Mobile Home Value Guide

Mobile Home Value Guide

The value of a mobile home can vary according to different situations. Where the home is, what it is made of, the amount of land it is on all play contributing factors to the value of the home. There are ways to calculate an overall value of your used mobile home. Does this Spark an idea?

Look at Tax Records

If you know which mobile home you are trying to value, go to your county tax office and find out what the taxes on that property were the previous year. The county can tell you how the taxes are calculated. Property taxes are in direct proportion to how much your county thinks your home is worth.

Type of Land

Is the mobile home on its own land? Homes on leased land will be worth far less than homes with their own land. The size of the lot it is on and where the home is located also play a role. If it is in an up and coming neighborhood that is growing, then it will be worth significantly more than the same home in a different area. If it is not on its own land, the rule of thumb is that it will depreciate over the years, at a rate of 5 percent.

Condition of the Home

The condition of the home plays a lot into the value of the home. If there are a lot or repairs to be made, that should be deducted from the value of the home. If a lot of home improvements have been completed, this ups the value of the home. The better the condition, the higher the value of the home.

Compare your Home

Compare the mobile home to others in the area. The same floor plan, same conditions and same area will help you judge the value of your mobile home. There are also real estate agents who can pull up prior sales to see what comparable mobile homes are selling at. You also can call in an assessor to calculare the value of your home as well.

Check the Blue Book

There is a blue book of values for mobile homes listing the base price of a mobile home. Typically, your local bank will have blue books or will be able to locate one for you. This helps give you an idea of how valuable the home is in different conditions.

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Replace Wall Paneling And Window Sill On A Trailer Or Mobile Home

It is possible for a mobile home to look just as contemporary as a site-built home.

Mobile homes often have wood paneling as a standard wall covering. If you live in an older home with this dated look, it is possible to remove and replace with drywall. With a little elbow grease and help from your friends, you can update the look of your mobile home so it is comparable to any site-built home. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Replacing Drywall

1. Remove all wood paneling and joint strips using a pry bar. This will expose the studs of the mobile home as well as the insulation. Remove any existing windowsills. For energy efficiency, remove old insulation at this time.

2. Remove any remaining paneling nails for hassle-free drywall installation. The walls need to be as smooth as possible when you begin drywalling.

3. Install new insulation. Mobile homes are notorious for losing heat because of improper insulation. Speak to an employee at your local home-improvement store for suggestions on the proper R-value for your region. R-value is the rating of thermal resistance in the insulation. The higher the number, the more insulation properties exist.

4. Hang new drywall using drywall screws. Use 1/4-inch drywall to avoid placing excess strain on the structure of the mobile home. Measure all window and doorway openings and attempt to place cuts near the edge of drywall sheets. To cut, place drywall on a firm surface and cut either by scoring with a razor and snapping the sheet or by using a drywall saw.

5. Tape all drywall seams. To do this, place a thin layer of joint compound on drywall and lay the tape over the joint. Place another thin coat over the top of the tape to secure in place. Also, use a putty knife to fill in all the screw holes on the drywall.

6. Sand all joint compound smooth. Every imperfection will show when you paint, so make sure the wall is as smooth as possible before priming.

7. Prime and paint walls. It is imperative to prime the walls before painting. This will prevent the drywall from absorbing the paint.

Replacing Sills

8. Measure the depth of the existing windowsill. If you want the new sill to be flush with the drywall, take into account the thickness of the drywall. If you would like a slight overhang, similar to many site-built homes, add the overhang to your measurement.

9. Select new sills from a home-improvement store. Many stores have prefabricated sills that you can cut to the width of your window, stain and install. When you replace the sills, also change the molding around the windows to further update the look of your mobile home.

10. Install new sills after painting the drywall. You risk dripping on the sills if you paint the walls after the sills are installed.

Tags: mobile home, home-improvement store, joint compound, look your, look your mobile

Find A Job As An Attorney In New York City

New York features one of the top concentrations of attorneys, and it is also one of the top paying areas for attorneys in the U.S., according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2008 there were nearly 70,000 lawyers working in New York state; labor statisticians note that the bulk of these lawyers were working in jobs in the New York City metropolitan area. Rely on three kinds of resources to find a job as an attorney in New York City.

Instructions

1. Connect with a legal recruiter. Legal recruitment firms, placement consultants and attorney recruiters in New York City can help in your search for a job. Recruiter firms such as Mestel and Company or BCG Recruitment post job listings, offer career advice and share your resume with law firms or other organizations looking for attorneys to hire. Legal recruiters also can help you identify contract law jobs or short-term legal placements while you conduct a more long-term search for a job at a New York City law firm.

2. Contact New York law firms directly. If you specialize in a particular area of the law, or if you have specific New York law firms where you want to work, contact the firm recruiters directly. Major law firms in New York City post information about their recruitment cycles, hiring criteria and human resources contact information on their websites; for smaller firms, you will need to call the firm's offices directly and ask to speak to a human resources representative or area recruiter. Although some firms have a specific recruitment cycle when they hire new attorneys -- such as only hiring in the spring or fall -- many will still accept resumes to hold for review when the hiring cycle begins. Be sure to ask each law firm's recruiter if they will accept resumes outside the recruitment cycle, or if they offer short-term contract positions in the periods outside recruitment times.

3. Use resources developed by state and national professional organizations. Professional groups that represent lawyers in the U.S. and in New York publish career resources, job boards and advice to help you find an attorney job in New York City. The New York State Bar Association publishes listings of open attorney jobs in New York City, and it allows you to upload a resume for review by recruiters and hiring directors. The American Bar Association also offers a schedule of local career fairs, advice on getting your ideal attorney job and job listings by city and state.

Tags: York City, accept resumes, attorney York, attorney York City, have specific, human resources

Federal Grants For Energyefficient Furnaces

Space heating can be a very energy-intensive part of operating an industrial, commercial or residential building.

A great deal of the energy consumed in running a facility or powering a home is used for heating. In homes, for example, the Department of Energy estimates that some 41 percent of expended energy is used specifically for space heating. For this reason, energy efficiency upgrades like an improved furnace can yield tremendous savings. The government, through agencies like the Department of Energy, provides funding to assist with these upgrades.

Recovery Act Grants for Industrial Energy Efficiency

Industrial Efficiency grants help manufacturing and other production industries make better use of their energy budget.

One major grant program that has provided funding for energy efficiency upgrades is the Industrial Energy Efficiency grant through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act. This program supports projects ranging from weatherization improvements like insulation and window upgrades to space heater upgrades and improved furnace efficiency. The funding from this program also assists with improvements that help industrial operations get more out of their furnaces through cogeneration--a practice where the waste heat from generating electricity can be used to warm facilities. As a result of these sorts of improvements, industrial operations can often reduce their operating costs and meet their commitments to the environment.

Weatherization Assistance Program

In addition to furnace replacement, the Weatherization Assistance Program helps low-income families upgrade insulation and other weatherproofing.

Another grant opportunity funded through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act is the Weatherization Assistance Program, a state-administered investment in improving the energy efficiency of homes and businesses through upgrades to insulation, improvements to housing, and furnace replacement. Low-income households can be eligible for direct assistance under this program in improving the heating appliances of their homes. Most of this funding is made available through state and local social service agencies. Many of these programs are implemented at the county level, but some of this assistance is offered to low-income households through local networks of non-profits and charities targeting homeowners.

Housing and Urban Development Green Retrofit Program

Some of the Federal grant programs are designed to help with energy efficiency retrofits--including heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrades--in publicly supported housing. The Green Retrofit Program administered through the Department of Housing and Urban Development provides grant funding for multi-family housing facilities that assist low-income, elderly, and disabled people. Like the Weatherization Assistance Program, the projects funded under the Green Retrofit Program are fairly diverse: money is available for furnace replacements and upgrades as well as improvements to water heaters, doors and windows, insulation, and ventilation equipment. Grant applications for this program are accepted through Housing and Urban Development, who determines the eligibility and feasibility of projects before awarding them with funding.

Tags: Assistance Program, Weatherization Assistance, Weatherization Assistance Program, energy efficiency, Green Retrofit, Green Retrofit Program

Repair A Concrete Driveway With Large Potholes

Concrete driveways can become cracked with large potholes.

A concrete driveway can acquire large potholes and cracks over time, because of the freezing and thawing of water under the driveway. These potholes can damage your vehicle's tires, so the potholes should be repaired as soon as possible. Putting off repairing the potholes can cause the damage to become worse, possibly resulting in the driveway needing to be replaced. Regular maintenance to the concrete driveway can prevent excess damage, which can save you money. Potholes in a concrete driveway can be repaired in a couple of hours. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Sweep any loose dirt and chunks of concrete out of the pothole with a broom. Spray the pothole with a garden hose to thoroughly clean the pothole and remove any remaining debris. Allow the pothole to thoroughly dry.

2. Put on a mask, waterproof gloves and waterproof boots to protect you while working with concrete. Pour a bag of premixed concrete in a large bucket, then add water according to the manufacturer's instructions. Thoroughly mix the concrete and water with a shovel.

3. Pour the concrete mixture into the pothole and allow the mortar to set up for an hour. Then use a trowel to smooth the concrete into the cracks and remove any excess.

4. Allow the concrete to completely dry over several days. Lightly mist the pothole with water, and keep it covered with a plastic sheet. The slower the concrete patch cures, the stronger it will be.

Tags: pothole with, concrete driveway, large potholes

Government Grants For Foreclosed Homes

You may be able to stop home foreclosures through government grants.

Government grants are available to alleviate or stop home foreclosures. These grants are offered through HUD, the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

According to the HUD website, the Office of Departmental Grants Management and Oversight (ODGMO) is responsible for internal controls and management of HUD programs, including streamlining grant-processing and procedures. Although there are too many states to list here, you may want to check your own state for its grant-funding opportunities for foreclosed homes.

Registering With Grants.gov

To apply for federally issued grants that are meant for private citizens in home-foreclosure situations, you will need to register with Grants.gov. You must then obtain a DUNS (Data Universal Number System) number and register with the CCR (Central Contract Registration).

All grant programs are not available in all states. Typically, the federal government assists states and municipalities, counties and cities with funding that may become available for individuals or private citizens. These funds are usually turned over to agencies and other entities, such as lenders and banks that help borrowers, purchasers and/or homeowners stay in their homes. In addition, these programs are not available for second-owner homes (in other words, the borrower-applicant is not living in his or her primary property).

"HOPE for Homeowners" Grant Program

HUD offers a program called, "HOPE for Homeowners." It provides 30-year fixed-rate mortgages through FHA-backed loans. You must qualify for an FHA (Federal Housing Administration) insured loan in order to qualify for the HOPE program.

If you are struggling with your current housing payments and are still solvent (not legally bankrupt), HUD will help you move to a home that is more affordable. Your monthly payments and interest can be lowered through this "move-out-move-in" refinancing program, thereby allowing you to transition into a home that you can afford. (You do not have to register at the Grants.gov site for this type of funding assistance.) The initial certification package contains three items: a request form, a form for the IRS tax document 4506T-EZ, and a form for income-verification.

"Making Home Affordable" Grant Program

You do not have to register with Grants.gov for this type of foreclosure assistance. This program offers a few assistance programs for affordable home refinancing if your home has decreased in value and you are unable to take advantage of traditional means of obtaining a lower interest rate. There are loan-modification programs for those whose interest rates have increased or they have suffered a drop in income; and second lien modification for lowering second mortgage payments for those who are eligible for a primary loan modification. Other foreclosure alternatives include a one-time $3,000 relocation payment for those who must sell their home via a short sale or deed-in-lieu (DIL) of foreclosure.

Tags: register with, Grant Program, have register, home foreclosures, home that, HOPE Homeowners

Upgrade A Mobile Home

With imagination and careful planning, an old mobile home can become an updated contemporary home.

While a mobile home is inexpensive compared with a stick-built home, you can upgrade it inside and out with modern materials and paint. Taking time to research and determine a style, such as contemporary, mid-century modern, country, shabby chic or eclectic, speeds the process of renovating and redecorating the space. Repurposing and reusing your existing furnishings helps control the budget. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Start with the Exterior

1. Hire a home inspector. An inspection of the structure, plumbing, wiring and roof provides a realistic look at the amount of work that the mobile home may require to make it a safe and livable space. Old wiring in both mobile homes and vintage houses should be upgraded in order to carry the extra load of modern appliances.

2. Install new energy efficient windows and new siding over the old sides if the budget allows.

3. Power wash, prime and paint the outside in a neutral color scheme with a contrasting trim color. Do not forget to paint the porch.

4. Plant a new landscape around the mobile home, concealing the skirting and other obvious indicators of the home's humble origins. Simple trellises or arbors with flowering vines or grapevines add a cottage look to the garden. A picket fence is also a nice finishing touch.

Refurbish and Redecorate the Interior

5. Measure each room and draw a floor plan. Measure the furniture that you plan to use in your updated decor . Make paper cutouts of the furniture, to scale, so you can arrange and rearrange the furniture.

6. Scrub the walls and ceiling with TSP cleanser. Wipe down with clean water.

7. Spackle the little grooves in the paneling, and sand smooth. Then prime and paint with light, neutral tones to match your chosen decor.

8. Remove the carpets and clean the subfloor.

9. Install either laminate or engineered hardwood floors. If the budget is extremely tight, sheet vinyl is available in a wood grain that is very realistic as well as durable. Install sheet vinyl or ceramic tile in the kitchen and bathroom. Install new baseboards.

10. Replace the kitchen appliances with good quality, brand-name appliances. High-end stainless steel appliances are not necessary, a simple white is clean and efficient.

11. Install good quality laminate counters or granite tiles as a frugal alternative to custom granite counters.

12. Sand and paint the cabinets or reface if necessary. New handles on doors and drawers dress up the kitchen.

13. Decorate in your chosen style.

Tags: mobile home, good quality, prime paint, sheet vinyl, your chosen

Historic Renovation Grants

A historic renovation grant can help you fund the restoration of a building like this.

While the United States is a relatively new country when compared to its former mother country, England, a rich history does exist which can be found in its architecture. Preserving these buildings means preserving our country's past. If you are interested in renovating a historic building, you can apply for a number of historic renovation grants that can help you fund your project. Does this Spark an idea?

National Trust Preservation Fund

This historic renovation grant is targeted to nonprofit organizations and public agencies. Your organization can receive from $500 to $5,000 in matching funds for educational programs as well as preservation planning. The funds can also be used toward paying a professional to help with architecture, engineering, fund-raising and other programs. Information can be obtained from a variety of offices around the United States, including:

National Trust Preservation Fund

Northeast Field Office

7 Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Fourth Floor

Boston, MA 02109

617-523-0885

preservationnation.org

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors

This grant is for houses that are on the National Historic Landmark list. If this applies to your building, this grant can be used to restore the interior. The grants rage from $2,500 to $10,000 and are available to individuals as well as business that are for-profit. Information is available from a variety of offices around the country, including:

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund

National Trust for Historic Preservation

Southern Office

456 King St.

Charleston, SC 29503

preservationnation.org

Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation

This historic renovation grant is for both nonprofits and public agencies. According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the grant is for buildings that will "contribute to the preservation or the recapture of an authentic sense of place." These grants range from $2,500 to $10,000. You can find more about the fund by contacting one of a number of nationwide field offices, including:

The Johanna Favrot Fund

National Trust for Historic Preservation

Western Office

5 Third St., Suite 707

San Francisco, CA 94103

415-947-0692

preservationnation.org

Save America's Treasures Grant

This grant is available to those whose homes are on the National Register of Historic Places. If your house qualifies, then you can receive money from the National Park Service. However, since this is a matching grant, should you receive a certain amount of money from the Save America's Treasures Grant, you need to match it, dollar for dollar.

Save America's Treasures Grant

National Park Service

1849 C St. NW

Washington, DC 20240

202-354-2020, ext. 1

nps.gov

Tags: National Trust, Historic Preservation, America Treasures, America Treasures Grant, historic renovation grant, National Trust Historic

Homemade Storm Shelter From A Shipping Container

Shipping container shelters should not be buried more than 2 feet underground.

Storm shelters are excellent investments, especially if you live in an area where tornadoes or dangerous weather is a fact of life. Shipping containers make durable storm shelters that need few alterations to make them functional, with the added benefit that they can double as a panic room or bomb shelter. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the dimensions of the shipping container. Add 1 foot to the width and length and 2 feet to the height of the container.

2. Place all the large items you want in the container and bolt them down. Once you drop the container in the ground, the only entrance will be 4-feet wide.

3. Cut a 4-foot wide square out of the top of the container with the Sawzall. Lay 4 of the 2-by-4 planks around the square. These boards will form the frame for the exit. Drill out two holes in the top of the container 2 feet from each end. The holes should be the diameter of the pipes. Attach the pipe mounts over each hole.

4. Screw the 90-degree pipe elbows onto one end of each pipe. Attach the pipes to the pipe mounts on the top of the container. Use the metal screws to attach the metal sheets to the frame on the top of the container. This creates a 4-foot-wide square entrance and exit tunnel. Brace the sides with 2-foot long 2 by 4-inch boards at each corner. Attach the other 2 by 4s around the top of the metal sheets.

5. Wrap the exit tunnel with plastic sheeting and staple it to the 2-by-4s to hold it in place.

6. Excavate the hole for the container to the adjusted measurements you created in "Step 1." A shovel can be used to dig the hole; however a back hoe makes the job go much faster. Attach the towing chain to the truck and the shipping container. Drag the container into the hole.

7. Pour concrete around the container to seal it in. Let the concrete dry. When the concrete is dry, Pack the rest of the hole with the dirt you excavated.

8. Attach the ladder to the 2-by-4s on the top and bottom of the exit tunnel with the brackets the ladder came with. Attach the hinges to the 2-by-4s on the top of the exit tunnel and attach the other side to the 5-foot metal sheet. Mount the handles and latches on each side of the metal sheet. This will help you open and close the entrance.

Tags: exit tunnel, exit tunnel with, metal sheet, metal sheets, pipe mounts, tunnel with

Mobile Home Parks In Warner Robins Georgia

Mobile home parks usually come with a small plot of land.

Covering 22.9 square miles, Warner Robins, Georgia sits in Houston County, with a small portion in Peach County. As of 2010, Warner Robins has a population of 66,588 people. Named after Brigadier General Augustine Warner Robins, the city was founded in 1942 and was named the best town to raise a family in Georgia by "Business Week" magazine in 2009. Anyone seeking a mobile home in this town shouldn't have a problem, since Warner Robins contains several mobile home parks. Does this Spark an idea?

North

Summit Ridge at 918 Collins Road is in the northern section of Warner Robins, GA, in a residential area that is away from all shopping and businesses. Spring Lake at 305 Brantley Road, Eagle Trace Mobile Home Park at 142 Eagle Trace Road and Country Colony Mobile Home Park at 110 Deborah Drive, are located in the northwest part of the town, off North Houston Lake Blvd. and close to Route 41. Wilshire Estates at 224 Billy Avenue and Meadow Haven Mobile Home Park at 2208 Elberta Road are located near Bill Peaby Memorial Park, also in a residential area.

South

Pine View Estates Mobile Home Park. 225 Creek Cove Trail, and Oak Grove Mobile Home Park, 125 Wall Street, are near International City Golf Course. Walker Mobile Home Park is located at 111 Hickory Street, near Miller Elementary school and Houston Mall Shopping Center

East

Holiday Park Riviera Mobile Home Community, 319 Brady Drive, is near the Books A Million on Carl Vinsen Parkway. Rivera Park at 1233 Kingswood Drive and Red Fox Run on Elaine Drive are in the middle of town near the Walmart Super Center and restaurants such as Cracker Barrel and Carina's Italian Restaurant. Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park, 36 Green Street, is located near Robins Air Force Base and Seaways Seafood Market. Capri Mobile Home Park at 779 Walnut Street is conveniently located near interstate 129.

West

Lands-End Mobile Home Park on Landings Drive is within walking distance of Starbucks. Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park at 36 Green Street is down the road from Domino's Pizza. Robins Village, 116 Sherry Lane, is in a residential area, close to the Thai Pepper Restaurant and Walmart.

Tags: Home Park, Mobile Home Park, Warner Robins, Mobile Home, Mobile Home, located near

Troubleshooting For Lcd Flat Screen Tv Screen Pixelation

Television pixelation is a picture anomaly that takes the form of small blocks moving rapidly. Some call it the "block" or "jigsaw puzzle" effect. However you describe it, it is an annoying problem that can be caused by multiple factors. Use these tips and tricks to ensure that pixelation doesn't ruin your next LCD television viewing experience.

What it is

Pixelation occurs when the incoming signal to your TV is weak or incomplete. As a result, the TV doesn't have all the data it needs to process the image incorrectly, and pixelation occurs. In layman terms, it can be thought of as the TV's manifestation an incomplete image. The causes of this problem usually stems from incomplete or incorrect digital or analog signals.

fix it

A weak cable signal is the most likely culprit. If your pixelation problem is accompanied by sound hitching, trace the signal to the source. If you watch digital cable TV, make sure your cables are plugged in securely to your cable box and that your incoming cable signal is of sufficient strength. Call your cable provider in order to measure this.

If you watch over-the-air HD channels on your LCD television and are experiencing pixelation, it might be an antenna issue. Install an external or rooftop antenna to increase your signal strength.

If you experience pixelation while watching DVDs, a scratched disc may be the culprit. Clean the offending DVD with a dry cloth by wiping from the inside edge to the outside edge. Never wipe in a circular motion around the disc. If your DVD is badly damaged, buy a DVD repair kit that includes the necessary tools to fill in the deep scratches on your DVD. If your DVD player has problems playing all DVDs, it may be an issue to the laser transport on the player.

prevent it

When dealing with cable signals in your house, it is important to remember there is only enough "signal" to go around. If you have multiple TVs and multiple splitters that snake your cable into every room in the house, you may experience weak signals. Coaxial cable splitters reduce the strength of the signal by half, so remove these whenever possible. Have a cable employee visit your house to identify and solve these problems to increase your cable's signal strength.

Buy a quality DVD player. DVD players in the sub $100 range will not last as long as nicer players. Research before buying a DVD player and get the best one you can afford. It will play damaged DVDs more willingly, and you'll be rewarded with better picture quality and a prolonged life without pixelation.

Tags: your cable, cable signal, increase your, signal strength, your house

Get A Historical Restoration Grant

Get a Historical Restoration Grant

Restoring an older home takes a lot of patience. Depending on the age of your home, you may qualify for a historic restoration grant, which will aid in the financial burden of a home restoration project. After researching the history and the age of your home, contact your local courthouse or homebuilder's association to direct you to the proper officials who will be able to give you the paperwork needed to get started on a grant. Each city, county and state has different rules and regulations concerning historical restoration grants. This article is only a general guideline of things to expect when preparing to apply for a restoration grant. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Learn the history. Search the local library, courthouse and city museum for any information regarding the former state of your home. Search for documents and photographs containing your home and its address. Ask local residents for any additional information.

2. Seek eligibility. A restoration grant is meant to assist you to restore your historic home to its original glory. You may be eligible for a grant if you are seeking structural repairs, external repairs or restoration of unique historic features. For this reason, it is important to obtain old photographs of your home. You will have to submit a brief summary of the proposed project.

3. Prepare to submit current information about your home and property. You may be required to have your home inspected prior to obtaining the grant. Your property may also be required to be surveyed. If the home will require interior construction to restore its original living space, you will have to seek an architect to obtain professional floor plans and elevation. Be prepared to pay for these services.

4. Submit a letter of intent. Most historic societies that give grants to restoration home owners will require a letter of intent stating the current condition of the structure, proposed construction that the funding will pay for, a summary of how the home will be used (Will it be opened to the public for weddings and reuinions or will it be used as a bed and breakfast?) Also, the letter of intent should include a time frame for the project's completion.

5. Learn terms and conditions. Following the restoration of your home, the local historic society may have terms and conditions for you to adhere to due to the act that you received a grant for the restoration of your home. Some terms and conditions may include being in the view of the public or being included on a historical home tour.

Tags: your home, home will, letter intent, restoration grant, terms conditions, Historical Restoration Grant, Restoration Grant

Repair Credit After Foreclosure

Losing your home is one of the worse things that can happen to you. Foreclosure is an ugly word. However, you can recover from it; you just have to know how. Repairing credit after you have a foreclosure can be tricky. Read on and you will learn repair credit after foreclosure.

Instructions

1. Understand why you were foreclosed on. This is an extremely important factor in repairing your credit. If there were circumstances you could have avoided, you need to know what they were so you can fix them in the future. If it was a series of unfortunate circumstances, you want to try to avoid them in the future.

2. Look into the way you spend money. Your spending habits may need to change so you won't have this problem again. Make yourself a budget and stick to it so you can correct the way you spend money. You are looking to save money so you can avoid getting into a negative situation again.

3. Pay off your debts. Not an easy task especially if you have numerous debts. However, there are debt consolidation services you can consider--but make sure you check them out because many are frauds.

4. Maintain your new spending habits. It is easy to fall back into the habits that got you into this mess to begin with, so you have to be committed to changing. One way to help you do this is by cutting up your credit cards so you aren't tempted to use them again. Getting into debt to pay off debt is not the way to go.

5. Make sure you pay everything on time. This will help you repair your credit standing after your foreclosure. Be willing to make sacrifices to pay your bills on time. The more you show that you have changed the faster you will be able to repair your credit.

Tags: your credit, repair your, repair your credit, spend money, spending habits, them future

Types Of Roofing For Mobile Homes

A variety of roof types work well on mobile homes.

Harsh weather, temperature changes and wind make mobile home roofs vulnerable to leakage. Several types of roofing give mobile home owners options when it comes to keeping water from trickling down your walls or dripping from the ceiling, Some options remain more affordable than others. A few roofing types take more skill to construct, causing do-it-yourselfers to consider hiring experienced roofers to get the job done right. Does this Spark an idea?

Steel Roofing

Steel roofing offers an option for mobile homes that can withstand the weight of the metal. The roofs are usually made from recyclable material, offer durability and require little maintenance. Mobile homes that feature 2 x 2-foot lumber don't work well with steel roofing. However, if your mobile home was constructed from 2 x 6-foot lumber, steel works well. Adding a layer of insulation with the steel helps keep the home warmer.

Traditional Shingles

Similar to traditional homes, shingle roofs work well on mobile homes, too, but mobile homes can only take one layer of shingles due to the support structure of the home. Traditional homes can usually handle two to three layers of shingles since they offer more support. Shingles come in fiberglass or asphalt, with both offering water resistance and durability.

Composite Roofs

Composite roofs offer an affordable solution using a special type of roof shingle that lasts up to 50 years. While similar to traditional shingles, composite shingles offer higher durability along with a multitude of colors and styles to choose from. The shingles can resemble regular shingles, wood shake or slate but lack the weight or cost of these heavy materials. Some companies offer composite shingles designed to resist mold and algae, ideal for mobile homes located in humid climates. For mobile homes in windy locations, though, composite shingles easily blow off, making them less desirable for those areas.

Rubber Membrane

If you plan to live in your mobile home for years to come, rubber membrane roofing offers a long-term, but costly solution. Rubber membrane roofs work best on flat or low-sloped mobile home roofs. The expensive material lasts for decades. Rubber membrane requires skill to install, though, so you may want to hire an experienced contractor.

Tags: mobile home, mobile homes, composite shingles, work well, home roofs, homes that

Smoke Damage Remediation

A house fire is a traumatic experience that results in physical damage to one's property. Apart from the fire damage, smoke also causes damage. In many cases, the damage calls for professional help, although someone who knows the basics of smoke damage remediation can often handle smaller jobs on their own. In a fire, smoke will move to cooler areas, and will also enter small crevices and holes around the plumbing. This leaves different types of smoke residue, even inside the walls of the home. Smoke damage remediation cleans away this residue and eliminates the odors it causes. Does this Spark an idea?

Initial Considerations

Before considering any repairs, look at the extent of the damage and determine if you have the necessary skills to complete the job. If the job is too large and overwhelming, you may require the assistance of a professional. There are fire restoration companies that will inspect the property and recommend the items that can be refurbished, as well as providing an estimate for the cost of cleaning and deodorizing the entire structure.

Even if you plan to call a professional restorer, you can start the smoke damage remediation yourself so that the damage is minimal. Start by checking with the fire department to make sure it is safe to enter the property. Open any closed windows so that the air starts circulating immediately, allowing some of the heavier smoke odors to air out before remediation begins.

Removing Soot and Debris

If the fire was slow burning or smoldering, the smoke residue will be wet and sticky with a pungent odor. A fast burning fire will leave soot that is dry and will smear less, although moisture from fire hoses will usually cause you to still end up with wet soot. This type of soot will have an oily texture and will stain everything in the house, especially textiles, carpets and all other cloth furnishings.

Soot removal requires heavy duty vacuuming, typically with an industrial strength shop-vac. If you are planning to do it yourself, remember to hold the nozzle of the vacuum slightly away from the surface, so soot can be sucked up without getting smeared. Any form of brushing will drive the soot even deeper into the fabric. Cover each area as it is cleaned, so that it does not get dirty again during other clean up jobs.

Smoke Odor Removal

One of the most difficult aspects of smoke damage remediation is getting rid of the smoke odor. The odor has a tendency to linger in fabrics and furnishings, and therefore they need to be deodorized after cleaning. This will require professional help, but this will include a consultation on the different types of chemical substances that can be used to break down the smoke molecules.

Another method applied for getting rid of smoke odor is ozone treatment. In this treatment the affected items are kept in an enclosure, while an ozone generator is running inside. This will help eliminate the particles that are the source of the smell.

There are also special paints that can be purchased to seal away the source of smoke odors. These paints are specially formulated for homes that have suffered fire damage. Not only do they look nice, but they also create a barrier that smoke smells can not penetrate.

Tags: damage remediation, different types, fire damage, from fire, getting smoke, getting smoke odor

Borrow Extra To Fix Up A Foreclosed Home

Do not forget the cost of labor to fix up your home.

You can save some money on a home purchase by buying a foreclosed home. Banks often sell foreclosed homes at deep discounts, but the bank will sell the house to you in "as is" condition. Depending on the condition of the house, you may need to invest money into fixing it up. If you do not have the money on hand, you can borrow what you need for repairs through a home equity loan, line of credit or personal loan.

Instructions

1. Estimate how much money you will need to complete the home remodel. Request an estimate from a licensed contractor, or compile your own estimate if you plan to do the work yourself. Do not forget to account for materials, tools, supplies and labor if you need to hire a contractor to complete some of the job.

2. Decide what type of loan will fit your needs. If you have a smaller project, a personal loan may cover the cost. You can open a personal loan for any reason, including home repairs, and pay the loan back in installments. If you need a larger sum of money, you may want to open a home equity loan. With a home equity loan, you can borrow against the equity of the house you purchased. If you are not sure how much the remodeling project would cost, you may want to open a line of credit at your bank. This works similar to a credit card; you can continue to draw off the account until you reach the available credit limit.

3. Apply for a loan or line of credit at a bank. Visit a branch of your bank in person and ask for a loan application. Complete the application and submit it to a bank representative. You will need to supply pay stubs or proof of income and complete a credit check.

4. Discuss your options with your bank representative. The type of loan and amount you qualify for will depend on several factors, such as you credit score, income level and history with the bank.

5. Decide on a type of loan. Review the loan documents carefully. Make sure you can cover the cost of paying the monthly installments. Sign the loan documents to receive your money.

Tags: equity loan, home equity, home equity loan, line credit, personal loan

Fix A Refrigerator Water Dispenser

Fix a Refrigerator Water Dispenser

When refrigerator water dispensers quit working, the solution is often simple. This article will help you to diagnose the problem, and might just save you from having to pay a repair person for an easy fix. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Insert a glass into the water dispenser as if you wanted to get some water. Can you hear the pump running when you press the paddle with the glass? If so, that is a good sign. That means the electrical and mechanical parts are working. The problem is most likely a blockage somewhere in the system.

2. Check the water filter. It is usually located in the back of the refrigerator under a plastic cap that screws off. You may want to move objects in the refrigerator away from where the filter is, because a little water might spill out when you take off the cap. Pull the filter out with your hand and examine it. Does it look dirty or contaminated? Has it been along time since you last changed it? If so, you might want to try replacing the filter with a new one. If a filter is dirty enough, it could prevent water from passing through. In such a case, you would likely have noticed a gradual drop in the output of water before it stopped completely. If this is not the problem, continue to the next step.

3. Get a hairdryer and plug it into an outlet that is close enough to allow you to use it inside the refrigerator.

4. Open the door and locate the area directly behind the water dispenser. You may need to remove some items from the surrounding shelves. Very often, the problem is that the water in the lines in the door have frozen solid. This is especially likely if you have been away for a few days in the winter, and you turned down the heat. The combination of the lower temperature, and the fact the the dispenser is not being used, can cause the lines to freeze up.

5. Turn on the hairdryer and set it to medium heat. Slowly wave it back and forth around the back of the door behind the dispenser. Then do the same around the front of the dispenser. Continue alternating between the front and back of the door for 15-20 minutes, and periodically try the dispenser to see if it starts working again. If you have no luck after half an hour, then the plug of ice might be deeper in the system. Go on to the next step.

6. Ask a couple of neighbors, or friends who live nearby, if they would let you store your perishables in their refrigerators and freezers. Once the refrigerator and freezer are empty, unplug it, and let it sit, with the doors open for 24 hours. Then plug it back in and try the dispenser again. It should work by now. If it still does not work, then the clog is not ice. You will have to call a repairman to purge the lines, or to otherwise solve the problem.

Tags: back door, filter with, likely have, next step, Refrigerator Water, Refrigerator Water Dispenser

Children'S Birthday Ideas In North Carolina

From mountains to sea, birthday activities for youngsters abound in North Carolina

North Carolina's rich history and natural resources provide a variety of entertaining and educational children's birthday celebration opportunities. Every region of the state--from the mountains to the coast--has attractions with youth appeal. Explore the wonders of nature, celebrate like royalty, or experiment with the senses. Does this Spark an idea?

Exploring the Senses

In the mountain region of the state, an hour's drive from Asheville, North Carolina, is the KidSenses Children's Interactive Museum in Rutherfordton. Families and birthday guests from birth to age 10 may explore the hands-on exhibits and play areas. Children may experiment in the bubble room, an art space, and learn to be a chef in the Pueblito Cafe, or follow the Alphabet Trail. General admission is $5. Birthday parties with children's favorite celebrity characters such as Sponge Bob Square Pants and Batman are available with rates starting at $185. Party packages include a visit with the character, invitations, a party room for an hour and unlimited use of the museum until close.

Kidsenses, Children's Interactive Museum

172 North Main Street

Rutherfordton, North Carolina

828-286-2120

kidsenses.com

Down on the Farm

A day at Down at the Farm in Cove City, in North Carolina's coastal region, will give the children fresh country air in the wide-outdoors on an old-fashioned farm. A range of activity options await the celebrants as they hop on board a hay wagon for a farm tour, feed the animals and feast on birthday cake and ice cream. The price for birthday party groups of 10 people, ages two through adults, is $75. There is a $2 fee for each additional person. Balloons and a banner in the party room are included, and the birhday child receives a gift.

A Day at the Farm

183 Woodrow McCoy Road

P.O. Box 446

Cove City, NC 28523

252-514-3033

adayatthefarm.com

Fit for Royalty

Castle McCulloch in the Piedmont region near Greensboro offers young girls a Princess Party package complete with medieval castle, chandeliers and drawbridge. Options such as hairstyling, manicures, a dress-up fashion show, games and more are available. Princess party prices vary according to selected activities. Panning for gold and gems in the historic McCulloch Gold Mine is another group option.

Castle McCulloch

3925 Kivett Drive

Jamestown, NC 27282

Phone:(336) 887-541

castlemcculloch.com

Wild Life

Celebrate life at the 154,000-acre Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in Manteo in the southeast region. According to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.com, visitors explore a variety of habitats via walking or driving trails while looking for ducks, geese, swans, shorebirds, white-tailed deer, raccoons, quail, river otters, red wolves, and even black bear and American alligator. The refuge is open year round and admission is free. Nearby restaurants are available for meals, cake and ice cream.

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

PO Box 1969

Manteo, NC 27954

252-473-1131

fws.gov

Tags: North Carolina, Alligator River, Alligator River National, cake cream, Castle McCulloch

Repair A Rusty Car Frame

Harsh winter weather can take a toll on a car's frame. The salt placed on roads to make ice and snow melt can cause your vehicle to rust. Small fender benders can expose the metal surface below the paint, which also can lead to rusting. The longer rust is left on the frame of the car, the greater the area that will rust. It can be expensive to have a body shop remove the rust and paint the frame of the car, but you can do the work on your own in two days and save a bundle.

Instructions

1. Cover a large radius around each rust spot with tape and newspaper. Tape as close to the rust as possible. This will prevent any rust particles or paint from ending up on other areas of the frame.

2. Sand away the rust with a metal grinder. Work carefully; if you work too fast you could take out chunks of the car frame. Hold the grinder at a 45-degree angle at all times. Wear safety goggles because sparks will fly while using the grinder.

3. Sand the surface by hand with 120 grit sandpaper until the surface is smooth to the touch.

4. Apply a coat of rust converter to the surface. This will convert any leftover rust particles into a paintable surface. It also will prevent any rusting in the future. Allow the converter to dry.

5. Apply three coats of paint primer. Wait until each coat is tacky before applying the next.

6. Apply two coats of oil-based paint to the surface. The car's manufacturer may sell the exact paint needed. Your vehicle's title has the name of the paint color for easy matching.

7. Remove the tape and newspaper to expose the frame of the car. Wait 48 hours before washing, waxing or exposing the surface to the elements.

Tags: rust particles, tape newspaper, This will, will prevent

Repair Drywall Using A Kit

Using a drywall repair kit is a perfect solution for small repairs, or repairs less than 10 inches in diameter. These kits allow even a beginner to patch a hole in drywall. There is no measuring or installing bracing involved when you use a drywall repair kit. These kits are readily available at most home remodeling centers, they are inexpensive, and everything that you need for small repairs is included in the kit. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Hold the section of provided drywall over the hole and trace around it. Use your drywall saw to cut out the traced pattern. If your hole is smaller than 10-inches you can cut the supplied section of drywall to a smaller size. Place the new section of drywall up to the hole that you cut out to make sure that it will fit in place, but do not push it all the way in; it may fall down in the wall. If the section of drywall seems too tight cut the hole a little larger.

2. Place a provided drywall clip into each corner of the new section of drywall. Drywall clips are designed so that you do not have to install bracing. The tabs slide onto the front or face of your new section of drywall and then you simply press the new drywall into the hole.

3. Apply a piece of drywall tape over each seam, or around the perimeter of the square. Most kits will come with a sticky back mesh tape for ease of use. Use a box knife to cut the appropriate size lengths of drywall tape.

4. Pour half of the 1-pound bag of drywall compound into the mixing tub and slowly begin to add water. Your mixture should be at least as thick as a brownie mix. Use the available stir stick to mix the drywall compound.

5. Use your putty knife to spread a thin, even coat over the tape and allow the compound to dry. Many kits use a 45-minute compound. This means that the mixed drywall compound will set up in 45 minutes and you can then apply the final coat.

6. Use the supplied sandpaper to sand the surface of the patch smooth after it has completely dried.

Tags: section drywall, drywall compound, drywall repair, drywall tape, provided drywall

Start My Mower If The Pull Cord Breaks

If your mower pull cord breaks, the best way to start the engine is to replace the cord.

Lawnmower pull cords provide an easy and quick way to start the mower's engine. However, because of the rigors of excessive use and environmental factors, pull cords often break. When this occurs, you will probably run through your head a series of possible ways to start the engine. However, the best and easiest way to do so is to replace the cord. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Open the housing of the lawnmower where the pull cord comes out. This housing is probably kept together with bolts, so you will have to use pliers to loosen the bolts and remove the cover.

2. Locate the area where you see the cord and remove the old cord. Depending on what type of lawnmower you have, you may have to remove the starter pulley before you can reach the cord. If the pulley is attached with bolts, you will need pliers to remove it. If screws are holding it on, it will require a screwdriver.

3. Attach the new cord to the pulley by tying it on with a knot. Wrap the new cord around the pulley two or three times.

4. Thread the new cord through the hole that allows it to reach to the outside of the lawnmower. Cut the cord, but leave it long enough so that it successfully starts the mower, then retracts back into place. Place the cover back on the lawnmower by screwing the bolts back on.

5. Remove the plastic "T"-shaped piece from the end of the old cord and attach to the end of the new piece of cord. Pull on the coil a few times to make sure it is attached strong enough and that it starts the engine. Once it starts the engine, you are free to mow.

Tags: bolts will, cord pulley, engine However, enough that, pull cords

Reprogram A Craftsman Keyless Garage Door Opener

Craftsman reprogrammable garage door openers can prevent unwanted and unauthorized entry into your garage. Reprogramming these openers is especially important when moving into a new house. You don't always know who has the keyless entry PIN to your opener, or who else may have a remote that is programmed to the same entry code. Reprogramming your opener can ensure that you are the only one with the access PIN and that only your remotes can communicate with the opener. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clear the codes on your remote openers. Press the "Learn" button on the main motor console and hold it for up to six seconds, until the LED on the unit goes out. This resets all of your remotes.

2. Reprogram each remote by first pressing the "Learn" button on the main motor, and then pressing the button on your remote within 30 seconds. Hold the remote button until the main motor LED blinks. Repeat this step for each remote.

3. Reprogram the keyless entry by pressing the "Learn" button of the main motor console. Within 30 seconds, enter your new PIN on the keyless entry keypad. Press and hold the "Enter" key until the main motor LED blinks.

4. The keypad PIN can also be reset by entering your old four-digit PIN. Then immediately press and hold the "#" key. Once the light on the keypad blinks twice, release the "#" button. Enter your new PIN, followed by the "Enter" key.

Tags: main motor, button main, button main motor, keyless entry, Learn button, Learn button main

Get Money Back From The Government On Energy Star Refrigerators Washers And Other Appliances

Pick a State for Energy Efficiency Rebates!

Remember the Cash-for-Clunkers program? For a while, it had everyone trading in their old gas-guzzling cars for newer, more efficient models, thanks to hefty cash incentives from the government? Well, there's now a similar sort of program in place for appliances, from furnaces and air conditioners, to items for the kitchen (refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers) or the laundry room (clothes washers, and dryers).

There isn't a trade-in involved. Instead, just buy an Energy Star rated appliance that meets program requirements, and you can receive up to $300 cash back in the form of a government rebate.

The program, part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is offering hundreds of millions of dollars in rebates for purchases of Energy Star high-efficiency appliances.

Here's how the rebate program works. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. **Check Your State**

Even though the Energy Star rebates is a federal program, it is administered locally by individual states, which each have their own rules for how the rebate process works.

So...the first thing you need to do is find out how the program works in your state. There are too many variations to provide a simple overview in this article, but be sure to understand the following:

* Which appliances are eligible for rebates

* How much of a rebate is offered

* What are the eligibility dates (when rebates begin and end)

* Where purchases have to be made (eg, in your state of residence)

* Whether there are any income criteria (eg, rebates for low income families only)

Head to www.energysavers.gov and click on the link for the State Appliance Rebate Program, in order to explore the details about your state's program.

2. **Do Your Energy Star Homework**

Energy Star is a federal government partnership program that has had considerable success in propelling the market forward for energy-efficient appliances. It is now possible to purchase a highly efficient Energy Star rated refrigerator, for instance, that uses about as much electricity as a 100W lightbulb.

Visit www.energystar.gov to learn more about the program, and to begin exploring the many options for buying new appliances that carry an Energy Star label.

3. **Do the Math**

Energy Star appliances do usually carry a premium price tag over their less efficient competitors, but often, the difference can be more than made up in operating cost savings over the years, due to lower electricity and water bills. And of course, a hefty rebate from Uncle Sam doesn't hurt either.

As a *very rough* rule of thumb, if you're replacing an appliance that is more than ten years old, the lower cost of running a high efficiency appliance will more than make up for the higher price tag.

Replacing appliances of more recent vintage may not result in the same level of savings but don't forget, there are benefits to the planet as well, as you act to 'green' your home.

You'll find calculators at energystar.gov that you can use to figure out your energy and dollar savings from switching to Energy Star appliances.

Tags: Energy Star, more than, appliance that, Energy Star appliances, Energy Star rated, program works

Where To Have Children'S Birthday Parties In Kannapolis North Carolina

Kannapolis is small city located just outside Charlotte, North Carolina. If you live in or near Kannapolis and are looking to have a birthday party for your child, the city has a wonderful park system, as well as a variety of other terrific locations to celebrate your child's big day in style. Does this Spark an idea?

Village Park

Throw your child's birthday party at Village Park. The park has a train children can ride, a splash pad with an area designated for younger children, a fairly large playground, and picnic shelters where your child and friends could have a picnic or cookout. The park also has a substantial amount of open space where children can play organized games. Call 704-920-4339 to reserve a shelter or talk to staff about the options available to your group.

Go to a Baseball Game

Kannapolis is home to the Kannapolis Intimidators, a minor-league baseball team affiliated with the Chicago White Sox. The team offers group discounts for large groups, as well as some birthday-party options. You can also contact the team in advance to have your child's name displayed during the game on the video screen.

Visit the Curb Museum

Take your child and some friends to the Curb Museum if they're into Nascar. The museum houses quite a bit of Nascar history and cars children can look at. Contact the museum ahead of time to discuss special arrangements for your group; call 704-938-6121.

Go See a Show

Take older children to the Blumenthal Center to see a musical or show. A good deal of off-Broadway musicals come to the center, including A Chorus Line and Mamma Mia! Getting dressed up and going to see one could be a wonderful way for the family to celebrate a birthday. Call 704-372-1000 to find out about upcoming shows. For children not interested in theater, consider taking them to see a movie at one of the many movie theaters in Kannapolis.

Tags: your child, birthday party, Curb Museum, North Carolina, Village Park, your group

Ways To Save On Consumer'S Power Bill

Turn your home into an energy saver

Rising energy costs have made utility bills a nightmare for many people. Fortunately, there are many ways for a consumer to save on power bills. Some steps you can take cost little or nothing. Others require a significant investment but will pay for themselves in long-term savings. One bonus of reducing power bills is that almost anything you do will also help the environment. Does this Spark an idea?

Change Habits

Make a practice of turning lights and other devices off when you are not using them. It's also helpful to unplug some electronic gadgets entirely if they use power even when "turned off." Keep doors and windows closed whenever you run the air conditioning or heating system. If you have inside entrances into a garage or hallway, use them in hot or cold weather instead of entries that open directly to the outdoors.

Adjust Settings

Set your air conditioning or heating thermostat up or down (depending on the season). Most often, 68 degrees F is the recommended temperature, but individuals' preferences will vary. Try to select the coolest (or warmest) temperatures you are comfortable with and make a point of keeping the temperature at that level. Turn the thermostat on the hot water heater down if it is above about 120 degrees F. That way, you aren't paying to keep water hotter than necessary for hours on end, but the water will still be hot enough for appliances to function properly. You may want to consider timers to turn some appliances and devices on or off automatically.

Small Purchases

Stick to compact fluorescent lights (CFL), which use 75 to 80 percent less electricity. In an average home they can reduce power consumption 7 percent. CFLs last several times as long as conventional incandescent bulbs. You can replace worn out weather stripping around doors and windows at little cost. This is a simple do-it-yourself project that can reduce power bills significantly. Another do-it-yourself project is to install flow restrictors on faucets, which can also cut your water bill.

Invest in Efficiency

Switching to energy-efficient appliances, including heating and cooling systems, is one of the best ways to reduce a consumer's power bill. However, the reality is that many people simply can't afford to run out and buy expensive major appliances. What you can do is plan ahead to replace each appliance with an energy-efficient model as it nears the end of its useful life, minimizing or eliminating extra costs. Installing insulation and/or sealing leaks can be expensive, but this is not always the case. Many leaks can be plugged easily with new covers for electric sockets, weather stripping, or by adding a little insulating material. Others require more extensive work like replacing window and door frames in an older home. Properly insulating and sealing your home is likely to pay off in the long run, especially if you are handy with tools and can do some installation jobs yourself.

Tags: power bills, conditioning heating, do-it-yourself project, doors windows, many people, Others require, reduce power

Home Water Damage Repair

Water damage in the home is often repaired by specialists and can cause major issues if not treated. Water damage can be caused by many factors. Several products and types of equipment are used in water damage repair. Homeowners should also monitor several key locations to make sure that water damage is not occurring. Does this Spark an idea?

Significance

Water damage can be a huge burden to repair and can cause major issues if left unaddressed. Mold can cause health issues and water damage can affect the structural integrity of a home. It can also lower the value of a home and make it more difficult to sell. Normally water damage is repaired by professionals. Damage may become more severe if not addressed as soon as possible. Homeowner's insurance might pay for a portion of water damage repair, but usually the homeowner will have some out-of-pocket expenses.

Causes

Several things can cause water damage, including natural disasters such as flooding and hurricanes. It can also be caused by moisture collecting in caulked areas, air leaks in the home, high humidity, flooding from broken pipes or faucets or a leaky roof. It can also be caused by such common problems as clogged gutters and appliances that do not have proper ventilation.

Identification

There are several ways to identify if your home has water damage. These include a musty smell, allergic reactions, unexplained headaches, condensation, rust or changes of color in walls. You also may notice paint peeling from the walls, mold and soggy carpets.

Process

As a homeowner you will need to dry out and air out the affected area. Restoration companies will use fans, blowers and floor driers, along with dehumidifiers and purifiers. Depending on the damage, other products will be used such as a wall drier, sanitizer and mold and mildew treatments. Severe damage to walls will require drywall replacement. Carpets may also need to be replaced.

Geography

If not caused by a catastrophe, water damage will most likely be found in specific areas of the home. A main place where water damage can occur is in the bathroom. Other areas to watch are the kitchen and wherever the water heater is located.

Tags: water damage, also caused, cause major, cause major issues, damage repair, homeowner will, major issues

Financial Help For Senior Citizens

Seniors are a privileged class in the United States, but it has not always been that way. During the Depression, desperate senior citizens created an awareness of the need for a retirement program. By 1938, that plan was in place so that seniors who could not work would not go hungry. Social Security retirement is the first resource for senior citizens, but there is additional financial help available.

Significance

Social Security provides numerous programs for seniors, not just retirement. If you have sufficient work history and are over age 62, you may receive retirement benefits. If you have been married for more than 10 years before divorce, you may claim retirement benefits based on your ex-spouse's entitlement, once he is of full retirement age. If your spouse is deceased, you may be entitled to survivor's benefits based on the deceased's work history. If you cannot qualify for benefits with these programs, Social Security has disability programs and Supplemental Security Insurance.

Types

Financial assistance may be direct or indirect. Direct financial assistance is providing funds to pay bills; indirect assistance is help for seniors so they do not have to pay certain expenses, like tax preparation and transit costs. Both types of assistance are in most states.

Direct Sources

Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI) provides funds to needy seniors whether they have work history or not. It covers the basic needs of food and shelter for those who qualify with low income and resources. This financial help is money to pay for necessities and food.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is a federal operation to help pay high energy bills. LIHEAP provides bill-paying assistance, energy crisis help, and weatherization and energy-related repairs to low-income homes. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services operates this program that has branches in every state. Contact your state office for help.

Indirect Sources

The Meals on Wheels program provides meals for seniors delivered to the door. There are also state and local centers that provide meals for seniors. The Child and Adult Care Food Program run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service provides nutritional meals to seniors. The federal government funds CACFP but the states operate the program.

Tax Help for seniors is available through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly, both programs operated by the federal government through the Internal Revenue Service. Low-income seniors can get tax help through these volunteers and the AARP Tax-Aide program.

Free or reduced-fee transit services for seniors is available in cities like Chicago, and maybe in your town. Colleges and universities throughout the United States offer free or reduced tuition and fees for seniors. Reduced-price meals or drinks are available in restaurants and some fast-food locations. Ask for a senior discount wherever you are.

Identification

Applicants over age 60 are usually included in these programs for seniors. Most programs are need-based assistance, and some are for seniors who are disabled or otherwise impaired. Seniors needing financial help can contact local and state programs for ideas, including the Council on Aging in your area.

Programs such as tax help are available for seniors making less than $49,000 a year, but the transit programs and restaurant meal discounts are usually not need-based. They make senior living a pleasure.

Tags: meals seniors, Social Security, work history, benefits based, federal government, financial help, help available

Good Flowers For Las Vegas

The pale evening primrose is among many flowers that will grow in Las Vegas.

Gardening may not seem like the most intelligent choice for a hobby in Las Vegas, since flowers don't typically thrive in a desert with summer temperatures in the triple digits. However, for those who know the climate and which species can tolerate the heat, there are options. Using these flowers to fill out your garden will add beauty to the landscape no matter what the desert dishes out. Does this Spark an idea?

Desert Marigold

The desert marigold is a wildflower native to the Southwest that grows up to 30 inches tall and is topped with a bright yellow bloom at the end of a long green stem featuring hairy leaves. The hairs help to reflect light and keep the internal temperature of the leaves down. They also block sensitive parts of the plant from UV rays.

These flowers bloom in the spring and will continue to bloom over and over again until sometime in November in the average year. Sparrows or other birds may visit your marigolds in the fall to pluck the seeds from the last of the season's flowers for a snack, according to DesertUSA.com.

Native Orchids

Most people likely wouldn't believe that Nevada has more species of native orchids than Hawaii, but it's true. According to the University of Las Vegas Arboretum website, Hawaii has three native orchid species, while Nevada has 14. The native versions of this flower will add a splash of color and survive easily in a Las Vegas garden. They require slight shading and small amounts of water to survive. Three of Nevada's native orchids grow in the desert of Clark County surrounding Las Vegas. The temperatures can range from nine degrees Fahrenheit in winter to 119 in the summer.

Pale Evening Primrose

For a burst of aroma at night, plant the pale evening primrose just outside of an open window. These plants only bloom in the evening and release a pleasing fragrance. The pale evening primrose stands tall at up to 2 feet, with a delicate white flower blooming at the end of a long stem. This plant's seeds can survive throughout the winter in the harshest of climates In the heat of the Las Vegas day, the blooms close up and hide from the sun, coming out later to experience the clear, cool nights, to the delight of their owners.

Roses

Roses may seem too delicate to live in extreme temperatures such as those experienced in Las Vegas, but they are actually quite versatile as long as you give them what they need--water. In a climate where rainfall is scarce, you need to water them a lot, according to HGTV.com. If you have roses in your garden, be sure to water them three or four times a week using three or four gallons of water per plant. If they are in pots, water them daily when the temperatures climb.

Tags: water them, evening primrose, native orchids, Nevada native, pale evening, pale evening primrose, three four

Repair A Tivoli Radio

Investigate the most simple to fix problems first.

Tivoli audio is a Boston, MA based audio company specializing in radio and hi-fi equipment. The radios are noted for their simplicity of design and attractive appearance. Carrying out home repairs on your Tivoli radio may save you money, but this may also void the manufacturer warranty. Likely problems with radios include loose wiring connections, blown power supply fuses, self-discharged batteries and dirty or loose potentiometers. Troubleshoot the radio before opening it up in case the problem is simple to fix.

Instructions

1. Jump start the radio. If there is no power after charging the radio, the batteries may have self-discharged. The owner's manual for the iPal radio advises that you plug the radio into the main power supply and play it at moderate volume for three hours. After three hours, switch the radio off but leave it plugged in. The green LED should begin blinking to indicate the battery is charging. Once it stops blinking, leave the radio plugged in for four to five hours without using it to complete the recharge.

2. Turn the radio on and gradually increase the volume to the level you normally use. Turn each dial and listen for crackling or hissing. The amount of dials depends on the type and model of your radio. For example, the Tivoli Model Three table radio has two small dials and large frequency dial. If you hear hissing or crackling as you touch the dial, the potentiometer attached to the back of the dial may be loosely connected or dirty.

3. Unplug the power adapter and remove the back panel. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unfasten the small brass screws in the back. Use a pallet knife to separate the side panels from the back of the radio. Use the open battery hatch to pull the back panel off. Carefully separate the panels to expose the interior. The back panel will slide off over the antenna.

4. Check the power socket fuse. Unscrew the AC power supply socket and inspect the fuse. If there has been a power surge the fuse may have blown. A blown fuse typically has a brownish discoloration. Remove and replace any blown fuses.

5. Inspect the antenna wire connection. Follow the antenna from the stem to its connection on the circuit board. The antenna location varies from model to model. For example, on the iPal Radio it is located on the back. It is hinged and sits in a groove to keep it out of sight. If you spot a loose connection, melt the joint with a clean soldering iron, add solder and reconnect the joint.

6. Clean the potentiometers. The potentiometers are located directly behind the volume and frequency dials. Wipe the potentiometer with the cloth, spray some plastic-safe contact cleaner onto the potentiometer then turn the dial to distribute the solution.

Tags: back panel, power supply, three hours

Federal Grants To Replace A Roof

Federal grants are available for some roof replacement projects.

Several federal programs sponsor grants to be used for the repair or replacement of residential and commercial roofs for energy efficiency. Such grants are used to cover the costs of roofing projects, including the purchase of equipment, supplies and labor expenses. Generally, these grants don't have to be repaid. However, some federal programs require recipients to use other sources to fund a percentage of their projects. Does this Spark an idea?

Weatherization Assistance Program

The Department of Energy funds the Weatherization Assistance Program. This program gives grants to homeowners to finance projects to make their homes energy efficient. WAP approves programs such as replacing and building roofs, insulating windows, heating systems and walls. These improvements are provided to lower income households for free. The program's funds are limited to $6,500 per project.

The WAP does not distribute funds to individuals. The Department of Energy website encourages those interested to contact local agencies to apply for the program.

Very Low Income Housing Repair Program

The Department of Agriculture funds grants for the Very Low Income Housing Repair Program. Grants are used to fund projects that remove and repair homes in very low income communities that are considered to be a health and safety hazard. Grant funds repair, rebuild and renovate homes from the inside out including roofs after all hazards have been removed. Eligible applicants for this grant must be 62 years old or older and demonstrate a financial need. Recipients are restricted from selling their homes for a three-year period. Doing so will require the recipient to repay the grant funds.

U.S. Department of Agriculture

15th Street and Independence Ave.

Room 5016 S. Building

Washington, DC 20016

202-710-9879

nurdev.usda.gov

Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program

The Department of Agriculture sponsors the Energy Efficiency Improvement Program. The program provides grants to fund energy efficient and renewable energy projects such as the installation of solar panel roofs. The grants funds projects for small rural and agricultural businesses and producers such as ranchers and farmers to help them reduce their energy costs and consumption. The grant funds up to 25 percent of project costs.

USDA Rural Development State Office

100 East B Street, Suite 1005

P.O. Box 11005

Casper, WY 82602-5006

(307) 233-6717

Tags: Department Agriculture, Program Department, Assistance Program, Department Energy, Energy Efficiency, energy efficient, federal programs

Organize A Mobile Home

Bookcases make efficient use of the vertical space in mobile homes.

Mobile homes tend to be smaller than other homes, therefore it is wise to make use of every available space to store items. Keeping accessories and decor to a minimum helps visually enlarge the space. Avoiding clutter helps the eye flow easily around the room and doesn't break up the space. The proper furniture placement, useful storage containers and hidden storage are all vital to the organization of the mobile home. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Hang a pot rack from your kitchen ceiling or use a wall-mounted rack to keep bulky pots and pans out of the way. Mobile homes often have minimal cabinet space and it is usually needed for pantry items and dishes.

2. Use all the available space underneath your beds. Measure the distance between the floor and bed. Choose under-the-bed storage containers that fit the space. Some containers come with wheels and are as long as the bed is wide. Use the containers to store extra bedding, seasonal clothes or items such as Christmas ornaments.

3. Install bookcases or vertical shelves along your walls and inside your closets. This utilizes otherwise wasted space in your home. Avoid placing the shelves or bookcases directly across from the entrance of the room. This makes the area appear busy or cluttered.

4. Purchase multi-purpose furniture that provides you with hidden storage. Items such as chests, benches, ottomans or coffee tables can have lids that open to reveal hidden storage. Stash items near the area where you use them. If you play board games on a coffee table, store the games and other living room items inside the table. This prevents clutter from visually diminishing the size of the mobile home.

5. Utilize baskets, drawer organizers and clear plastic storage containers to store small items. Baskets and other containers are useful in the bathroom, pantry, living room and bedroom areas. Keep like items together, such as sauce or seasoning mixes in the pantry.

6. Place your furniture so the pathways allow you to walk through the area comfortably. Once you position the furniture, walk around all areas of the room to ensure there is enough space, particularly in high traffic areas. Cramped areas make the mobile home appear smaller.

7. Look around your mobile home to discover unexpected storage places. For instance, you may have space between your bathroom or kitchen cabinets and the ceiling. You can store collectibles, books or other items that are seldom used in these empty spaces.

Tags: hidden storage, mobile home, storage containers, available space, containers store

Grants To Start A Camp For Disabled Adults

Grant money is on the way!

Camps for adults with disabilities may be funded by grants provided by the government or by private foundations. Grants do not have to be repaid. However, the competition for obtaining grants is fierce, and sometimes you must conduct specific research at your camp in order to obtain certain grants. Applying to several grants and using some in combination with each other is a good funding strategy.

State Grants for Independent Living

According to the U.S. Department of Education website, individual states receive funds from the federal government earmarked for use in educational programs designed to help people with special needs live independently. Since camps for adults with disabilities likely promote skills needed for independent living, they would potentially qualify to receive these funds. However, individuals and nonprofit organizations must contact state representatives in order to see if they qualify for funding. A list of contacts for each state is available at the U.S. Department of Education website (ed.gov). Start there when pursuing grant opportunities for your camp.

Private Foundations

Private foundations offer grants to individuals and organizations. However, many required you to be incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Achieving 501(c)(3) status means that your organization is tax-exempt. The main guideline for starting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit is finding a group of people who support the same cause and are willing to have regular meetings regarding the future of your organization.

If you'd prefer not to start an official nonprofit organization, look for grants offered to people who share personal characteristics with you such as gender and income level. Don't limit yourself to looking at grants directed only toward starting camps for disabled adults.

Research-Based Grants

Research-based grants are a final source of funding to consider. You can find information about them by searching for organizations that conduct research directed at treating and understanding the specific disabilities of the adults who will attend your camp.

For those willing to incorporate complementary and alternative medicine into the camp's programs, it's possible that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) can supply a grant that is not based on one specific medical condition. The NCCAM requires that existing organizations research basic, pre-clinical and early phase clinical studies that can ultimately lead to a commercial complementary and alternative medicine product. Specific areas of interest to NCCAM that may coordinate with camps for disabled adults include developing and validating standard mind-body methods for healthy living and developing tools for pain management that are not accepted conventionally.

Tags: your camp, adults with, adults with disabilities, camps disabled, camps disabled adults