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  • An Easier Way to Sell on eBay

    An Easier Way to Sell on eBay

    The updated mobile app from the veteran online marketplace will make it much easier to upload your stuff. The new eBay app, which has already rolled out on both iOS and Android, allows users to upload an item in a just a few seconds.

    Scan and Go

    The biggest change to the app is the addition of a barcode scanner, along with a product search feature. The app works best if you have the original box since you can simply scan the barcode. However, if you didn’t hang on to the box, never fear! You can still look up the name of the product in eBay’s extensive database and pull up the necessary information.

    The app fills out the majority of the fields for you although you’ll still need to enter the item’s condition. For many items, eBay is even able to provide images from its library, suggest a price, and calculate shipping costs. You can edit any of the pre-populated fields as needed.

    The Power of Data

    The new app builds on the simplified selling tools debuted by eBay last year. Using structured data and predictive analytics, the platform draws on its vast database of listings to cut down on the time it takes to upload an item. They hope that the streamlined process will make the platform more appealing to current sellers and newbies alike.

    “At eBay, we’re dedicated to delivering a seamless and efficient selling experience for both first-time and seasoned sellers alike,” says Kelly Vincent, eBay’s VP of Consumer Selling Product & Engineering. “This is one of many enhancements we’ll be making this year. We’ll continue to leverage structured data and new technology developments to help our sellers ‘get it sold.’”

    Limited Features

    Unfortunately, sellers who trade in vintage or unique items will find that the new app has limited functionality. The lack of barcodes on vintage items and the variability in condition means that these sellers will still need to enter most of their information by hand and upload their own photos instead of using the provided stock images available for newer mass-market products.

    Increased Competition

    When it arrived on the scene over 20 years ago, eBay was a revolutionary way to sell online. Since then, resale apps like OfferUp, Poshmark, LetGo, and ThredUp have emerged to pose serious competition. Facebook’s Marketplace has also claimed a piece of the online resale pie, focusing on connecting local sellers and buyers.

    Although there are over 13 million listings added to the site each week using the mobile app, eBay is betting that their faster, simpler uploading process will keep the platform competitive.


  • Discount Pet Medication: Best Places to Save Big

    Discount Pet Medication: Best Places to Save Big

    When it comes to your pets, you want only the best. If your pet is sick, you want to make sure you’re getting the best quality medicine to help them get better.

    However, medicine can be prohibitively expensive. If you want to make sure you can afford the best for your pet, you might need to pick up their medications with a discount.

    What are the best ways to save on pet meds, though? Today we’re walking you through some of the best ways to save money on your pet’s medications.

    Discount Pet Medications

    Shopping Online

    It can often be much more affordable to shop for your pet’s medicine online, as opposed to vet’s offices. Vet’s offices, while important in animal health, are often unable to match the prices found on wholesale sites. They often have to include more markups in their medication, making it difficult for them to match online prices.

    Online prices, however, aren’t everything. When you shop online, make sure you’re shopping through wholesale sites to get your discounts. If you’re buying medicine from disreputable vendors or from shady, overseas sellers, you might find you’re getting sub-par medicine for your pet.

    What to Look For

    The last thing you need is to support a shady vendor. When you’re looking for the best deal on pet medication, make sure the site is reputable. You’ll want to only buy medication from VIPPS-approved sites that require prescriptions. It can be a pain to make sure you always have a prescription for medication, but it ensures the site is trustworthy.

    You’ll also want to make sure that the site is verified and secure. Some disreputable discount pet med sites are actually elaborate scams and have no intention of sending you real medication. Even those that do could be selling your information to identity thieves.

    Non-Prescription

    Even with non-prescription medication, you need to be careful. If a deal is too good to be true, it is. When you receive medicine in the mail, check the sell-by date to make sure you’re not giving your pet outdated medicine.

    Likewise, make sure any medication you buy online hasn’t been tampered with. Keeping your animal happy, healthy and safe is your first priority, so accidentally harming them is something you need to avoid.

    Remember, when in doubt, go through reputable sites, even if it means spending a bit more money. There’s no reason to let harm come to your pet just to save a few bucks.


  • Is Your Basement Trapping Moisture? Here’s how to Avoid Mold

    Is Your Basement Trapping Moisture? Here’s how to Avoid Mold

    Depending on where you live, basement humidity might be a serious issue for you. A damp basement can seriously affect the value of your home and can even result in structural damage. Fighting this humidity can be quite the uphill battle. If you’re at your wit’s end with a damp basement, here’s some tips for trying to dry it out!

    How to Dry out a Damp Basement

    Ventilate Well

    Make sure the basement is well-ventilated! Still, stagnate air is ideal for moisture to accumulate. Dark, still and quiet areas are also prime real estate for mold growth. The last thing you want in your house is mold! On a dry day, open doors or basement windows and put fans in the basement. Get that air circulating! Move it the heck out of your basement! Pair this with things like a dehumidifier to make sure you’re really drying the place out.

    Dehumidifier

    A straightforward solution might just be to run a dehumidifier in your basement. A lot of folks overthink their damp basement problems and don’t think about this incredibly straightforward and cost-effective solution. For around $200, a dehumidifier alone might just solve your entire problem.

    Just set up a medium-sized dehumidifier in the basement and let it run. These are a great idea for a number of reasons. For one thing, they can keep moisture buildup from resulting in dangerous puddles. For another, they can also reduce the growth of mold, which loves dark, moist areas. This means that running a dehumidifier can do wonders for your health!

    Reseal and Plug Leaks

    The concrete in your basement may need resealing if a dehumidifier alone can’t solve your problem. If this is the case, don’t panic.  If you’re noticing a lot of condensation through the concrete walls or floor of your basement, you can address the problem by resealing the concrete. You can go to any hardware store and find concrete paint and sealer. There are varieties for both walls and floors, so make sure you get the one that addresses your specific issues.

    While you’re resealing your concrete, make sure you address any potential leaks too. Things like basement windows, openings for your dryer to vent heat and the like can be entryways for a lot of moisture. This is especially true in rainy regions or during wet times of the year. Make sure to seal these areas well with silicone seals or weather strips. Then, make sure you run a dehumidifier and ventilate the area well.

    Address Any Issues with your Gutters

    If your gutters have spouts that let out close to your foundation, they could be pouring water into your basement. This can ruin even the best weather-treatment or sealing. To remedy this, make sure the spouts from your gutters let out at least four feet from your home. Additionally, make sure that the water that leaves the spout runs downhill away from your home. It won’t do any good to just have it roll back into your house!

    This is better for you home in general, too, not just your basement. The erosion this can cause around your foundation is pretty severe. The value of a home with a compromised foundation is negligible compared to one with a solid foundation! This should be high on your list of considerations if you have gutters that let out near your home.

    Air Out Wet Items Outside

    If you’ve got wet items from the basement flooding or just general dampness, take them out of the basement. It might seem like a good place to air them out but think about it. If you’re trying to dry the basement out, you really don’t need to have damp items airing out. That’s just going to work against all the hard work you’re doing trying to dry the place!

    Instead, take things like wet suitcases or furniture outside to a patio or deck. That way, they’re exposed to open air and sunlight and will dry out much faster. This also ensures that your home isn’t exposed to even more moisture! If the items you’re drying can’t go outside, consider drying them in the garage or a bedroom that is well ventilated.


  • Easy Smarthome Devices to Increase Your Homes Value

    Easy Smarthome Devices to Increase Your Homes Value

    From smart thermostats to automated lighting and everything in between, there’s no question that innovative, Internet-enabled technology can make a home more fun, convenient and safe. What you may not know, however, is that it also represents a potentially valuable investment. Im going to take a$7000 investment to smart home upgrade to increase my homes value by $25000. Lets look at how I spent it and what value it brings.

    Appliances

    I started with replacing the refrigerator and stove, with smart appliances.

    for a combined $4300 I installed the Samsung Family Hub 2.0 wifi enabled fridge and  the Self-Cleaning Slide-In Gas Convection Range both in stainless steel of course. considering I was going to have to spend $2000 anyway on these appliance the extra money to purchase the smart appliance is well worth it for the wow factor alone.  

    Samsung Family Hub 2.0 Refrigerator

    The Samsung Smart Fridge is really cool, looks great, creates shopping lists and lets me see inside from anywhere with 3 built-in cameras. It  also set expiration notifications to make sure everything is fresh. Plus it has Bixby built in for a digital voice assistant right in the kitchen, I’ve always wanted to talk to my refrigerator.

     

     

    Samsung Self-Cleaning Slide-In Gas Convection Range

    The stove looks like something you would see in a professionals kitchen, its no joke.  There are cooking options with the intuitive guiding light controls. This lets you program your favorite recipes, plus easily control temperature and  time settings. Wi-Fi connection gives you real-time alerts and control the cooktop and oven remotely. You just have to  download the app for iOS or Android devices.

     

    I was able to get both devices with a bundle package at best buy, factoring the money I was going to spend anyways im only out ($2130)

    Lighting

    Next step set the mood, for 3 main light switched I installed the Brilliant Smart Panel. With the digital touch screen or simple verbal commands, this switch can control your homes lights, air conditioning, intercom system, video surveillance, music and has a built in camera and even the ability to make video calls.

    I replaced all light bulbs with Phillips Hue Smart Lighting, this will allow the lights to be controlled from the 3 smart-panels, with the color bulbs setting different lighting and the colored light strips in the kitchen.

    This has added a great wow factor, adding in the Sonos speakers already through out the house. I can set music and lighting with just a shout. ($1000)

    Little Things

    The Smart Panel for Brilliant can control a lot of smart devices, so I upgrade my thermostat to the Nest, a Smart lock from August, Skydrop 8-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller, Smart Security Video system from Nest with a video doorbell and an Amazon Eco Show for Alexa integration with all the new devices. ($1500)

    Bathrooms

    This home has 2 bathrooms so I’ve updated both toilets to the Smart 1 Piece by OVE. Little expensive, but a heated seat, warm bidet water, and air drying features are a big sell for small price. This looks great and comes with a remote control. You can adjust the power and temperature right from your remote.

     

     

    I also updated the 2 shower-heads and added the Moen U Shower Smart Home Connected Bathroom Controller. The Moen U integrates smart temperature control, timers and also an app. You can even pre-time your morning shower, walk yourself to the bathroom and it turns on automatically as soon as it senses your presence!

    I have effectively updated my home and prepped it for sale. With these little upgrade I have moved my home from the bottom end of its appraisal to the top by making it a cutting edge smart-home and increasing my value and netting me an extra $18, 000 after the sale.


  • Best Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

    Best Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

    Some people really just love cleaning. For other people, it’s a chore they hate but they’ve got to do it. In either event, you’re going to want the very best kitchen cleaning supplies when you go to clean up. If you’re not rocking the best kitchen cleaning supplies then you’re not getting the best clean!

    Best Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

    Wring Mop

    Sometimes the classics are well-worth using. The old-school wring-mop is fantastic for floors that aren’t made of wood. Tile, concrete and the like are ideal surfaces for using an old-school wring mop. Make sure you get a good detergent and some hot water, and maybe a bit of vinegar, and you can clean up most any mess on a non-wood floor.

    You know what they say: if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it! This is a critical cleaning supply for kitchens without wood floors.

    Non-cellulose Sponge

    Another great example of a classic kitchen cleaning supply that you should rely on is the non-cellulose sponge. Why non-cellulose? Well, their design doesn’t trap in water that will act as a bacteria-spawning hotbed. That means the normal bad smell and stains associated with sponges don’t come into play here!

    Sponges are great for use on surfaces like countertops that you can’t clean with a mop. After all, you can’t get your mop up that high! Sponges work wonders cleaning appliances like fridges and stoves, too. Make sure you pair them with a good detergent and warm water for best effect!

    Mrs. Meyers Cleaning Products

    A lot of reviewers rave over Mrs. Meyers brand cleaning products. They offer a wide variety of products that are must-haves for cleaning! Whether you’re just getting started with your own place or you’ve been cleaning for a while, you should invest in this cleaner. It’s great at breaking up accumulations of dirt and leaves a great smell behind.

    If you’re environmentally conscious, good news: Mrs. Meyers is too! It’s environmentally friendly without sacrificing cleaning power. That’s the definition of a win-win! It comes in a variety of pleasant scents that aren’t overpowering, making your kitchen smell great while you clean.

    The best part of Mrs. Meyers products is the price, though! From their website you can often find great deals on the product. Right now you can even get three bottles sixteen-ounce bottles for $9! That makes this product less expensive on average than leading brands! That’s hard to beat!

    Coconut Oil Spray

    Hear us out! We know it sounds weird, but coconut oil can play a vital role in your kitchen cleaning. For one thing, it’s all-natural, which is a huge bonus. For another thing, it’s a fantastic furniture polish! If you have furniture or leather in your kitchen, such as your kitchen table or chairs, coconut oil spray is a must. When used in conjunction with sponges and scrubbing, it can make your kitchen pieces look amazing!

    Microfiber Cloths

    The type of cloths you use to clean eyeglasses are amazing for kitchen cleaning. Whether you’re cleaning counters, floors, tables or anything else, microfiber cloths are amazing. They don’t trap water or bacteria, they dry really rapidly and they work on everything. Using them on a variety of surfaces will show you just how great they are!

    They’re also super handy for cleaning in other parts of the house. For instance, if you’ve got a flat-screen TV that needs to be cleaned, a dry microfiber cloth alone can do wonders.

    Bona Mop

    Bona brand mops are similar in some ways to Swiffer wet mops. The main similarity is in the way they both work well on wooden floors. If you live in an older home with an original wood floor, you know how difficult it can be to maintain. So many cleaners are bad about stripping the finish and damaging the wood.

    Thankfully, the Bona Mop and Bono Floor Cleaner are made to help maintain wooden floors. The cleaner is gentle on wood but great at cleaning up messes. If you’re trying to clean an older wooden floor, you might be at a loss as to how you’ll be able to get it clean without damaging it. That’s where Bona comes in!

    When it comes to cleaning, you’ll need a wide variety of supplies. While this isn’t a comprehensive list, we hope it helps you get started in cleaning your kitchens like a professional!


  • Don’t Ignore a Plumbing Leak!

    Don’t Ignore a Plumbing Leak!

    If you have ever ignored a leaky faucet or pipe, you’re not alone. It may seem like it is not a big deal, but plumbing leaks can lead to water damage, mold, foundation cracks and other bigger problems that may cost a lot of $$$!  Fixing the issue yourself or with a plumber is easier and cheaper than you think. Depending on your issue, there are many easy fixes that you can do without the need to call a plumber.

    Easy DIY Plumbing Fixes:

    1. Stop a Toilet from Running: One of the easiest and most often ignored plumbing problem. A leaky stop valve or broken floater valve is usually the culprit. This is a very easy problem to solve, just ensure you shut off the toilet water valve first.

    2. Replacing a Showerhead: When you notice a reduction in pressure replacing your shower head is as easy as unscrewing the existing shower head and replacing it with a new one. That’s it!

    3. Caulking Around a Bathtub or Sink: If you notice deteriorating or cracked seals in your bathroom or kitchen, re-caulking is an easy way to prevent bigger leaks and water damage. Remove the old caulk with a putty knife or razor blade, then apply new caulk using a caulking gun. All can be purchased for under $10.

    4. Unclog a Drain: Try to avoid using liquid drain cleaners or solvents. Over time, these products can eat away at your pipes. To avoid future clogs, simply install a hair catcher. They are very cheap and will help you avoid future problems.

    Plumbing Fixes that Need a Professional:

    1. A Rapid Water Supply Line Leak: You’ll know it when it happens- suddenly there may be water coming out of the ceiling or other places where you know it shouldn’t. Turn off your water main and call a plumber!

    2. A Sewer Line Leak: This typically happens outside, when a blocked or broken sewer line causes a backup into your house. This is a big (and smelly!) problem to fix that you do not want to tackle yourself.

    3. Your Water Heater has a Natural Gas Leak: If you smell gas around the water heater area, this is not normal. Typically the thermocouple may have malfunctioned, or there are leaks in the pipes leading to the heater. Not a problem to take lightly or handle yourself!

    The bottom line is to ensure that you take care of plumbing problems quickly. If ignored, small problems can become big problems, and big problems often cost big money.

     


  • Ready to Face Addiction? Search Drug Rehab Centers

    Ready to Face Addiction? Search Drug Rehab Centers

    When you discover that a close friend or family member has a serious drug problem, it is often a surprise. Help is always there for those who are ready to face their addiction.

    Here are the leading signs and symptoms to look for with addiction.

    1. Profound Personality Changes– Everyone can have a ‘down-day’, or even a ‘down-week’. But when you witness a larger departure from the personality you’re used to seeing, listen to that warning.
    2. Isolation- When you observe a family member retreating, not engaging and struggling to communicate- this can be a sign there is something deeper going on.
    3. Job/Career Issues- Missing deadlines, absenteeism from work, and a drop off in performance can be the initial signs that a problem is growing. When a friend or family member cannot hold onto a job or is terminated repeatedly, it may be time to ask questions about what is going on at work and outside of work.
    4. Developing Unhealthy Friendships  – When people start using new substances, they may spend time with others who have similar habits. They people may encourage the unhealthy habits, and doing so makes it more likely for the user to feel like it is normal when it may be the opposite.
    5. Financial Trouble- Individuals who use drugs spend large and unexplained amounts of money. You may see bank accounts drained, assets sold, and going into debt to fuel their habit.
    6. Poor Judgement- Addiction can lead individuals to do things they normally wouldn’t to obtain the drug of choice. Behaviors like stealing, lying, engaging in unsafe sexual activity and committing crimes that can land people in jail are all part of this vicious cycle.

    If you’re ready to give someone the help they may need, here are a few tips on things to avoid at an intervention.

    • Labels like “alcoholic,” “addict,” “junkie,” etc.: These can be taken as accusatory. Instead, opt for neutral terms and avoid defining the person by their addiction.
    • Too many people: Pick a core group of close friends and family, and stick to a small number of people.
    • Being upset during the intervention: Find ways to manage personal feelings so the event doesn’t become overrun by strong emotions.
    • An intoxicated subject: If the subject of the intervention is intoxicated when the event is supposed to occur, it is not likely to be effective. Be prepared to wait for the person to sober up.

     

     


  • Best Kids Internet Monitoring Programs

    Best Kids Internet Monitoring Programs

    It can be hard to parent effectively in the age of information. The internet is a big, unregulated place full of things kids probably shouldn’t see. While the simplest solution is to simply keep young children away from the internet, that’s an unlikely solution. That’s where these internet monitoring programs come in!

    Best Internet Monitoring Programs

    Net Nanny Review

    This service is so well-known that its name is almost synonymous with internet monitoring programs in general. This service costs $40 a month, which makes it a bit on the pricier side. However, it works across multiple platforms and offers control directly from an app. If you have Android, that is! Sorry, iPhone users.

    Net Nanny allows you to choose from a variety of filters to stop access to tons of different types of content. Most monitoring services prevent access to nudity or violence, of course. Net Nanny lets you increase the granularity of what is filtered, however. This allows you to rest easy knowing your children’s particular fears or phobias are being filtered out.

    Symantec Norton Family Premier Review

    Norton, well-known for their antivirus software, also has a well-regarding internet monitoring service. This service is highly recommended, due to its high-quality web interface and strong filtering tools. You can monitor and filter access from all devices that are connected to a network. This allows you to keep your children safe no matter what device they’re using.

    The only downside to Norton’s service is that it isn’t available on Mac. If your household doesn’t own a Mac, however, you have nothing to worry about. Another notable shortcoming is a lack of strong social media controls, but you can always just ban social media sites outright to avoid the problem. What 8-year-old needs Facebook, anyway?

    Qustodio

    A well-made and easy-to-use tracker, Qustodio works across Macs, Windows and mobile devices. It allows for strong filtering and monitoring tools, as well. It has a somewhat outdated web interface, but that’s outweighed by the strength of its monitoring and filtering. If your house has a wide variety of devices, from iOS to Android to Macs and PCs, this is the best monitoring program for you.

    The only notable downside to Qustodio is its relatively high price. The service runs $50, which is a touch expensive. However, it’s well-worth the robust monitoring and peace of mind it offers.


  • Compare Top Auto Insurance Companies-Get Better Insurance Today

    Compare Top Auto Insurance Companies-Get Better Insurance Today

    Buying a new vehicle is everyone’s dream and an exciting experience. However, vehicles are expensive, and consumers need to protect their investment with car insurance. The insurance covers your car in case of an accident and protects the driver from certain liabilities. When searching for a reliable car insurance company, look at the coverage options, price of policies, financial strength, and customer service reviews before settling on a company. In this article, we have detailed information that will make the process easier.
    Most people are currently working from home and are not driving that much due to COVID-19. However, it is still essential to have car insurance when you drive. Car owners who are paying for a financed vehicle also need to have auto insurance.

    Before we came up with the list below of the best car insurance companies, we considered factors like claims satisfaction, customer compliant scores, customer satisfaction, and claims settlement. We also turned to industry experts and Consumer Reports to get accurate and quality car insurance reviews.

    Top Auto Insurance Companies:

    The insurance market is flooded with different car insurance companies. However, we have picked quality car insurance companies in the market. Not all car insurance companies offer the same policy package to everyone. Therefore, to determine the best insurance provider that can take care of your needs, it is vital to consider your age, credit rating, and budget.

    #1 General Auto Insurance

    General auto insurance is our top pick for high-risk drivers looking for quality car insurance. The company does not shy away from young drivers or those who have been involved in multiple accidents. For instance, most car insurance companies avoid providing coverage to drivers that need an SR-22. The General auto insurance covers drivers who require SR-22 by including the form in their policy. That gives the driver a chance to file the SR-22 form in a brief period.

    Also, the insurance company has a mobile application as well as an online portal for customers to manage their insurance policies easily. The online portal offers users basic functionalities such as viewing policy details, receiving ID cards, and making payments. Since the features are not unique, they offer high-risk drivers similar benefits to standard drivers through other quality car insurance companies such as State Farm.

    Pros

    • Offers car insurance cover to high-risk drivers
    • Can file the SR-22 form for drivers who need it

    Cons

    • Provides few policy options and discounts
    • Drivers who are not high-risk will have a better experience with other insurance providers.

    #2 Progressive insurance

    For drivers interested in the best coverage options, Progressive is the ideal option. The company offers customers an easy platform on their website to choose the available policy within their price range. All you have to do to get the online quote is to enter the amount you are willing to pay for the car insurance, and the company will provide you with a list of policy options available within your budget.

    The company has a Name Your Price online tool that makes shopping easier for high-risk drivers. The drivers can use Progressive’s usage-based Snapshot program to redeem their driving record. Snapshot monitors the drivers driving habits and rewards them with discounts when they obey the traffic rules.

    Pros:

    • Online rate comparison tool
    • Custom equipment coverage
    • Gap insurance available

    Cons:

    • Claims handling of below average
    • Expensive rates

    #3 Amica Mutual

    The company has a history of offering excellent coverage and customer service. The insurer offers various policies, including ATV insurance. Amica also offers its customers usual coverages such as uninsured and underinsured motorist, personal injury protection along with excellent addons, including glass cover and roadside assistance.

    Pros:

    • The best in customer satisfaction
    • The best in auto claims satisfaction
    • Free lock replacement for lost keys

    Cons:

    • No discounts
    • Few local offices

    #4 Allstate

    This car insurance company offers quality customer service to motorists in America. The company is ranked among the top car insurance providers in the U.S. However, the company’s policies are more expensive compared to other auto insurance providers. This is because of limited discount offerings. The company offers quality services for what customers pay for.

    Pros:

    • Easily available
    • Mobile app and online tools
    • Teen drivers get discounts

    Cons:

    • Limited discounts
    • Limited optional policies
    • Its satisfaction rating is below average

    #4 USAA insurance

    It is the best car insurance company for active military members, veterans, and qualified family members. The company provides quality car insurance coverage to military personnel at reduced rates for low mileage and a 60 percent discount for cars parked during deployment.

    USAA provides a detailed portfolio of financial products to qualified members. The products include checking and savings accounts, retirement accounts, and investment products. The car insurance company is ranked among the best insurance companies.

    Pros:

    • Quality customer service and high claims ratings
    • Available nationwide
    • Excellent mobile and online tools

    Cons:

    • Limited to military and veteran families
    • To receive a quote, one has to be a member
    • Violations of billing-related regulations

    #5 Farmers

    The company provides standard vehicle insurance, including liability, medical payments, collision, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages, as well as comprehensive. The company also offers optional coverages, new car replacement, customized equipment, original equipment, and spare parts coverage.

    Pros:

    • Alternative fuel discounts
    • Easy claims process
    • Great mobile app

    Cons:

    • Low claims satisfaction rating
    • Low client satisfaction
    • No discounts

    How to Save on Car Insurance:

    1.Consider getting a bundled home-auto insurance policy

    As mentioned earlier, during this pandemic period, people are not driving much. Therefore, you can look for an insurer that provides a pay-per-mile or home-auto bundle program. The policies base rates depending on how much you drive and others, depending on how well you drive. The insurance company that offers these policies installs a device in your vehicle that transmits data back to the company. Several car insurance companies, including Allstate, Progressive, and Geico, are among the insurance companies that offer this policy in some states.

    2.Avoid having too many car insurance policies.

    It is high time you drop collision and comprehensive insurance if you have a clunker. Comprehensive insurance compensates a stolen vehicle, vandalized, damaged by storms, or one that hit an animal. Similarly, collision insurance caters for a vehicle that flips over or crashes into objects or another vehicle.

    If the amount you pay for annual coverage plus your deductible is more than your vehicle, drop the two insurance policies. Comprehensive and collision cannot compensate more than the vehicle’s value.

    After dropping the two insurance covers, use the money to finance car repairs or use it as a down payment for a better vehicle.

    3.Drive safely

    Car insurance premiums can go up due to accidents and traffic tickets. Once you are issued a ticket, you may be forced to get it dismissed or have the violation points reduced on your driving record. However, if you avoid a violation on your driving record, you can save a lot of money and time.

    4.Ask for discounts

    Car insurance companies provide unique techniques to reduce your coverage premium. Request your agent to review possible savings to ensure you get all discounts entitled to you. Several car insurance companies offer discounts to their customers. However, it is vital to compare quotes depending on your situation. Some insurance providers offer many discounts, but that does not mean their policies are cheap.

    5.Increase the deductible

    When you raise your deductible, you will save money on comprehensive and collision. A deductible is an amount the insurance provider does not cove when compensating for repairs. For instance, if the cost of repair is $3000, and your deductible is $1000, the insurance company will pay $1000. Remember that savings vary by company. Therefore, it is essential to compare quotes with other deductible levels before deciding.

    Factors that Insurance Agencies Consider when Quoting a Rate:

    Where you live is the start of base rates. That is why car insurance companies ask for your ZIP code. Accidents and insurance claims are more prevalent for persons who live in urban areas with a high population. Therefore, your rates can be higher than someone who resides in a rural area where accidents are less likely to occur.

    Drivers Age

    The rates of a young driver are high compared to an older driver. Researchers claim that young drivers are easily distracted and crash a lot. However, different insurance companies decrease the rates at different times. At 25 years, your rates can drop by up to 20 percent.

    Researchers from (IIHS) Insurance Institute for Highway Safety claim that drivers between the ages of 30 and 69 have fewer chances of getting involved in accidents. A young driver who maintains a clean record can enjoy relatively flat car insurance rates until considered as a senior driver.

    Gender

    Since the crash, statistics vary for females and males, some states allow insurance companies to rate gender. According to research, males, mostly young, aggressive drivers, are more likely to crash.

    The IIHS reports that men drive more than women and engage in risky driving behavior like not using seat belts, driving when intoxicated, and speeding. The organization also claims that crashes involving male drivers are severe compared to female drivers.

    However, that does not mean female drivers pay lower rates than male drivers. Fatality risk reduces with age, not gender. When both women and men get to their 30s, the general auto insurance rates become comparable with most insurance providers for both sexes. Some insurers may also allow males to pay lower rates than females, depending on their data, polices, and research.

    As drivers get to their 60s, males pay more than females. That is because researchers claim older men tend to crash more compared to females. However, some states do not allow gender to affect insurance rates, including:

    • Michigan

    • Pennsylvania

    • Massachusetts

    • North Carolina

    • Montana

    • Hawaii

    Type of vehicle

    The kind of vehicle you drive may also affect your rates. That is because the way one drives these vehicles may differ. If according to the car insurance company, your vehicle’s model tends to crash more than others, or the model has filed more claims, your rates can be higher.

    Also, other factors that the insurer may determine from the model of your vehicle include:

    • Cost of repair

    • Safety tests

    • Purchase price

    • Theft rate

    It is also essential to note that a vehicle that does well on the safety test does not get lower rates. Vehicles’ collision-warning safety features may also receive high rates if the cost of replacing the feature is high. However, a few insurers have started to offer discounts for vehicles with extra safety features.

    How Insurance Differs:

    ATV Insurance

    An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) can be dangerous to the rider and can lead to serious injuries when an accident occurs. Replacing an ATVs can be expensive if severely damaged. Therefore, purchasing an ATV insurance is a wise move.

    Most insurance companies offer ATV insurance cover under the motorcycle insurance policy. The same process used to gather an online quote for a motorcycle is the same used for ATVs. The difference is one enters the ATV information.

    Motorcycle 🏍 Insurance

    A motorcycle may cost less than a vehicle. However, motorcycle insurance is more expensive compared to car insurance. That is because the rider is at a higher risk of getting involved in an accident while riding.

    Car 🚗 Insurance

    Car insurance may vary between different insurers since they use various rating factors. The companies have different statistical information they consider and claims experience. Also, the company may consider how much it may need to pay your claims during the year.

    Boat ⛵️ Insurance

    Most insurance companies provide boat insurance, including basic cover for damage or loss, and several additional options. Some insurers can cover the boat owners for common insurance activities and risks. The policy can compensate the boat’s occupants if they get injured. It also provides coverage for damage, theft, or loss. The policy also protects the boat owner from incurring costs after accidental damage to other people’s property.

    Commercial 🚛 Vehicle Insurance

    The insurance policy covers accidents that occur when you and your staff are using a company vehicle. Both commercial and personal vehicles cater to medical and legal bills related to car accidents. However, commercial vehicle insurance covers different types of cars, complex legal issues, and higher claims. The policy insures all employees in the business. That means that any employee can drive the vehicle if they have a valid driver’s license.

    Commercial 🚚 Truck Insurance

    The insurance protects trucks in accidents, theft, vandalism, injury to the driver or third party, among other damages. Insurance experts designed commercial truck insurance to meet the driver’s needs, business, and other vehicles.

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  • The Best Deals: 70% Off Eyeglasses!

    The Best Deals: 70% Off Eyeglasses!

    When it comes time to buy glasses, it won’t surprise you to hear that your prescription is going to be expensive. That goes double if you’re buying from your eye doctor’s office, as they have a pretty sizable markup on spectacles. Where should you go to buy your glasses, then? Certainly there’s somewhere you can go to find a better deal on glasses than your doctor’s office, right? Let’s look at some places you can go to save a couple of bucks on your next pair of glasses.

    Best Deals on Glasses

    Getting Your Prescription

    Once your eye doctor gives you a checkup on your eyes, they’ll write you a prescription for glasses. When they do so, ask them for a copy of it. They’ll likely encourage you to buy your glasses from their office, though you’re under no obligation to do so. It’s unlikely your eye doctor will have any issue giving you a copy of your prescription, but if they do, don’t stress!

    Legally, any licensed eye doctor has to give you a copy of your prescription. If your doctor isn’t cooperating in giving you your prescription after you’ve paid for the appointment, you should remind them that it is their legal obligation to do so. If they continue to insist you buy your glasses from them before they hand over such a prescription, it’s time to contact your local medical authority and find a new eye doctor.

    Online or In Store?

    First, consider whether you’d like to buy your glasses online or from a store. Make sure you’ve got your prescription from your eye doctor and consider which option you like better. When you shop online, you get to avoid the long lines and traffic associated with shopping out and about. On the other hand, you’ve also got to wait for shipping, and you can’t try frames on to see how they look on you.

    Shopping in-store allows you to see the glasses on your face before you sign up for the frames. Likewise, you can leave with the glasses you buy in-hand and won’t have to wait for shipping, which is nice. On the flip side, it’s often a bit pricier to go through any in-person retailers, as you can often find tremendous deals on glasses online.

    Costco Wholesalers

    If you have a Costco card and you need a new pair of glasses, you’re in luck. Costco is noted as one of the least expensive places to pick up glasses in-store in the country. All you need to do is bring them your prescriptions! Unlike LensCrafters, who have an average glasses cost of $369, Costco offers an average cost of $184 for their glasses. That’s considerable savings when you look at the glasses: they’re identical.

    Keep in mind that Costco, while inexpensive, isn’t the best deal out there on glasses. There are even better discounts you can find on glasses if you go through certain online retailers.

    Online Discounts

    There are a number of online sites you can go through to save a ton on glasses. Examples include ZenniOptical.com, EyeBuyDirect.com and 39DollarGlasses.com. These websites allow you to get a pretty sizable discount on your glasses through their bare-bones distribution. For examples, Zenni Optical grinds their lenses in China, uses low-cost materials for frames and includes shipping in the costs.

    Often, these sites keep the costs low by offering no ongoing service on the eyeglasses they sell. Once you buy the glasses, they’re yours, and any damage they incur is up to you to fix. However, when you can just buy another pair for under $50, this is a reasonable trade-off for some people.