13 Ways To Find The Right Used Car For You

Every year, around 40 million used cars are sold in the USA alone. Unfortunately, lots of those cars are sold for inflated prices to unsuspecting buyers who don’t know how to ensure they get the right car for the right price. With some know-how and advance prep, you can dodge the scams and cowboy dealers, and score a great deal on a great car. 

Image

1. If you don’t like the idea of owning an older car, remember that you don’t need to buy a very old car to get the savings. A car that is only a year old is still likely to be significantly cheaper than a brand new car. While luxury brands tend to hold their value better, other vehicles will drop in price over the first year. Keep an eye out for year old models you like to save some cash on a relatively new vehicle. 

2. Choose the right car to save more money on your purchase. If you’re smart about the car you buy, you can get the car itself for less, and save on the running costs later on. For example, look for a smaller car with a smaller engine. These are cheaper to insure, and can be a lot cheaper to run, depending on how you use the car. Petrol is cheaper from the pump than diesel, but diesel is more efficient. If you can drive a manual car, you could save even more, as automatics tend to be more expensive. 

3. Play to car dealership targets. Dealers have quarterly targets to hit, so if you time it right, they may offer you a better price in order to secure your sale. Go towards the end of the quarter, but not too close to the end. If the dealer has already hit target, they’ll be less bothered about locking in your sale, and won’t discount the car or offer freebies to get you to buy. Visit around March, June, September or December to get the best deals as targets loom. Weekends and the days just after payday are bad times to shop. Dealers will be busier, so will be making more sales and have less time to spend with you. 

4. If you’d rather buy from a private owner, look around for what kind of prices cars are selling for. If you’re seeing average asking prices going up, hold off going car shopping for now. Strike when you spot prices starting to creep down again to get a better price. The time of year can help you get a better deal too. For example, people are less likely to be buying a convertible during the winter. 

5. Before you go out to look at any cars, create two different lists to make sure you get everything you need. One list is for the things your new car absolutely needs to have. This could include things like having a spacious backseat for a car seat, or being cheap to run. Make a second list of things you would like the new car to have, but that you can live without if they push the price up too much. This could be things like a built-in navigation system, or room in the trunk for a lot of suitcases for vacations. 

6. Make sure you budget for costs other than the car itself. You’ll need to pay for car insurance, fuel and be prepared for repairs. Do you need a parking permit to park near your home or work? 

7. Don’t just look at the car dealer nearest you. Before choosing a car dealership to buy from, visit a few and make a note of the prices of any cars you like. You can shop around for the best deals. If you find a better deal on a car, but prefer another dealer, you could use it to negotiate a cheaper price. 

8. Never accept the asking price. Go to your dealer with a figure in mind, some knowledge of the car’s value and a lower price from another dealer, and haggle. You could push for a lower price, or try and get something like a warranty, a service plan or a full valet thrown in for the price of the car. Study the car before you buy it. If you spot superficial issues, like small dents or marks in the paintwork, you could use this to try and get some money off too.

9. Give the car a very thorough check before agreeing to purchase it. Check the mileage. Is the car in good condition? Has it had any repairs made and have they been made well? If the car has been in an accident, make sure there aren’t any doddy repair jobs leaving the car in a dangerous state. Gaps in the body panels are a giveaway of questionable repair work. Check the engine and the oil for signs of leaks. Make sure that everything like the lights work before you agree to buy it. 

10. Make sure you take a car you’re considering for a test drive. Does the dar drive smoothly and feel nice for you to drive? Is there enough room in the car for things you need, like space for a dog crate in the trunk, or  car seat in the back seat? Are the passenger seats roomy enough? Make some basic maneuvers like parallel parking to check the clutch and the brakes are working correctly. Test the handbrake, and check all the doors and bonnet. Do any features like the radio work properly? Make sure this car is the right one for you, and that you’ll be happy driving it for the future. 

11. Would you prefer to buy from a professional dealer or from a private owner? Both ways have pros and cons. If you buy from a dealer, you’re more likely to have better protection if there’s a problem with the car after purchase, such as via the warranty. However, a private owner is likely to accept a cheaper price on the car, so could save you a lot of money on the price of the car. 

12. If you have the option, buy your car with a credit card for some extra protection in the event of a problem. A credit card can be used to claim back the cost if the car is wrong and your dealer is unable, or refuses, to refund you. 

13. Dealers will often try to cushion a lower price on a vehicle by selling you a lot of extras that you don’t actually need. Try not to be tempted by extras that you don’t want. Adding a warranty can be worth it, but don’t be sucked into buying unnecessary services plans or luxuries like an upgraded car stereo. Do some research first so you know whether you can find these kind of items cheaper elsewhere. Only agree to extras that you actually want, and be sure you’re paying a fair price for them when you do.

Spotting The Signs Of Anxiety And Depression

Image Credit

It can be hard to notice the signs of stress, anxiety and depression as they creep into your life. Sometimes there is an obvious trigger, like a life-changing event. Other times, it can because you've taken on too much in life, and have gradually become overwhelmed by it. There may be times when there is no reason at all. Mental health issues can affect us all, and very often an imbalance of chemicals in the brain is all it takes to leave you suffering in many ways. 

People who have suffered from mental issues will tell you that there are good times, and there are bad times. And some people are good at dealing with the bad times as soon as they appear. Learning to spot the signs of depression and anxiety early will allow you to practice self-care, or get the help you need through psychotherapy. 

For others, though this can be more of a challenge. Developing awareness of your feelings can be much harder than you'd expect. Nobody likes to feel as though they are failing, and a struggle with mental health problems can make you feel just that. 

Why We Can't Always Tell That We're Struggling

Our brains have defensive mechanisms pre-programmed into them. If you're dealing with trauma in your life, your body produces adrenaline, and when we overload on this, it causes anxiety. At first, the extra adrenaline might feel like we're doing well, there's lots of energy and a heightened awareness of everything that's going on. But when this fails to diminish, it can leave us constantly feeling on edge. 

At other times, our minds and bodies hide the effects of depression and anxiety from us by denying the opportunity to process uncomfortable thoughts. While in the short term this can be helpful to us, in the long run it can lead to more significant issues. 

How To Spot The Signs

There can be lots of signs that you are depressed or anxious. They can range from not being able to sleep, through to sleeping too much. It can be the same with eating too, as some people find comfort in food when depressed, and others lose their appetites. Avoidance of doing things that you enjoy might be a symptom, as can negative thoughts that you can't control. Feeling tired a lot of the time, and generally despondent to the world around you is common too, as is withdrawing from social situations. 

Making Plans

If you find that you are doing these things, take some time to think about what is going on in your life right now that could be causing you particular distress. Try to identify triggers and work out when you have felt the lowest. 

Think about implementing a self-care routine. Laying or sitting down in a quiet room, try to meditate by calmly breathing in and out, focusing on your breath. There are many guided meditations that might help you. 

Exercise is essential, so try and take a walk or go for a run. This will help to produce endorphins, which will make you feel good. 

Promoting Better Pond Health in Your Own Backyard

A garden pond can be an attractive addition to your property. Whether it is a formal reflecting pool, or a more natural free-form build, there are important steps you must take to ensure peak maintenance and health of your pond's ecosystem. 

Avoid Stagnant Water

Standing water can be the root of a host of issues. Algae blooms can erupt at an unwanted rate within your pond, affecting its overall appearance and health. Mosquitoes are also drawn to still water, as they use it for breeding purposes. To prevent such takeovers from happening, it is important to equip your pond with aeration systems, like fountains (also for decorative purposes), or a kit of pumps and diffusers.

Balance Fish and Vegetation

Fish can contribute to your garden pond's ecosystem by feeding off of insects, weeds, algae, and other plant debris. If mixing species, be mindful of each fish's natural instincts and tendencies, as well as their full-grown adult sizes to prevent overcrowding. For pond vegetation, allow for partial shading of the water; too much shading, and the water could suffer from oxygen deficiencies, impacting the overall health of your pond.

Mind the Clarity

Be sure to keep your water filter cleaned to maintain a clear, attractive water quality in your pond. If you have just recently dug and installed your pond, the murky water can be a direct result of unsettled soil and matter. If, however, the muddy water problem persists, you can reach out to a professional aquatic management service for treatments that can bind loose particles for removal, resulting in better, cleaner water.

With these points in mind, you can rest assured your pond will thrive in every season. You may find that it is easy to keep your pond visually pleasing when both the flora and fauna are happily coexisting.

5 Reasons to Get a Motorbike

Have you ever had a motorbike? Most people either love them, and would love to own their own, or are a little scared of them and would much rather be sat in a car. Unfortunately, even in the group of people that love them, many have never taken the plunge to swap their sensible car for a bike. 

Often, this is out of worries for their safety. But, while there are risks involved in riding a bike, there is always a motorcycle accident lawyer, and if we’re being honest, there’s a risk whenever you are on the road, whatever kind of vehicle you are in, and, most things in life come with their own associated risks, especially the things that we love. So, if you have always been tempted by a bike, and even if you’ve never considered it before, here are five reasons you should get a motorbike. 

Image Source

There’s Nothing Cooler

There’s no denying it; bikes are cool. Certainly much cooler than a boring family car. Imagine yourself set on a gorgeous bike wearing leathers. Don’t you look great? Owning a motorcycle can make you feel good about yourself, and be a massive confidence boost, just because it’s cool. Isn’t that reason enough?

Freedom

Motorbikes give you freedom in a way that a car never can. When you’ve got a bike, you can just hop on and go for a drive. You’ll feel as though you can go anywhere, at any time and your trips will be as much about the journey as they are about the destination. You’ll take this freedom and attitude into other areas of your life, and you might find that buying a bike makes you a happier, more laid back person. 

To Be Part of a Community

There’s a massive biking community out there ready for you to be a part of. Some bikers chose to join clubs and groups. They ride together, go to shows together and build firm friendships. They might even have matching jackets and colors. But, even if you don’t want to take things this far, you will be a part of the wider biker community. When you see someone else with a bike, you’ll stop for a chat. You’ll say hi to people, and you’ll bond with people you’d never otherwise speak to about your shared interest. 

You’ll Be More Relaxed

Image Source

The sense of freedom that a bike brings you will help you to be more relaxed, but so will the bike itself. When you are on a bike, there’s nothing between you and the open air. You are close to nature, you get plenty of fresh air, and you feel as though you are a part of the environment around you. Going for a ride after a long day can be unbelievably relaxing, and it might have a positive effect on your mental health. 

You’ll Enjoy Your Commute

Most people hate their commute to work or school. It’s time sat in traffic that could be better spent doing something productive. It’s a waste, and it usually means that you arrive at work or home stressed out and annoyed. Get a bike, and you’ll start to enjoy your commute, which might mean that you are able to work more productively. 

Pimp Your Ride In 3 Easy Steps

Image

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve got a boring old generic hatchback or a conservative SUV out the front on your driveway, the chances are you want a bit more va-va-voom for your motor. While the metallic paint isn’t looking too shabby and your set of wheels is highly economical on fuel, it might be a tad boring to look at. Cars nowadays tend to follow a strict formula when it comes to aesthetics. It is up to the car owner to add a bit more spice by customizing their vehicle. Take a look at these three simple ways that can see you pimping your ride.

Change The Color

Forget the jet black, gunmetal gray or bright red that your car came in direct from the factory, and instead opt for something a little more daring. Ever fancied lime green, shocking pink or canary yellow. If bright and bold is what you’re after then these colors will surely turn heads. Alternatively, it might be a finish that you’re looking for. The matt finishes to many customized cars look sleek and unique.

When painting your car, you are probably best taking it to a specialist who knows what they’re doing. You don’t want to make a costly mistake. However, if you are going to give it a go at home, make sure you use a primer first, you have done your research, and you have all of your kit. You might be tempted to go for graphics like racing stripes or flames. Just make sure this isn’t a fad, and that you consider how to future proof your car.

Upgrade The Fittings

Take a look at your car and decide how to upgrade the details that often get overlooked. You might want to get hold of a new BMW hood emblem for your sporty little number, or perhaps you want a set of customized alloys to set your wheel trims off a treat. Look at the interior and think about reupholstering your seats with some personalized fabric and think about swapping the steering wheel, upgrading the mats and altering the walnut trim on your dashboard. While the possibilities are endless, so is the amount of money that you could spend. Make sure that you budget wisely and don’t spend more than your car is worth.

Be Safe

While tinted windows are great, blacked out windows are illegal. Consider the safety of other road users, the law, and your own image when pimping your ride. You don’t want to end up driving one of those noisy exhaust modified cars, only for people to look at you when they hear you driving down the road with a negative perception of you in the head. Modify your car sensibly. Yes, you might want a better sound system, but a booming bass isn’t pleasant for your neighbors when you are arriving home late at night. Be considerate and pimp your ride in a sensible way.

Having the money to spend on your motor is a luxury, so don’t squander it. Make sure that you alter the appearance of your car without putting your safety and the integrity of the car at risk. Follow this guide and you will soon have the ultimate pimped up motor on your driveway.

Keep Wiggly Kids Quiet in Class

Image source

Students who struggle to sit still can cause disruption in the classroom, particularly if their desk chair is a little wobbly and clanks against the floor with every wiggle and squirm. A teacher constantly saying "Stop that! Sit still! Be quiet" can be disruptive to classroom peace and calm as well—and if the movement-seeking student has ADHD or sensory processing disorder, all those verbal warnings will be ineffective and stressful. In fact, these students may need to move to stay alert, and surely no one wants them to focus all their attention on maintaining motionlessness.

Seeking Silence

So how can you balance a teacher's need for quiet and a student's need to move? Target the noise, not the movement. A scraping desk chair can be silenced with tennis ball chair leg covers. They can cover desk legs as well to mask the sounds of moving. Suddenly, motion isn't a commotion. Other silencing strategies include an area rug under a desk or folded-up paper under a too-short chair or desk leg.

Supplying Support

An easy way to minimize movement is to give a student's feet something to push against. Try a large heavy item as a makeshift footrest, such as a cinder block, concrete block, heavy textbook, or shoebox filled with rocks. You may need to add some nonstick material to the bottom to make sure the student can't slide it around noisily. Pressing feet against an immovable object may provide sufficient stimulation that the student won't feel the need to wiggle so much.

Students with disabilities are entitled to accommodations like these to make education accessible to them. Once an effective technique is found, parents should make sure it goes into the student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) so that future teachers will know how to handle the movement efficiently and compassionately.

The Best Way to Care for Your Sick Dog

Image source

It can feel awful whenever your puppy is sick. You love your pet a lot, so it can feel like the world is against you when they are whining. One big way to prevent sickness in animals is getting them vaccinated. If you have not done so, you can visit Vet Products Direct for dog vaccinations or information about it. Of course, talking to a vet can yield better information.

However, when your dog is sick, you can make a big difference by giving them love and comfort, taking them to see the vet, and giving them medicine.

Make Sure They Are Comfortable

Sometimes, there is not much you can do besides this. For small illnesses or chronic ones, making them comfortable can be the best option. This can include buying a soft bed and blanket for them or letting them sit on your sofa or bed with you. For small dogs, a large pillow may be all they need. Giving them plenty of water and soft, chewable food like unseasoned chicken and rice can help their recovery.

Go to a Vet Clinic

We go to the doctor when we are sick. So, it only makes sense to take your dog to the vet when they are sick. Your vet should have all their records up to date, including vaccines, so they can better determine what care your dog needs. It is a good practice to listen to their advice and purchase the medicine they recommend. For most cases, they will have notes for you to take home to assist in administering the medicine. Following-up may occur as well.

If you are not sure where a nearby vet clinic is, you can use this site here to locate one. It is a good idea to at least have the location written down in case of emergencies.

Give Them Medicine

Whether it is a tablet or ear drops, the medicine you buy can give your pet the fighting chance they deserve to recover. With any administration of medicine, it may be helpful to have someone else help with holding the dog. Unfortunately, they do not understand that we are trying to help them and can struggle during the process. You do not want the medicine to be given improperly or wasted.

For ear medicine, you should swab the area first with a cotton ball before emptying the medicine into their ear canal. For eye drops, apply the same way you would to yourself. For edible medicine like tablets, a lot come in chewable form, but you may need to place it further down the dog’s throat for it to be consumed. In any case, make sure to reward your dog afterward so they do not feel like the medicine was a punishment.

Even if you are not practiced, there are instructional videos online that can teach you how to properly care for your sick dog. Some great advice can come from your vet, especially if your dog has a file at that clinic. Make sure to ask questions if you feel confused or need more elaboration. They should be more than happy to help. Remember, when your dog is sick, they just need a little extra love to feel all better.

5 Considerations For Future Pet Owners

Countless stories tell the tale of the happiness that a pet can bring into your life. For those who are struggling with anxiety, depression and loneliness, adopting a dog or a cat can be a life-changing experience. Many claim that they never rescued their pet from the shelter; it was always their furry friend who rescued them. Pets can bring a lot of love and fun to your home, regardless of your situation. 

But a pet is not a toy. Adopting a dog or a cat comes with heavy responsibilities. You are not only caring for a living creature, but you are also responsible for their behaviors, their actions, and the damage they cause. If you’re in a position where you want to adopt your first pet, you need to make sure that you understand your duties as a pet owner. 

Teach dogs not to chase big cars

#1. Your pet could cause injuries

If you’ve played with a kitten in the past, you probably know that these fierce little cuties have sharp claws and teeth. It’s impossible not to escape with a few scratches when you play with a young cat. But it’s part of the deal; kittens are ultimately babies that are not yet able to control their strength or enthusiasm. The same phenomenon happens with puppies. It’s something you need to be prepared for. However, as your pet grows older, you will soon notice improvements as they realize how strong they are and become more careful during playtime. Typically, it is the time where you can tackle abnormal signs of aggressiveness and help your pet to feel more confident. It is your responsibility not only to keep your dog or cat safe but also everybody else. Indeed, you don’t want a neighbor complaining about an unprovoked dog bite as it can be a painful experience. If the law finds that you didn’t keep your dog on a leash in a public place, or that you didn’t handle your animal’s aggressive behavior adequately, you might be asked to cover medical bills and other compensation for the victim. Additionally, authorities might rule to put your dog down. 

#2. Living next to a road is dangerous

Every pet lover wants a garden for their dog or cat to enjoy some fresh air. But, if you live next to a big road, you need to keep your garden secured so that your pet doesn’t escape. Indeed, even for careful drivers, it can be tricky to react appropriately when a dog suddenly barges onto the road. Defensive drivers are more likely to have life-saving reflexes if they have sufficient time to respond when they see your dog run into traffic. However, your pet may not be that lucky; it could be hit, it could even cause an accident. Make it your number one training lesson to teach your dog not to run after cars. 

Keep your pet on a leash

#3. They can break everything you love

Keeping your dog or cat at home all day while you’re at work can come at a high cost. Indeed, your pet needs entertainment. Left to their own devices, pets are likely to destroy your belongings. Chewing on a sofa or pushing things off the shelf; your beloved furry friend can cost you a lot of money. If you can’t find a local daycare company for your pet while you’re working, it’s a good idea to block access to some rooms during when you’re away and leave them with plenty of toys. 

#4. There’s the matter of the vet bills

Did you know that every year pet owners choose to abandon their animals rather than pay for veterinary bills? Vet care doesn’t come for free, and ultimately, it’s something you can manage with dedicated pet insurance cover. When you adopt a dog or a cat – or any other pet – you are responsible for their health. Vet facilities that offer extensive and emergency services, distinctive experience and high credentials are likely to increase the bill. But don’t you want the best to look after your pet?

#5. Training your pet is hard work

You can’t become a pet owner if you refuse to train your pet. Too many dog owners try to skip the training stage by interpreting their pet’s behaviors in human terms.In reality, humanizing your dog’s actions can cause errors of judgments and communication, which are likely to lead to unpleasant reactions. Training is hard work, but it is necessary if you want to build a safe relationship with your pet in your community. 

Adopting an animal is an exciting and emotional experience. But you can’t just welcome a pet to your family without considering your responsibilities. As a pet owner, you have a duty of care to your pet but also the public. Failure to keep them safe can cause you many troubles. 

Range Rover Luxury For Everyone

There is little getting away from the popularity of Land Rover, especially when it comes to the large and luxurious Range Rover vehicles. The British company has long been associated with high levels of style, lavishness and innovation. If you drive a Range Rover then there is no way people won’t be impressed. However, not everybody can afford the high costs of vehicles today, yet this does not mean you cannot capitalize on the fantastic qualities associated with the leading car brand. Through the range of Range Rover merchandise available on the internet now everybody can be a part of the style and luxury associated with Land Rover. 

https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-suv-parked-on-road-1597673/ 

This range of products opens up the brand to everybody, even those who are not old enough to drive! That’s right; there are even stylish and fun products available for children too. If you take a look at the range than you can expect to find anything from cuddly toys, to jewelry, to clothing, to electrical goods, to accessories, to special edition anniversary products, to camping equipment, and much, much more. Of course, there are items for your car too, for example, you can check out best dash cams on Blackbox My Car for your Range Rover.  Many people are shocked by the sheer diversity on offer. From stunning cufflinks to interesting anniversary book; there is something for everybody.

One thing most people have commented on when exploring this range is the fantastic style that is on offer. When it comes to brands delving into the fashion world who have their primary focus elsewhere, style is something that is often lacking. Companies rely on the car brand name to sell the products rather than focusing on the style of the products. However, you don’t find this with Range Rover. Everything from the t-shirts to the cuff links boast the suave and sophisticated quality you would expect from Range Rover. The cuff links are in fact extremely popular – these make great gifts for any man. You will struggle to find smarter and more stylish cuff links anywhere else on the internet today. The clothing plays towards the sportier side of fashion, yet it still has that element if sophistication as well. If you are kitted out in Range Rover gear then you are definitely going to be dressed to impress.

Nonetheless, it is not only the wearable products which look fantastic, even the USBs are stylish and creative. The Range Rover Evoque USB is a particularly popular option. This features a miniature version of the vehicle in white on the end of the USB stick. Not only does it like really cool but it is extremely practical as well. After all, there is no chance of you losing a USB stick that looks like this. Say goodbye to those annoying moments of aimlessly searching through your bag to try and find your USB! 

So, what are you waiting for? Instead of reading about it, go and witness the fantastically stylish Range Rover range of products. You are assured to be amazed by the impressive selection that is on offer. And the good news is still yet to come… they are all reasonably priced too!

3 Concerns To Think About As You Get Older

Once you start to get a little older, you need to start thinking about a number of things which would not have been an issue in your youth. That is obviously not a surprise to anyone, and yet many of the specifics can be if you haven't spent much time thinking about it. The truth is that being prepared for such changes can be an important part of aging well, and remaining happy in the process, so this is all important to consider as early on as you can. In this article, we are going to try and make this a little easier by taking a look at just three of the big concerns that you need to think about as you start to get older. Take care of these, and you will find that you can actually find much more peace in your daily life.

Pic source

Your Wishes

Once you are starting to think about life after you have gone, the main thing you will need to be sure of is that you are clear about your wishes when that happens. In other words, you need to write out your last will and testament, and make sure that you keep it somewhere safe for after you pass away. That is not something that many people like to do, but it is always going to prove necessary if you are keen to make sure that you are approaching these things in the right manner. What’s more, this is not something you have to do alone, and in fact it would generally be advisable to get a loved one to help you. You might also want a lawyer to help you, just to ensure that it is all as it should be.

Life Insurance

Again, you know that you are starting to think about these things when you start wondering about life insurance. This is of course something which is not so much for you, but much more for the people you leave behind, who are going to be a growing concern for you as you get older. You want to know that they are going to be well looked after long after you have gone, and the best way to make sure of that is to find some life insurance for seniors which seems to suit you best. Once you have got it, you will find that you have much greater peace of mind, so that is absolutely going to be worthwhile.

Pic source

Bucket List

If there are any obvious things that you know you would like to do that you have not yet done, then you might start thinking about those and trying to find some time for them. That could include visiting certain countries or seeing a singer you like live, or it could be anything at all, even something very simple like learning pottery. Whatever you want to do, make sure that you do it, while you can. You will be glad to be doing things that you enjoy, and it will feel good to be able to tick those things off your list.

How Should You Plan For Retirement?

Image source

There comes a time in all of our lives when we must consider retiring. We can’t work forever and eventually we will need to consider living a life without income. Or do you? Retirement has changed, it's not like it used to be. Now you have countless options for how you want to live your life in the twilight years. It's all about how you plan your own finances when it comes to the lifestyle you will have when you’re older. The question that begs for your attention is, how should you plan your retirement? Well, you need some kind of stable income to keep trickling in, you need to hold onto your hard assets and also, consider what kind of state pension rules apply to your situation? Most of the time, you would wish for your budget needs to be taken care of by yourself. You won’t want to have to rely on the state to fund your weekly grocery shop or help pay your bills. So be prudent, consider your options carefully.

Look to Warren Buffet

As mentioned before, retirement is nothing like it used to be. You don’t have to take life slow, sit at home and have your meals cooked for you. Take a leaf out of Warren Buffet’s book. He’s a billionaire investor that is in his late 80s and is still working full time. He advises everyone, no matter if you’re young or old, to invest smartly. He recommends index funds be your first choice as they are incredibly balanced, continuing to turn a profit each month and year but also minimizing as much risk as possible. Index funds are not that complicated. They are simply an economic folder or rather portfolio of different businesses and their stocks. You have your money spread around evenly, so you have your fingers in all the pies. If one stock would decrease in value, another is more than likely to bounce up. This means you minimize loss and give yourself a great chance of making a consistent profit.

A similar situation

If you would rather take things slow and more or less have routine in your life, then consider this retirement home. It's a place where you will have your own apartment which has also been newly renovated. The decor is modern and also allows you to move around freely. There is a 24/7 emergency healthcare on standby so if you have any health complications in the night, the staff will arrive in no time. There’s also fresh food prepared every day and you’ll be surrounded by other people in the same situation of retirement. The retirement community is situated in a garden so you have fresh air and wildlife right outside your window. Consider what kind of package you want and contact them to speak about your preferences and see if they can accommodate you.

If you want to be financially independent you should consider doing what Warren Buffet says. Search for an index fund firm which can spread your money around evenly and maximize profits.

3 Alternative Depression Treatments Without Side Effects

Conversations about mental health have really opened up in the last few years and the stigma around mental health issues is starting to disappear. It has become clear that the scale of mental health problems is a lot more severe than people realized. There are a lot of different reasons for the rise in mental health problems, especially stress at work, and that means lots of people are in need of treatment. The reduction in stigma around mental health means that more people are seeking that treatment, often in the form of medication. However, a lot of depression medication has side effects like weight fluctuations, headaches, nausea, and trouble sleeping. Some people find that they don’t experience too many of these side effects and they get on well with the medication, but for others, the negatives outweigh the positives and they feel that they don’t want to continue taking the medication. It’s a difficult situation because they still need to treat their depression but they don’t want to continue with medication. If you find yourself in that situation, these are some of the best alternative treatments out there. 

Image source

Talking Therapies 

Talking therapies are usually the best way to deal with mental health issues. While taking medication will help you to deal with the symptoms of mental health problems like depression, they won’t help you to deal with the root issues that cause those low feelings in the first place. There is a chemical imbalance that needs to be dealt with, and medication is great at that, but there are also psychological problems that need to be tackled as well. Seeing a counsellor or therapist and talking through those issues is one of the best ways to deal with the problem in the long term. If you speak with your doctor, they will be able to help you access these kinds of treatments. 

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation 

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that is often prescribed to people that really struggle with depression medication because it does not have anywhere near as many side effects. A TMS treatment involves stimulating the brain with an electromagnetic field, which might sound scary but it’s not dangerous and it has good results. Most patients report a big reduction in their symptoms of depression without any of the side effects that they’re getting from their medication. 

Hypericum 

Hypericum, sometimes known as St. John's Wort is a remedy that has been used for hundreds of years to treat some of the symptoms of depression. It is believed to work in a similar way to normal antidepressants by stimulating the production of chemicals like serotonin in the brain. There are no guarantees here because some people don’t notice any difference and some people will still experience some side effects. However, it does work very well for some people so if you’re not happy with your current medication, it is worth trying. 

Medication works well for a lot of people but if you experience a lot of negative side effects, it can make your situation worse. If that’s the case, you should try some of these natural alternatives instead.

Aging In Place: Is It A Good Idea For Your Parents?

(image)

Your parents aren't getting any younger, and there will come a time when one important question needs to be asked - should you let them age in place?

For your parents, they might answer in the positive. Many older people fear losing their independence as they get older, so the thought of moving into a care home might not be their preferred choice. However, if your parent has specific health issues, and they are living with reduced mobility, then you need to consider your options. You see, letting your parents stay at home isn't always the best option.

So, what's the answer?

The first thing you need to do is talk to your parents

It would be wrong of you to make any hasty decisions without consulting them first. In most cases, they will know their needs better than you, so they need to have a say in any decisions being made. Discuss with them the pros and cons of aging in place, and if their preferred choice is to stay at home, then you need to take other things into consideration.

You should consider the care needs of your parents

If you still have two living parents, then one or the other might be able to act as a caregiver if the other is struggling in any way. If you only have one, or if both parents are unwell and in need of care, then you need to formulate a plan. This begins by speaking to your parent's doctor. They will be able to advise you further, with possible options for letting your parents stay in place. For example, the doctor might refer you to specialist nursing agencies who will provide home care for your parents. And he or she might also give you guidance on any home modifications that will make life easier for your parents. If these things guarantee your parents will be safe at home, then aging in place is probably the right answer.

Consider why aging in place might not be the right answer

If your parents show signs that they aren't able to care for themselves properly, then another option might need to be found. So, if they have severe issues with their sight, for example, or if they are suffering from memory-related issues, such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia, then staying at home might not be the best answer, even with the assistance of home care nurses. You need to consider your parent's safety, after all. In such instances, a care home facility might be the appropriate way forward.

Consider why aging in place might be the right answer

If your parents are still able to look after themselves, with or without the assistance of home care staff, and they are keen to do so, then consider the benefits. For one, they won't have to leave the home they have stayed in for years, and for comfort and familiarity, this might be important to them. And because of the cutting-edge technologies available to make aging in place a possibility, it might also be cheaper to let them stay at home instead of paying for residence in a care facility. 

Think of a middle ground

If your parents are reluctant to enter a care home facility, but need the extra help, then you have at least two options. The first is to let your parents live with you, perhaps with the aid of a 

Granny Flats and Studio builder to provide extra living accommodation on your property. This way, you will be able to offer on-site care to your parents should they need it. Alternatively, you could move your parents into an assisted-care living facility that will still allow your parents to have some independence in their senior years.

And so…

Is aging in place a good idea for your parents? We don't have the right answer for you, but consider our suggestions and commit to further research. Let us know your thoughts too, and share any advice you have with us.

Take care, and thanks for reading!

Essential Advice For New Bikers

Picture source

There’s nothing more liberating than having a motorcycle of your own. Hitting the open road on a motorbike is an experience unlike any other. Sure, driving a car is a freeing experience too, but it’s not quite the same as feeling the wind against your body and cruising the roads on a magnificent piece of machinery. Still, there are a lot of things to consider if you want to be a responsible motorcyclist. Here’s some essential advice for new bikers.

Drive defensively.

The best way to be a good biker is to drive defensively. Maybe you’re skilled at riding your motorcycle, but you have to be skilled at keeping your emotions in check too. Many incidents on the road are caused by reckless drivers, but reacting aggressively to reckless driving can turn a dangerous situation into a full-blown accident. You need to adopt a defensive attitude if you want to be a responsible motorcyclist. If you see someone driving irresponsibly, then give them plenty of space. Deescalate dangerous situations on the road. That’s the key to being a smart biker.

You might even want to consider taking an additional riding course to fine-tune your skills. You’ll probably find that there are plenty of options in your area. You can always improve your existing skills. If you want to drive defensively, then improving your own understanding and ability to operate your vehicle will definitely help. Remember, you can’t control other drivers on the road. Some of them will be sensible, and others will be entirely irresponsible. All you can control is your own driving.

Learn how to maintain your vehicle.

You also need to learn how to maintain your vehicle now that you own a bike. Obviously, this is an important piece of advice for all road users. Car owners need to regularly maintain their vehicles too. However, it’s particularly important for motorcyclists. Your motorbike endures a lot on the road, so you need to take a good look at it on a regular basis to make sure it’s actually roadworthy. Mechanical malfunctions on the road are never good news, but they can be particularly dangerous when you’re on a vehicle with two wheels that needs to keep moving to stay balanced.

You might want to do some research to find a good supplier of motorcycle parts, accessories, and even biker gear. You could check out a store such as Solo Moto. They sell plenty of high-quality biker parts and other necessary accessories for motorcyclists. If you’re going to repair your vehicle or make some improvements, then you need to make sure you use the right resources to get the job done properly. You can’t cut corners when it comes to vehicular maintenance.

Of course, it’s important to know your limitations. You can watch all of the motorcycle maintenance videos on YouTube, but you might still struggle to fix certain issues with your vehicle. If you think you’re facing a problem that’s beyond your expertise, then you might want to seek help from the professionals. Take your bike into your local repair shop when it needs to be fixed properly. You should take it to a specialist for a check-up on a regular basis anyway. That way, you can be sure you’re riding a bike which is safe for use on the road. This is one of the most essential pieces of advice for new bikers. Pay attention to your vehicle. Learn how to maintain it, but learn when to let a specialist take the reins too.

Get the right gear.

There’s no denying that you take more risks when you get on a motorcycle than someone who gets behind the wheel of a car. You don’t have the metallic shell of a big vehicle to protect you. That’s why it’s so important to get protective gear if you should have an accident, whether it’s big or small. Even falling off your bike whilst it’s stationary can cause some serious injuries if you don’t wear the proper gear. Make sure you get yourself a good helmet. Obviously, you want to look stylish on your vehicle, but you need to put safety first. Do your research to make sure you get a helmet which is going to be sturdy and durable. The same goes for the rest of your gear. You don’t want to spend a fortune replacing your gloves, boots, and other essential pieces of biker attire because they get worn out too easily. Think about this in terms of safety and your personal finances.

Being A Responsible Driver In The Modern World

With the increasing number of cars on the road and the increasing number of ways to distract yourself with technology, it can be hard to drive safely in 2019. Being a responsible driver is tough in the modern world, but the following pieces of advice might help you out.

Picture source

Drive in the right state of mind.

One of the most important ways to be a responsible driver in the modern world is to drive in the right state of mind. This has always been the case, of course, but the fact is that there are more ways than ever to distract yourself in 2019. Drunk driving has always been a cause for concern, but plenty of drivers allow themselves to be distracted by phones in the modern age. Focus your concentration on the road. It’s as simple as that. And make sure you don’t get behind the wheel if you’re tired, stressed out, or mentally impaired in any other way. Driving in the wrong state of mind can be dangerous even if you’re sober. In fact, depending on how distracted or tired you are, it can sometimes be just as dangerous as driving drunk.

Be a defensive driver.

Of course, even when we drive in the right state of mind, we can find ourselves presented with dangerous situations. It might be tempting to react in an aggressive way, even if you were in the right state of mind when you got behind the wheel. However, letting your emotions take over is going to impede your ability to concentrate on the road and react with quick reflexes. In that sense, driving aggressively is just as dangerous as driving whilst intoxicated or in a sleep-deprived state. Even impatience can be dangerous; don’t run red lights or swerve around slow drivers when you’re in a rush.

Still, even the most cautious and observant drivers can find themselves involved in road accidents. If you want to be a responsible driver, then the important thing is that you respond to such incidents in an appropriate manner. Your first priority should always be that everyone involved is okay, even if the incident was just a minor bump or scratch. You might want to look into auto accident injury care if you’ve had a car accident that injured you or someone you love recently. It’s important to get the treatment you need. But just ensure that you always react to situations on the road in a defensive manner if you want to be a responsible driver.

Picture source

Keep learning.

Whether you got your driver’s license 10 days ago or 10 years ago, you’re prone to making mistakes. The difference between a responsible and an irresponsible driver is that the former actually learns from their mistakes. If you want to be responsible on the road, then you need to make sure you keep striving to be a better driver. If you make an error, then log that error in your mind. Ensure you don’t make the same mistake again. If you do, then don’t beat yourself up about it, but just make it your goal to keep improving. Human beings make mistakes. We can only strive to get better.

Is An SIPP Right For You In Retirement?

You may have heard of the term ‘SIPP’ several times before but are confused regarding what it is and whether it is the right move for you or not. This article is here to put all of those answers to bed. So, let’s jump right in…

SIPP stands for Self Invested Personal Pension. This is a popular pension plan because it allows the holder to choose and manage their investments effectively. Most traditional pension plans don’t offer this, they actually tend to limit investment choice and that’s why an SIPP presents such an attractive alternative for many.

https://pixabay.com/photos/senior-elderly-people-couple-3336451/

Nonetheless, like any other type of pension plan or UK pension transfer this is something you need to think about extensively to determine whether it is right for you or not. No matter whether you’re moving to America and want to see your retirement out via luxury retirement community or you’re thinking of exploring somewhere new like Asia, your pension is going to need to be considered. So, let’s look at the benefits of an SIPP and why you should consider this option… 

First and foremost, one of the reasons why SIPPs are recommended is because of the substantial tax benefits you will gain. Of course it is important to bear in mind the fact that tax is always variable. It is based on the account holder i.e. your circumstances and there is always the possibility that it could alter as time passes. Nevertheless, let’s take a look at some of the tax benefits you could possibly reap…

• You don’t actually have to pay tax in order to benefit from a full basic rate tax relief on your personal contributions. This is capped at up to £3,600 per tax year. 
• You will automatically receive a basic rate tax relief on all of your contributions to your SIPP. 
• When you reach retirement you will benefit from tax breaks. If you are over the age of 55 you will have the possibility of taking up to a quarter of your pension pot and the good news is; this will be a tax free lump sum.
• This is not the only retirement tax break. You also have the security of knowing that your dependants will receive your entire pension account if you die before taking any benefits from it. They will get this as a lump sum which is free of tax. 
• There is no income tax or capital gain tax on your investment returns. 
• Higher-rate or additional rate tax payers can also claim back more tax relief. 

Aside from this, another key benefit associated with a SIPP was touched upon earlier in the introduction and this is the fact that you will gain from a huge selection of investment options. This encompasses all of the following; unlisted shares, commercial property, individual company shares, corporate and government bonds, investment trusts and investment funds. This really gives you the opportunity to make the most of your pension plan and use it to your benefit. 

It is quite clear to see why SIPPs are recommended. If this is something that sounds appealing to you, you should make sure you hunt down a quality financial advisor who can help you to assess your options and find the right SIPP scheme for your needs specifically. 

The Key Pros and Cons of PowerPoint

Image by Pixaline from Pixabay

Microsoft PowerPoint has been utilized for business and personal purposes since its creation in 1987. Despite it being around for many years and technology heavily advancing, it’s still one of the core applications that’s used for presentations across the world. From students at college using it to demonstrate a project that they’ve been working on to an individual presenting an idea to a potential client, the possibilities of using PowerPoint are endless. 

There are even businesses that offer software that complement the application, to enable people to edit the content swiftly and easily, ensure that the presentation is compliant and on-brand and that it can be shared via email  – an example of which being Templafy.com. Alongside this, PowerPoint now also offers Powerpoint Online which allows you to work with on the presentations whilst you are on the website where the presentation is located.

If you are thinking of utilizing PowerPoint, it’s important to consider what the pros and cons are of it. To help make the decision easier, here are the key advantages and disadvantages of the application:

Firstly, what are the pros:

1. It will spruce up your presentation

When you are giving a presentation and want people to remember it, PowerPoint should be your first port of call. Adding a sense of professionalism that will make people take your business or project seriously, you can place content, images, videos and more within it. A lot more interesting than simply standing up and talking, it will help to support what you are saying in a way that’s concise and interesting. It’s also a great way of organizing your thoughts onto one easy application. 

   

2. It’s customizable 

Following on from the above point, PowerPoint can be edited and adjusted to fit your needs. If you want a text-heavy presentation, you can have it. If you want one that’s filled with only images, easy. This level of flexibility means that can create a presentation that will meet your requirements, whilst allowing it to look visually appealing. 

  

3. You can easily print the PowerPoint out in hand-out form

This means that you can present whilst it’s on the screen, as well as giving people a physical hand-out to read alongside it. This will, yet again, make whatever you’re presenting seem more credible and professional. 

If you are worried about the hefty cost of PowerPoint, you needn't be. Affordable for both students and businesses alike, it’s an application that can be utilized with ease without a big price tag.  

5.  It’s easy to use

Not only is PowerPoint easy to download, but it can be used easily by anyone. A standard application, you can adjust it by adding different fonts, adding images, etc. with ease. There are even demonstrations that you can watch if you’re unsure of how to use it. 

Now, onto the cons:

1. The presentations can easily look messy

If you are making a presentation that’s filled with text, it can be incredibly unappealing to the eye. People can easily go overboard with too much text or a color scheme that doesn’t fit the brand/simply doesn’t look aesthetically appealing. This will detract from the purpose of the presentation, causing it to look unprofessional and resulting in people losing interest. 

2. Technical difficulties may arise

Say you’re giving a vital business presentation. PowerPoint might stop working, the computer might freeze or another issue might arise that delays your presentation. This issue can be the difference between success and failure - especially if you haven’t come prepared with a physical handout of the presentation. This is a downfall, however, of all the technology that’s utilized when giving a presentation. 

3. Everyone uses it, therefore it’s not unique

Unfortunately, the fact that everyone uses it can be a downfall. You never want to stand out and give a presentation that doesn’t stand out from the crowd. You want one to stick in people’s minds because of the way it’s presented. As anyone can use this application, it can result in a presentation that’s lacking that extra spark that’s needed. 

It’s clear that there are both pros and cons of utilizing PowerPoint that should be considered before using it. An application that has been around for many years, it’s clear that it will still be used for years to come, despite its small downfalls. These cons however, should be taken lightly, as it will depend on who uses it (i.e. the style that you use), that you should expect that the technology could potentially break (no real fault of PowerPoint) and that as with everything in the modern age, it will be utilized by many because of its flexibility. 

Top Considerations For Relocation Adventures!

Via Pexels

From time to time we all get itchy feet to make a move, and if you’re a renter, that’s the beauty of it! Whether you’re relocating for a new job, a spontaneous adventure overseas, or simply searching in your home town for a better deal each month, if you’re thinking of making a move you’ll want to consider a few things before you pack up and get gone.

The weather 

If you’re relocating close by, you shouldn't need to worry about this one! However, if you’re move is taking you to a place with a different climate, then you’ll want to prepare for this. Check out the weather by season and stock up on the kinds of clothes that you’re going to need to adjust to your new home. If you’re going somewhere hot, and you’re not used to this, remember to stay safe in the sun. Sometimes, adjusting to a new climate can make us more susceptible to getting sick, so be mindful of this and keep your immune system high with lots of healthy food, drinks, and enough exercise.  

Living Costs 

Moving to a new place can see your normal living costs change pretty quickly (for better or worse)! If you’re taking a new job, you might have seen a nice pay increase, but you’ll want to factor in the possibility of your expenses increasing too. Make sure you do a good amount of research beforehand to find out about food, transport and rent prices, so there are no surprises that you haven’t budgeted for. Of course, rent usually takes up the bulk of your expenses so it’s worth having a look at data like this and other reports for your city to help you better understand what you can afford. If you make a budget beforehand, it will be easier to prepare yourself for every aspect of the move.

Take a trip first 

If you’re relocating to a far away destination, this one might prove a little trickier. But generally speaking, it’s best to take a trip to your new town or city first so that you can ensure that you are making the right decision. Perhaps it’s just a case of the same city but a new neighbourhood? In this case, spend time there to really get a feel for the place and see if it suits you. Take a walk around, drink in the coffee shops, eat at the restaurants, and talk to the locals. If you make a list of must-haves before renting in a new neighbourhood, it will be easier to make the important decisions. 

Remember to check for available storage units during the trip, especially if you need a temporary solution for your belongings before moving. This way, you can declutter and separate the items you need daily. If you are downsizing, you may carry everything with you, and perhaps you don’t want to get rid of them too. Therefore, choosing the right storage size is essential. So, how big is a 10x10 storage unit? Would it be enough to store items from your one or two-bedroom apartment? Explore to learn more about storage units to make the best choice.

Ask yourself questions to help yourself in your relocation journey; these questions will depend on what’s relevant to you and your current situation. They could be things like; is this property close enough to my work? Or, will my friends and family easily be able to visit this location? Perhaps-  how long will I be staying here? Regardless of what’s important to you, with a little forward planning, you’ll be sure to have a blast on your relocation adventure.