A Family Law Attorney And Child Support Settlements

How to Choose the Right Lawyer

Finding the right lawyer for your needs may seem like an intimidating process, but, as with any other consumer transaction, doing your research is key.

At one point or another, many people find themselves in a situation where they’re in need of the services of a good lawyer. Whether it’s handling a real estate transaction, setting up a business, or dealing with a family law issue, there are a vast number of situations where the experience and expertise of a good lawyer will be necessary.

So, You Need to Find a Lawyer

If you’re looking for a lawyer to help you deal with a legal issue that has emerged in your life, you may be wondering how to find an attorney and how to know if you’re choosing the right lawyer for your particular legal needs.

How to Choose a Lawyer

The first step in the process of choosing the right lawyer, then, is the research phase. Ideally, you want to start with the names of several lawyers, and, as with the purchase of most other services, personal referrals are often the best place to start. Begin compiling your list by asking friends, neighbors, and business associates for recommendations.

How Do You Know If Your Attorney Is Good?

Once you’ve compiled a list of potential attorneys, you can begin the evaluation process. Most lawyers offer a free initial consultation, and, as an informed consumer, you should take full advantage of these.

How to Become a Family Lawyer

Have you ever thought about studying or practising family law? This page tells you what to expect from this incredibly diverse area of law.

What is Family Law?

Family Law focuses on finding solutions to issues relating to often complex legal relationships. These include marriage and parenthood among others. For this reason, family law practice can involve work with varying groups from children to the elderly and any others in between. Because family law relates to some very personal aspects of a client’s life, it can be one of the most emotive areas of law to practice.

Family Law Topics

Family Law is incredibly diverse. This means that the topics studied at one institution are often different from those studied at another.

Most modules will feature some core topics (such as marriage, divorce and children) as well as others which will be more specifically linked to the professors’ areas of expertise.

Examples include:

Divorce, dissolution and financial separation

Children, parentage, residence, contact and parental responsibility. This may also include adoption, surrogacy, child abduction and even abuse/neglect

Children’s Rights (taking into consideration a child’s ability to make their own decisions)

Domestic Abuse

Domestic obligations towards families under International Treaties such as the ECHR

Socio-legal Family Law: a more general look at what society defines family as and whether the law has adequately responded to modern societal views. Examples include the law of parentage in the context of a rise in same-sex couples

Family law and the State. This includes the role of agencies and local authorities in childcare and protection

What makes certain family law attorneys better than others?

Over the years I have gone up against dozens of attorneys in my family law cases. Some of those attorneys have been skilled litigators, while others have been absolute hacks. I have decided to attempt to list the attributes that make a fine divorce attorney.

But, before I begin I want to point out that you do not have to guess at which attorneys are good anymore. With online reviews you can see what past clients say about their attorneys.

Devotion to the Client

I have gone against some attorneys who come out swinging, because they genuinely care about their client and their client’s case. On the other hand, it is apparent to me when opposing counsel is not motivated to fight for their client. When an attorney doesn’t care about their client, they do not fight hard and they generally do not prepare well. An attorney who is genuinely devoted to your case is one of the most important attributes of a good attorney.

Knowledge of the Law

At some point there is just no substitute for knowledge of the law. If an attorney is not knowledgeable about an area of the law that is pertinent to their client’s case, they will be at a disadvantage. Make sure you chose a family law lawyer who knows the law well. I am fortunate in that I learned family law at the feet of my very experienced mother who is a Certified Family Law Specialist.

Courage

There is nothing worse than having a family law attorney who is scared. Some attorneys are scared of the judge, scared of opposing counsel, and scared of being in court. Make sure you hire a family law attorney who is fearless. In my experience a bold attorney often gets better results for their client. When you meet with a family law attorney to hire them, make sure they are bold and exude confidence.

How to Find a Good Lawyer

Choosing a good lawyer is like choosing any other product or service. It’s best to do thorough research to help you make an informed decision. Once you secure several lawyer referrals with expertise in the appropriate practice area, you should carefully research each candidate. Below are some simple steps to choosing the best lawyer for your legal needs.

Conducting Candidate Interviews

One of the best ways to assess a lawyer’s legal ability is by interviewing them. Most attorneys will provide an initial consultation—usually an hour or less—at no charge.

Keep in mind that a higher fee does not necessarily equate with a more qualified attorney. Consequently, a rock bottom fee may signal problems, inexperience, or incompetence.

Consulting the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory

The directory includes basic practice profile data on virtually every lawyer in the United States and Canada and detailed professional biographies of leading lawyers and firms in 160 countries. It also includes lawyer and law firm ratings based upon peer reviews, which may help when choosing between two equally qualified candidates.

Asking Other Attorneys

Lawyers know the skill and reputation of other lawyers. Attorneys may be able to provide information about a fellow lawyer that you may not find in a book or online, such as information about a lawyer’s ethics, competence level, demeanor, practice habits, and reputation.

How to Choose a Family Law Attorney

When you have family issues that can’t be resolved on your own, you may need the help of a family law attorney. There are several issues where you want the help of a family lawyer rather than another type of lawyer. It’s important to know what those areas are how to choose a family law attorney.

If your legal issue falls under one of these categories, then a family law attorney can help. They can help to represent your case and help you get the outcome you desire. They can also advise you when your case may not be as strong as you think and when you may want to reach an agreement with the other party rather than seeking the help of the court.

What Does a Family Law Attorney Do?

When you look at the list of areas that a family law attorney can help, it’s important to understand some of the tasks an attorney can do.

Divorce & Child Custody

In divorce proceedings, a family law attorney can help the couple settle their split without going to court. They can do this by acting as a mediator to work through their issues

Prenuptial agreement

A family law attorney can draft this agreement as a couple decides the terms of spousal support and division of property.

Do Your Own Shingles Roof Maintenance Check

Choosing the Right Shingles For Your House

There are many different options when it comes to roofing shingles, which may be overwhelming for homeowners looking for new roof installation or replacement. For example, some roof shingles were designed for aesthetic appeal while others were built to be hardy and withstand the elements

Asphalt Shingles

As the most common type of roofing material used on the market, asphalt shingles are the go-to for most new homeowners or for roof replacements

3-tab asphalt shingles. 3-tab shingles are named due to the cutouts tabs that are layered on top of each other. This allows each shingle to look like it is three separate pieces, creating a dynamic and gorgeous 3D look. This particular shingle is the most affordable within the asphalt industry, usually costing anywhere between $.85-$1.50 per sq. foot. 3-tab shingles also have a lifespan of 10-20 years with proper maintenance.

Fiberglass Asphalt Shingles. This gorgeous shingle was created by weaving a fiberglass base mat, covering it with a waterproof asphalt coating, and topping it off with ceramic granules to shield against UV rays and to add a bit of sparkle. These shingles are fantastic for areas that generally receive a lot of rain. While fiberglass asphalt shingles provide more protection for your home, they do come at a bit of a higher cost than their 3-tab shingle brethren. Generally, a homeowner can expect to pay $1.00-$3.00 per sq. foot. As for life, Fiberglass shingles will last a homeowner anywhere from 20-40 years with proper maintenance.

Architectural Shingles. When it comes to aesthetics, it is hard to beat an architectural shingle. These shingles are designed to look like they were hand sculpted and come in many different shapes and colors, allowing homeowners the freedom to choose a style that fits their taste best. With an extra laminate layer, architectural shingles have a bit more glimmer and extra durability than both fiberglass and 3-tab asphalt shingles. However, these shingles are a bit more expensive, coming in at $1.50-$5.50 per square foot. You will see a return on your investment, though, due to the long lifespan of architectural shingles. These shingles can last a homeowner between 30-50  years with the proper maintenance.

How to Choose the Best Roof Shingles for Your Home

Replacing your roof is one of the most important purchases a homeowner can make. Based on this, it is important to understand the various options available. Asphalt shingle roofs are the least expensive and most popular option, followed by metal roofs, cedar roofs, slate roofs and clay roofs.

When talking to roofing contractors, you may be presented with many options to choose from, including style, colour, lifespan and type of warranty, and of course, price. Even for asphalt shingles alone, there are also many different brands from various manufacturers, with each brand carrying shingles that falls into three categories: Basic Shingles, Mid-Grade Shingles or Premium Shingles

How to decide which roof shingles best suits your roof

So how do you decide which roof shingle to go with? At Smart Roofing, we recommend using the best quality roof shingles while taking into account your budget. Do not simply go with the cheapest option and cheapest price, because as with anything, you get what you pay for. From our experience, higher quality roof shingles will give you the best value and highest warranty, protecting your roof for years to come.

Choose the right roofing contractors

we are dedicated to providing quality craftsmanship to our customers. We are certified Certainteed ShingleMaster™ roof contractors providing extended lifetime warranties from our manufacturers, which includes labour, material, removal and disposal, ensuring maximum lifetime protection from the manufacturer.

Tips for Choosing the Colour of Your Shingles

And how about changing the colour as well?

A roof is a major visual element, sometimes making up a third of the visible portion of your home. This is why you should take into consideration its colour and how well it goes with the house’s exterior surroundings. Making the right choice here can even have a positive impact on the value of your property.

Though sober hues may dominate the market, anything-but-neutral colours have their own fan base with homeowners looking for something a little different. Red, blue, or green roofs can be found from coast to coast, with a concentration of blue and green in the East.

Monochrome roofs are now a thing of the past. The demand is for shingles with nuances and variations. These can be variations on a theme, like two-tone black, or a mix of colours, like Weathered Rock, which combines, grey, brown, and even blue.

Architectural shingles are homeowners’ favourite

Offering a textured effect and more visible gradations of the main hue, architectural (laminate) shingles are the most popular seller at BP. That said, classic three-tab shingles, which offer a more uniform finish, are still quite popular, especially in the East.

Is colour really that important?

Do you doubt the positive impact on your property and its value of choosing the right colour? Read on! In addition to the fun of choosing, the colour of your roof may benefit your property by:

Harmonizing with its environment: Grey and black look great in an urban setting. However, shades of brown will blend in better when a roof is surrounded by trees.

Stand out from the crowd: In a neighbourhood where most of the roofs are brown, a black or grey roof will stand out and add a spark of originality.

Save energy: A dark roof that absorbs heat may be preferable in a colder climate, while a lighter-coloured roof that reflects heat could keep your house cooler in a warmer or more sunny areas.

How to Choose Shingles & Common Utah Roof Maintenance

What are roof shingles made of?

There are multiple types of roof shingles that are made from various materials to choose from.  The most common material used to make them is asphalt.  They are built with either a fiberglass or organic felt base.  Each of these bases are built as a large roll which is then run through a presaturation chamber and put into a saturation tank filled with hot asphalt that attaches the asphalt to the base.  Following the asphalt, different granular minerals are added.  The minerals allow the shingles to be different colors and keeps the roof protected from harmful UV rays.

Types of roof shingles

Asphalt is the most common type of roofing shingles due to their low cost, ease to install, durability, low maintenance costs and wide variety of colors and styles.  Cedar is another option you can choose and is usually found on older homes.  As cedar has become more rare (and thus more expensive), most new cedar shingles actually use new growth trees which are more vulnerable to wear and must be chemically treated.  The cost to buy, install, and maintain them have made these less common.  Choosing tile is also common in some climates.  The initial cost is high, but people choose tile because it can offer more durability, longer life, and better heat efficiency in extreme climates.

How often should you replace your roof?

The lifespan of a shingle installation varies widely based on the type you choose, and even the specific style of each type.  For example, many common asphalt shingles are rated for a 30-year lifespan, but some are rated for as little as ten or fifteen years.  Tile can be rated even longer.  The life span also greatly depends on the environment they are in and what work has been performed.  Extreme Utah weather such as winds, heat, or cold can greatly decrease how long a roof will last.

What causes roof leaks?

One of the biggest causes is simply the age of the roof.  Over time, the Utah weather will wear down or break shingles, resulting in leaks.  Clogged rain gutters is another common cause of leaks.  When the gutters don’t drain, the water can soak into the wood under the shingles.  This is an especially severe problem during the winter, when ice dams are common and can build up in gutters, causing water and ice to seep under the shingles and cause damage.  Choosing to perform regular checkups like routinely checking gutters is a simple way to ensure this doesn’t happen.  Lack of enough slope on the roof, improperly installed flashing, or excessive moisture all can create leaks.

Why does my roofing sag?

When a roof sags the most common reasons are that either there are faulty materials or too much weight, or a combination of the two.  The materials can wear down or even break causing sagging.  Regardless of the reason, sagging can be a sign of huge potential problems and should be checked by a Utah roofing contractor immediately.

What are the different types of roof shingles?

you can choose to replace or have installed on your home. Each one has different benefits, costs, materials, and style. We break down all shingled roof types below. Use our quick replacement roof cost chart to get an idea on how much you will spend for each.

Types of Roof Shingles

There are a few things to take into consideration when you are thinking of replacing your home’s roof with new shingles. A new shingled roof is a big investment, so you’ll want to take into consideration the cost to install certain roof shingle types as well as the lifespan you can expect from each

3 Tab Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingle roof costs are the most affordable as far as installation goes. They are the most common type of roof replacements or new home roof installations that homeowners choose. There are three main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab asphalt, fiberglass asphalt, and architectural style asphalt shingles. 3 tab asphalt shingles are the most affordable shingle to install but they are thinner, have an organic-mat paper base, and wear out more quickly than fiberglass or architectural shingles.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles are more durable than asphalt shingle options in comparison to 3 tab asphalt shingles. The give off a sculpted look and have an extra laminate layer which contours them to look a bit more designed. Architectural shingles cost a bit more to install at $1.50 to $5.50 per square foot or $150 to $550 per square. They come in more luxurious looking styles that homeowners prefer and can even simulate wood shake designs. Though they are more expensive, they can last up to twice as long as 3-tab asphalt shingles. Architectural asphalt shingles can last from 30 to 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Though some homeowners choose to DIY install a new roof, we highly suggest hiring a local roof contractor to complete the job.

Metal Roof Shingles

Metal roof shingles are stylish in appearance and there are many different color options available to pick from. Metal roof shingles are relatively easily to install and they are very lightweight, making them a good option for homes with a roof system that simply can’t support heavier options. Metal roofing can last from 75 to 100 years and has one of the longest lifespans in comparison to other roof types. Metal roof installation costs near you may differ depending on the average price for labor in your neighborhood. On average metal roofing shingles cost $2.80 to $3.85 per square foot or $280 to $385 per square. Metal roofing also comes in sheet panels as well.

Advantages Of Choosing A Good DUI Lawyer

How do I find the best lawyer for my DUI charge?

If you have been charged with a DUI offence, including Impaired Driving, Over 80, Refusal, or Care or Control, hiring an effective DUI lawyer is essential to advancing the best possible defence. This is probably the most important decision you will make in defending the case, and it can feel quite daunting. And with so many DUI lawyers to choose from, how can you be sure you’re making the right decision?

Look for a DUI Lawyer with Experience Defending DUI Cases

DUI defence is a highly technical and complicated area of law. It is important to ensure you hire a lawyer with the necessary knowledge and experience in this area in particular. Things to consider when choosing an impaired driving lawyer include their experience, seniority and success rate. It is useful to consider whether your lawyer has a focused practice in criminal law, and impaired driving law in particular.

On this point, you should ask the lawyer for following:

How many DUI cases has the lawyer handled in their career? This will demonstrate their experience with this practice area.

How many DUI cases does the lawyer have on the go at any given time? This will demonstrate how current their experience is, and how focused their practice is on DUI defence.

How many DUI cases does the lawyer win. Success rates often vary between locations, depending on the quality of the police investigations, the prosecutors in the area, and even the composition of the judiciary. Compare their win rate to other lawyers who defend DUI’s in the area, or to statistics on DUI conviction rates.

Look for a DUI Lawyer with a strong focus on DUI’s Beyond just Defending DUI Cases in Court

To ensure the lawyer you are thinking of hiring really knows what he/she is doing, you should review what other involvement the lawyer has with DUI’s beyond just defending clients in court

Look for a DUI Lawyer with Positive Online Reviews

Online reviews are a source of information about a lawyer that is independent of the lawyer.

COST OF A GOOD DUI LAWYER?

Idaho state bar rules will influence how much a DUI attorney will cost, whether you take your case to trial or you want to accept a plea (less expensive) will influence the DUI legal fees. In Boise most DUI attorneys charge anywhere from $1000 to $1,800.00 for a plea. Trial rates may range from $3,000.00 to $25,000.00 depending on the level of your offense and the complexity of your case, evidence examination, etc.

Is it worth it to hire a lawyer for DUI?

This is a difficult question to answer, because the value of a lawyer is dependent on a future outcome not yet determined. (That’s why you want to choose experienced DUI attorneys with a winning record like Boise Advocate) In a recent AVVO survey, 77% of respondents said it was worth hiring a private attorney, plus they found the public defender only saved them about 20% on lawyer costs.

Is it worth going to trial for a DUI?

You are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law; therefore you need to speak to an experienced legal counsel who can examine your case and evidence then advise your best chances of winning.

The TRUE price of a plea deal

Many clients assume that since they were pulled over, took field sobriety tests, or gave a blood or alcohol sample, that there is no way they could be found not guilty at trial. This is simply not true.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT DWI LAWYER

Don’t make a mistake in finding a DWI lawyer by not protecting yourself.  This is a stressful situation, where you have to be prepared and make snap decisions that could influence your case. An experienced DUI lawyer can help alleviate the pressure and stress by guiding you towards decisions that are better for your situation.

Often people assume that pleading guilty and getting it over with is the way to go. However, there could be mitigating circumstances like the reliability of the test, the reason for being pulled over, and many more factors that could affect your verdict if you had a proper defense. A lawyer can assess whether pleading guilty or taking the case to court is a better option for you, especially if your case is a complicated one. This can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run.

Do some research and make a list of lawyers in your area that have experience with DWI cases.  It’s always good to start with options.  If you have the right options to start with, you can choose someone who understands your case.

You can also add to this list lawyers you used for other matters. A lot of them can also handle DUI cases. If you’re not sure, you can give them a call and gauge their comfort level.

Do Your Research

If this is the first time you’ll be working with this lawyer, make sure that they are licensed in your state. If not, they should be hiring a co-counsel to be able to represent you. Truth be told, it’s a lot easier to hire a local attorney. Not only will they be more familiar with the laws of that state, they’ll also know the prosecutors, the judges and the general culture of DUI cases in your area. That’s experience that even the best lawyers out of state don’t have.

HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD DUI LAWYER

One of the worst experiences you can ever deal with is being charged with driving under influence in California. The best thing to do in such as a situation is to identify the best attorney to represent you in court. Find out how to select the right DUI LAWYER IN SCOTTSDALE provides from the paragraphs that follow.

EXECUTIVE

You will have to start by finding some of the most qualified attorneys working near you. This usually demands doings lots of research before you can choose whom to hire. You can get information on the experts to consider through conducting an online research.

There are many referral websites that list registered lawyers in each county. Additionally, you can seek recommendations from people you trust such as friends and family

To get the best legal representation, you will have to eliminate the least suitable practitioners. The first thing to look into is the licensing status of all the candidates whose contacts you have gathered. It is advisable to only select people who are permitted to work in your county. This will involve verifying the credentials of each attorney you are about to hire.

Ask the person you want to hire about the number of similar cases they have handled before. An attorney who has represented in tens of cases like yours is likely to provide you with favorable outcome.

Choosing an Aggressive Drunk Driving Lawyer

we know that the Michigan drunk driving attorney you choose will make a difference in whether you experience a positive outcome. It is critical that you choose an aggressive lawyer who is willing to fight hard to protect your legal rights and freedom. Our staff has the skill, experience, and dedicated hands-on approach essential to securing the best possible results for clients charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or other illicit drugs/substances.

Choosing an Aggressive Drunk Driving Attorney in Michigan is a Must

When an individual is accused of or arrested for any criminal offense, he or she is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt; this includes drunk driving. Unfortunately, many attorneys focus more on building their client base than providing outstanding legal support and representation, and will simply walk a client through a plea agreement.

A dedicated lawyer who is focused on his client’s best interest will work to have the charge dismissed when possible, or negotiate reduced charges when it is the only option. The attorney you choose must be willing to thoroughly investigate, analyze and challenge evidence, and work toward the client’s desired outcome. Our team of Michigan criminal defense lawyers is diverse; our staff consists of professionals who are experienced and knowledgeable in the criminal process, and who understand how police and prosecutors work. We know the mistakes often made by police, and how to use our knowledge to the benefit of the client.

Ask Questions; Communication is Key in Choosing a Capable, Effective Attorney

Choosing the right attorney is key to the best possible outcome for those facing DUI charges. Most individuals find the legal system confusing at best; your lawyer must give you the personal attention and focus you deserve, answering your questions and explaining the legal process, keeping you updated every step of the way. An effective attorney is one who not only has a vast amount of experience in the field of drunk driving, but who possesses the necessary skills and aggressive approach to your case.

Some of the questions you should ask when determining who will represent you include:

Does the attorney have an extensive legal background and experience to successfully handle my case?

Does the strategy the attorney suggests seem the most appropriate for your situation?

Do I feel comfortable with the attorney’s personality and confident in his/her legal ability and skill?

Has the firm handled jury trials involving drunk driving over the past year, and if so, how many?

Is the attorney knowledgeable about or specially trained in DUI field sobriety testing?

How many years has the attorney practiced in the area of drunk driving?

What specific challenges may you face in my case?

Hard To Deal Problems Of Exterior Painting

What Is a Painting Contractor?

A painting contractor can work as a sub, or sub-contractor, under a general contractor, or can hire itself out directly to the homeowner. Usually, the painting contractor is a relatively small operation, ranging from the one-man sole proprietor up to 20 or 30 painters working for a small company.

How to Talk to Him

Unlike conversing with an electrician, you do not need to know specialized lingo. Most house painting contractors are good at making things clear to the homeowner.
A few topics you will want to discuss:

  • Is the cost of the paint included in the estimate?
  • What type of paint does the contractor intend on using?
  • How many coats will be laid down?
  • How will the non-paintable areas be covered for protection?
  • How long can you the job to take?
  • Is it preferable for the residents to vacate the house during the job?
  • Will masking tape be used around the trim or the cut-in method?

How to find one?

Usually, a painting contractor tends to be local as of yet there are no national contractors. While the main task of the painting contractor is to paint but they also provide some other services such as exterior painting services, minor drywall work, molding, cleaning, wallpapering and so on.

Make sure you work with a professional 

It might be tempting to save money by hiring a painting professional without licensing and insurances by state law. It will be backfired to receive an inferior painting job just to receive a refund. Make sure you receive a copy of the company’s business license as well as an insurance certificate. Make sure you don’t hire just anyone and you hire professionals to get your task done.

Compare at least three painting contractors

Most professional painting companies offer free estimates so don’t forget to ask the same from people. When you receive an invoice, make sure you ask about the policies of the companies. Compare all the policies as well as the quotes offered by the several exterior painting contractors and choose the right one from these.

How to Hire an Exterior Painting Company

Anybody can call himself an exterior house painter.  While most states provide contractor licenses to various professionals, there’s no “seal of approval” that says a company is good at residential and commercial panting.

So what do you do when looking to hire a paint pro?  Here are six important steps toward finding the right company for the job.

  1. Ask around. Do you know people who’ve used painting contractors for exterior work? Listen to what they have to say and make note of any glowing references you hear.
  2. Initial call. Your first call to paint contractors you’re interested in should be primarily to set up a face-to-face meeting. You can ask a few questions on the phone – Do you have crews available in August?  How long have you been in business? – things like that, but save the important questions for the meeting.
  3. The meeting. Here you should make several evaluations. First, does the person who shows up seem to take his business seriously and demonstrate that your job is important to him?  Initial impressions are often quite important in hiring an exterior paint contractor. However, don’t only go by how you “feel” about the person.  Listen to what he says in answer to your questions and what he explains to you about the painting process.  A solid professional will make you feel comfortable in the discussion while demonstrating experience and knowledge.  Remember – you’re hiring a person (or team) to paint your house, not to attend your cocktail party.
  4. References. During the initial meeting, you should be provided with references from other customers in your general area for whom the painter has worked. The contractor’s website may also have some past-customer feedback.  Follow up with these people.
  5. The estimate. You probably can get a general painting estimate over the phone, but getting a specific price for your specific job may not happen in just a few seconds. The contractor will want to look over the work areas, and you’ll likely have to answer a few questions before getting some numbers.  Make sure you clearly understand what will be done for the price you’ll pay.
  6. Warranty and guarantee. Before agreeing to or signing anything, understand exactly what the painter promises to do and what your obligations will be during the process. Know what you’re getting and how any defects or damages will be compensated.

BONUS TIP – Negotiate for the Best Deal

Okay! You’ve done your homework and, by now, you’ve probably found the best painter in Tampa to paint your home’s exterior.

But Wait! Before you sign the proposal, I have another lesson from dad to share with you – “Never pay full price.”

Instead, always ask for a discount. Find a way to save money when you’re paying for something. But, be careful not to insult the service provider or you might lose the opportunity to have one of the best painters in Tampa to paint your home for the best value in town. Remember, value beats price, anytime.

Here are a few questions you can respectfully ask your painter to save a few bucks without hurting your relationship before the project even starts:

Ways to Save on the Cost to Paint

  • Do you offer a discount if I pay with cash or check?
  • Do you offer a (military, first-responder, teacher, senior) discount?
  • Do you offer a discount if I get any of my neighbors to paint their homes at the same time you’re painting mine?
  • Do you have any coupons in the local discount magazines that I can use? Or, do you take competitor coupons?
  • I prefer to do business with you, but I have an estimate from a competitor that came in less than yours. Their quote looks pretty much apples-to-apples compared to yours. Would you be willing to match their price? Note: Usually, the best painting companies in town already advertise that they offer a price match guarantee. Just be prepared to show the other written painting estimate.

SPRAY PAINT VS. ROLLING PAINT: EXTERIOR PAINTING DILEMMA

Some painting companies spray the siding on houses while others brush and roll the paint on. I have had a lot of my homeowners ask me what the difference between the two are. Each of the two has its own advantages and disadvantages.

ROLLING

At textbook painting we normally roll the majority of our jobs because rolling jobs will give a higher quality finish. The advantages to rolling a house vs. spraying is that the paint will be applied much thicker giving overall better coverage than if it was sprayed. Also it is much easier to be precise and when a house is rolled it eliminates the risk of such things like overspray.

SPRAYING

We also spray some jobs for its primary advantage: speed. When we spray large areas it allows us to work much faster and produce a job much quicker. Since fewer labor hours are needed it costs me less to produce the job and I pass that savings on to my homeowners. So I normally write an estimate up with a price to have it sprayed with the additional option to have it rolled. Most of my homeowners end up going with the roll price because it is a higher quality job.

Risks Buyers Bear Without Electrical Home Inspections

What Is an Electrical Home Inspection?

An electrical home inspection provides a thorough examination of your entire electrical system, ensuring all electrical wires, systems, and components (such as appliances) meet legal safety standards. The National Electrical Code (NEC) is the code that all electricians operate under when examining your home, and defines the parameters for minimum standards across the United States. Upon completion of your electrical home inspection, a Mr. Electric® inspector will provide a detailed, prioritized checklist including areas in need of immediate attention, recommendations for improvements, and potential upgrade possibilities.

When Do You Need an Electrical Safety Inspection?

There are specific times when homeowners should schedule an electrical home safety inspection. The Electrical Safety Foundation recommends that homeowners make an appointment for an electrical home inspection at these times:

  • When purchasing a home
  • When a home is 40 years or older
  • When adding an appliance
  • When a home has had a major renovation

AMPACITY – the LIMITING FACTOR – Summary

What is the limiting factor that determines the actual electrical service ampacity at a building?

Remember you’re looking for the limiting factor in determining ampacity. Finding the electrical component in this list which has the smallest capacity means that you have found the “weak link in the chain” of components bringing electrical service to the building.

Particularly when inspecting older properties, where there is the chance that someone has upgraded some but not all of the components in this list, there may be an inconsistency such as the installation of a larger electrical panel without upgrading the main disconnect.

  1. Electrical service entry cable or “SEC” size and amperage rating (we do not generally consider the overhead or service lateral wiring)
  2. Electric meter (questionable but may assist, especially if the item’s generation, age, and obsolescence can be determined)
  3. Electric meter base (questionable but may assist, especially if the item’s generation, age, and obsolescence can be determined)
  4. Main electrical power switch fuse/circuit breaker ampacity
  5. Electrical panel rated ampacity (and bus design may support only 120V)

Electrical Inspection Checklist

Before finalizing a home purchase, it is common to have a standard home inspection to check for structural problems and electrical, plumbing and mechanical defects. What you may not realize is that the standard inspection addresses surface issues.

A more in-depth inspection by an electrician can uncover electrical problems overlooked in the standard inspection and expose defects that could lead to a house fire.

Here are some areas you should have inspected by a licensed electrician before purchasing a new home:

Electric meter

The electrician should check the electric meter for defects such as insecure installation, broken meter seals and rust at the bottom of the box that could indicate the presence of water. Sometimes water can follow the service entrance cable from the meter box to the main panel.

Electrical wires

Outside wires should be inspected for fraying or other damage. An electrician will also look for unprotected wires anywhere inside the home, especially in attics, basements and crawl spaces. Wires resting on heat ducts or pipes present an unsafe situation and will be reported.

Circuit breaker

The electrical panel houses circuit breakers, which are designed to prevent electrical current from exceeding safe levels. An electrician will check for insufficient clearance, improperly sized circuit breakers, oxidation or corrosion, aluminum branch wiring, overheated components and the presence of moisture. Inspecting these panels can be dangerous, and you should never remove an electrical panel yourself.

GCFI outlets

GFCI outlets should be placed in basements, garages, kitchens and bathrooms. These outlets contain small circuit breakers that shut off when overloaded or if there is a short circuit. An electrician can ensure these outlets are correctly wired and test other outlets in the home for looseness or reversed polarity.

Electrical outlets

An electrician will test all wall switches for reversed polarity and ungrounded circuits, looking out for discolored, loose or damaged switch plates and unsafe wiring.

You should consider joining the electrician during the inspection because it will provide a great opportunity to gain valuable knowledge about your home’s electrical system, and you will be able to verify every item on the list has been inspected.

5 Year Fixed Wire Testing

Most standard workplace environments need an Electrical Installation Condition Report to be produced at least every 5 years. However, there should be regular routine inspections conducted at least annually.

Typical workplaces which require 5 Yearly Fixed Wire Testing include:

  • Commercial spaces such as offices and retail outlets
  • Hotels and restaurants (excluding spa hotels)
  • Schools, colleges and universities
  • Laboratories
  • Community centres, churches and public houses
  • Care homes and hospitals (excluding medical locations)
  • Halls of residence, houses of multiple occupancy

How you can help the during a home inspection

Bring any and all red flags about your real estate property to your inspector before he begins, so he’ll keep a sharp lookout for possible problems. If the seller has disclosed damage, give your inspector a heads-up about that, too.

Another smart move is to accompany the home inspector during his rounds. It’s in your best interest to understand this new home, its systems and potential problems. For instance, an inspector can introduce you to electrical panels, air-conditioning and ventilation switches, and shut-off water valves in the plumbing (which the seller may not know how to operate or forget to show you). If the inspector spots a problem, he can show you exactly how a system is malfunctioning, what it means, and maybe a way to fix it. And this info will serve you well not only before you buy, but afterward as well.

Move In Cleaning Service For A New Home

4 Issues to Address Before New Tenant Move In

Having a new tenant move into your property can be stressful for both the tenant and landlord. Having a checklist of items that must be addressed before the tenant moves in can help make the transition easier and ensure you do not miss any important steps. Here are ten things you should address prior to having a new tenant move into your rental.

Clean the Property

Cleaning is especially important if you are doing an apartment turnover, which means there was a previous tenant living in the unit. You will want to make sure the unit is thoroughly cleaned, especially areas such as the tub, toilet, stove, and refrigerator. Vacuum or sweep to remove any additional debris.

You should also have the property exterminated before tenant move-in even if there is no noticeable problem.

Look for Issues With Heat, Plumbing or Electrical

Before a tenant moves in, you must make sure all utilities are working. You will want to make sure the heat works in all rooms, that there are no clogs or leaks in the plumbing and that the outlets and overhead lights in every room are operational. These are necessities that a tenant needs to maintain their quality of life.

Review and Sign Lease With Tenant

You should go over the lease agreement with the tenant section by section so that they completely understand what they are agreeing to. Once you have gone over the entire agreement with the tenant and answered any questions, you and the tenant should sign and date the lease agreement.

Have Necessary Property Inspections Completed

Depending on your town’s laws, the unit may have to be inspected by a home inspector before a tenant can move in. This inspection is done so the town can issue you a Certificate of Habitability. Some towns only require this inspection the first time the unit is rented, some towns require it every five years and some require it every time a new tenant moves into the unit. Make sure you know your town’s rules.

Moving In – Understand The Terms Of The Lease

  • When you are renting an apartment, both you and your landlord have created a relationship in good faith. You must get the name, address and phone number of your landlord. If the person you are dealing with is a manager, make sure you know her/his name, address and phone number and find out who owns the property. Get their name and phone number as well.
  • Make sure you know what your rent is, where to pay it, and where to contact your landlord for repairs or problems.
  • You will probably be required to pay a security or damage deposit with the first month’s rent. THE DEPOSIT IS NOT RENT. If you have a written lease, it will generally state what your deposit will cover. If you don’t understand the terms, ask the manager to explain them clearly.
  • Ask the manager outright – “How much is usually deducted from the deposit upon move-out?” Surprisingly, they will usually tell you – if they do, have them write the amount on the lease and initial it.

Apartment Cleaning Checklist for Before You Unpack

You’ve been thinking about how great your mid-century modern coffee table is going to look in your new apartment since you saw the rental listing.

But here’s a hot tip before you go charging in with all your belongings: Your new apartment will never be easier to clean than when you’re holding the keys for the first time. Take advantage of the empty space and follow this easy cleaning checklist to make your place a tidy home for youself—and all your beloved stuff.

1. Start from the top.

When it comes to giving your new home a deep scrub, it’s best to clean each room from the top down. Because, gravity. Start by dusting the ceiling fan, ceiling corners, and overhead lights. (Globe-shaped light figures are notorious for collecting dust, so be sure to give them a good clean.) Then start working your way down—walls, baseboards, and finally, the floors.

2. Work toward the door.

Here’s another way to order your cleaning in a room: Start at the farthest point from the entryway. This is especially important when it comes to floors. You don’t want to trod over freshly-vacuumed carpet in your dusty house-cleaning shoes!

3. Deep clean the closets.

Once the closets are full of your odds and ends, it’s unlikely you’ll ever take them all back out to clean in there. Dust out the corners, and consider lining shelves with vinyl or decorative paper (just be sure it isn’t permanent). Shelf lining looks good, is easy to clean, and covers up mystery marks and gross stains left by previous tenants. It’s a win-win-win.

4. Replace the toilet seat.

You’re bringing your own recliner and couch, and those aren’t even as hard to keep clean. You’ll spend a lot of time sitting on your apartment’s toilet, and it’s arguably the most important seat in the house. Do yourself (and your guests) a favor by giving your toilet a fresh start.

5. Disinfect the bathtub.

You’re much more likely to enjoy a soak in the tub after you’ve disinfected away all trace of the last person who soaked there. For an easy cleaning hack, use dish soap and a sponge to wipe down the bathtub—though you may need to enlist a more convensional cleaner to fight tougher stains. Prefer a natural method? Equal parts baking soda, borax, and kosher salt make a great cleaning scrub without any impossible-to-pronounce chemicals.

6. Clean your appliances.

Yes, even your dishwasher needs help getting clean. Start by running a cycle with only a cup of white vinegar in the top rack—using the hot water setting if your dishwasher has one. Afterwards, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom rack and run a second hot cycle.

Disinfect the microwave (inside and out), then hit the fridge. Remove all the shelves you can, and wipe them down—you can even let them soak in the sink or bathtub. A solution of vinegar and water works great as a food-safe, all-purpose cleaner.

What happens if my Full Security Deposit is not returned?

You have moved out of your old apartment or rental house and are settling into your new place when part of your old security deposit shows up with no explanation for the deductions. What are you to do?

In many jurisdictions, if a landlord does not return all of your security deposit, or returns a portion of the security deposit without a written explanation of everything that was deducted for you may be able to sue. In California, for example, the landlord must provide receipts for any repairs or cleaning over $126. This action, allowed by security deposit laws, is generally called a Wrongful Withholding of Security Deposit or a Wrongful Retention of Security Deposit lawsuit. If you do decide to take legal action, you may be able to recover all or some of your security deposit.

Take Precautions Along the Way

In addition to the recommendations above, there are other tips and tricks to keep in mind throughout the term of your lease. Taking these small steps can make moving out and getting your security deposit back that much easier.

  • Move-In Inspection. Ask your landlord to inspect the apartment with you before you move in. While doing the walk-through, keep a list of any damages you notice. Inspect everything from top to bottom, including inside the drawers, cabinets, and closets. Have your landlord sign off on your damages list. If the landlord makes any promises to repair major damage you notice, get the promise in writing. Keep a copy of both documents so you can use them to prove pre-existing damage, if necessary, when you move out.
  • Take Photos. Before you move in your furniture, take clear photos of every room with a date stamp, including inside the closets as well as outside areas, such as balconies. If any damage exists, take close-up photos as well. A visual will help prove pre-existing damage should the landlord try to take it out of your deposit.
  • Move in Carefully. Take care when moving your furniture in for the first time and when rearranging pieces later. Bulky items can scratch floors, rip paint off of walls, and ding door jambs. Add pads underneath chair legs to keep them from scratching the floor when you move chairs in, out, or around.
  • Read the Lease Before You Make Changes. Some landlords will allow you to paint, while others request you don’t even use small nails in the walls. A change you might consider minor may be prohibited by your lease. If you want to make major changes, such as painting a room a new color, get the landlord’s permission in writing before you do so as it will help avoid a conflict later on.

Finding A Chiropractor Online For Back Pain

How To Choose The Right Chiropractor

It is estimated that Doctors of Chiropractic treat over 27 million Americans annually, with a chiropractic adjustment being performed around 1 million times every business day in the US

There are many known benefits of chiropractic treatment, which has made it such a popular treatment. However, when choosing the right chiropractor you can be overwhelmed with the options, and with the average session costing around $65, it’s an expensive decision to make.

To ensure you get the most from your treatment, take a look at our frequently asked questions. We hope they will help inform you, not simply about how to choose a chiropractor but most importantly, how to choose the right chiropractor.

Tips for Choosing a Chiropractor

A Personal Decision

If you prefer a hands-on approach to healthcare that promotes healing without medications or surgery, chiropractic care may be the prescription for you. Your chiropractor is your partner in spine, muscle and joint health. You depend on your chiropractor’s knowledge and expertise to help you stay healthy or recover from an injury or spine condition. How do you find the best chiropractor who is right for you? Here are some important factors to keep in mind.

Get Referrals

Start by asking your primary care doctor for a referral list of chiropractors. You can also ask family, friends and other healthcare providers for recommendations. Take the time to research the chiropractors’ credentials and experience on Healthgrades.com. As you narrow down your list, call each chiropractor’s office to see if he or she is accepting new patients. If so, ask for an appointment to meet and interview the chiropractor

Research the Chiropractor’s Credentials

Licensure is one of the most important factors to consider when you are choosing a chiropractor. It tells you that the chiropractor has the necessary training, skills and experience to provide chiropractic care. Also confirm that the chiropractor has no history of malpractice claims or disciplinary actions. You can find the chiropractor’s medical school, training hospital, certifications, and malpractice and disciplinary history on Healthgrades.com and state websites.

Consider the Chiropractor’s Experience

Experience matters when you’re facing musculoskeletal or spine health issues. The more experience a chiropractor has with a condition or procedure, the better your results are likely to be. Ask how many patients with your specific condition the chiropractor has treated. If you need a specific procedure, ask how many of the procedures the chiropractor has performed and find out about complication rates—complications the chiropractor has encountered as well as your own risk of complications.

Consider Gender

It’s important to feel comfortable with your chiropractor’s gender because you will need to openly discuss personal information. When it comes to chiropractic care, your own gender is also an important consideration. Chiropractors are becoming more skilled in caring for women and men differently. Ask the chiropractor about his or her recent training and experience specifically related to your condition and your gender.

How to choose a chiropractor

Though there are many great resources for obtaining valuable information to assist you in your search for a chiropractor, it can be overwhelming, particularly if you are new to chiropractic. To help guide you in making an educated choice regarding your health care professional, keep the following five points in mind as you sort through the mass of information.

Honesty and confidence

The first thing to look for in a chiropractic doctor is honesty. An honest doctor has both trust and confidence in each and every one of his patients, and that confidence is a reflection of his pride in providing proper treatment and getting successful results for the patient. A good chiropractor will recommend only the best treatment for your quickest and best results; not-so-good chiropractors will recommend you sign up for a package of long-term treatment even before seeing how you respond to treatment. If chiropractic is not the proper treatment for you, a good chiropractor will have no problem referring you to another health care professional to manage or co-manage your case.

Techniques

There are a variety of techniques and methods of treatment in chiropractic, with no two being exactly alike. Each specific technique can work well with a specific patient, but no single technique will work perfect and heal everyone. This being said, any chiropractor that states her particular technique is superior to others or that absolutely guarantees results should be avoided. Although her techniques may be effective with certain patients, guaranteeing results is actually against the Laws of Chiropractic. 

Word of mouth

This is always a great place to start. Positive word of mouth in every profession is a good sign. If you are considering chiropractic for the first time, or considering choosing a different chiropractor, listen to others in your community more than the ads in the phone book, on TV or placed on Facebook. It is easy to look good in a well thought out advertisement, but the right chiropractor for you may be more successfully found by listening to others around you that have experienced chiropractic practice firsthand.

Appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment

This is extremely important. Doctors of chiropractic have been through extensive training and education to become health care providers. This training included proper examination, proper diagnosis and proper treatment protocols. If a doctor lacks in any one of these three essential areas, he should not be treating you, period! What does this mean for you? If a chiropractor doesn’t talk to you about your health history and your current condition, doesn’t give you an initial physical examination (checking posture, reflexes, etc.), doesn’t give you a diagnosis regarding your condition, and won’t explain your treatment plan, find another chiropractor.

Helpful Tips for Choosing a Chiropractor

If you are looking for a health care provider that promotes healing without medications or surgery, Chiropractic Care may be the right fit for you. In the field of Chiropractic Care, our main focus in on the cause of your problem

Check Reviews

When deciding which Chiropractic Clinic will be the right fit for you, it is always important to look up reviews of the doctor and clinic before making an appointment.

Research the Chiropractor’s Credentials

Making sure the Chiropractor you are about to see has the proper licensure is a very important factor. It will tell you if the chiropractor has the proper training, experience, and skills to provide chiropractic care.

Ask About Experience

A Chiropractors experience matters when you are facing musculoskeletal or spine health issues. The more experience the chiropractor has with a particular condition or procedure, your results are likely to be better.

Schedule a Free Consultation

The majority of Chiropractors will offer a free consultation so you can meet with them and discuss your injury or pain condition. During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to ask any questions that will help you with deciding if they are the right fit for you

What to Look For When Choosing a Chiropractor

How To Choose The Best Chiropractor For You

Chiropractic is a profession with a wide range of practice philosophies and techniques, which can make it difficult to select the top chiropractor. Because the treatment process involved in chiropractic is a physical process, you should seek a doctor you feel is competent and trustworthy.

What to Look For Before Choosing Your Chiropractor

There are a variety of techniques and joint manipulation styles in chiropractic practice, with no two being exactly alike. Understanding the chiropractor’s spinal manipulation technique, education, and overall style, is vital to your treatment.

Potential Red Flags and Chiropractic Techniques

While on your search for your ideal doctor, it’s also important to look out for unsafe or risky techniques that you may come across while seeking potential candidates. There are a few chiropractor techniques that most chiropractors agree doubtful.

Seeking Medical Treatment at the Chiropractor’s Office

Now that you have criteria to evaluate potential chiropractors and the best corrective chiropractic care, the best thing to do is narrow down your choices. For example, pick around three chiropractic clinics you would like to try or feel you would like to try.

Set up the right time to meet each of the chiropractors (most clinics offer a free consultation,) and ask them questions about your problem areas, will they help with pain treatment, can they help with a slipped disc, and what treatment methods they offer.

Legal Tax Planning Aids Wealth Protection

How to Choose Your Tax Adviser or Accountant

Do I need a tax adviser or an accountant?

More often than not people will actually require both an accountant and a tax adviser, however, it is important to establish why you need them – do you need someone to manage your accounts and help you with your tax return? Or someone to give you sound advice that will legally save you money?

What does an accountant do?

Your accountant can manage your accounts, provide compliance work and some may even do tax planning.

What does a tax adviser do?

Tax advisers tend to focus solely on tax planning. They spend significant amounts of time keeping up-to-date with the latest tax legislation and tax cases to help make sure they provide their clients with great strategies that will help to reduce or eliminate tax – some of which your accountant may not even be aware of!

Example of the difference between an accountant and tax adviser

If we compare the accountancy profession with medicine, an accountant is the equivalent of a GP, and most of the time a GP is all you need for routine health care, but if you get seriously ill (compare with a dispute with HM Revenue and Customs) or you need surgery (tax planning), then you need a specialist consultant (a Tax Adviser)

What qualifications should my Tax Adviser / Accountant have?

As a client you want to be assured that your tax adviser / accountant is acting in both your best interest and within the law, which is why it is important to know what qualifications your tax adviser or accountant has, and when they were achieved and if they are relevant to you. Check that the qualifications they have cover the area of taxation or accounting that you require assistance with.

How to Find a Good Tax Adviser

Many unlicensed tax preparers with questionable credentials set up shop during income-tax season. Some disappear after the April 15 filing date, leaving you to deal with the IRS if there’s a problem with your return. The IRS recently cracked down on such rogue tax preparers by, among other things, contacting those whose returns have frequently shown to have errors. Plus, it is instituting stricter rules for anyone who charges a fee to prepare a tax return. See the IRS’s fact sheets about the new requirements for tax-return preparers. Most of the new rules do not take effect until the 2011 tax season, so taxpayers still need to be vigilant when hiring a tax preparer or adviser this year.

One good approach is to look for an enrolled agent. Enrolled agents are tax experts who must pass a rigorous test, meet annual continuing-education requirements, and who are licensed to represent clients in front of the IRS. Enrolled agents can prepare your income-tax return, and some provide tax-planning advice. You can also contact an enrolled agent if you need help after receiving a penalty letter from the IRS.

Enrolled agents work in a variety of settings: Some have their own firms, some work for tax-preparation chains, and some are also certified public accountants or certified financial planners. You can find an enrolled agent through the National Association of Enrolled Agents. They usually charge by the tax form to prepare a return (so the more complicated your return, the more you’ll pay) and by the hour for tax planning.

Tax Planning: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

When your clients come to you and wonder what they can do to save money when it comes to paying taxes, you can recommend tax planning services. Many taxpayers aren’t aware of how impactful tax planning can be.

Wise taxpayers plan out their upcoming tax year instead of hoping you can do something amazing for them once the year is over. Those that plan ahead have more control over their tax situation and increase their chances of reducing their tax obligations. It’s the first step toward a better financial future.

The Good: In-Person Tax Planning with a Professional

The best way for taxpayers to implement a workable tax plan is to meet with a professional. Like a doctor, tax preparers who offer tax planning services take time to look at their client’s financial health, then diagnose any areas where mistakes and poor planning actually cost them. It’s also a good way to look for any missed opportunities that the taxpayer may use in the future.

True tax planning is a formal assessment of a client’s tax situation, but not many people really understand that creating a plan, implementing it, and then maintaining and evaluating it over the years will really influence their tax burden. When you and your client have the opportunity at the beginning of the tax year to create a thoughtful and effective financial plan, they’ll be very happy when it’s time to file those tax returns.

The Bad: Generic Tax Planning Software

If a client is not convinced that hiring you for formal tax planning is something they want to do, they might at least consider some do-it-yourself tax planning using specialized tax software. From data management software like Microsoft Excel to programs and apps designed to help individuals and small businesses with tax planning, using available tools is better than no tax planning at all.

Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer

It’s the time of the year when many taxpayers choose a tax preparer to help file a tax return. These taxpayers should choose their tax return preparer wisely.  This is because taxpayers are responsible for all the information on their income tax return. That’s true no matter who prepares the return

Here are ten tips for taxpayers to remember when selecting a preparer:

Check the Preparer’s Qualifications. Use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications. This tool helps taxpayers find a tax return preparer with specific qualifications. The directory is a searchable and sortable listing of preparers.

Check the Preparer’s History. Ask the Better Business Bureau about the preparer. Check for disciplinary actions and the license status for credentialed preparers. For CPAs, check with the State Board of Accountancy. For attorneys, check with the State Bar Association. For Enrolled Agents, go to the verify enrolled agent status page on IRS.gov or check the directory. 

Ask about Service Fees. Avoid preparers who base fees on a percentage of the refund or who boast bigger refunds than their competition. When asking about a preparer’s services and fees, don’t give them tax documents, Social Security numbers or other information.

Ask to E-File. Taxpayers should make sure their preparer offers IRS e-file. The quickest way for taxpayers to get their refund is to electronically file their federal tax return and use direct deposit.

Make Sure the Preparer is Available. Taxpayers may want to contact their preparer after this year’s April 17 due date. Avoid fly-by-night preparers.

Provide Records and Receipts. Good preparers will ask to see a taxpayer’s records and receipts. They’ll ask questions to figure things like the total income, tax deductions and credits.

Never Sign a Blank Return. Don’t use a tax preparer who asks a taxpayer to sign a blank tax form.

Review Before Signing. Before signing a tax return, review it. Ask questions if something is not clear. Taxpayers should feel comfortable with the accuracy of their return before they sign it. They should also make sure that their refund goes directly to them – not to the preparer’s bank account. Review the routing and bank account number on the completed return. The preparer should give you a copy of the completed tax return.

Ensure the Preparer Signs and Includes Their PTIN. All paid tax preparers must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number. By law, paid preparers must sign returns and include their PTIN.

Report Abusive Tax Preparers to the IRS. Most tax return preparers are honest and provide great service to their clients. However, some preparers are dishonest. Report abusive tax preparers and suspected tax fraud to the IRS. Use Form 14157, Complaint: Tax Return Preparer. If a taxpayer suspects a tax preparer filed or changed their return without the taxpayer’s consent, they should file Form 14157-A, Return Preparer Fraud or Misconduct Affidavit.

mistakes to avoid when choosing a financial or tax adviser

If you have the knowledge to do your own financial planning, tax preparation and/or investing, you can choose whether or not to do it yourself. Part of that decision is determining the highest and best use of your time. Doing the job of a financial or tax adviser, at least doing it well, requires a significant commitment of time and energy, both of which are limited and precious. Most people would rather spend that time on family, travel, hobbies, or volunteer work. If you’re in that camp, and need to find a financial or tax adviser, here are some common mistakes people make—and how to avoid them.

Not making a decision

Indecision—i.e., choosing not to make a decision—is like selecting “none of the above” on a test question, and can often be an impediment to financial success. This is as true when choosing an adviser as it is to sound investing. Many people let too much money sit in cash, or fail to rebalance their investment portfolios periodically, because they are waiting for the “right” time to make a change. Indeed, an inability to act (due to procrastination or indecision) is one reason many people choose to hire a professional financial adviser, who can eliminate the emotional element and use a disciplined approach to make decisions and take action as needed.

Not asking for referrals

If you are serious about hiring a financial professional, ask for recommendations from people you respect, such as work colleagues, friends, and professionals in related industries (e.g., an estate-planning attorney or insurance agent). If the idea of asking for a referral makes you uncomfortable, here are some questions to help you get the information you need

Assuming what a title or credential means

While no one can call themselves a “CPA” without considerable education and testing, literally anyone licensed to sell financial products (insurance, mutual funds, etc.) can call themselves a “financial adviser” or “wealth manager.” Similarly, certain credentials can be obtained by simply spending a few hours or a weekend taking a course, whereas others, including “CPA” (Certified Public Accountant) and “CFP” (Certified Financial Planner practitioner), require many months or even years of study, rigorous testing, and ongoing continuing education.

Not focusing on relevant experience

A common mistake is to only consider advisers who are older, rather than seeking an adviser with experience that is relevant to your situation and needs. It’s easy to assume that gray hair (or a lack of hair) equates to experience. However, it might just reflect age, with many of those years spent doing things other than providing the service you need.

Ignoring conflicts of interest

The investment industry is full of conflicts of interest, and they usually center around compensation. A registered representative (RR) or insurance agent can make 10 times as much commission if they get you to buy one thing versus another. Advisors with a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), on the other hand, get paid the same amount regardless of which investments they recommend, so they have no incentive to push one over the other.

Selecting Your Wedding Dj

Tips for Hiring an Awesome Wedding DJ

Your wedding entertainment is one way you can make sure your guests have a blast. It can also be another way of adding your own personal touch to the event. Your wedding is a party, after all! You want to make it a kick-ass party that your guests won’t soon forget. Whether your goal is to get people moving on the dance floor or to just have some great music accompanying the reception, hiring a wedding DJ can be a great option.

Know what to look for and where

The most common option is to go with a DJ whose primary business is weddings. These wedding DJs know the ins and outs of wedding receptions and may even be great at serving as an emcee to make announcements. To find one of these, do the usual web searching and asking for referrals from other vendors.

Ask to hear samples of the wedding DJ’s work

Once you’ve found a DJ or two that seems right for your wedding, ask to see examples of their work. This could be a video of a live performance, a mixtape, or sample playlists. The more important to you the quality of the music is, the more you should see and hear before hiring.

Give the DJ your playlist and your “do not play” list

If you’re already set on a playlist, discuss it with DJs and make sure they are willing to follow it. You may also want to create a “do not play” list and share it to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Ask how they get the crowd going

If you want your DJ to be really involved in making your reception fun, make sure to ask about how they engage a crowd

Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ

Is this your full-time business? Are weddings your primary focus? What clubs, lounges, and corporate clients have you performed for in addition to weddings?

Determine whether they are a well-rounded, successful entertainer who can bring a level of expertise and versatility to your event. “You want to ensure that your DJ isn’t a one-dimensional part-timer, but a true performer whose had varied and extensive experience performing in front of different (and tough) audiences,” said DJ Kev Sakoda. It’s fine if your prospective DJ mainly focuses on weddings—DJ Vito Namio performs at well over 100 per year—as long as they squeeze in some time for other types of parties as well.

How do you customize the music experience for each couple? Can you help with song lists and providing suggestions?

Find a DJ who will create a soundtrack for your wedding that is based on your style, taste, and vision for that day. “One size does not fit all—if your desire is to have a mosh pit at your wedding, then you will need to deliver that and anything else you want, for that matter,” said Sakoda.

How do you get the crowd pumped?

There are all kinds of incentives that DJs use to encourage guests to storm the dance floor, whether it’s asking couples to join the newlyweds for a good-luck dance or playing a meaningful throwback song from the bridesmaids’ college days.

How do you handle song requests?

“There could be instances where the client directives are diametrically opposed to the guest requests. How a DJ strikes a balance to deliver on the couple’s desires—while still satisfying the guests’ requests—determines the skill and experience of the DJ,” said Sakoda.

Can I hear some examples of mixing and blending different tracks?

When mixing is done correctly, you probably aren’t even aware of it. The DJ should be able to blend between songs seamlessly; you don’t want guests to become bored by a ten-minute long Queen rendition! However, when this technique is performed incorrectly, you’ll be able to discern it instantly: “When there is no mixing or blending, there is awkward silence between songs (it’s the same thing as your iPod),” said Sakoda.

How to choose the right DJ for your wedding party

Once the vows have been made, the wedding breakfast has been eaten and the speeches have received rapturous applause, all that remains to do on your big day is to take your first dance and celebrate with an amazing wedding after party. As with all aspects of your wedding day, the best way to ensure your wedding party goes without a hitch is to leave it to the professionals. If you’re choosing a professional DJ service to keep your wedding dance floor filled until the early hours, there are many considerations to make… it’s not just about the music.

To better understand how to choose the right DJ for your wedding party, Danny Costello, managing director of award-winning DJ hire company DJ2K, is perfectly placed to advise on the winning formula. With more than 20 years’ experience as a wedding DJ, Danny leads a team of hand-picked DJs who strive to deliver unforgettable wedding parties across Surrey, London and the Home Counties.

Experience and pricing

Don’t be fooled by start-up companies with little to no experience who are offering cheap deals on wedding entertainment and discos. Take note of how long a wedding DJ has been in the business; experienced DJs will have extensive knowledge about timings, equipment and logistics and clients should feel that they are in safe hands. DJ2K couples usually spend between £600 and £2,000 which can include a photo booth, selfie mirror, dance floor, giant illuminated letters, among other things – dependent on the couple’s budget and requirements

Recommendations

Danny says: “DJ2K is recommended by a number of top wedding venues in the UK. It is always worth considering a venue’s recommended suppliers and having a chat in the first instance. However, if your chosen supplier isn’t recommended or hasn’t worked at your venue before, don’t worry – they have the potential to bring a fresh approach to proceedings.”

Reviews

Online reviews made by other couples will tell you all you need to know about whether a wedding DJ is good or great and will provide a professional and reliable DJ service. Browse the DJ’s website and social media; if the DJ has been given exceptional reviews, they’ll certainly want to share them.

All the Questions You Need to Ask Your Wedding Band or DJ

Let’s be honest here: The music can make or break a party, which means the band or DJ is one of the most important factors of your reception. And you definitely don’t want to hire someone without thoroughly vetting them first. Ask the below questions when you meet with any potential musicians to find the right fit for you.

How would you describe your style?

You need to figure out if their style will work with the vibe you’re going for. If you want an elegant cocktail party with lots of casual conversation, a band that describes itself as “rock and roll with a whole lotta edge” is a music mismatch. (And if you’re having trouble determining what kind of band or DJ you want, do some research on The Knot Marketplace or GigMasters—both can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.)

Can we come listen to you perform?

Seeing them perform live will give you the best idea about what your wedding entertainment would actually sound and feel like. While most musicians and the couples that hire them mutually agree in advance that the wedding is closed to prospective clients, some will have mini “concerts” for the public to attend and see whether they’re a good fit or not.

Do you know our reception space and its acoustic, power and amplification requirements? If not, will you check it out beforehand?

Your musicians may need an extension cord, backup generator or other supplies, and it’s important to know this beforehand. If they don’t want to check out your venue, cross them off your list.

Can you play the songs that are important to us (such as a traditional Jewish hora tune or a favorite pop hit)?

The band or DJ should be able to play, learn or download any tune you’d like. If a band says “yes,” but they’ll need to learn and/or arrange it, ask them if they’ll charge for that.

How did you pick your DJ?

We ended up going with the more expensive one, because his personality was outgoing. He was so much fun to talk and our meeting ended up running longer than anticipated. We were looking for someone outgoing and confident in what they did. We sa down and talked to 3 different DJS. Make sure you talk to them on the phone or in person. The DJ sets the tone for everything at your wedding you want to make sure they are good at it.

This is going to sound corny, but it will just feel right. I spoke with a few DJ’s, I even booked one, then canceled because he and I just did not connect as far as what my vision was, etc. The DJ I ended up finding was extremely personable and knowledgeable. He took the time to go over every detail and explain his cost compared to the industry, etc. He also gave me great tips on finding a photographer and made suggestions on how to cut back cost. I trust that he will make my wedding day run as smooth as possible.

He picked us. He said “you guys look like a cool couple. I wanna dj your wedding” we told him we weren’t planning on having a dj and he said he’d do it at a discount. He has 20+ yrs experience and we vibed well.

I picked 5 DJs based on their reviews and pricing and made a spreadsheet. I listed what they were offering, how long they would be there, extra fees (set up, traveling) and the cost of each one. It really helped me to see all the options laid out and I was able to narrow it down to two. I contacted both and figured out which one would work best for what we needed/wanted.

They’re not corny, cheesy, they don’t dance, they don’t have plasma TV’s, uplighting or photobooths, they are always there early, they don’t dress like slobs, they don’t put giant ugly banners on the DJ booth (which always looks neat). They don’t do games, they don’t miss ceremony cues, they don’t mispronounce names and they actually have the processional order and the entrance details down before they are going to happen. We live in an area with very busy airwaves; they bring backup equipment in case the frequencies are a problem (Hudson river area, flight path, marinas….). They play well with others. They have interesting music suggestions beyond 1000 years and I think I wanna marry you. If I have couples that need international music, I have two DJ’s that shine in that area.

Brushed Nickel Kitchen Faucet

What to Look for When Searching for Your Next Kitchen Faucet

Your Kitchen is Your Command Center

Prepping for spaghetti night. Bathing the baby. Watering the plants. It should come as no surprise that you spend more active time in the kitchen than any other room in the house. And from selecting a finish to starting installation, there are plenty of things for you to consider when choosing your next kitchen faucet.

Think About What Goes on in Your Sink

When it comes to taking care of business in the kitchen, you need a faucet that’s built to handle everything you throw at it. Think about your everyday experiences and then see how the right combination of features — including handles, spout height, and sprayers — can help you create a space that works your way.

Hands-Free Convenience

Touchless Kitchen Faucets with MotionSense™ feature touchless activation, allowing you to easily turn water on and off with the wave of a hand.

Keep Everything in Reach

Whether you’re rinsing down the corners of your sink or cleaning fresh veggies from the garden, a faucet with the right sprayer helps make quick work of your kitchen tasks

Get Smart About Arcs

Have you ever shimmied a large pasta pot under a low spout or had your window view interrupted by a high spout? if so, then you understand how important it is to have a faucet that’s just the right height.

How to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Faucet for Your Kitchen?

Buying Considerations

Going head first into buying a kitchen faucet can be a costly venture for the unprepared. Beyond the pitfalls that could lead to you calling in a plumber, is getting it installed only to see it’s not really what you want. The kitchen faucet decision should be treated with care since you’re dropping so much on one item. Every kitchen has its own little theme so tailoring your wants and needs to a specific type is vital in the search, as what your neighbor has may be completely different than what you need. Below are some of the main considerations when looking for a kitchen faucet that you can use efficiently. After reading the 5 sections you should have a better overall idea of what it is that would work best in your kitchen, and you may even get some ideas for some of your friends. Don’t be afraid to spread the word or even do some Christmas shopping! There is always someone that could use a great kitchen faucet.

How to Install Faucet?

Take a good look at the area that you will be installing your new kitchen faucet into. Is there a faucet already there that needs to be replaced? Is this a completely new build that doesn’t have the hoses in place? And do you have a specific theme?

These are the questions you should be asking yourself when you want to purchase a kitchen faucet. And since not every brand is created equally, you’re going to need to decide on what install you want to do.

What Type of Sink Do You Have?

This may come as a surprise to some people, but there is a variety of kitchen sink types other than stainless steel. Stainless steel makes up the bulk of the industry and is clearly the leader. It is installed in more homes than all the other sink types combined, a statistic that won’t be changing anytime soon.

What Design Does Your Kitchen Sink Suit?

The design of a kitchen faucet will come into play when deciding if you are comfortable with the two lever or single lever system. As a reference, the two lever system is considered to be dying out, as the advantages of having it have been trimmed down to simply being able to use if one of the handles go out.

Our New Kitchen Faucet and 8 Easy Tips for Choosing the Right Faucet

It may seem like a strictly functional piece of hardware in your kitchen, but the truth is that your faucet is often a major focal point to the space. Usually sinks and stoves are the focal points in a kitchen. And a beautifully designed faucet not only complements a newly designed kitchen, but can also be the perfect finishing touch to a DIY-renovated-on-a-budget kitchen makeover as well.

Think about your the general style of your kitchen as well as the style of the sink that you have selected. Pairing a cast iron farmhouse sink with a super modern faucet may not work together unless you are going for a very edgy or eclectic look. Similarly, a strongly modern stainless sink would not suit a traditional bridge style faucet

Faucets generally come in three main finishes: chrome, nickel (or other brushed metal), or bronze. Consider the nearby cabinet hardware, as well as lighting and other metal finishes in the space. It doesn’t all have to match exactly, but choose a faucet whose finish works well with the other finishes in the space. Because I chose chrome and nickel finishes throughout the space in the cabinet hardware and lighting, I selected a chrome faucet to complement these finishes.

Faucets with a high arc are very on trend these days… but you need to consider the amount of space you have above your sink. If you have low cabinets or shelves above the sink, you may not wish the arc to be too high. Another thing to consider is the size of your sink…. a large sink may require you to select a faucet with a larger reach. The farmhouse sink that we selected is quite wide and deep, so choosing a faucet that had a spray option that would reach all the corners of the sink easily was critical.

A sprayer on a faucet is an amazing tool… a good sprayer can remove all kinds of gunk and mess for you, and it also can help to keep your sink cleaner. Often faucets with a separate side spray are not as convenient or effective as a sprayer that is built into the faucet itself. Some faucets, such as the one we chose, even have a little button on the faucet head to turn the spray on and off making this feature super convenient and easy to use.

How to Choose Your Kitchen Sink Faucet

As one of the most used features in your home, choosing the right kitchen faucet is not a decision to take lightly. This comprehensive guide gives you all the information you need to make a good choice. Find comprehensive tips on faucet mount, number of holes needed for installation, picking the right faucet style, finish, and features and how to measure for kitchen faucet size and reach. This guide also includes a comparison of pros and cons for kitchen faucet finishes.

Measuring For Kitchen Faucet Size and Reach

It’s important to check every aspect of the size of your faucet before you order. First, you need to address size as it relates to functionality. Second, to look balanced, your faucet should be in proportion to the sink. A large faucet would visually overpower a small prep sink, while a small faucet might look odd in a large sink and countertop area.

Height

You may find height expressed as deck to top of faucet and/or deck to aerator. Make certain you are choosing a faucet with adequate height to accommodate the items you’ll be washing or filling. The higher the spout, the easier it is to fit tall pots under it for filling or cleaning. If you have a shelf above your sink or a wide window ledge, a tall faucet may not fit.

Reach

This important (and often overlooked!) measurement refers to the horizontal distance from the faucet spout to its point of connection with the sink or countertop. In other words, how far the faucet extends into the sink. This measurement determines how large an arc your faucet can cover within the sink basin. This aspect of your faucet also needs to be coordinated with your sink size so the water stream does not hit too far back or forward within the basin.

Clearance to backsplash

Let’s say you fall in love with a faucet whose single handle controls temperature by rotating back. You bring it home and install it, and it looks fabulous. Then you turn it on…and find out that the handle hits your backsplash before it’s fully extended. Check the product specifications to see if there is a minimum recommended clearance to backsplash. Make sure the space between your backsplash and the handle allows for the recommended measurement, or select a faucet whose handle(s) have only forward motion to operate.

How to Buy a New Kitchen Faucet

Buying the right kitchen faucet depends largely on the existing plumbing. Choosing a new kitchen faucet can be easier than you think once you consider three important details before you begin shopping.

Start With the Sink’s Faucet Holes

There are many different kitchen faucet and sink designs available, but they’re not always compatible. Start by taking a look at your kitchen sink to determine how many pre-drilled faucet mounting holes are available. This applies if you’re installing a new faucet in an existing sink or buying a completely new faucet and sink.

The location of the sink mounting holes is another thing to keep in mind. Often, the faucet is located close to the center of the sink, but this is not always the case. If the faucet will be mounted on one side of the sink, the spout needs to be long enough to reach the opposite basin for it to be of use. A tall spout with a pull-down spray nozzle is another option for a sink with corner mounting holes

Where’s the Mount?

There are top-mount and bottom-mount faucets. Top-mount faucets attach from underneath the counter. The screws are screwed in through the bottom of the faucet. Bottom-mount faucets attach from the top of the counter. The screws are installed through the top of the faucet piece.

Check the Water Lines

Make sure the new kitchen faucet you want is compatible with the water supply lines. Look under your sink towards the bottom of the cabinet and note the size of the existing water line and the shutoff valves.