Many homeowners are making the choice to remodel their existing home rather than

"While remodelers are continuing to struggle, we expect the rest of 2010 to be a period of stabilization for remodeling, with the first stages of recovery emerging by the end of the year, followed by a robust recovery beginning early next year," said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe.

The popularity of bathroom remodeling may be attributed to the concept that it can be a very affordable means to make your master suite more comfortable and add value to your home when it’s time to sell.

If you are considering making some improvements to your bathroom, below are some tips to help give your bath a great lift:

Vanity Sinks: From artistic vessel sinks to furniture pieces that have been modified to accommodate plumbing, sinks can become a bathroom showpiece while keeping their functionality.

Countertops: Granite, ceramics, recycled glass and marble are all popular materials to consider if you want to update the counters of your existing vanity.

Showers: Open, walk-in showers are very popular right now and can be designed to accommodate more than one person.

Faucets: Old, polished brass fixtures really date your bathroom – check out new silhouettes and finishes for your faucets and cabinetry.

Lighting: Bathrooms that are well lit, especially with natural light sources look fresh and modern. Consider glass block windows and skylights to bring in natural light and create an open feeling.

Tile: Tile can be used creatively in the shower and wet areas as well as the floor and for backsplash.

Before starting a home improvement project, list your objectives, create a budget and do your homework before you select a contractor. The NAHB also offers a list of resources and reference guides to help make decisions and find qualified professionals.

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It is hard to believe that summer is almost over. School is starting and soon the leaves will be changing. But the fun of summer is not over yet as the

32nd Annual Chicago Jazz Festival

Sep 2, 2010 - Sep 5, 2010

The longest running of the city's lakefront music festivals. For more than 30 years, the Chicago Jazz Festival has been a Labor Day weekend tradition. Know for its artistic creativity, the Chicago Jazz Festival promotes awareness and appreciation for all form of jazz through quality live musical performances. The festival’s mission is to showcase Chicago’s vast jazz talent alongside national and international artists to encourage and educated a jazz audience of all ages.

This year’s performers include: Artist-in-Residence: Nicole Mitchell, Henry Threadgill, Brad Mehldau, Brian Blade and the Fellowship Band, Rene Marie, The Either/Orchestra, Kurt Elling and more. Best of all this is a free event!

Buffalo Grove Days
Sep. 2, 2010 - Sep. 6, 2010

This annual festival has fun for everyone. There will be the Chamber Beer Garden, a Business and Craft Fair, Free Entertainment all day long, a Carnival, Games, Special Events, a Parade on Sunday and Fireworks. Visit their website for more information.

Oak Brook Half Marathon
Sep. 6, 2010 - Sep. 6, 2010

Make plans to be a part of the Third Annual Oak Brook Half-Marathon, a Labor Day tradition that distance runners of all types will enjoy. This challenging course is comprised of the streets, rolling bicycle paths and limestone forest preserve trails of the scenic Village of Oak Brook. This is an ideal lead-up event for anyone training for a fall marathon, or who simply enjoys the half-marathon distance. After the run, stay for great refreshments from our sponsors and enjoy the hospitality of this lovely Village. There will be activities for the whole family - including youth races  which will be presented by the Oak Brook Park District. Admission Charge. Visit their website for more information on this event.

62nd Annual Jubilee Days Festival
Sep. 4, 2010 - Sep. 6, 2010

This weekend long festival begins with a golf outing at the Shepherds Crook Golf Course on Friday. Saturday includes a 5K run, Miss Zion Pageants and an ice cream social. Sunday's entertainment includes the Arts and Crafts Festival, food, live music and fireworks. Monday will include the Mayors Breakfast, and Arts and Crafts Festival, food and the Jubilee Parade at 1pm.

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Record high new home loan requests to the FHA are causing strain due to the governemnt agencies lack of resouces. The

The FHA is utilizing hardware and software that are from the 1980's and their workforce is minimal and at the workload is at capacity. Changes are not likely unless the agecy can fins a way to break away from HUD according to Brian Montgomery, who was once a commissioner for the FHA.

Mr. Montgomery states that the Management and Budget office barely gives them the amount needed to keep their computers running, but not an adequate amount to actually upgrade the old system they are forced to use.  There is not anything in the works to separate them from HUD, but if they were individualized, resources would likely be more readily available for them. The companies create 6.4 billion dollars yearly in revenue surplus.

The administration has not yet taken any action, and is delaying any such action while awaiting hearings. Elections are likely to cause even greater delays as decisions will be made depending on what happens at the November elections.

At yearly meeting of the NAREE in Austin,  TX, Mr. Montgomery indicated that he is doubtful that higher amount loan limits for the FHA will continue. He indicated that unless Congress does something, the loan limits are set to expire at the year’s end. 

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Property and Casualty Insurance is a tight market – it’s getting harder to get comprehensive homeowner policies and it’s becoming increasingly expensive. However, there are some steps that you can take today that can help you not only get a better rate or a policy discount, but will actually serve to better protect your home and your belongings from loss.

Whether you are a first time home buyer or you have owned your home for many years, you should definitely shop around and do your homework on the insurance companies who write homeowner’s policies in your area.

Discounts will vary by company and by the city, state or region you live in. Here are some of our recommendations:

• Home security system
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Sprinkler system
• Dead-bolt locks
• Handrails for both interior exterior steps and stairs

Additionally, your deductible plays a role in your premium rate – if you raise your deductible by $1000, you can save nearly 25% on your annual policy. Additionally, many companies offer discounts if you place both your home and auto coverage with them or if you own more than one property.

Additional ways to save:

• Senior discounts
• Association or employer discounts
• Electronic payments
• Non-smoker

Don’t forget to stay on top of your credit scores – it has an impact on all of your insurance rates. Also, be sure to evaluate your home’s value and the contents that are insured every year – if you make changes you may need to increase or decrease the replacement value, which will impact your premium. Above all, take an active role in your insurance protection. Make sure you keep up with safety features, shop rates and keep up with both your credit and your inventory – you’ll save year to year and in the long run.

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In today's tough competitive real estate market,

1. Green building and sustainability – from recycled materials to water wells and water collection systems, today’s home buyer is concerned with organic, sustainable features. While green building can sometimes be expensive up front, even the cost conscious know that the results may save money in the long run.
2. Energy efficiency – those who go green are also concerned with sustainable, efficient resources. Buyers want energy efficient appliances and the latest in insulation techniques using spray foam and gels. Not only do they reduce current energy costs, but energy efficient homes help with resale.
3. Outdoor living areas – more people are staying home these days, and one of the hottest trends is outdoor living areas that create a seamless indoor to outdoor space and include living room style features. From comfortable sofas to televisions and sound systems and creative outdoor cooking areas, the right outdoor space becomes a natural extension of the interior.
4. Main floor master suites with luxurious baths – now more than ever, home is an oasis for hardworking homeowners, and large masters on the main floor (away from kids rooms or play areas) are key to a homeowner’s satisfaction. Along with the master, buyers are interested in soaker tubs, walk-in showers with seating and dual showerheads.
5. Home offices – more and more people find themselves telecommuting or working from home in the evenings, and space for a home office has taken priority over traditional home features like formal dining and living and even media rooms. Home buyers seek that unique space that separates work from family living areas.

Home buyers priorities have shifted to reflect changing economic times. The top trends reflect a new desire for comfort and flexible lifestyles, along with an ever growing concern for sustainability and efficiency.

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"When showing your clients a home that needs repair, give them some information on our Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 203K renovation loans. These loans are perfect for a bargain hunter who has spotted a fixer-upper or a foreclosure in need of immediate repair, or a client who has found a home that would be ideal if only there were a third bedroom and a second bathroom (or needing MAJOR remodeling!)

Our renovation loans provide the money to both purchase the home and finance the home's renovation. With one loan, there is only one application, one set of fees, one closing and one monthly payment. At closing, the house is paid for, and the repair money is put into a trustee account for disbursement as repairs are completed. Improvements can include anything that adds value to the home, such as a room addition, new carpeting, APPLIANCES,  landscaping, plumbing, roofing or a new kitchen. The loan can also be used for energy-efficiency improvements that qualify for tax credits* under the new stimulus package.

Another great advantage of a renovation loan is that it provides borrowers a loan based on the increased property value after renovation. But that's not the only financial upside. The required down payment on a renovation loan can be as low as 3.5%. As a tax deductible first mortgage, the renovation loan will usually feature a lower interest rate than a second mortgage (impossible to get now!) and improvement costs can be spread over the term of the loan. The loan can also provide financing for up to six months of mortgage payments if the house is not occupied during construction."

Dave also reminds us that it is best to always consult your tax advisor for tax information and advice.

In mid-July,

"The second quarter was a tale of two trends," said James J. Saccacio, chief executive officer of RealtyTrac. "The pace of properties entering foreclosure slowed as lenders pre-empted or delayed foreclosure proceedings on delinquent properties with more aggressive short sale and loan modification initiatives. Meanwhile the pace of properties completing the foreclosure process through bank repossession quickened as lenders cleared out a backlog of distressed inventory delayed by foreclosure prevention efforts in 2009."

According to Saccacio, U.S. housing market will exceed three million properties with foreclosure filings by the end of the year. As with the stock market, the housing market has rolled up and down in 2010 and has not shown signs of stabilization. Even with some positive numbers being reported and a level of improvement in housing inventory, the market is sitting on a significant number of distressed properties and delinquent loans.

The foreclosure rates are also very regional in nature – Nevada posts the highest rates this year (6%), with Arizona and Florida following.

Other states with foreclosure rates ranking among the nation's 10 highest were California (2.54 percent), Utah (1.91 percent), Georgia (1.79 percent), Michigan (1.73 percent), Idaho (1.68 percent), Illinois (1.61 percent), and Colorado (1.40 percent).

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A professional termite inspection is required in most states when buying or selling a home. Termites are a very serious problem and they can cause

In most cases if  evidence of termites is seen, there’s a good chance the infestation is already quite advanced.

If you are a homeowner and have any concerns about termites in home, the best course of action is to locate a pest control or termite inspection to confirm any problems.. Of course, pest inspections are an important part of the overall inspection process, so make sure you hire an expert in the field:

1. Check out online or yellow page listings under Pest Control for a licensed, bonded inspector. Your real estate agent can also be helpful in location a company for you.
2. Request estimates for the inspection cost and compare rates.
3. Make sure that you get a copy of the inspection report and course of action needed before signing any contract papers.

When having a termite inspection, it is vital that this is done by a licensed professional. This inspector will look for termite infestation as well as other pest infestation, plumbing leaks, obvious roof leaks, dry rot and water damage. Make sure that all areas of the home are accessible for the inspector. Try to stick with companies that do inspection and treatment only – and leave any wood repair to carpenters or contractors.

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With a sluggish economy and a slow housing market, many people are electing to stay in their existing homes for a little longer. Many plan to instead remodel their current

1. First thing first: create a budget and plan and stick with it. Do a some research on the types of improvements you want and get a feel for both labor and materials costs. Use those numbers to create a basic budget that you know you can comfortably afford and then design a simple plan for making that happen. It will help your contractor understand your vision better and should keep you on track to stay within your spending limits.
2. Choose contractors wisely. Get at least three bids and check references. There are also online resources, like Angie’s List, that can be used to screen potential contractors. The low bid may not necessarily be the best bid – get your estimates in writing and line them up against your preliminary plan.
3. Do the demo and prep work yourself. If you have the ability to do some basic demo, such as removing old appliances or fixtures, wallpaper, or popcorn ceilings, you can save money and focus your contractor on specialized skills like carpentry and electrical. Disposing of used materials and trash yourself will also help keep your costs down.
4. Use recycled materials. It may make sense to use recycled lumber and other materials – even recycled hardware can add a unique touch and may be much less expensive (and greener) than new.
5. Make selections quickly and stay with them. Time is money to your contractor and any delays you insert into the process by delaying or changing your selections can layer cost on without you even realizing it. Look for the types of materials and the color selections you prefer during your planning phase and don’t change your mind mid-stream.

Updating your home can be a simple, affordable process that can make your home more livable for you and more desirable for resale down the road. If you follow some basic strategies, you are sure to be pleased with the improvements and save money in the process.

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Keeping your family safe at home is what all homeowners want, and most people feel that 

1. 1. Wiring and electrical cords. Check all electrical appliances, cords, and outlets. Are your electrical appliances in good condition, without loose or frayed cords or plugs? Are your outlets overloaded with plugs from the TV, computer, printer, video game system, and stereo?  Solution: Replace or professionally repair any appliances that spark, smell unusual, or overheat. Replace worn out extension cords, don’t run electrical wires under rugs, and don’t overload outlets or power strips.

2. Gas leaks and sources of carbon monoxide.  You may or may not smell a gas leak before it is too late, and you will NOT smell carbon monoxide. Solution: Make sure that your gas appliances are serviced regularly. Check any unusual variances on your gas bill – they could be the result of hidden leaks. Invest in a carbon monoxide detector and keep the batteries up to date as you do your smoke alarms.

3. Cluttered hallways and stairways. It sounds simple, but toys or other items that are left blocking stairwells, hallways or exits can not only provide an obstacle to trip over, but can also prevent a hasty exit in the event of fire or other emergencies. Solution: Simply try to ensure that walkways are clear of any obstructions that can cause accidents.

4. Toxic chemicals. From severe toxicity like asbestos and lead paint, to daily household cleaners, your home may contain toxic chemicals that are harmful to your family, especially children, the elderly, those with compromised heath and your pets. Solution: If you live in an older home, have it inspected for asbestos and lead. As for household chemicals, try switching to some of the new organic or natural solutions. Always keep any kind of chemical solutions up high and out of reach or locked away.

5. Recalled products. Many products, especially imported products, are subject to recall and can range from toys and cribs to everyday appliances and vehicles. Solution: Register your household goods and appliances when you bring them home – it’s easy and it ensures that you will receive recall notifications. You can subscribe via email for recalls as well as stay alert to recall information that are broadcast over TV, radio and in print and online.

 Most home safety hazards are easy to prevent or fix with just a little due diligence. Keep your home safe and happy for you and your family!

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Most homeowners are very concerned at the rate of which their homeowners insurance had continued to rise in recent years, many at alarming rates. Raising rates are not the only concern, some

So why the sudden increase in property insurance and denials?

1. First of all buyer beware – of Chinese drywall and other inferior materials. Recently, Consumer Reports has highlighted an issue with faulty Chinese drywall. Bought cheaply, thousands of complaints are stating that the product is not only inferior and likely to fall apart, but is actually a health hazard. The problem is not widespread, but presents enough of a trend that insurers are covering their bases by excluding it from coverage or raising rates as a preventive measure against possible claims.
2. Location, location, location – and if your dream home is on a coastal waterway, be prepared to pay more for your homeowners insurance. What’s more, insurance companies are requiring separate deductibles for coastal property – primary insurance and secondary wind, water or specifically hurricane risk. If you file often, be prepared to go without; frequent claims cause insurers to cancel or not renew.
3. Lower home prices are also driving rates up and replacement or rebuilding coverage down. Even if the value of your home falls, shop around for the best price on covering your home in the event of a disaster, and make sure your coverage is adequate.
4. And if things aren’t bad enough, bad credit scores continue to drive up rates on homeowners insurance (as well as auto and other insurance). People with poor credit are considered to be a high risk for responsible behavior and an indicator of future financial trouble. With unemployment rates high and home prices falling, poor credit is driving up rates across insurance plans.

Understand your current homeowners policy and the coverage you are paying for. Shop around – it pays off to compare and switch insurers for better rate plans. And remember, all kinds of market trends can factor in what you pay – and what you get for.

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City of Chicago's Fourth of July Fireworks
Location:  From Foster to Montrose
Lawrence & Lake Shore Dr.
Chicago, IL
Cost:  Free
Time:  9:00 p.m.  (15 minutes long)
Info:  Fireworks can be viewed on the North Side from Foster to Montrose.  Display will occur up and down Chicago's 26 miles of lakefront.
 
 
Evanston Fireworks
Location:  Clark Street Beach; 400-499 Clark Street, Evanston, IL
Cost:  Free
2:00 p.m.:  Parade from Central Park Avenue East on Central Street to Ashland Avenue
7:30 p.m. - 9:10 p.m.:  Palatine Concert Band will play patriotic music
9:15 p.m.:  Fireworks
 
 
Glencoe Fireworks/Festival -- Glencoe Park District
999 Green Bay Road, Glencoe, IL
Location:  Lakefront Park
8:00 a.m.:    2 mile fun run from Train Station
10:00 a.m.:  All-Media Art Fair on Village Green
10:00 a.m.:  Family games at Kalk Park
2:00 p.m.:    Parade
6:00 p.m.:    Park & Ride from Village parking lot & train station
6:30 p.m.:    BBQ meal at the beach
6:30 p.m.:    Children's entertainment by Magician Jeff Bibik
7:00 p.m.:    Music
9:00 p.m.:    Fireworks on the beach
 
 
Skokie Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks Festival
12:00 noon:  Parade (bands, drill teams, clowns, tumblers, live animals, vintage autos & more).  Runs north from Oakton Community College on Lincoln Avenue to Oakton Street, then east from downtown to Oakton Park.
5:00 p.m.:  Festival at Niles West High School.  Features food, drinks and live bands until dusk.
Dusk:  3-D fireworks.  The first 10,000 people get a free pair of 3-D glasses.  Location - Niles West High School

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When homebuyers 

Debt-to-income ratio is simply a comparison of the money you earn to the money you owe. It includes credit card debt, existing mortgages, auto loans, and any other personal debt.

Your mortgage lender will look at your Debt-To-Income (DTI) to evaluate your ability to afford your new mortgage. You should have a good idea of what your DTI ratio is before you approach a lender or consider buying a new home.

You ultimately want to achieve a low DTI ratio. A high number means that you have less disposable income and less ability to maintain the home once you purchase it. With foreclosures at an all time high, lenders are not willing to assume any additional risk in lending.

Most lenders seek DTI ratios in the 20-36% range or lower, with no more than 28% of debt dedicated to the mortgage itself. While some lenders will consider higher ratios, DTIs in the upper 30% range are considered high risk.

There are several different calculators available online to help you determine your ratio, and you can always check with your financial institution for guidance on determining your DTI ratio.

Here’s a simple formula:

1. Add all your monthly payments (mortgage or rent, car, credit cards, any other debt payments)
2. Add your gross income (before taxes), bonuses, alimony, or any other outside income and divide by 12
3. Then divide the total number in (1) by the final number in (2)
4. The result is your DTI ratio

Whether you are ready to buy a new home or are just interested in your financial health, it’s a good idea to know your DTI and understand the steps to lower your ratio and become as close to debt-free as you can.

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More and more homeowners are starting to go green in many ways, both for the environmental benefits as well as the economical savings. In addition potential homebuyers are looking for houses that offer efficient and economical operating systems. Tankless water heaters are the latest technology to help save money and the environment.

The DOEtells us that hot water usage, specifically heating the water, is the 3rd largest day to day expense in the home. If you are looking to be more energy efficient and cut back on utility expenses, you may want to go tankless.

Conventional water heaters keep your water hot 24/7, while an on-demand system, using the tankless approach, only heats water when you need it. An efficient gas burner quickly heats cold water traveling through the system to a preset temperature.

There are several common manufacturers of tankless water heaters – check out www.smarterhotwater.com, sponsored by Rheem. They tell us that annual costs for conventional water heating and storage (average) can be as much as $285, where the costs for tankless are more than $100 less per year on average.

So why haven’t we all converted? Tankless water heaterscost more up front – sometimes as much as twice more than traditional water systems. But adoption is growing as consumers become more and more concerned with efficiency and long term value for their dollars. Here’s a few reasons to consider going tankless:

1. Energy friendly and efficient. On demand systems can reduce energy costs as much as 25%.
2. Reliable and convenient. You get a continuous supply – imagine never running out of hot water!
3. Sleek and small. No more bulky tanks taking up valuable storage. Typical tankless heaters aren’t much bigger than a small suitcase.
4. Life expectancy.  Tankless water eaters are built to last  - 20 + years or more.
5. Versatility. It’s size and operating system allow you to place nearly anywhere in your home that is convenient for you.

Tankless water heaters are expensive, as noted and can be expensive to retrofit. If you are purchasing a new home, or buying a home that you plan to say in for a long time, the savings and benefits are worth the expense. If you are in a short term arrangement, the conventional water heaters may still be all you need for now. Also, avoid electric style tankless heaters – the gas units are much more efficient and affordable.

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The result of this reluctance to get with the program? Nearly 60% (average of both) of their loans were in default a year after modification, compared to 40% of bank mortgages (who are actively reducing principal on their own loans).

Pressed to comment on whether or not they will consider this tactic, both companies and the Treasury Department have been silent.

Both Fannie and Freddie were placed into federal conservatorship in 2008, getting a $127 billion Treasury boost in the process. Their reluctance to agree to the Obama administration’s mandate to consider principal reductions may just be prolonging the inevitable, and it looks like they are running out of time. Housing experts agree that it’s time they get with the program, including putting into play the $75M they have already set aside for preventing foreclosures. The longer they wait, the number of loans backed by Freddie and Fannie that are in default continue to rise.

Obama’s Hardest Hit Fund has tasked ten states with coming up with reasonable efforts to assist unemployed and underwater homeowners. The $2.1B fund should help states put some teeth into their efforts to get Fannie and Freddie to agree to match reductions or provide other relief assistance.

Time will tell, but the rates of default and redefault at F&F continue to rise as time goes by.

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Many mortgage lenders tend to advertise with satisfied customers who appear to have been approved for a loan. The truth is unfortunately that this isn't always the case and a lot of people get denied for a loan, especially in this economy. However, it is important for homebuyers to realize that it isn't always the lenders fault. Of course they would like potential customers to assume that they will be approved but the loan industry is a very risky one right now and they have to protect their assets.  If you have been denied recently or in the past for a loan, it's time to take control of the situation and do whatever you can to educate yourself on how to change that NO answer to a YES answer! Here, to help you out are some suggestions.

• Consider a co-signer if your income simply is not high enough to qualify for the actual loan. The co-signer's income can possibly be considered as an amount towards your loan regardless if the person is living with you or helping you pay the actual bill. In many cases, the cosigner might also be able to compensate for your low credit. It is important however to understand that there are risks for your cosigner and if you default on your mortgage, the lender can actually in turn go after your cosigner for the full amount!
• Wait it out.  Sometimes the best advice you can get, especially if the conditions in the housing market is slow or the economy is bad, is to simply wait. Oftentimes when conditions improve in the economy, the lenders will be more willing to let you "borrow" the money for your loan. While you are waiting, you can take this time to work on your credit score. While you are waiting, home prices could also drop!
• Consider a less expensive property. We all want what we want, but you might have a better chance of being approved if you switch to a less expensive option. For example, if you wanted a house, but you cannot wait and you cannot qualify for the loan, you might consider switching to a smaller home or to a town home instead. Later on down the line when your financial situation improves, then you can trade up the property and move to the location and home you really want to.
• Apply with a different lender. The world is full of lenders, if you don't like what one says or you get denied - try someone else! However, if every single lender you go to denies you, you should become aware that it is for a reason - in fact, if they all list the same reason then you will know what you need to fix.  Use common sense and stay away from predatory lenders. We have heard some pretty scary stories about these places - so just don't do it. You could literally be signing your life away.

Keep in mind that if you are denied, keep trying and work on your credit and then in a few months try again! With a little time, patience and understanding, you could be able to turn the situation around to your favor!

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The long weekend with the last Monday in May is celebrated as the start of summer. Parades, barbeques and other special kick off the summer season. The

Memorial Day Parade-May 29, 2010 - Downtown Chicago

The annual Chicago Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade is scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2008. The Wreath Laying Ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza in Chicago ( at Dearborn and Washington Streets). The parade will step off at 12:00 noon and proceed south down State Street from Randolph Street to Van Buren Street.

Randolph Street Fest

Randolph Street Fest is the festival of the week this weekend. It runs all
summer on specific weekends. This street market used to be known as the Chicago Antique Market, but alas less antiques leads to a name change. This means all kinds of good stuff is for sale, although not at discount prices. Check it out for some browsing action at 1400 W. Randolph St, in Chicago 60607. They now feature indie items (eco friendly, home made, crafters) and world goods from all over in addition to the antiques. From 10am -5pm Saturday may 24th and Sunday May 25th. It is $10.00 to enter to cover the site rental and security fees. Call 312-666-1200 for more info. 
A free trolley departs from Water Tower Place on the hour between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; and returns to North Michigan Avenue from the Market every 30 minutes between 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

 
14th Annual Memorial Day Dedication & Wreath Laying Ceremony at Grant Park
 

The Lawrence Pucci Wedgwood Society of Chicago and co-sponsor Chicago Cultural Mile Association invite you to celebrate this Memorial Day by reaffirming our pledge to assemble, honor and remember those who served this glorious country in the spirit and memory of General John A. Logan, founder of Memorial Day. The dedication and wreath laying ceremony will be held on May 31, 2010, 11:00 AM at the foot of the John A. Logan statue in Grant Park (Michigan & 9th). This event is free and open to the public, more info at http://www.chicagoculturalmile.com
 

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You have searched for weeks and now that you have found the

1.Be sure to read the Bill of Lading carefully.  This contains the terms of your agreement with specifics such as information on the type of liability you and your mover agreed upon. By law all companies are required to insure their cargo at a rate of up to 60 cents per pound. However that means small high value items will only be replaced for 60 cents.

2. Address any obvious damages or loss. It is vital that you review your inventory and make sure that everything has been accounted for and is not damaged beofre you sign anything.   If you do notice any damages or missing items before make sure to alert them of any issues and make a note on the inventory sheet or Bill of Lading. It is recommended to not accept any offer made by the company to settle on the spot as you may end up underestimating the damages.

3. Know your rights.  According to The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which regulates moving companies, they indicate that "Movers are prohibited from having you sign a receipt which relieves the mover from all liability for loss or damage to the shipment.  Make re to NOT sign any receipt which does not indicate thatprovide that you are signing for your shipment in apparent good condition except as noted on the shipping documents." If you've made a note on your contract about concealed damages, that last bit will keep you covered. However, even if you have a claim, you are still responsible for paying for the move in a timely fashion.

4. If you suffer a lost, file a claim. You have to file a claim within nine months of the date of service. Contact the movers via certified mail, informing the movers of the damage and requesting a claim form. Be sure to keep a copy of your inventory sheet handy, along with any photos or videos that can support your claim. If the movers are not in contact about your within 30 days or if they refuse to recoup your loss, you may want to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau or even take your case to small claims court.

5. Invest in moving insurance. Even before you sign a contract with a mover, research your options for moving insurance.  This type of insurance will insure your possessions in the event of a damage or loss, or for a catastrophe occurrence.  Check with your current renter or homeowners insurance company to see what might be covered from your current policy as well.

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Spring storms are here and when power goes off for extended periods due to storms or equipment failure, having a backup emergency generator can be very beneficial. There are various types and sizes of generators out there that differ upon your needs. If you are a

Types of Generators

Generators come in different sizes and deciding which generator type you need is determined by your power need in emergencies. The more items you plan to to provide power to, the bigger and more costly the generator.

Stationary Generators

A stationary generator is equipped with a forced air or other type of cooling system that allows it to be enclosed typically outside mounted on a concrete pad similar to a central air conditioning unit.

• Permanent generators are installed as part of the electrical system and provide power to the building wiring.
• Electrical current from the generator may back-feed into the home's electrical system and cause damage or fire and ruin equipment if it is not properly installed. It is recommended a qualified electrician install a generator to a home electrical system.
• Stationary generators are far more powerful than any portable unit, a stationary generator will allow you to weather any outage for an extended period of time.

Portable Generators

• Best for use of a few selected circuits such as  for lights in the general living area, heating or cooling systems, or refrigerator.
• If deciding to use a portable generator, it is important to select one that is adequately sized. Some electrical motors in home appliances and equipment can be ruined or damaged if they do not receive enough electrical current.
• Portable generators are least expensive and can be transported for camping, trips or other locations where temporary power is needed

Noise Level

The noise level of your generator is a major factor in determining the right model.

•Many areas have noise ordinances that may impact generator usage, particularly at night.
•Noisy generators are unsuitable for many applications, including camping, powering outdoor events, and RVing.

Most generators are labeled with a decibel rating. For every increase in 10 decibels, the noise level is 10 times more powerful. A generator that runs at 70 decibels is ten times as loud as a generator that runs at 60 decibels.

Before you purchase a generator be sure to you have determined the total watts needed to power the items you need. This is important to help you determine what size generator is required. An electrician can help make this determination or you can check the manufacturer information for each appliance.

Whether you choose a portable or a stationary, all generators burns fuel and must be run outdoors. Always follow the manufacturers instructions and never run it in the garage or inside the home.

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It is a common to find in many neighborhoods foreclosed homes due to the sluggish economy. Many

 Most lenders require that you have at least 10 percent equity in your home. You can easily check the value of your home on sites such as Zillow.com and I can provide you with a free and quick estimate of your home’s worth. In addition, most lenders typically will require that you have a credit score of at least 720 to qualify for good rates.

Lenders are aware of the many fiscal difficulties borrowers have in making their mortgage payments when hardships arise. However, they typically won't volunteer or advertise their help. So if you are struggling to make your payments on time, it is vital that you take the initiative and contact your lender and give them a heads up on your current financial hardship before you miss payments.  Keep in mind that lenders have more incentive than ever to work with you. Plunging property values mean they’re recovering less now on foreclosures. Plus, many that received cash infusions from the U.S. Treasury are under pressure to show that they’re responding to the housing crisis.

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