tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28923517015483741062024-02-20T03:29:54.504-05:00Keys to SavingsI have been an entrepreneur and self employed person my entire life. Was buying precious metals in my teens, purchasing homes in my twenties and by the third decade was doing on-line trading, acquiring land etc. To present times... i own/operate an Incorporated Company for the past 20+ years and I will pass on my experiences to you so you can achieve financial independence for you and your family. Terry KeysTerry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-15805871075243913892016-03-26T12:38:00.000-04:002016-03-26T12:38:59.324-04:00Fashion Savings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDttiL15ZMMwFYtQPm26KVNkC4Bty7oXWeaCEBYD3aD9nVEcDM6UJyNs_Vb_3L_eRqTkuKfQU2fPNl9I9xl8CbmwJ8f1FWxopRiglpouYN7gzB0JGIgnpUJgiWt629yPAATWQNabnsDGY/s1600/5-BEST-budget-fashion-blogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDttiL15ZMMwFYtQPm26KVNkC4Bty7oXWeaCEBYD3aD9nVEcDM6UJyNs_Vb_3L_eRqTkuKfQU2fPNl9I9xl8CbmwJ8f1FWxopRiglpouYN7gzB0JGIgnpUJgiWt629yPAATWQNabnsDGY/s400/5-BEST-budget-fashion-blogs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
We all want to look good at the work place or in any public setting and with that comes wearing the latest trends, but fashion is such a fleeting word. It starts its one year cycle on the fashion runways or even a music video, onto the magazines, internet or television and finally in the market place<br />
where it gets saturated with all the cheap knockoffs. For us the savvy consumer the best way to maximize our hard earned dollars is to have the classic wardrobe, of say jeans and T-shirts on casual day and for business ladies a black skirt, white blouse and for the men the usual black dress pants and a blazer. Then we accessorize to our individual style to complete our fashion statement and at a fraction of the cost, especially when these items are no longer in vogue and then lost money. Here are some basics rules to follow; A) spend good money on classic items that never go out of style like diamond studs or a watch for the guys B) check out the clearance areas or thrift stores for great deals C) visit blogs for ideas to fit your style D) do not over accessorize as less is better to highlight yourself E) learn colors with what matches each other and never all one shade F) have items that enhances your features and signature style. There you have it, look great and feel good as i have a saying; i do not mind spending money......i just hate wasting money lolTerry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-18779736726526991392014-04-12T12:55:00.000-04:002014-09-23T20:08:00.055-04:00On-Line Security<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh3xKNuJdyeliGd8DCY7Prpxh3zDM-dOolCa5qVK5meeDIknzgEjTms9yPodVoeN-h6qzKq6AA3q79uX0tP9BuFBSqUDRpaA0tOdMwF_OALHrxnlwhrJTq8YydRBOi3Do54opbDDOBjF8/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh3xKNuJdyeliGd8DCY7Prpxh3zDM-dOolCa5qVK5meeDIknzgEjTms9yPodVoeN-h6qzKq6AA3q79uX0tP9BuFBSqUDRpaA0tOdMwF_OALHrxnlwhrJTq8YydRBOi3Do54opbDDOBjF8/s1600/download.jpg" height="281" width="400" /></a></div>
Most of the world we live in today involves on-line commerce, bank transactions or logging into some kind of secure site, so lets be smart about it and do all we can to protect ourselves from the hackers and scammers by followings a few simples rules; A) Log into your accounts everyday to check up and make sure of no unauthorized transactions B) Use different passwords for all your financial accounts C) Increase the security of your passwords by combining upper and lower case letters, numbers or keyboard symbols ( #,@, *, ^, +) D) Never allow e-commerce sites to store your credit card info and if buying something just input each time E) You should change your banking passwords approx. every 6 months So as you see it isn't a lot to do to assure ourselves some added security as unfortunately with the times we live in today ( to borrow a phrase I was used to hearing on the fitness circuit but applies to life in general)...... the cheaters are always ahead of the testers!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-61966041426403843652014-01-22T13:13:00.001-05:002014-09-23T20:09:15.901-04:00Some Red Flags During Retirement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cwREfemqzIkJBDw1tExtCwGkXMqBwWHPF5e98EhzmcL8mgQqEZQ9GhiiXV_PYyqwR39pHFhJRzqEPL4EF-zbvPEGaFB_oM5n_pO1cHPFysJB30WE20LTs-ydOtI7qJg5e4qmws1iwFc/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cwREfemqzIkJBDw1tExtCwGkXMqBwWHPF5e98EhzmcL8mgQqEZQ9GhiiXV_PYyqwR39pHFhJRzqEPL4EF-zbvPEGaFB_oM5n_pO1cHPFysJB30WE20LTs-ydOtI7qJg5e4qmws1iwFc/s1600/images.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
Congratulations!!!! you have navigated your way into retirement which in these times is no easy feat. Not to be a naysayer, but here are a few things to watch out for that might derail all those dreams for what should be your "Golden Years" A) You might have adult children come back to the nest to save money (even ask for funds to pay down their out of control bills) or maybe you have elderly parents that will need care....all which puts a strain on your finances. B) Some retirees lose their health insurance or prescription drug plans which then comes out of pocket, or maybe you downsize and move outside the city then need medical care with a specialist which is an added travel expense. C) Remember life does get in the way (lol), so do not forget that things do need to be repaired from your automobile to the furnace which all cost big dollars. D) Maybe you have grown apart and will divorce which without saying is a big strain on the pocketbook. E) Finally with all your extra time, it will be easy for you to spend more than you bring in on expensive hobbies or entertainment......so plan for that.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-35477486668189582292013-10-06T13:27:00.001-04:002016-06-30T20:21:39.628-04:00Retail Condos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSO1en9BlmSA3UBMq-JPv10RHt4kp5ZLaumiAH-YsXC8M1OCjuy65BMSE42rOxvXuL_yL33YXgS0v6uYZ7a8w-f_mW-BI5BGH3rsZMAC8Afz69Qs_8aNss30EFKzwfbPkU5fAs1CCMQo/s1600/5c5af1_384c66983f214c2da8d1b6b1bd53f4f7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSO1en9BlmSA3UBMq-JPv10RHt4kp5ZLaumiAH-YsXC8M1OCjuy65BMSE42rOxvXuL_yL33YXgS0v6uYZ7a8w-f_mW-BI5BGH3rsZMAC8Afz69Qs_8aNss30EFKzwfbPkU5fAs1CCMQo/s400/5c5af1_384c66983f214c2da8d1b6b1bd53f4f7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
This might be an exciting opportunity for all you entrepreneurial types out there with the trend of Retail Condos. Basically as a lot of the old shopping malls or large stores close down with there 1970's concept of mammoth square footage, owners of these relics of yesteryear are dividing them into Retail Condos (from 60-550 sq ft.) and for sale to prospective business owners, but just like residential condos location is key to allow your store to thrive. So look for anchor box stores/retailers with familiar names in your complex that drives customers to your area then you can "feed" from the foot traffic that's generated. Also again like your own home, a condominium corporation is set up with you the owner paying into a fund to cover maintenance for the reinvented space and common areas, so without saying if the age of the mall is growing "grey hair" have an expert check out the big ticket items as the roof, foundation, AC/ Heating systems etc. Now on the upside to own one of these units, retail condo owners are allowed to lease their space to another retailer or sell the unit (if in time) the location pays off. To finish up, like any investment......do your homework but in my humble opinion sounds like a win/win!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-82742396738157379222013-07-27T17:10:00.001-04:002014-03-05T22:36:41.373-05:00Pay Down your Mortgage Quicker with these KeyTips.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovnnT-krZ1L8Wz5zJcRfyc5ToE2nTaDFJVx79Uwzm9d8AGzCYePkct3GBTCqt26i-3Ekre87Dz_tNh1NZRqgp-FNYKq98S0sxK3HF5J_NzkW_OSatv_-oWioWsuWp7zlK7f02kN8bCbs/s1600/zee.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovnnT-krZ1L8Wz5zJcRfyc5ToE2nTaDFJVx79Uwzm9d8AGzCYePkct3GBTCqt26i-3Ekre87Dz_tNh1NZRqgp-FNYKq98S0sxK3HF5J_NzkW_OSatv_-oWioWsuWp7zlK7f02kN8bCbs/s400/zee.jpeg" height="224" width="400" /></a></div>
Congratulations you are getting a mortgage ( which for most will be your biggest purchase of your life) so why not save some money/interest that is paid back to the lender and not be intimidated either by all the mortgage choices or interest rate information that will be sent your way and understand what your options are, read on. Now first we are all wired differently when it comes to financial stress and to use the analogy of a car; how many of you would fret if your on a half of tank of gas with the next fill-up station miles away, or like myself because you know the mileage and your confident you have enough fuel your not worried. Much is the same in picking the right mortgage term ( length of the mortgage contract), personally the longest term i will do is a 4 year fixed which is always lower in interest than the most popular 5 year fixed (which most lenders push the hardest) and will save you big money over your typically 20 year contract. Now my favorite is the 1 year fixed which comes with rock bottom interest rates ( if your willing to roll the dice that the rates stay down) but if they are heading north, bonus!!!....you can lock in a secure rate a few months before your renewal date, also double bonus; with both of these options have the discipline and take what is saved in your monthly payment and apply it directly to the mortgage per month again saving you huge amounts. So to finish up on my picks; needless to say you have to pay attention to the business news and also have the plan in place to pay down your mortgage with the savings that you incur from the smaller amount owing to the lender due to the lower interests rates charge. Now to the "other" side lol; the terms i avoid are the 5 year variable, 3, 7 and 10 year fixed but maybe because of your debt levels are high you might not qualify for my favorites so do not have those options for now, or again your tolerance<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYKBYy-3dV5_0EP24FBTqNd_dTigx2xI5VlUiZa4lbel6VLOIBs-CjRa9TRhzBcRuYdWhSM1FmgBDvzL7yfs_Koajjb3sQcl3wWxQHdEgFDyhLG8V6NeEQvgpTWDPX24A20tyVXl0xaA/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYKBYy-3dV5_0EP24FBTqNd_dTigx2xI5VlUiZa4lbel6VLOIBs-CjRa9TRhzBcRuYdWhSM1FmgBDvzL7yfs_Koajjb3sQcl3wWxQHdEgFDyhLG8V6NeEQvgpTWDPX24A20tyVXl0xaA/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a>for the unknown rate hikes is such so you like the comfort of the long term security ( if that's the case, take the 10year fixed as it is usually just a few tenths of a % point from the 7 year and sleep at nights) but all of this comes at a price with higher interests rates and of course more money out of your pocket. In closing, you know yourself best and your comfort zone so pick what options are better for you and enjoy your new abode stress free.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-69559167614965612092013-06-15T14:35:00.000-04:002013-06-15T14:41:35.876-04:00Ways to Save More and Reduce Debt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHGod_x7wCnoIRGqxKXXNe1gQY_OVn_gyY9R7sfdzq2zFleh2ZxUBx9eDzKAUeslF6jnWHWgwhUnAyrVDLfYWTNfXJvV6e3valrlxLIaXwIbqKS2GGDSxyiGAszON2SapmEsDfwqLdKE/s1600/667.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHGod_x7wCnoIRGqxKXXNe1gQY_OVn_gyY9R7sfdzq2zFleh2ZxUBx9eDzKAUeslF6jnWHWgwhUnAyrVDLfYWTNfXJvV6e3valrlxLIaXwIbqKS2GGDSxyiGAszON2SapmEsDfwqLdKE/s320/667.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4PkyHJoLGEmy3bObvrNlebp1KuWPRb_rUY_wQ39w67S01Jir88YSbk7HBrp5pOByJ1On9UZ8n63tXGG5QM8HGVCFRllBOkvyd7ald_bTzA2R-MSBJIBQazR4qE1rX93sttfbYM1Dh24/s1600/900.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4PkyHJoLGEmy3bObvrNlebp1KuWPRb_rUY_wQ39w67S01Jir88YSbk7HBrp5pOByJ1On9UZ8n63tXGG5QM8HGVCFRllBOkvyd7ald_bTzA2R-MSBJIBQazR4qE1rX93sttfbYM1Dh24/s200/900.jpeg" width="178" /></a><br />
We as Canadians are riding a wave of self destruction if we don't get our debt under control. As a society we have "grown" comfortable with the fact of owing back and forget that there is a cost of borrowing.....its call interest. Today we are at historical low rates but like any cycle it has to increase so now is the time to reel in those IOU'S. Here is a list how to save more and get out of debt faster A) Set up an automatic transfer of money into a high interest savings account every time you get paid...out of sight, out of mind as they say. B) Ask your lender if you can increase your mortgage payments by 10% and save huge amounts of interest owing to them. C) Increase your regular contributions to your RRSP ( Registered Retirement Savings Plan) or TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) by the same amount your take home pay goes up each year. D) Pay off any Credit Cards or Lines of Credit within 20 months and save on its high interest charges. E) How is it possible you might ask with the above list? Track your monthly household expenses and cut down your biggest non-essential payouts......remember our previous blog on wants and needs people and lets start controlling our own destiny.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-49957765645897093152012-04-25T15:27:00.004-04:002013-05-04T17:21:33.966-04:00Tips for Home Buyers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rTtqeMhrYCVVWuflO2hlWJ5Jbvvb_kcInOr7HfJXGCeqpr5oARGEmaPkmTqT9zHGs-srD8ISgpK5S1p0wZvN_VTxhyBBXwrjsiRy5CbbQcw0sijSuIR4jZpfiW58Fz1lSvnPa8XY7Gk/s1600/mortgage-calculator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rTtqeMhrYCVVWuflO2hlWJ5Jbvvb_kcInOr7HfJXGCeqpr5oARGEmaPkmTqT9zHGs-srD8ISgpK5S1p0wZvN_VTxhyBBXwrjsiRy5CbbQcw0sijSuIR4jZpfiW58Fz1lSvnPa8XY7Gk/s400/mortgage-calculator.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So we are going down the real estate highway which by the way is the biggest purchase most of you will ever make in your lives, so here are a few tips to make it has painless as possible. A) Get a pre-approved mortgage before hiring a realtor, that way your not wasting yours and the agents time looking for a home above your means B) Get your finances in order, first examine your credit report ( scores range from 220-800 of course the higher the better and easier to qualify for a mortgage) and be prepared for the down payment on the mortgage to your lender of choice (5-10%) and also closing costs which is an additional 5% + of the amount paid for your abode ( legal fees, deed transfer tax, fuel adjustment, moving costs, power hookup, tax adjustment, fire/homeowners insurance, maybe water quality/septic field testing and so on....lets not forget about appliances and curtains etc C) Do your homework on what you want in a home;<br />
features from how many bedrooms/bathrooms, size of yard, age of home, etc. D) Don't become "Mortgage Poor" and take on too much as you don't want to be living on the edge each month and have nothing left to enjoy life. E) Know your move in date, also when your lease ends or if you can sublet till your home is ready. F) Get a professional house inspection and if possible a warranty from the builder/seller to cover any defects for the first few years. G) Be realistic as you may never find your perfect home. Good Luck!<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden" /><!--Session data--><input id="jsProxy" jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()" onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setTimeout('jsCall()',500);}" type="hidden" /><br />
<div id="refHTML">
</div>
Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-6495162325243046202012-04-06T06:13:00.000-04:002013-05-04T17:00:25.070-04:00Self Employed and to get a Mortgage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeQzX09Mxxhb6aDqtv3-KOi7pE468x3kxCbjr6S0JpCjW-E8621DyO2aDJ0c-sYneNNoZSckwrLB3v47M16HotNx7YONYTG1JhYDZT7nxuJLLVV38B5tnMB7ZiPD0wR_an8YPoSk1F8A/s1600/8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeQzX09Mxxhb6aDqtv3-KOi7pE468x3kxCbjr6S0JpCjW-E8621DyO2aDJ0c-sYneNNoZSckwrLB3v47M16HotNx7YONYTG1JhYDZT7nxuJLLVV38B5tnMB7ZiPD0wR_an8YPoSk1F8A/s400/8.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So you want to be a home owner, but working for yourself its tough to convince lenders your business is a good as you claim it is (lol). They will use the average income of the last 2yrs to determine the amount you can borrow and equally important the interest rate which the loan will be at. What to do you ask?...first is to give up some of your deductions, perhaps forward them to a following year like your depreciation of equipment, travel expenses, medical etc. This will bring your income up and get that debt to service ratio in the right direction but on the down side your tax bill will be higher, but hey something got to give hahaha. Ask others in your type of business who they use for a mortgage broker, a person that would know your industry and its quirks. A savvy agent can get around roadblocks that some banks put up or maybe even use private lenders. Finally, having more than the minimum down payment will make any lender take notice plus your eliminate<br />
the high mortgage insurance fees. Happy House Hunting!!</div>
Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-16780170092369104802011-10-06T17:05:00.000-04:002013-05-04T16:54:32.781-04:00To Start Your Own Business<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5J3ikqLLPKHpzJKtTYLJR8J1ETwInYAG6a-VkeW-Qd3PdlOnUdsQicbMOjVWF3nm8Si3zA6RVLqzk8oXM-sdh3tTzeUDpF7xru9LidZEMh7KuRaTMkXr-BUIDO-wKngfjMjI23tqlk0/s1600/9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5J3ikqLLPKHpzJKtTYLJR8J1ETwInYAG6a-VkeW-Qd3PdlOnUdsQicbMOjVWF3nm8Si3zA6RVLqzk8oXM-sdh3tTzeUDpF7xru9LidZEMh7KuRaTMkXr-BUIDO-wKngfjMjI23tqlk0/s400/9.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzNxeROX820sjGCRgefNFXNqp0oHOz0hVXjzfaOhTwRC0f3fCmGv21_1bWJky3LYZS1WJkr9QNlpizv3moW1mXzhvHsIxNHuU8YFgbBo-GNzJpzUFyGlkgoTZUwAjBnn9dm3P6S8EVJsE/s1600/jack-simony-david-lichtenstein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzNxeROX820sjGCRgefNFXNqp0oHOz0hVXjzfaOhTwRC0f3fCmGv21_1bWJky3LYZS1WJkr9QNlpizv3moW1mXzhvHsIxNHuU8YFgbBo-GNzJpzUFyGlkgoTZUwAjBnn9dm3P6S8EVJsE/s400/jack-simony-david-lichtenstein.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
So you want to venture down that road of self employment? Well I've been on that highway my entire life and for me there is nothing better than controlling your own destiny! Here are a few tips that maybe you can use to save some time and also get by those growing pains. A) Start with a good business plan, make sure its feasible as most entrepreneurs have the mindset and great ideas but maybe not have a good business sense.... remember passion doesn't pay the bills! B) Incorporate your business, it might seem like an added expense but well worth it as it will protect your personal assets, lower your tax rate, allow you to invest within your own Ltd., pay yourself etc. C) Have a good accountant as this is paramount in the business world. They are experts in the tax codes/issues and finances, certainly someone to have on "your" team to save you money. D) Payroll; Set it up with your local bank to do it for you with all its deductions to the various government agencies plus do direct deposit for your employees. The cost is minimal compared to the time saved. E) Be prepared to put in at least 5yrs of long days to get the business up and running, also you'll find that your staff will be your biggest headache (everything from poor work habits, not showing up for their shift, theft etc) My solution?.....make some of your employees owners, as then they has a vested interest in the business to make it grow. So what you do is through your accountant get a value of your company, so for example we shall say XYZ Ltd. is worth $100,000 and your selling to 3 of your staff 10% each so they individually need to come up with $10,000 to be part owner of XYZ Ltd. The best way is to take it out of their pay over 5yrs, so believe me they will watch the shop for you lol (plus you the owner don't give up control because you still have over 51% stake, and don't have to be there all the time so you can concentrate on other things) The payoff for them is they become owners without any money down and in 5years the value has gone up for all partners.....so a win/win!!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-42595632464345006392011-08-25T15:46:00.000-04:002013-05-19T13:28:37.062-04:00To be a Landlord<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWHCZtcUtcaaIh05lZlD4XMCkazQ5OnzOUermfmJvhgMT1r5ax9rcLge1nN4HUKst5M64HjPeHaQWJ2vBMwl-bTB8UjRjJeVU1Se3MgUB2eLquHA20W4ecl1jIIUmWb8ybR34Y6Aw6Mew/s1600/Landlord-Insurance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWHCZtcUtcaaIh05lZlD4XMCkazQ5OnzOUermfmJvhgMT1r5ax9rcLge1nN4HUKst5M64HjPeHaQWJ2vBMwl-bTB8UjRjJeVU1Se3MgUB2eLquHA20W4ecl1jIIUmWb8ybR34Y6Aw6Mew/s320/Landlord-Insurance.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNk5zHEH6aI0UhFNC1iWfjuAolAnZY78sHLwW4qKKlDMbG0BKN9LRryY2KE6oKiLFlRClGlwlObEQyMX8h1WEqtHHpSoWjnh6TWuxYZxDFE9KzEHTbDZWesBg5Jo5Oz3Nn4KxQ0LxCueE/s1600/145.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNk5zHEH6aI0UhFNC1iWfjuAolAnZY78sHLwW4qKKlDMbG0BKN9LRryY2KE6oKiLFlRClGlwlObEQyMX8h1WEqtHHpSoWjnh6TWuxYZxDFE9KzEHTbDZWesBg5Jo5Oz3Nn4KxQ0LxCueE/s200/145.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvCuhhIKzX37cymPv29Tcmc_O7-VNBrgdsR5_xDsMbbDaq-QEPehg1563Fb1GTni4pzwvLyPhV_oYvfuAogW0g5mKGeD0hx_48u_aT8GovjtT4t1bAF_YYzrF8386BAXfbzNn2vxZ8e0/s1600/mortgage_landlord.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvCuhhIKzX37cymPv29Tcmc_O7-VNBrgdsR5_xDsMbbDaq-QEPehg1563Fb1GTni4pzwvLyPhV_oYvfuAogW0g5mKGeD0hx_48u_aT8GovjtT4t1bAF_YYzrF8386BAXfbzNn2vxZ8e0/s200/mortgage_landlord.png" width="200" /></a>So you want to be a landlord, there are advantages .... writing off the interest on the mortgage, insurance payments, repairs etc while your tenant pays down the cost of the house as (hopefully lol) the value goes up. This is what I've learned having a few home rentals on the go and you can decide if its for you or not. A) Location (like your principle residence) is key, as you want the price of your rental to go up so make sure the area is desirable, also if you can afford it look for a duplex or triplex so if one renter leaves you still have income coming in. B) Borrow as much as possible for the building, follow the Golden Rule (get wealthy by using someone else's money) so you get the tax benefit of writing off the mortgage interest (more borrowed, more interest) to offset the rent as that's considered an income plus this way your keeping <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
your own money to pay down your own mortgage/bills and putting the extra into other investments. Also most banks will ask for15-20% down payment because they deem it a business, so what i did was lived in <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
the house for awhile that way there was a <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebk9UQEMFBQpoPxKvGX0xm4VcxTcIUrE5EPS4df1k-No6OlNSpW85WLMB50zw05mEq-76D-lFB5fnRy_YRdifidBuTU_5_fRB54xnWuvvLYmp9atGarpGZw7XOw3DiBhyphenhyphenmweR55ZWjao/s1600/123.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebk9UQEMFBQpoPxKvGX0xm4VcxTcIUrE5EPS4df1k-No6OlNSpW85WLMB50zw05mEq-76D-lFB5fnRy_YRdifidBuTU_5_fRB54xnWuvvLYmp9atGarpGZw7XOw3DiBhyphenhyphenmweR55ZWjao/s400/123.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvCuhhIKzX37cymPv29Tcmc_O7-VNBrgdsR5_xDsMbbDaq-QEPehg1563Fb1GTni4pzwvLyPhV_oYvfuAogW0g5mKGeD0hx_48u_aT8GovjtT4t1bAF_YYzrF8386BAXfbzNn2vxZ8e0/s1600/mortgage_landlord.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvCuhhIKzX37cymPv29Tcmc_O7-VNBrgdsR5_xDsMbbDaq-QEPehg1563Fb1GTni4pzwvLyPhV_oYvfuAogW0g5mKGeD0hx_48u_aT8GovjtT4t1bAF_YYzrF8386BAXfbzNn2vxZ8e0/s200/mortgage_landlord.png" width="200" /></a>lower minimum amount required (as its considered principle residence), then moved out and started being a landlord. C) Try to be handy with repairs or have friends who are as paying a tradesmen for all your issues will make you not want to be in the business. Or I always looked for a tenant who was of that talent and i reduced the rent for them so a win/win as they took pride in their work as they got paid for it and you had no worries with all the little things that would arise.....and trust me, everything does gets beat up a lot quicker than your own home. On that thought, at first i had to keep telling myself not to be in "love" with the property, as it was an investment and don't be disappointed if your folks didn't keep it just so. For example i went with commercial carpet or laminate hardwood floors, stuff that is durable but it wouldn't be what i would use in my own residence D) Look for smaller yards as its less to take care off and a deterrent for those big backyard bashes E) Be <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdNkWhRFTwW5aN9y58QUEdzrgGRcbSTvB-WidXb8TK_LEP_a4S8fXnFohoSENXL1RuxWVj4TbkV04CZz4AhGLbZIliKt8xcIx-EblroSxf2RXyrxi4N17D5_NeRHVs5HDPyGQIMA_nEq4/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdNkWhRFTwW5aN9y58QUEdzrgGRcbSTvB-WidXb8TK_LEP_a4S8fXnFohoSENXL1RuxWVj4TbkV04CZz4AhGLbZIliKt8xcIx-EblroSxf2RXyrxi4N17D5_NeRHVs5HDPyGQIMA_nEq4/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a></div>
diligent in collecting the rent and trust me you ll hear every story you could ever imagine why they are not able to make the deadline F) On that note, if you find good tenants do everything possible to keep them by maybe reducing the rent, upgrade the washer/dryer, buy them a vacuum cleaner etc, as all landlords have horror stories so well worth doing the little things to keep your sanity G) Finally my experience with management companies that collect rent/screen applicants hasn't been good, they charge 50% first months rent then usually 10% for each month after. Some issues i had is they would never go out to check the property as they had the tenant mailed in post dates and that's what you want as a landlord is those 'eyes' to protect your investment by going to your rental for a physical check Or when checking out references they would call the names on the applications, which turned out most times it was relatives who gave glowing reviews only to find out to my chagrin not so good, plus the process cost you hundreds of dollars! (half first months rent) So there is my list of the dos and dont's and have known some folks that have done very well in the landlord game.....i had my taste of it, personally i rather have a piece of paper (stock/mutual fund) that doesn't call me on a weekend night saying the toilet is plugged or Aunt Mabel needs a kidney transplant (true story!!) and needs the rent money to be bedside lolTerry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-91161196216313092622011-06-27T19:56:00.000-04:002013-05-04T16:20:48.293-04:00Index Mutual Funds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5vJ05fuoNOW-RcNprzABMOZld3GRpa8J29DPkBL8yPKOiHV7LFJ1cIiNnaVtTVe3BWKLcce8CYuG0JAKnQCZnxQzbkOIxHoJuRD80hNGnABFHpRWPopcUAkZkPI3anLiuJUlnz3Uj90/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5vJ05fuoNOW-RcNprzABMOZld3GRpa8J29DPkBL8yPKOiHV7LFJ1cIiNnaVtTVe3BWKLcce8CYuG0JAKnQCZnxQzbkOIxHoJuRD80hNGnABFHpRWPopcUAkZkPI3anLiuJUlnz3Uj90/s400/images.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
What is an investor to do to combat all these hidden/high fees that effect your bottom line? Well maybe look into Index Mutual Funds....its an investment vehicle to match/track the components of a market index ( such as Standard & Poor 500 Index) So you get the wider range of exposure ( in this case 500 companies) low operating costs and smaller turnover ( certain criteria to enter this funds). The drawback with this strategy is you cannot control the amount of one company that you buy into as your purchasing the whole fund, so if ABC Company is a dominant player within the fund you are exposed to its swings in the market place. So to finish up with my opinion on this subject, i look for Equity Mutual Funds that have at least 1 Billion in total assets and pays out a dividend that i roll back into the fund ( as stated in the last blog to reduce your "real cost") Again there are thousands of mutual funds out there, but i believe that only 10% are worth having and remember what i have stated in this past 2 blogs, look for a good fund manager that has a proving track record......this is paramount!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-50565916383437062342011-06-24T16:24:00.000-04:002013-05-04T16:15:24.792-04:00Dollar Cost Averaging & Dividends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwYDBAg3sRN_8Maddf_5DTnFrJbDVE_nFuqhFuNX_U1n3QRpW1-7b8j-tIqBMWe10iKW7cKwhcJvKOtQIFCqnHXrMQJvbRqzpDuLpjeTjQswHTb6OgGvRxZTzb3IKbq9gY8YJh-0Y8ys/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwYDBAg3sRN_8Maddf_5DTnFrJbDVE_nFuqhFuNX_U1n3QRpW1-7b8j-tIqBMWe10iKW7cKwhcJvKOtQIFCqnHXrMQJvbRqzpDuLpjeTjQswHTb6OgGvRxZTzb3IKbq9gY8YJh-0Y8ys/s400/images.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
A savvy way to invest/reduce risk of market swings, plus pay yourself back!!...... i thought that would get your ears up (lol) The joint power of constant Dollar Cost Averaging and Reinvesting Dividends will result in your "real cost" ( what you paid in) to be lower, that in time with any uptick in equities creates a nice profit. To explain; Dollar Cost Averaging is buying a set amount of investment each month and thus provides insulation against changes in market price. Say we put in $100 per month and the unit cost $10 in January and so we get 10 shares, same $100 in February and the unit price drops to $5.00, so we pick up 20 shares, March, $100 goes in and the unit price has bounced back to $7.50 per unit and we get 13.34 shares. Now looking at this from afar, you say i started out at $10 per share, fell to $5 and rebounded to $7.50, I've lost money, but wait....... that's the magic of Dollar Cost Averaging as you picked up more shares when the price was down during those months. So you ended up with 43.34 shares x $7.50 ( March Unit Price) = $325.00 and your "real cost" was $300.00 Next we buy units that pay a dividend (which is when a company earns a profit and it distributes up to 4x per year) Say Company xyz paid you a $50 dividend for its 1st Quarter in February, so you would of received 10 shares ($5 Feb unit price into $50) again this will bring down your "real cost" as you have more total units. Now if investing larger amounts per month, the entry point into the market is key, this is where a good investment company comes into play. Also ask/watch the management expense ratios (MERs) or sales commissions ( front end loads and deferred sales charges) as these fees can put a huge dent in profits. In Canada, we have some of the highest mutual fees in the world <br />
and most are hidden or never seen on your statements!!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-13766603896510483472011-06-09T11:54:00.000-04:002013-05-04T16:08:56.900-04:00Understanding Compounding Interest & Rule72<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmtr26P5y_haJDbuIlI5hXWRDD0SzwWx8A4cxSnbg16k1rapNjL7t2t5XDXHT4XIuTSdNl8AF9J-G14SHy0z2tuXziNvUKmKwS20524LCVgWtsIVwC-jxB9cmNWqIlP9J3fH9sbdIGfY/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmtr26P5y_haJDbuIlI5hXWRDD0SzwWx8A4cxSnbg16k1rapNjL7t2t5XDXHT4XIuTSdNl8AF9J-G14SHy0z2tuXziNvUKmKwS20524LCVgWtsIVwC-jxB9cmNWqIlP9J3fH9sbdIGfY/s400/images.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
Hey bloggers, simple words in that heading but really how many of you keen investors understand the "magic" of compounding? Not to worry, the K-Man has the goods!! Basically compounding is interest earned on your Principal (start up money/ plus what you continue to invest) and the interest you've already have earned.....pretty sweet deal. So for an example, you had invested $100.00 and it earned 10% at the end of the year that would be $110.00, simple math. Next year that original investment would be $121.00....the $10.00 interest on your start up of $100.00 + the $10.00 but also $1.00 on the first $10.00 of interest from the year one. So to put some glamor in these numbers lets look what it would take to be a millionaire as that word still sounds sexy when thinking of reaching your financial goals. If starting from age 20 with $150 per month you would be in that exclusive club by age 60, just $5.00 per day ( just think, a coffee lol) wow the power of compounding and time! Now waiting to start at age 30 you would need to increase your monthly to over $400.00 and at 40yrs old the monthly would be $1300.00, so without saying the earlier you start the better. Another method to calculate your earnings is called the 72 Rule...simply you divide your interest rate of return into 72 to find out approx. how long to double your investment. Example, you have an investment vehicle that pays 8% so divide 8 into 72 and your original investment doubles in 9yrs. To finish up, a wise man once told me.....you wont run out of money, but you WILL run out of time!!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-33403165339114200472011-03-30T16:55:00.000-04:002013-05-04T16:01:03.225-04:00To Become Wealthy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu79a8SyzPtEBBiUuImbtoVFVJK9Br74tyIWgf5S4JwTRKjA5dySTPQz1pUzNr9ARcfBKGAU898P5nCvx_q2RiTokbF7Dbd-nt66A9Yaq-dX7xBiyK_nFRtGzvUmy2R5rijX1v_Xxxih0/s1600/index.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu79a8SyzPtEBBiUuImbtoVFVJK9Br74tyIWgf5S4JwTRKjA5dySTPQz1pUzNr9ARcfBKGAU898P5nCvx_q2RiTokbF7Dbd-nt66A9Yaq-dX7xBiyK_nFRtGzvUmy2R5rijX1v_Xxxih0/s400/index.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
We have everything in place from the previous blogs to move forward and start accumulating assets! These will be generalizations to the road to riches and we will get into specifics of each avenue in future posts. A) Time is your biggest alley to saving and with that comes compounding interest, also <br />
knowing your time frame will tell you how much to be put aside each month, then we look for investments that payout 6-8 % as the historical inflation rate has been 3%, so easy math; so depending on how many years we have the ratio could be 60% stock/40% bonds or maybe a 50/50 split. If you have a big window maybe do margins if your in the 20-30 age bracket and have the tolerance for risk B) Boost your savings in your RRSPs to save taxes paid to the government and if your employer matches up to 50%......well there is nothing better than investing with someone else's money lol C) Increasing your income; hard to find a higher paying job so maybe work part time on the weekends or start a small company on the side to generate more cash D) Real Estate; you know my opinion on house ownership with my past blog, but the 'X' Factor is location, location and did a mention location hahaha, so do your homework on this subject. Also look at buying flats/duplex's so you can live in one and rent out the others and take advantage of your 'sweat equity' for some repairs/cosmetics around the property while your renters are paying down your mortgage for you.....nice!!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-23817084504721243272011-03-13T20:44:00.000-04:002013-05-04T15:55:32.740-04:00Credit Score<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi381L8nVmWCr-cnyhY-IT3XAaqo7yqJ7Tdsu_hlyw1JXqj7Zu_X733SigKZgfud59tK8HhaA6fbnTpj7nX0JhSvt2HMailErEuzT04gSIh4ELZnO7gWBmhsmH7VgL0mKeyEaixdz4ObQc/s1600/index.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi381L8nVmWCr-cnyhY-IT3XAaqo7yqJ7Tdsu_hlyw1JXqj7Zu_X733SigKZgfud59tK8HhaA6fbnTpj7nX0JhSvt2HMailErEuzT04gSIh4ELZnO7gWBmhsmH7VgL0mKeyEaixdz4ObQc/s400/index.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
Onto the next phase of any financial planning, knowing how your credit score works. First its the vehicle that any lending institution uses to check your history to evaluate you, the borrower. Now the higher the score the better rates of interest you ll receive and of course if on the low end of the scale I'm afraid higher payments are for you as your deemed a risk. So you see its important to know how this system works, so here we go; A) First get copies of your credit report and make sure the info is correct, also check for identity fraud B) Pay your bills on time, as missing a payment is bad enough but if over 30 days can do major damage to your score, so set up automatic bill payments from your bank account C) Applying for too many cards/accounts will bring down your score as it makes you look like a risky borrower, even if you pay on time. Plus each credit check from this lenders results in points coming off your total. D) If you debt amount is too close to your credit limits, or even worse when you go over your set amount and are just making minimum payments will reflect on your score E) Inactivity on an account will raise some red flags, so maybe pay your utility bills with your credit cards to keep them active and again set it up for automatic payment before the 21 day window before you incur interest.<br />
<br />Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-8364333494152648382011-03-13T19:51:00.000-04:002013-05-04T15:40:28.811-04:00How to Save!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0_j6RXGKr9cqL-lil3-HQs9SoQiYD86tgUT6Fxb3Yvrf6Ra5LGG6PCiGs5MhgsP4TXzlyu0tES3ejLLgzqXX3Xhv3p2YSGhBv6M_TXaTSShceoZo0PGqooakLOuYV1Is_mAQzUtqAbU/s1600/save-money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0_j6RXGKr9cqL-lil3-HQs9SoQiYD86tgUT6Fxb3Yvrf6Ra5LGG6PCiGs5MhgsP4TXzlyu0tES3ejLLgzqXX3Xhv3p2YSGhBv6M_TXaTSShceoZo0PGqooakLOuYV1Is_mAQzUtqAbU/s400/save-money.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
Hi everyone!! So we are reeling in the wasteful spending from our "wants and needs" list and also realizing we have to take care of our future ourselves. How are we to accomplish these goals?.....hang on for the ride!! First we need to save for a 6 month emergency fund, why you ask? Well life happens unless your living in a plastic bubble haha ( and that's not free from breakdowns lol) So put aside 10% of your pay to you've accumulated the 6 months of income, then move onto removing your debt and finally then start saving for the golden years of your retirement. Now if thinking about a mortgage, ( it shouldn't be more than 25% of your gross income) find out what the house payment would be and when paying your rent put the difference in a separate account till you have at least 10% down deposit for your dream abode. For your children's education if your in that category, look for the tax free Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) and much like any other investment plan, the earlier you start the more savings you will earn towards your kids schooling, also set it up so your parents/friends can contribute.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-77169766806937428412011-03-13T18:39:00.000-04:002013-05-04T15:31:57.581-04:00Why we need to take of overselves!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQI-EgKBiySEiIGtFzZfybzcC4QsYDPui6rbH_8Jot3WkrLyV12dNvXL6efIjRLY-Jf0EULRwLM5rO9LY8-204d8jswtc_4nrOYpVWF8XcFjPNCnsVYA1JojTyBjcZ1nZ4HxN_YVxYEE/s1600/index.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQI-EgKBiySEiIGtFzZfybzcC4QsYDPui6rbH_8Jot3WkrLyV12dNvXL6efIjRLY-Jf0EULRwLM5rO9LY8-204d8jswtc_4nrOYpVWF8XcFjPNCnsVYA1JojTyBjcZ1nZ4HxN_YVxYEE/s400/index.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
That alarm you hear isn't your clock radio telling you to get up for your 9-5, its me saying you need to care of your affairs now for the future. Unless you have an Aunt Mary to leave you her estate or know how to calculate Loto odds (lol), here are some scary facts; the average Canadian income is $41,000 so if your to retire now this is what you have to look forward to. Old Age Security and the max payment is $524.00 per month and the Canada Pension Fund and that max is $960.00, so in total you have $18,000 for the year. A far cry from the lifestyle of your work income, the answer?....in Canada its either RRSP ( Registered Retirement Savings Plan) or the new TFSA ( Tax Free Savings Account) So if by yourself that's easy as its called discipline to save, but if you have a partner who loves to spend here is what to do ( and if you think the problem will go away on its own dream on, peoples brains are geared towards spending rather than saving.....its called instant gratification!) sit down as a couple and discuss what you<br />
are saving for which makes it easier, also talk about where you want to be in 2, 5 or even 10yrs and what are the big goals? After you agree on those subjects, discuss what each of you are willing to give up to attain your future retirement together. In closing, don't you want to control your own destiny?..... i thought so!Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-48885652576235178272011-02-16T21:29:00.000-05:002013-05-04T15:15:19.178-04:00Recap/Budget<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJfuXKXkKgjTYRJTjZRW0jkAnVC-WlnxTnwTuQ_yGBhxv229zminbUA8oArT2-yInxJu2brZsTCJf7KMbtTK-kIIOfnb7noRniAJFVp2isPEEr4YNKCzgmRwUGhNwSr1NtG7zG9JoPrZU/s1600/a-look-at-the-budget.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJfuXKXkKgjTYRJTjZRW0jkAnVC-WlnxTnwTuQ_yGBhxv229zminbUA8oArT2-yInxJu2brZsTCJf7KMbtTK-kIIOfnb7noRniAJFVp2isPEEr4YNKCzgmRwUGhNwSr1NtG7zG9JoPrZU/s400/a-look-at-the-budget.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
Budget isn't a word to be scared of....it is your most effective weapon for bringing down debt and planning your future. Here is a few reminders; write down every purchase for 3 months or to make it easier use your debit/credit card so you can get a monthly statement from your financial institution and review, then after this time frame analyze your spending and build a budget on what you have read ( remember our first blog about wants and needs!!) This is a rough chart you can go by as everyone has different circumstances in life. A) If your renting; 35% for housing, 40% for living expenses, 2% for emergency/insurance, 15% for personal and 8% for savings B) Single with a house; 45% for housing, 25% for living expenses, 6% for emergency/insurance, 14% for personal and 10% for savings C) Married with house; 37% for housing, 25% for living expenses, 8% for emergency/insurance, 20% for personal and 10% for savings D) House with kids; 37% for housing, 30% for living expenses, 10% for emergency/insurance, 15% for personal/pleasure and 8% for savings.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-15566802245795415552011-02-07T18:54:00.000-05:002013-05-04T15:04:19.938-04:00Save Cash with Money!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5Z8jSXHi-dvZpPyIfOht2zxl-NStw5oAVF3juLLFHKtx5pvM2uMOs6YaymeZKYz_Dzi0tZq-M7BVyPzu_RLJ47kRUO6XIMGwyci8a-8w-Hs9W9Kwm8jeVmlWGE-S0zh9xBelIc9_6O8/s1600/tax-free-savings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5Z8jSXHi-dvZpPyIfOht2zxl-NStw5oAVF3juLLFHKtx5pvM2uMOs6YaymeZKYz_Dzi0tZq-M7BVyPzu_RLJ47kRUO6XIMGwyci8a-8w-Hs9W9Kwm8jeVmlWGE-S0zh9xBelIc9_6O8/s640/tax-free-savings.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
By paying for all your purchases with cash.....a couple of things, your spending only what you have and your saving on the fees from any form of plastic you decide to use. So besides getting some stares lol ( as it so rare to see it anymore) cash might be the way for you to save. Some tips to follow if using the moolah !! A) Ask/look for discounts....some merchants give back coupons/store dollars for cash buys ( think of gas stations/grocery stores tied in together or a certain hardware store that gives its customers 3.5c per dollar back in paper money ) Also ask the vendor what they will do for you as these sellers are being charged by the cc companies fees to accept plastic, hence why they pass their savings onto you the customer and to build a following B) Make sure not to use a competitors ATM machine and get charged for this service, know where your branch outlets are C) Ask for a receipt that says paid on it for possible return or for warranty work D) Finally write down all your buys for your records to track where all the cash went and as a bonus it will be a learning curve to create a successful budget in the future to save for your goals.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-90938586767071272612011-02-05T18:20:00.000-05:002013-05-04T15:00:13.158-04:00 Renting as an Investment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhin3Yb0KYGB7D9RyRx-BFkFDnkuSSILngw-TdLu1-10hsjGxojDZUiZrNiABjJYX3XAFf6lyaFsklr3y3ZMyduiRT1TAhocQL8cGEAJDT8K7hX1-byE8Yg2wapfraWyvhJHduA0ndC-CI/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhin3Yb0KYGB7D9RyRx-BFkFDnkuSSILngw-TdLu1-10hsjGxojDZUiZrNiABjJYX3XAFf6lyaFsklr3y3ZMyduiRT1TAhocQL8cGEAJDT8K7hX1-byE8Yg2wapfraWyvhJHduA0ndC-CI/s400/images.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
Now with the money saved from the previous blogs/lessons i am going to say that renting is an investment and no i am not trying to be funny, hear me out. There are various factors that come into play here for buying a place to reside and maybe some of these will work out for you like the timing of the housing market, location, sweat equity and maybe its just family needs. But in my humble opinion renting has the most upswing for investment purposes, i will explain!! For comparison, lets take an average mortgage of $300,000 ( 20yrs @ 5% = $1971.38 per month and that's if the mortgage rates stay at its historical lows???) add property taxes, heating, power, water, insurance etc, so approx $2,700 per month and your rent say is for $1,300 everything included. With that extra fourteen hundred dollars per month, that is $16,800 per year..... that doubles in 12yrs ( the 72 rule, i will explain in a future blog) so have after 12yrs its $403,200 (12yrs x $16,800 = $201,600 and double that to get our total ) and that's worry free. Meanwhile your home is now 12years old if bought new or even worse if an older dwelling, sure the equity has gone up on average 5% per year but factor in these additional costs A) at the beginning you would have spent 5% for closing costs ( deed transfer tax, lawyers fees etc) = $10,000+ B) getting ready for a new roof, as a life span is 15-20 years for most new shingles = $10,000 C) need new furnace/oil tank =$5,000 D) septic field maybe?=$10,000 E) upgrade kitchen/bathrooms =$15,000 F) replace the appliances = $10,000+ G) new backdeck/front doorway = $10,000 H) windows = $15,000 I) siding/paint outside =$10,000 and so on. So really what a mortgage does is forces you to save, but if you have the discipline to put that extra money in an investment that would pay out between 5-6%, you are much farther ahead after you take in account all the additional expenses of owing a home which would offset any equity gained over time of ownership.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-77697203487543044402011-01-30T09:42:00.000-05:002013-05-04T14:56:15.107-04:00Pre Paid Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2b9LPRoWN8XSUGbdWe0KFccsnC9JfXmqpbIPbsJ4egEgjlC5LYDJZJfy8ejznY-uZ_yvRwR4VRS9ltkocRHyfgh7dzd_7CNrjshTLyqTP5355IU1gwMqdwjYyari4_nPttXBv9SnXNMA/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2b9LPRoWN8XSUGbdWe0KFccsnC9JfXmqpbIPbsJ4egEgjlC5LYDJZJfy8ejznY-uZ_yvRwR4VRS9ltkocRHyfgh7dzd_7CNrjshTLyqTP5355IU1gwMqdwjYyari4_nPttXBv9SnXNMA/s400/images.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
These forms of plastic do serve a purpose as many banks will not issue debit cards to teenagers, so if junior is on a trip/school term etc. it is handy for the parent to upload a set amount per month. Personally i feel there is no better lesson in finances than your siblings having the physical cash on them and as kids will do...... spend it all (lol) and then have that down feeling when their pockets are empty. That is what i call growing up pains and with the plastic card you simply don't have the same attachment. That being said, if you go the prepay route here are some rules to follow; A) look for the non activation fees B) what are the usage fees and shop around different financial institutions for quotes C) how much for inactivity fees and again compare prices D) avoid cards that allow you to spend over the limit and then charge for an overdraft fee E) look for the lowest fee for ATM's and monthly maintenance F) finally!!! go over the statements together to teach your kids fiscal responsibility as they go down the road to adulthood.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-74864229650254434132011-01-20T04:53:00.000-05:002013-05-04T14:52:17.258-04:00Another "X" Factor...Credit Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2nXz0RX9U_iToJkmAGzkwdRYj9FvivXM_Pvw6AlaiYHWp7bofWvuYuK8rLPejCIB2HqSPFffMKhNEr_XkxZxYEkciVi-SjSWRgIVVaS9GjFh9YezOLUlperYCWV69mF96-spsfuwplvg/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2nXz0RX9U_iToJkmAGzkwdRYj9FvivXM_Pvw6AlaiYHWp7bofWvuYuK8rLPejCIB2HqSPFffMKhNEr_XkxZxYEkciVi-SjSWRgIVVaS9GjFh9YezOLUlperYCWV69mF96-spsfuwplvg/s400/images.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
Good Day everyone. Some of you folks are starting to look a little fresher, maybe some financial stress leaving you? Alright lets get the goods on that other piece of plastic in your wallet....credit cards. Like a runaway freight train if you don't control it, it will control you; till you have a wreck and ruin your credit rating, relationships, work environment and so on. Again these are huge companies who are out to make a profit, still that doesn't mean you cant use it for your advantage. So when shopping around for a card make it FIT YOUR BUDGET, and look for what fees are included or charged, some examples; A) Application Fee; a charge to apply B) Membership/Annual Fee; a charge once a year or broken up per month C) Set up Fee; to open a new account D) Cash Advance Fee; could be a flat charge or % of the money you asked for E) Balance Transfer Fee; a charge to transfer a balance from one CC to another F) Late Payment Fee; charge for after due account G) Over the Limit Fee; charge for going over your credit limit. OMG!! I'm tired of saying the "F" word, as in Fees hahaha. Now the last four of these charges on the list lets just use your common sense, as for the first three this is where you shop around play a little hard ball and get these waived. Credit Card Companies want you to have/use the card and besides what they make off you they also charge the merchant a fee, so its all about the volume principle for them....pennies = big dollars. Now as a card holder you do have some rights, these include; A) Merchant ( the seller) agreements are such that they have to accept your card no matter what the price is, <br />
no such thing as a minimum purchase required or a maximum allowed B) Merchants can charge a "convenience fee" if providing a service to bypass long lineups and/or travel to buy the item, but no other surcharges C) The only time the merchant can ask for identification if the card holder has forgotten to sign the back of the card or isn't ledgable..... if they keep insisting? go to another store. To summarize, you can use these cards to your ADVANTAGE as they are/can be a smart part of your financial planning.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-40832963742248569002011-01-19T04:36:00.000-05:002013-05-04T14:38:46.440-04:00"X" Factors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfdtlO1gj6Vwvqkrz-F6wPX6NHfojSMIraG8MA3jXLI9FCV-aqreiUqbiUCd4MV6C7mJph5J7l9A31RttkwwVYgfxObpPToOR-kPl5OVKsZUKyJMBe5EPaxxdShwk-kK4mPaXf3VPX0k/s1600/investing_tfsa_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfdtlO1gj6Vwvqkrz-F6wPX6NHfojSMIraG8MA3jXLI9FCV-aqreiUqbiUCd4MV6C7mJph5J7l9A31RttkwwVYgfxObpPToOR-kPl5OVKsZUKyJMBe5EPaxxdShwk-kK4mPaXf3VPX0k/s400/investing_tfsa_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Good day my getting smarter/savvy bloggers. Ah the X factor in finances, we either can use these vehicles to our advantage or we can spend extra....easy choice isn't? One example of this is Bank Cards, we all have them and think it is our right to use them anytime/anywhere because its our money. Well here's a news flash, banks are in the business to make a profit to appease their shareholders so make sure the type of chequing/savings accounts you have fits your activity as costs vary, for example; A) 65c for any debit purchase B) $1.50 for cash withdraw from a competitors ATM's C) $1.50 for money transfers through the bank machines D) $2.25 for monthly statements E) $1.25 for each bill payment. So you say its only pennies, well people cents turn into dollars quickly!! ( i can think of a famous Canadian coffee company doing ok on the cents per purchase method lol) Say you use the debit card 5 times a day, in a month that adds up to $97.50.....nice profit for them and that comes off your bottom line folks. Then add up all those other costs we talked about earlier, that could be your 10% pay to yourself that we wrote about in the last blog. So a couple of options, ask your bank to set up an account that fits your profile for a monthly fee (and knowing your usage and for a fraction of the cost instead of you paying for each transaction) Or use your credit card for everything and be diligent and pay within the 21 day window and get it free. Now that's what i call creative financing baby, just another example of what they mean by taking care of the little things..... as we go down the road to independent wealth.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-20600365373167440212011-01-17T18:30:00.000-05:002013-05-19T12:50:58.504-04:00A List Saving/Tips # 2Wow words out, i might have to look for a bigger <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
place...nothing quite like saving money to peak people's interests. A) Personal Taxes; we all hate to pay but guess what, this is what keeps our country going with our public education, quality health care, drivable highways, etc. Think of it this way, we all have a friend who never wants to pay their share when out somewhere as a group and that really sounds fair....not!! Also the government is smart as<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIn4UfuEP2aKIud3CJPb30Fs4IttylUJwzxeuA9q-4h0fN9ec8RXCvdjAQFlFurxztjldn1tL37W_q0D9MdqvKxjzSmnzGGJ-nXwkUya1s_XUqFgca8QbD8QjtDKDy0EuljrOxqv0d4ow/s1600/index.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIn4UfuEP2aKIud3CJPb30Fs4IttylUJwzxeuA9q-4h0fN9ec8RXCvdjAQFlFurxztjldn1tL37W_q0D9MdqvKxjzSmnzGGJ-nXwkUya1s_XUqFgca8QbD8QjtDKDy0EuljrOxqv0d4ow/s200/index.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
it gives its citizens opportunities to take care of themselves and o<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB9KYG8IrPfkxIlNTIwcwztxuu8KoWn5O5tgIg4hh6gxA_5kfZLISCFyK29XpMzA3VMvsa-_GJM3XLq0Nd1ev30I8HRXaFvImt7n2CJ-yA-xbe2-jG9Kw0wK5NQKjpDh5cDcuOLKZ_Cfk/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB9KYG8IrPfkxIlNTIwcwztxuu8KoWn5O5tgIg4hh6gxA_5kfZLISCFyK29XpMzA3VMvsa-_GJM3XLq0Nd1ev30I8HRXaFvImt7n2CJ-yA-xbe2-jG9Kw0wK5NQKjpDh5cDcuOLKZ_Cfk/s200/images.jpeg" width="200" /></a>ne of those vehicles is through tax free retirement plans....everyone wins, you lower your tax bill and the Feds don't have to take care of you. So look into either a company or self directed plans and do it monthly and again automatic withdraw to keep it out of sight out of mind. Another new program in Canada is the TFSA ( Tax Free Savings Account) well worth looking into at your favorite financial institution. B) Loans/Credit Cards; ok you has fun accumulating the debt but now its time to pay back!! Not a lot of love in the air right now is there? Try asking your bank for a debt consolidation loan to pay off all the bills and into one manageable lower interest payment, then do yourself a favor and act out Edward Sissorhands on all but one of those plastic credit cards and keep the spare on hand for emergencies, and no not the all inclusive resort that just went on sale but for the "A" list items if in between pays. ( usually 20+ days to pay the CC off without interest) C) Life Insurance; <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE80ObPEjQDaIoLXpuLSXL9fyso03OmrVEMAjFIwouk5lIqVmFEIb46OpX_DaWz8wqn10Qhmk4b-WAQ_V2rZcs38vDrZz0yPlRQ1lvWLZVO9onpwgIaKyyClweJKgBMxF8u52Co-PD-RA/s1600/index.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE80ObPEjQDaIoLXpuLSXL9fyso03OmrVEMAjFIwouk5lIqVmFEIb46OpX_DaWz8wqn10Qhmk4b-WAQ_V2rZcs38vDrZz0yPlRQ1lvWLZVO9onpwgIaKyyClweJKgBMxF8u52Co-PD-RA/s200/index.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
its depending on your circumstances, generally if single and have no obligations coverage is not needed....that's right, save your money and invest your windfall. Also any loans/mortgages you have insurance can be bought through the lender and if supporting family members your estate will cover. Now if in the other category, check into group rates through work or shop around as remember it is a business. Maybe ask your bank about a collective rate on your loan/mortgage and add life insurance to get savings in a nice bundle. D) Health Insurance; again check with work to see what is offered/covered ( dental, eyes, prescriptions etc) or organize your own group of workers/relatives to get a packaged rate if your business does not have any plan. Finally check in with your corporate wellness program to see what is offered, maybe a percentage towards a gym membership, equipment for home, etc. it might surprise you what is offered...also check with your accountant or go on-line to see if you can write-off your kids recreation programs at tax time. Speaking of which, we are starting to trim off some weight on our monthly budget......nice!!.Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892351701548374106.post-47555855579969789022011-01-11T18:27:00.000-05:002013-05-04T13:56:33.199-04:00'A' List Savings/Tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Our second lesson and the classroom filling up.....nice! So we now know if we want to achieve goals in life we need to cut back on the "wants" list, but there also ways to trim the "needs" column so here we go. A) Mortgage/Rent....by <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgznYb76dFBrhuQ2LWs9zaHIVdFdDY23HxPh_CPI1elmRzEWf_1sD65V0XkYHfZpnYShTYZavSx8L__Z0uYEl7PjkUzBxUxyUnrQNGo4mAxM17xNKANwIAwmIV56aokc-JZYb-K_-vFTAs/s1600/healthy-groceries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgznYb76dFBrhuQ2LWs9zaHIVdFdDY23HxPh_CPI1elmRzEWf_1sD65V0XkYHfZpnYShTYZavSx8L__Z0uYEl7PjkUzBxUxyUnrQNGo4mAxM17xNKANwIAwmIV56aokc-JZYb-K_-vFTAs/s200/healthy-groceries.jpg" width="161" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeL3JWAQQo9ehhhdkS92VDHppobCYj-1chatD19mMmwR4hFejIMl2rrp7Q2rTX-QjC43u9t_obmZDh8wgdBxJ-XzvqODtuzI84kNJcNv_CBoyY8ifcOU6eFE08HKKsuFo6nW3SC_JTMJU/s1600/clothing-on-rack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeL3JWAQQo9ehhhdkS92VDHppobCYj-1chatD19mMmwR4hFejIMl2rrp7Q2rTX-QjC43u9t_obmZDh8wgdBxJ-XzvqODtuzI84kNJcNv_CBoyY8ifcOU6eFE08HKKsuFo6nW3SC_JTMJU/s200/clothing-on-rack.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rsLR4QTtmI6jCDyZ6OEbxF7fZTnzWPQzKHLSrpyQSSmLRndacaz_2SAVkV4g2Bb1uZALHKEErkaVJ5-XMWzhbXLvz1BkPCEr3JjnHTCA6Qq5Eig5Oy3E7DdW1BYwqcKzunnCHyLGcts/s1600/3280-152246-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rsLR4QTtmI6jCDyZ6OEbxF7fZTnzWPQzKHLSrpyQSSmLRndacaz_2SAVkV4g2Bb1uZALHKEErkaVJ5-XMWzhbXLvz1BkPCEr3JjnHTCA6Qq5Eig5Oy3E7DdW1BYwqcKzunnCHyLGcts/s200/3280-152246-11.jpg" width="200" /></a>taking in roommates you can either apply your sub rent directly to the mortgage (it will come straight off the principle saving you thousands of dollars over the term in interest) or if renting you can invest monthly your borders money making you wealthy in time. B) Groceries... we all need to eat but it doesn't have to cost as much by buying in the bulk sections so saving on volume and not paying for the packing. Also whats with society eating all this prefab meals anyway, ever wonder how it keeps its shelf-life so long? So never mind talking about the health issues with the "convenient" way to eat, save big dollars by doing the cooking yourself by picking a day and prep your meals for the week with say a roast beef, turkey etc and be inventive to keep it tasty. C) Clothing....there is such a mark up on clothes even when it is 50% off your still paying too much so look for those stores that mark down the designer brands and save the big $$$ and looking is half the fun is it not? Also learning to mix and match outfits which will reduce the need for more threads hanging in the closet (if you do not have an eye for it just ask a friend who does) and for under-garments and kids outfits any discount box store will do. Also ever notice how some people are styling no matter what they are wearing, its because they are in shape so in other words spending a lot of money on a suit/shoes etc. is not going to change your look....take care of the body first!! D) Transportation....everyone circumstances are different here, without saying using the car less saves you coin and if living near work/school the use of public transport/car pool or walking is great. But if buying a car look for the lease buybacks...why? it will have low mileage and warranty as the new car dealers take on the fleets from the rental car agencies to keep rotating their new products to them Or go to any established used car dealer which offers the same and save big money, i know buying new seems glamorous but there is such a depreciation loss once you drive it of the lot, so <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBg__k_WSVfPwZoHAf9WsqUz11nNc02x6yrxfg42i_jvDfX1ijUHIbgfv0FWyy8gnpWB0DXYLRwTuwP_7fmi6YmkaEbCZxo3m7qvS3WSosRIGhyphenhyphen3W2eqfUqIh1COdTy4-kwchVMQbglAA/s1600/1033212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBg__k_WSVfPwZoHAf9WsqUz11nNc02x6yrxfg42i_jvDfX1ijUHIbgfv0FWyy8gnpWB0DXYLRwTuwP_7fmi6YmkaEbCZxo3m7qvS3WSosRIGhyphenhyphen3W2eqfUqIh1COdTy4-kwchVMQbglAA/s320/1033212.jpg" width="320" /></a>just buy some nice air freshener and and think of all the coin you just saved (lol). E) Furniture.....another mark up king!! used pieces or mark downs due to scratches/nicks is just as good. Personally i rummage through old antique stores and find some unique pieces at great value. So as you see its all how you look at things, as my best friend says....."look beyond the bumpers"Terry Keyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03494341816458121997noreply@blogger.com0