.
Most agencies and programs also require that applicants live in and keep the rehabilitated residence as their primary home for at least three years after being awarded a housing rehabilitation grant.
Paying It Back
One of the best things about a grant is you never have to pay it back. Unlike loans, once you've been approved for a grant, there is no repayment schedule. This is one of the reasons why many home rehabilitation grants are more readily available to individuals who wouldn't be able to pay back a loan, like those with fixed or low-incomes.
Other Housing Rehabilitation Funding
If you're not eligible for a housing rehabilitation grant through a federal, state or local program, you may able to receive a low-interest loan. Both the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Agriculture offer loans at interest rates as low as 1 percent to individuals who fail to qualify for their grant programs.
Tags: Department Agriculture, Department Housing, Department Housing Urban, federal state, Housing Urban, Housing Urban Development
If you don't like IE8, you can always reinstall IE7
Internet Explorer 7 is a popular browser that many people prefer over newer versions. Because Vista shares some system components with Internet Explorer 7, IE7 is not as easy to reinstall as other browsers. Microsoft does not provide a Vista download for IE7, but you can still reinstall it by removing IE8. Once you remove Internet Explorer 8, Vista will automatically restore a copy of Internet Explorer 7. You can use this method to switch between different versions of Internet Explorer without experiencing any adverse effects.
Instructions
Instructions
1. Open the Vista "Start" menu and click "Control Panel" to open the control panel.
2. Click "Programs and Features". A list of installed programs will appear.
3. Click "View Installed Updates" (located on the left of the screen). Vista will display a list of all Microsoft system updates that have been applied to the operating system.
4. Locate "Internet Explorer 8" in the list of installed updates and double click that entry. A final confirmation menu will appear asking if you want to uninstall IE8.
5. Click "Yes" to begin the installation process. Follow the system prompts and Vista will reinstall Internet Explorer 7.
6. Restart your computer and open IE7. All of your old browser settings should be intact.
Tags: Internet Explorer, Vista will, Explorer Vista, Internet Explorer Vista, list installed, reinstall Internet Explorer, will appear
A professional home inspection offers a technical eye for unseen problems with a future home. Home buyers benefit from home inspections by requesting that the seller fix needed repairs on their home before closing the sale. Asking the seller to fix the repairs is key to saving the buyer money, as money for the repairs will have costs in addition to the home purchase price. Requesting repairs is where real negotiations come in. The seller may not be willing to fix all of the needed repairs or may balk at fixing them as a negotiating tool.
Instructions
1. Ask your real estate agent to send the entire inspection report to the seller for comment. Ask that the seller initial to confirm review of all items on the inspection. The seller may refuse to do this as it could be construed as recognition of all problems. Consider asking the seller to comment instead.
2. Review the seller's remarks. Decide whether to insist that all repairs be made or to focus on having several select repairs completed. If you list all repairs, be sure that you understand that negotiation means there will need to be some compromise with the seller on some repairs. Be wary of your real estate agent working against you to list all repairs. The agent's main concern is that the deal goes through. Reassure the agent if you understand that not all of these repairs will be made. Otherwise, remind yourself to stand firm.
3. Request the specific repairs desired on the required forms. Some states have specific forms that must be completed when purchasing a house, of which a repair request addendum is one. All needed repairs listed will need to be disclosed to any future buyers should you back out of the deal.
4. Counter any refusals or offers by the seller as suits you. Focus on obtaining major repairs or the most expensive repairs from the seller. Home warranties often will not cover defects that were known at the time of purchase, so do not expect to receive compensation for major repairs there. Minor repairs can more easily made over time.
Tags: needed repairs, estate agent, list repairs, major repairs, real estate, real estate agent, repairs will
If you laptop freezes and you have important data you don't want to lose, there are a few possibilities for unfreezing your laptop. If the problem persists or if your laptop has to be shut down, there are still several things you can do. A frozen laptop can be very frustrating, but with a little patience and knowing the below tips you can severely cut down on your stress in the situation and fix the problem.
Instructions
1. Wait it out. Many times people panic when their laptop freezes, but a little bit of time can often be all that you need. Many times the computer is trying to process too much information at once. While this can lead to your laptop freezing, it may not be permanent. Just sit the laptop down and don't do anything. Come back in about 5 minutes and you may discover that the laptop has finished processing something and is ready to use again. This can be especially true when going to certain websites that are slow or have a many pictures or programs to load. If the laptop does come back from being frozen, be sure to save your data and close any extra programs that you don't need. Once you have saved everything you need, restart the laptop.
2. Use the old three-fingered pinch. Hold down the "Ctrl" key, the "alt" key and the "delete" key at the same time. This should bring up the Windows Task Manager. In the Task Manager, go under the "applications" tab and select the offending program, then click on "end task." Sometimes ending the task will not work and you will need to go into the processes tab. Under "processes," select the program such us iexplorer.exe and click "end process." Be careful ending the process because sometimes it is not clear which application is controlled by which process and you may close an important system process by accident.
3. Reboot. This may sound fatalistic, but don't worry too much. Sometimes there is nothing you can do to a frozen laptop except reboot. However, all is not lost because some programs such as Microsoft Word have a recovery program, so that when you restart the program after a crash it will bring all or part of your lost document.
4. Clean out your startup files and programs. If your laptop continues to freeze and you are looking for a long-term solution, then start removing programs. Go to the command prompt and type in "msconfig" (without the quotes) in Windows XP; in Windows Vista you may have to search for "msconfig," then go to the startup tab and uncheck programs that you do not need or want to run every time you start the computer. After this, go to the control panel under "add/remove" programs and remove any programs that you either did not install and do not want or are just resource hogs that you can do without.
Tags: your laptop, programs that, that need, frozen laptop, laptop freezes, Many times, programs that need
Calculate the cost of repairing damage to the house before formally negotiating.
Bank-owned property represents a real deal to a buyer who does her research and negotiates the final price. A bank may own property for various reasons, but bank properties are most often a result of foreclosure. If no one buys the property at the public foreclosure auction, the lender ends up as the new owner. Banks typically want to sell property as quickly as possible because of the extra responsibilities and costs associated with maintenance.
Instructions
1. Research the property. Contact local real estate agencies and ask for recent sales lists in the same area. Compare the property to similar properties -- such as the same number of bathrooms and bedrooms -- to set a range for the approximate market value. Note the property may have damage that lowers the value.
2. Contact the local tax assessor. Ask for a sales price history for the property and property tax information, including taxes due and the amounts.
3. Contact the bank. Ask for permission for a home inspection and appraisal. You typically will have to pay the inspection and appraisal fees. Bank-owned properties typically sell as is, but knowing the problems with the home and having the current value determined by a professional helps you set a reasonable offer range.
4. Schedule and attend the home inspection and appraisal. Contact local real estate agencies and the state real estate department for a list of names if you need to find a local inspector and appraiser. Ask the inspector and appraiser for written and signed reports.
5. Look at the inspection report, the appraiser's estimate of the current value, the approximate market value range and the tax data. Use the information to set a price range for your negotiations. Setting a price range stops you from overbidding on the property. For example, a $120,000 home that needs $50,000 in repairs becomes an instant loss if you bid over $70,000 for it.
6. Get a mortgage preapproval letter if you need a loan to purchase the home. The letter shows the bank you have financing. Apply to a local bank of your choice for the preapproval letter.
7. Prepare a written offer. Start with the minimum price you decided on. Include facts from the home inspection and appraisal reports to back up your offer. Note you have loan preapproval if needed. Send copies of the inspection and appraisal reports and the preapproval with the offer.
8. Review counteroffers from the bank. Note the bank's reason for asking for more money than you offered. Check the inspection and appraisal reports to see if the reports contradict the bank's reason.
9. Counteroffer with a price higher than before but lower than the bank is asking. Address the bank's reason for asking for a higher price and your reason for not accepting it. For example, if the bank is asking for $10,000 more than you offered because the home has a sunroom but your inspection report states the sunroom is seriously damaged, note this and the repair cost in the counteroffer.
10. Continue making and reviewing counteroffers until you reach a deal or hit the maximum price you're willing to pay. Consider adding concessions to your counteroffers, such as stating you will pay the closing costs, to entice the bank.
Tags: inspection appraisal, appraisal reports, bank reason, Contact local, home inspection, home inspection appraisal
When you receive an offer, you have three options: accept the offer, reject the offer, or counter the offer. Most successful contracts - those that are good for the buyer and the seller - are the result of careful negotiation.
Instructions
1. Request written verification (a financial prequalification) of the buyer's ability to purchase your home.
2. Review the entire offer. Make sure you are aware of any contingencies or requirements that might make the offer unacceptable. Discuss the offer with a real estate broker or lawyer.
3. Consider the contract as a whole and work all the costs down to a bottom line. A lower sales price can sometimes net you more money.
4. Write your responses on a standard counteroffer form, which can be purchased at a bookstore or a realtor store. Write down only the items that you wish changed, such as the price, length of escrow, amount you are willing to pay for repairs, and so forth.
5. Present your counteroffer to the buyer. Be sure to include a date and time by which an answer must be received or the counteroffer will expire. (Everything you want to be part of the final contract must be in the counter offer.)
6. Examine each counteroffer (you may receive a counteroffer to your counteroffer!) as if it were a brand-new offer. Any terms not addressed on the counteroffer will remain the same from the original offer.
Tags: counter offer, counteroffer will, your counteroffer
The date of a propane tank is on the side of the tank.
Requalifying your propane tank can make the difference between powering your home and living with no appliances and cold water. All propane tanks and cylinders must be inspected and requalified within 12 years of the date they were manufactured. If your propane tank does not pass the inspection test, you will be forced to purchase a new tank. Knowing requalify your propane tank can help you do it again, since you must go through the process every five to seven years after the initial requalification. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Check the side of the propane tank. Engraved in the tank is the tank's manufacture date. If it has been 12 years from this date, you must requalify your tank.
2. Access the Propane Safety website, and then put your ZIP code into the "Enter ZIP code" text box. Choose "Yes" or "No" to the "Are You Currently a Propane Customer?" question.
3. Choose what your propane is used for. For example, if the propane tank is used for residential proposes, such as giving energy to your household; choose the "Residential Services" box. If the tank is used to power up kitchen appliances or water heaters, choose the "Appliances" box. Click the "Find a ZIP" link to continue.
4. Choose a company from the specifications that you chose. Write down their number and contact them. Talk to the representative and ask them to set an appointment for them to come out and requalify your propane tank.
5. Wait for the date of the requalification. The specialist will inspect the propane tank by checking the outside of the tank and figuring out if it is able to hold propane.
Tags: propane tank, your propane, your propane tank, requalify your, requalify your propane, tank used
Ford's version of the minivan, the Aerostar premiered with the 1986 model.
Signs that indicate the need to replace a heater core include coolant in the floor area of the Ford Aerostar, and greasy film at the bottom of the windshield. If not replaced, windows will begin to fog and floor boards will begin to rust, which could lead to overheating due to loss of antifreeze. Replacing the heater core in the Ford Aerostar takes a couple of tools and a few of hours to complete.
Instructions
Replacing the Heater Core
1. Open the valve at the bottom of the radiator by removing the radiator cap to drain the cooling system. Always drain the coolant into a container that can be sealed and reused if it's not several years old. When draining the coolant, remember animals are attracted to antifreeze, and will drink any that is left in an open container or on the ground. This will make pets sick and could be fatal.
2. Disconnect the heater hoses from the heater core using tool T85T-18539-AH, to compress the couplers. The T85T-18539-AH tool or a comparable tool is available at most auto-parts stores; some auto parts stores offer the borrowing or rental of tools. The heater hoses connect to the heater core tubes on the fire wall passenger side of the engine compartment. Plug the heater hoses with small pieces of a rag to stop any coolant loss while removing the heater core.
3. While working in the passenger compartment, lay an old towel on the floorboard in case any coolant spills. Remove the six screws holding the heater core access door to the blower assembly; remove the access door. Depress the retainer clips at the top of the heater core and pull the heater core toward the bottom of the passenger seat, removing it from the blower assembly.
4. Remove the new heater core from the manufacturer's box. Make sure it matches the old one. Position the new heater core carefully into the blower assembly, snapping the top of the heater core into the retainer clips. Install the heater core access door to the blower assembly with the six screws that were removed.
5. Reconnect the heater hoses to the new heater core tubes inside the engine compartment. Push on the heater hose coupler until it locks. Tighten the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator. Fill the radiator with coolant. Start the Ford Aerostar, leaving the radiator cap off and turning the heater on high. Watch for coolant level to drop in the radiator, then turn the ignition off. Top off with coolant and replace the radiator cap.
6. This is a good time to check for leaks. Start the vehicle and let it warm up with the heater on high. While waiting for the vehicle to warm up, drain the coolant from the old heater core into a suitable container. Check for leaks at the hose connections and under the dash on the passenger side. If there are no leaks, discard the old heater core and towel from the passenger floorboard.
Tags: heater core, blower assembly, Ford Aerostar, heater hoses, access door