Buying Your First Home
Finding the right first home starts with a price range and a short list of desirable neighborhoods. But there are many other factors you'll need to consider before investing in what may be your biggest asset.
Topics
Buying Your First Home
How Much Mortgage Can You Afford?
Costs of Buying a Home
Ongoing Costs
Choosing a Neighborhood
Finding a Broker
Buying Your First Home
Home ownership is the cornerstone of the American Dream. But before you start looking, there are a number of things you need to consider. First, you should determine what your needs are and whether owning your own home will meet those needs. Do you picture yourself mowing the lawn on Saturday, or leaving your urban condo for the beach? The best advice is to look at buying a home as a lifestyle investment, and only secondly as a financial investment.
Even if housing prices don't continue to increase at the torrid pace seen in recent years in many areas, buying a home can be a good financial investment. Making mortgage payments forces you to save, and after 15 to 30 years you will own a substantial asset that can be converted into cash to help fund retirement or a child's education. There are also tax benefits.
Like many other investments, however, real estate prices can fluctuate considerably. If you aren't ready to settle down in one spot for a few years, you probably should defer buying a home until you are. If you are ready to take the plunge, you'll need to determine how much you can spend and where you want to live.
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2How Much Mortgage Can You Afford?
Many mortgages today are being resold in the secondary markets. The Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) is a government-sponsored organization that purchases mortgages from lenders and sells them to investors. Mortgages that conform to Fannie Mae's standards may carry lower interest rates or smaller down payments. To qualify, the mortgage borrower needs to meet two ratio requirements that are industry standards.
The housing expense ratio compares basic monthly housing costs to the buyer's gross (before taxes and other deductions) monthly income. Basic costs include monthly mortgage, insurance, and property taxes. Income includes any steady cash flow, including salary, self-employment income, pensions, child support, or alimony payments. For a conventional loan, your monthly housing cost should not exceed 28% of your monthly gross income.
The total obligations to income ratio is the percentage of all income required to service your total monthly payments. Monthly payments on student loans, installment loans, and credit card balances older than 10 months are added to basic housing costs and then divided by gross income. Your total monthly debt payments, including basic housing costs, should not exceed 36%.
Many home buyers choose to arrange financing before shopping for a home and most lenders will "prequalify" you for a certain amount. Prequalification helps you focus on homes you can afford. It also makes you a more attractive buyer and can help you negotiate a lower purchase price. Nothing is more disheartening for buyers or sellers than a deal that falls through due to a lack of financing.
In addition to qualifying for a mortgage, you will probably need a down payment. The 28% to 36% debt ratios assume a 10% down payment. In practice, down payment requirements vary from more than 20% to as low as 0% for some Veterans Administration (VA) loans. Down payments greater than 20% generally buy a better rate. Lowering the down payment increases leverage (the opportunity to make a profit using borrowed money) but also increases monthly payments.
How Much Home Can You Afford?
Bob and Janet's combined income is $50,000 a year, or $4,166 a month. Their housing expense ratio of 28% yields a monthly maximum of $1,166 for mortgage, insurance, and taxes ($4,166 x 0.28 = $1,166).
Their total debt ceiling of 36% is $1,583 (4,166 x 0.36 = $1,500). Their monthly debt payments include a $200 car payment, credit card payments of $100, and student loan payments of $200. Subtracting this total of $500 from the $1,500 permitted leaves $1,000 in monthly housing payments.
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3Costs of Buying a Home
Many home buyers are surprised (shocked might be a better word) to find that a down payment is not the only cash requirement. A home inspection can cost $200 or more. Closing costs may include loan origination fees, up-front "points" (prepaid interest), application fees, appraisal fee, survey, title search and title insurance, first month's homeowners insurance, recording fees and attorney's fees. In many locales, transfer taxes are assessed. Finally, adjustments for heating oil or property taxes already paid by the sellers will be included in your final costs. All this will probably add up to be between 3% and 8% of your purchase price.
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4Ongoing Costs
In addition to mortgage payments, there are other costs associated with home ownership. Utilities, heat, property taxes, repairs, insurance, services such as trash or snow removal, landscaping, assessments, and replacement of appliances are the major costs incurred. Make sure you understand how much you are willing and able to spend on such items.
Condominiums may not have the same costs as a house, but they do have association fees. Older homes are often less expensive to buy, but repairs may be greater than those in a newer home. When looking for a home, be sure to check the actual expenses of the previous owners, or expenses for a comparable home in the neighborhood.
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5Choosing a Neighborhood
Before you start looking at homes, look at neighborhoods. Schools and other services play a large part in making a neighborhood attractive. Even if you don't have children, your future buyer may. Crime rates, taxes, transportation, and town services are other things to look at. Finally, learn the local zoning laws. A new pizza shop next door might alter your property's future value. On the other hand, you may want to run a business out of your home.
Look for a neighborhood where prices are increasing. As the prices of the better homes increase, values of the lesser homes may rise as well. If you find a less expensive home in a good neighborhood, make sure you factor in the cost of repairs or upgrades that such a house may need.
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6Finding a Broker
If you are a first-time home buyer, you will probably want to work with a broker. Brokers know the market and can be a valuable source of information concerning the home buying process. Ask lots of questions, but remember that most brokers are working for the seller, and in the end, their primary obligation is to the seller and not to you. An alternative is a so-called buyer's broker. This individual does work for you, and therefore is paid by you. Seller's brokers are paid by the seller.
Make sure that the broker has access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). This service lists all the properties for sale by most major brokers across the country. Brokerage commissions average 5% to 7% and are split between the listing broker and the broker that eventually sells the home. Don't be surprised if your broker is eager to sell you their own listing since they would then earn the entire commission.
Home Buying Costs
Down Payment 0% - 20% of purchase price
Home Inspection $200 - $500
Points $1,000 and up for 1% - 3%
Adjustments 3% - 8% of purchase price
Once you've determined a price range and location, you're ready to look at individual homes. Remember that much of a home's value is derived from the values of those surrounding it. Since the average residency in a house is seven years, consider the qualities that will be attractive to future buyers as well as those attractive to you.
Although it can be difficult, try to remember that you will probably want to sell this home someday. The more research you do today, the better your decision will look in the years to come.
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Summary
Buying a home can mean building significant value through the years.
Think carefully about how much you can afford to spend and consider borrowing guidelines like those used by Fannie Mae.
Prequalifying with your lender is a good way to determine how much house you can afford.
You will need cash for a down payment and closing costs. Generally speaking, the higher the down payment, the lower the interest rate and monthly mortgage payment.
In addition to your mortgage payments, you will also need to consider the other costs of home ownership.
Schools, taxes, services, crime rates, transportation, and zoning are important considerations when selecting a neighborhood.
Brokers usually represent the seller, but they can be valuable sources of information for buyers as well. A broker that belongs to the Multiple Listing Service will be able to offer a wider variety of homes to choose from.
Remember to consider resalability when buying your home.
Checklist
Update your household budget so you can begin to realistically assess how much home you can afford. Be sure to factor in all your monthly income and all the expenses that may come with a home.
Add up any savings you could use toward a down payment, and decide whether you need to save more before you start house shopping.
Start talking to lenders about your options for prequalification and preapproval.
Monday, June 30, 2008
8 Big Mistakes You Could Be Making At Work
U.S.News & World Report
8 Big Mistakes You Could Be Making At Work
Wednesday June 25, 12:33 pm ET
By Liz Wolgemuth
By now, everyone knows the basic mistakes to avoid at work: no flip-flops, no swearing, no offensive downloads, and no irate E-mails. But there are plenty of other faux pas that can do harm to an employee's or manager's reputation in the office or with clients. Sometimes, these lesser-known errors are tough to learn to avoid. Luckily, the careers bloggers who contribute to U.S. News's On Careers: Outside Voices have come to the rescue. Here are eight mistakes they've spotted that you might not have known you were making:
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Talking about politics: Political opinions uttered around the water cooler can hurt office relations--especially if you're the boss, says G.L. Hoffman, chairman of JobDig and author of What Would Dad Say. Bosses who openly favor a particular candidate will appear to be taking sides with employees who favor the same one, Hoffman says. Even for nonmanagers, politics is a quick way to damage relationships with clients or vendors.
Quietly absorbing the increased price of gas: You're paying through the nose to get to the office every morning, so why not take advantage of it? Blogger Andrew G.R. of Jobacle says this is a great time to ask for a raise. You might not get it, but you will have laid the groundwork for future negotiations, he says. Also, if you get turned down, you can take the opportunity to lobby for a telecommuting day each week.
Writing modest self-appraisals: There is plenty of reason to show humility at the office--most of the time. When it comes to writing your self-appraisal, however, modesty is ill-placed, says Suzanne Lucas of Evil HR Lady. Your boss is almost certainly too busy to keep tabs on all your accomplishments throughout the year. The self-appraisal is an ideal time to show off all the terrific projects you've helmed and clients you've brought on. Just be honest, Lucas says.
Spending too little time listening: It's easy to think that your job is to be a big thinker and a great achiever. But much of the time, the people around you just need to be heard. A good listener can stand out in an office of big shots. Michael Wade, author of Execupundit, writes that he once knew an executive "whose career success was widely attributed to his extraordinary ability to listen. When he was with you, he was with you."
Downplaying your mistakes: Sure, you're nervous in the face of your error, but acting like it's nothing won't make it nothing. Your boss might very well end up more concerned with your blasé attitude than with the mistake itself, says Alison Green of Ask A Manager.
Not using your vacation time: You think you're too busy and you think it's too expensive, but take a vacation anyway. "Vacation is given for a reason--you're not impressing people by failing to take it," writes Grant Harmon, who blogs at Newly Corporate. "In fact, you're proving that you're not able to balance work/life." Use the time to restore your energy. Then head back to the office looking refreshed and ready for work.
Talking yourself out of dreaming: Sure, dreaming can lead to wildly ridiculous ideas and outrageous goals, but outrageous goals get achieved all the time. Still, most people shut their dreams down pretty quickly. Curt Rosengren of The M.A.P. Maker suggests, instead, that you assume "the only possible outcome is success, and then challenge yourself to prove how that can happen." You're talking away the critic and forcing yourself to get creative.
Blindly accepting a promotion: Most people tend to think that it's better to get ahead, but many find that a promotion is no improvement on their previous job and barely--or not at all--worth the new title. Before you accept a promotion, ask some key questions, suggests Jobacle's Andrew G.R.: How much more work would be involved? How much more money? What kind of staff would you be inheriting? Also, get an idea of what the next career step would be, he says. You don't want to make a leap--and find out you're at a dead end.
8 Big Mistakes You Could Be Making At Work
Wednesday June 25, 12:33 pm ET
By Liz Wolgemuth
By now, everyone knows the basic mistakes to avoid at work: no flip-flops, no swearing, no offensive downloads, and no irate E-mails. But there are plenty of other faux pas that can do harm to an employee's or manager's reputation in the office or with clients. Sometimes, these lesser-known errors are tough to learn to avoid. Luckily, the careers bloggers who contribute to U.S. News's On Careers: Outside Voices have come to the rescue. Here are eight mistakes they've spotted that you might not have known you were making:
ADVERTISEMENT
Talking about politics: Political opinions uttered around the water cooler can hurt office relations--especially if you're the boss, says G.L. Hoffman, chairman of JobDig and author of What Would Dad Say. Bosses who openly favor a particular candidate will appear to be taking sides with employees who favor the same one, Hoffman says. Even for nonmanagers, politics is a quick way to damage relationships with clients or vendors.
Quietly absorbing the increased price of gas: You're paying through the nose to get to the office every morning, so why not take advantage of it? Blogger Andrew G.R. of Jobacle says this is a great time to ask for a raise. You might not get it, but you will have laid the groundwork for future negotiations, he says. Also, if you get turned down, you can take the opportunity to lobby for a telecommuting day each week.
Writing modest self-appraisals: There is plenty of reason to show humility at the office--most of the time. When it comes to writing your self-appraisal, however, modesty is ill-placed, says Suzanne Lucas of Evil HR Lady. Your boss is almost certainly too busy to keep tabs on all your accomplishments throughout the year. The self-appraisal is an ideal time to show off all the terrific projects you've helmed and clients you've brought on. Just be honest, Lucas says.
Spending too little time listening: It's easy to think that your job is to be a big thinker and a great achiever. But much of the time, the people around you just need to be heard. A good listener can stand out in an office of big shots. Michael Wade, author of Execupundit, writes that he once knew an executive "whose career success was widely attributed to his extraordinary ability to listen. When he was with you, he was with you."
Downplaying your mistakes: Sure, you're nervous in the face of your error, but acting like it's nothing won't make it nothing. Your boss might very well end up more concerned with your blasé attitude than with the mistake itself, says Alison Green of Ask A Manager.
Not using your vacation time: You think you're too busy and you think it's too expensive, but take a vacation anyway. "Vacation is given for a reason--you're not impressing people by failing to take it," writes Grant Harmon, who blogs at Newly Corporate. "In fact, you're proving that you're not able to balance work/life." Use the time to restore your energy. Then head back to the office looking refreshed and ready for work.
Talking yourself out of dreaming: Sure, dreaming can lead to wildly ridiculous ideas and outrageous goals, but outrageous goals get achieved all the time. Still, most people shut their dreams down pretty quickly. Curt Rosengren of The M.A.P. Maker suggests, instead, that you assume "the only possible outcome is success, and then challenge yourself to prove how that can happen." You're talking away the critic and forcing yourself to get creative.
Blindly accepting a promotion: Most people tend to think that it's better to get ahead, but many find that a promotion is no improvement on their previous job and barely--or not at all--worth the new title. Before you accept a promotion, ask some key questions, suggests Jobacle's Andrew G.R.: How much more work would be involved? How much more money? What kind of staff would you be inheriting? Also, get an idea of what the next career step would be, he says. You don't want to make a leap--and find out you're at a dead end.
Deep-Fried Pizza
Deep-fried pizza, long the exclusive domain of the Scots, has landed Stateside. Slice America noticed it on the menu of Brooklyn, New York's Atlantic ChipShop a little more than a month ago. After some pestering on our part, chippie owner Chris Sell let us into his kitchen to film the process. Our cameraman shot some video footage above while ChipShop kitchen manager Randy Carpenter fried up a couple slices for us.
Deep-fried slices at the Brooklyn Heights restaurant are $3 each and begin their lives as plain pies from My Little Pizzeria on Court Street in downtown Brooklyn. The pizza is refrigerated first because, as Mr. Carpenter points out, if it's fresh and the cheese is already melted, it won't hold the batter. Cool slices are dredged in flour then dipped in batter before taking a 2- to 3-minute dip in a bath of 500-degree oil.
A bright-yellow battered slice is dropped into the deep-fryer, dives below the surface for just a moment, and resurfaces with a light-golden tint. The oil around it hisses and bubbles while the shell puffs up noticeably. After a minute or so on one side, Mr. Carpenter flips the slice with a shallow wire strainer and weights it down with a large fryer basket so it cooks evenly. Cooking time is only as long as it takes for the batter to "brown out," achieving a dark golden color.
The slice is cut in half, to make eating easier, plated over a smattering of greens, and sprinkled with parsley for a prettier appearance. The batter forms a light, crisp, puffy shell around the pizza, the interior of which is quite hot.
The overall effect is that of a mashup between a Jeno's Pizza Roll and a mozzarella stick. It's actually quite tasty, if you're into pizza rolls and mozzarella sticks (which we at Slice America are).
Deep-fried slices at the Brooklyn Heights restaurant are $3 each and begin their lives as plain pies from My Little Pizzeria on Court Street in downtown Brooklyn. The pizza is refrigerated first because, as Mr. Carpenter points out, if it's fresh and the cheese is already melted, it won't hold the batter. Cool slices are dredged in flour then dipped in batter before taking a 2- to 3-minute dip in a bath of 500-degree oil.
A bright-yellow battered slice is dropped into the deep-fryer, dives below the surface for just a moment, and resurfaces with a light-golden tint. The oil around it hisses and bubbles while the shell puffs up noticeably. After a minute or so on one side, Mr. Carpenter flips the slice with a shallow wire strainer and weights it down with a large fryer basket so it cooks evenly. Cooking time is only as long as it takes for the batter to "brown out," achieving a dark golden color.
The slice is cut in half, to make eating easier, plated over a smattering of greens, and sprinkled with parsley for a prettier appearance. The batter forms a light, crisp, puffy shell around the pizza, the interior of which is quite hot.
The overall effect is that of a mashup between a Jeno's Pizza Roll and a mozzarella stick. It's actually quite tasty, if you're into pizza rolls and mozzarella sticks (which we at Slice America are).
The Best Pizza in the U.S.
The Best Pizza in the U.S.
Posted Wed, Jun 04, 2008, 5:32 pm PDT
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My friend and fellow pizza maniac "DJ Bubbles" recently had a chance to try Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, the only U.S. pizzeria to receive the coveted James Beard award. Here's his report. —Adam
BY DJ BUBBLES — As usual, I've taken my sweet time between articles, and I know that has been a cause of concern for some of you out there looking for the pizza truth, the whole pizza truth, and nothing but the pizza truth. Well, I think you may be in luck, because I think I've found it—and it ain't in New York City!
No, it may actually exist in the great American Southwest, in a little place called Phoenix. Yes, I'm talking about none other than my main man, Chris Bianco and his eponymous restaurant, Pizzeria Bianco, where locals and tourists gladly wait hours in line for their own slice of heaven.
The Southwest is a place of extremes: suffocating heat, fervent religiosity, and unprecedented numbers of strip malls per capita. It is fitting that someone as passionate and singular as Chris would choose Phoenix to perfect his art.
So, what does DJ Bubbles think of the pizza at Pizzeria Bianco? Short answer: It is unquestionably great. There is simply no room for argument that Bianco is making some of the best pies to be had anywhere in the world. The combination of his artisanal approach, uninhibited creativity, and commitment to quality ingredients is first class.
Like Mangieri over at New York's Una Pizza Napoletana, he adheres to Neapolitan baking standards and keeps his wood-fired oven at high temperatures (800 to 900 degrees, depending on the night). But he's certainly not biting anyone's style, either, as he has broken with tradition and created some exciting pizzas that have never been thought of before. I mean, pistachios—who knew? Perhaps that's why he's the only U.S. pizzaiolo with a James Beard award.
THE PIES I ATE
The Rosa: Mozzarella, red onion, Parmigiano-Reggiano, rosemary, and Arizona pistachios.
The Biancoverde: Mozz, ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, topped with fresh arugula.
The Margherita: Tomato sauce, basil, and fresh mozzarella, which Chris Bianco makes on premises.
The Sonny Boy: Mozz, salami, and gaeta olives.
He also made a special pie (above) that wasn't on the menu—mozz and roasted red peppers with pockets of a delicious pesto.
All were exceptional. I am not going to elaborate on the details of these pizzas, but do read Robyn Lee's write-up or watch Philip G's video review on Bianco for solid breakdowns.
THE PEFECTION OF BIANCO'S MARGHERITA PIZZA
As many of you already know, I tend to pass judgment on a given pizzeria by trying its Margherita or plain slice. To me, it's the only fair way of putting one joint up against another—every pizzeria makes a pie with just cheese and sauce, maybe some basil, right? Moreover, a plain pie has always been my favorite and summarizes what pizza is all about to me: simplicity and balance.
That said, Bianco's yin is Bianco's yang—no one ingredient overcrowds the others. The mozzarella was slightly rich and buttery, the sauce was both sweet and tangy, the basil was fresh and evenly spread, and the crust supported it all with a crisp strength that belied its soft, artisanal interior. The Margherita was finished with a subtle, spiral pour of olive oil.
I sampled my first slice with a quiet appreciation and smile (and maybe an occasional grunt of approval), as I took in the electric atmosphere around me—the tables of pizza lovers completely in their element; the enthusiastic revelers outside waiting at picnic tables, enjoying their bottles of wine; the upbeat waitstaff diligently refilling glasses of water and iced tea; and, of course, Chris Bianco, making the pies, working the oven, and occasionally stealing a few seconds of the ballgame from the mini TV under the counter. Everyone seemed so happy. When you're having one of those transcendent pizzas, all is right with the world.
Have I had moments like this in New York and in Naples? Of course I have. Does Bianco make the best pizza in the U.S.? In the world? I don't know. I've had a lot of great pizzas in a lot of great restaurants, and I'm not sure if I am in any position to put one up against another anymore—these meals were merely slices in time; unique experiences that will remain with me forever, none better than the other. And with all that said, I had one of those experiences last Saturday. I am happy to report that the force is strong in Phoenix, and we have Chris Bianco to thank for that.
Until next time,
Bubbles out!
PIZZERIA BIANCO
Posted Wed, Jun 04, 2008, 5:32 pm PDT
POST A COMMENT »
My friend and fellow pizza maniac "DJ Bubbles" recently had a chance to try Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, the only U.S. pizzeria to receive the coveted James Beard award. Here's his report. —Adam
BY DJ BUBBLES — As usual, I've taken my sweet time between articles, and I know that has been a cause of concern for some of you out there looking for the pizza truth, the whole pizza truth, and nothing but the pizza truth. Well, I think you may be in luck, because I think I've found it—and it ain't in New York City!
No, it may actually exist in the great American Southwest, in a little place called Phoenix. Yes, I'm talking about none other than my main man, Chris Bianco and his eponymous restaurant, Pizzeria Bianco, where locals and tourists gladly wait hours in line for their own slice of heaven.
The Southwest is a place of extremes: suffocating heat, fervent religiosity, and unprecedented numbers of strip malls per capita. It is fitting that someone as passionate and singular as Chris would choose Phoenix to perfect his art.
So, what does DJ Bubbles think of the pizza at Pizzeria Bianco? Short answer: It is unquestionably great. There is simply no room for argument that Bianco is making some of the best pies to be had anywhere in the world. The combination of his artisanal approach, uninhibited creativity, and commitment to quality ingredients is first class.
Like Mangieri over at New York's Una Pizza Napoletana, he adheres to Neapolitan baking standards and keeps his wood-fired oven at high temperatures (800 to 900 degrees, depending on the night). But he's certainly not biting anyone's style, either, as he has broken with tradition and created some exciting pizzas that have never been thought of before. I mean, pistachios—who knew? Perhaps that's why he's the only U.S. pizzaiolo with a James Beard award.
THE PIES I ATE
The Rosa: Mozzarella, red onion, Parmigiano-Reggiano, rosemary, and Arizona pistachios.
The Biancoverde: Mozz, ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, topped with fresh arugula.
The Margherita: Tomato sauce, basil, and fresh mozzarella, which Chris Bianco makes on premises.
The Sonny Boy: Mozz, salami, and gaeta olives.
He also made a special pie (above) that wasn't on the menu—mozz and roasted red peppers with pockets of a delicious pesto.
All were exceptional. I am not going to elaborate on the details of these pizzas, but do read Robyn Lee's write-up or watch Philip G's video review on Bianco for solid breakdowns.
THE PEFECTION OF BIANCO'S MARGHERITA PIZZA
As many of you already know, I tend to pass judgment on a given pizzeria by trying its Margherita or plain slice. To me, it's the only fair way of putting one joint up against another—every pizzeria makes a pie with just cheese and sauce, maybe some basil, right? Moreover, a plain pie has always been my favorite and summarizes what pizza is all about to me: simplicity and balance.
That said, Bianco's yin is Bianco's yang—no one ingredient overcrowds the others. The mozzarella was slightly rich and buttery, the sauce was both sweet and tangy, the basil was fresh and evenly spread, and the crust supported it all with a crisp strength that belied its soft, artisanal interior. The Margherita was finished with a subtle, spiral pour of olive oil.
I sampled my first slice with a quiet appreciation and smile (and maybe an occasional grunt of approval), as I took in the electric atmosphere around me—the tables of pizza lovers completely in their element; the enthusiastic revelers outside waiting at picnic tables, enjoying their bottles of wine; the upbeat waitstaff diligently refilling glasses of water and iced tea; and, of course, Chris Bianco, making the pies, working the oven, and occasionally stealing a few seconds of the ballgame from the mini TV under the counter. Everyone seemed so happy. When you're having one of those transcendent pizzas, all is right with the world.
Have I had moments like this in New York and in Naples? Of course I have. Does Bianco make the best pizza in the U.S.? In the world? I don't know. I've had a lot of great pizzas in a lot of great restaurants, and I'm not sure if I am in any position to put one up against another anymore—these meals were merely slices in time; unique experiences that will remain with me forever, none better than the other. And with all that said, I had one of those experiences last Saturday. I am happy to report that the force is strong in Phoenix, and we have Chris Bianco to thank for that.
Until next time,
Bubbles out!
PIZZERIA BIANCO
What Kind of Cow's Milk Should You Drink?
You are walking down the dairy aisle in your local food market, staring at the extremely well-lit shelf containing dozens of cartons of milk, lined neatly, row by row, type by type: skim, low-fat, whole, Organic.... Which one to choose?
First, the basics:
Whole Milk: The whole milk sold in supermarkets is cow's milk that has been reduced in fat content to 3.25%. I use whole milk in places where the richness of the butterfat can be appreciated. For example, in my coffee and in baking recipes.
Low-Fat Milk: This is the same as whole milk, except it contains between 0.5% and 2% butterfat. Because low fat milk has a less creamy taste and thinner texture, I combine it with rich foods. For example, I like to pour it over my oatmeal with dried fruit and nuts.
1% Milk and 2% Milk: These milks allow buyers to fine-tune how low-fat they want to go. 2% milk should contain 2% butterfat, which means it's on the high end of low-fat. 1% milk means 1% butterfat, therefore it is on the mid to low end of low-fat.
Skim Milk: Also the same as whole milk, except contains as little as 0.1% and as much as 0.5% butterfat. I have to admit that when it comes to counting calories, skim milk is a safe bet. I enjoy really cold skim milk with my morning granola. If I am having a milk shake with ice cream, I will use skin milk instead of whole to "skimp" a little.
Even more important than what richness of milk you use, which type of milk should you buy?
Organic Milk: Like all other organic products, in order to be certified as "organic" by the U.S.D.A., organic milk must contain less than a very small percentage of synthetic chemicals, including pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics that may have been administered to the milking livestock. Organic milk is considerably more expensive, primarily because of the higher costs associated with creating an environment in which organic livestock can flourish free from the chemicals used in the commercial market, which have been linked to the development and spread of certain cancers. The health benefits of consuming milk free of synthetics are indisputable. If possible, I say splurge on the organic milk.
Raw milk: Milk that has NOT been pasteurized. Because raw milk has not gone through a process that reduces pathogens, its sale is illegal in 22 of the United States. Raw milk is fairly obscure where I live, nonetheless, many people prefer raw milk to pasteurized milk, claiming that the cows that produce it are treated more humanely, kept in cleaner environs, and fed organic grass or feeds. Furthermore, raw milk has more nutrients and flavor. But if you are pregnant or your immune system is compromised, raw milk is not a good choice.
Milk from local farms: Ronnybrook, for example, a farm located in the Hudson Valley of upstate New York, sells wholesome milk products that are not necessarily certified "organic," but that do not contain pesticides, antibiotics, or artificial hormones. Further enhancing environmental appeal, Ronnybrook sells its fluid milk products in glass bottles that can be returned and refilled by the farm. I can't resist the flavor, and their version of skim milk tastes like whole milk! My favorite choice.
First, the basics:
Whole Milk: The whole milk sold in supermarkets is cow's milk that has been reduced in fat content to 3.25%. I use whole milk in places where the richness of the butterfat can be appreciated. For example, in my coffee and in baking recipes.
Low-Fat Milk: This is the same as whole milk, except it contains between 0.5% and 2% butterfat. Because low fat milk has a less creamy taste and thinner texture, I combine it with rich foods. For example, I like to pour it over my oatmeal with dried fruit and nuts.
1% Milk and 2% Milk: These milks allow buyers to fine-tune how low-fat they want to go. 2% milk should contain 2% butterfat, which means it's on the high end of low-fat. 1% milk means 1% butterfat, therefore it is on the mid to low end of low-fat.
Skim Milk: Also the same as whole milk, except contains as little as 0.1% and as much as 0.5% butterfat. I have to admit that when it comes to counting calories, skim milk is a safe bet. I enjoy really cold skim milk with my morning granola. If I am having a milk shake with ice cream, I will use skin milk instead of whole to "skimp" a little.
Even more important than what richness of milk you use, which type of milk should you buy?
Organic Milk: Like all other organic products, in order to be certified as "organic" by the U.S.D.A., organic milk must contain less than a very small percentage of synthetic chemicals, including pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics that may have been administered to the milking livestock. Organic milk is considerably more expensive, primarily because of the higher costs associated with creating an environment in which organic livestock can flourish free from the chemicals used in the commercial market, which have been linked to the development and spread of certain cancers. The health benefits of consuming milk free of synthetics are indisputable. If possible, I say splurge on the organic milk.
Raw milk: Milk that has NOT been pasteurized. Because raw milk has not gone through a process that reduces pathogens, its sale is illegal in 22 of the United States. Raw milk is fairly obscure where I live, nonetheless, many people prefer raw milk to pasteurized milk, claiming that the cows that produce it are treated more humanely, kept in cleaner environs, and fed organic grass or feeds. Furthermore, raw milk has more nutrients and flavor. But if you are pregnant or your immune system is compromised, raw milk is not a good choice.
Milk from local farms: Ronnybrook, for example, a farm located in the Hudson Valley of upstate New York, sells wholesome milk products that are not necessarily certified "organic," but that do not contain pesticides, antibiotics, or artificial hormones. Further enhancing environmental appeal, Ronnybrook sells its fluid milk products in glass bottles that can be returned and refilled by the farm. I can't resist the flavor, and their version of skim milk tastes like whole milk! My favorite choice.
Can you please update me about Indenting Business?
One of my colleagues resigned his job two years back. He was working in our company as Business Correspondent Officer. His main duties were to contact the suppliers by phone, fax, e-mail & import different items like stationery, machine, bicycle parts vehicles etc in favour of our company. He was very needy and draw salary same as me US$1500 per month.Some days ago we saw him in an International fair & he informed me that he has been doing business that is he has his own INDENTING FIRM & earning a lot of money. Actually I want to know the type of this Indenting business. Can you please update?
Basically it means that you import on a per order basis. No stocking or warehousing.
So when your client requires something from you that's the only time you order it from your international suppliers.
What is the best way to start an import export business?
I have limited resources and I have full time accounting job, but I believe I can create an import and export business successfully while working my full time job. Ideally, I would like to find a product or service that provides flexibility with purchasing the products and or service (secure the payment from my customer, then pay off my cost).
check out the books and sources you need to get a letter head and copies so you can write and ask companies on the products and what they cost.
I don't know if this site is any good, but it seems to be marketing to you....
http://www.importexporthelp.com/trdspx1....
Be aware that there are very complicated export licensing laws and there is a lot of liability for criminal violations if you mess up. But, since you are an accountant, you are probably very detail-oriented.
join with infoUSA at http://theclickinfo.com/0054902252.us
Sometimes none of the answers get it just right. If so, pick "No Best Answer". Voters DO NOT get any points for voting on the No Best Answer.
Basically it means that you import on a per order basis. No stocking or warehousing.
So when your client requires something from you that's the only time you order it from your international suppliers.
What is the best way to start an import export business?
I have limited resources and I have full time accounting job, but I believe I can create an import and export business successfully while working my full time job. Ideally, I would like to find a product or service that provides flexibility with purchasing the products and or service (secure the payment from my customer, then pay off my cost).
check out the books and sources you need to get a letter head and copies so you can write and ask companies on the products and what they cost.
I don't know if this site is any good, but it seems to be marketing to you....
http://www.importexporthelp.com/trdspx1....
Be aware that there are very complicated export licensing laws and there is a lot of liability for criminal violations if you mess up. But, since you are an accountant, you are probably very detail-oriented.
join with infoUSA at http://theclickinfo.com/0054902252.us
Sometimes none of the answers get it just right. If so, pick "No Best Answer". Voters DO NOT get any points for voting on the No Best Answer.
Friday, June 13, 2008
How can you earn money through Internet business at home?
Earn through business using your PC & internet !
By Rakib Hasan
The Web offers tremendous opportunities for those who know how to harness it. You hear of stories of people who earn thousands if not millions of dollars from doing business on Web. While there are many scams (same way in the traditional business world), there are various ways you can legitimately make money on the Web.
Here are the main business models you can adopt:1. Sell products on the Web - Big boys like Amazon or Lillian Vernon online catalog or smaller businesses like BigKidsVideo.com or Candle4Less.com all sell products on the Web. You can either sell: (a) through your own storefront through your own website or applications such as Yahoo Stores; or (b) sell through online auctions like eBay2. Information Delivery. Others such as About.com or PowerHomeBiz.com create content and monetize their content in a number of ways:a. Advertising - whether by joining banner ad networks such as Tribal Fusion, BurstMedia or Fastclick and display the banners on their site; or through contextual advertising such as Google Adsense or Intellxt
Banner ad networks:Burst Media http://www.burstmedia.com
Fastclick (ValueClick). http://www.fastclick.com
Advertising.com. http://www.advertising.com
Tribal Fusion http://www.tribalfusion.com
Contextual Advertising Networks:Google Adsense https://www.google.com/adsense/...
Yahoo! Publishing Network (currently in beta and available to US publishers only)
http://publisher.yahoo.com/
Intellixt http://vibrantmedia.com/site/web_01a5.ht...
Quigo Adsonar http://www.quigo.com/adsonarexchange.htm
IndustryBrains http://www.industrybrains.com
Commission Junction Evolution http://www.cj.com/solutions/optimized_ad...
b. Affiliate Programs - you sell other people's products that your audience may be interested in; and you get a certain commission after the desired action was done (whether a sale, a lead, subscription to email newsletter, or however this is defined).
Commission Junction http://www.cj.com
Clickbank http://www.clickbank.com
Linkshare http://www.linkshare.com
c. Paid online content. Hoovers.com or WebmasterWorld.com Supporters forum all require paid subscription before accessing the informationd. Content licensing and syndication. Some publishers such as the Associated Press get paid every time their content is published elsewhere3. Through income opportunities on the Web such as paid surveys - they typically won't earn you much, but can give you a few cash
Pinecone Research http://www.pineconeresearch.com
GreenField Online http://www.greenfieldonline.com
Harris Poll Online http://www.harrispollonline.com
BuzzBack http://www.buzzback.com
SurveySite http://www.surveysite.com
SurveySavvy http://www.surveysavvy.com
Survey Spot http://www.surveyspot.com/http://www.internetpaidsurveys.com/
You may want to read the following books:121 Internet Businesses You Can Start from Home The Best Internet Businesses You Can Start
2 years ago
Source(s):
How to Earn Money on the Webhttp://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol122/earn....
Earning Money from Surveys http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol121/onlin...
Hope you enjoy them.
By Rakib Hasan
The Web offers tremendous opportunities for those who know how to harness it. You hear of stories of people who earn thousands if not millions of dollars from doing business on Web. While there are many scams (same way in the traditional business world), there are various ways you can legitimately make money on the Web.
Here are the main business models you can adopt:1. Sell products on the Web - Big boys like Amazon or Lillian Vernon online catalog or smaller businesses like BigKidsVideo.com or Candle4Less.com all sell products on the Web. You can either sell: (a) through your own storefront through your own website or applications such as Yahoo Stores; or (b) sell through online auctions like eBay2. Information Delivery. Others such as About.com or PowerHomeBiz.com create content and monetize their content in a number of ways:a. Advertising - whether by joining banner ad networks such as Tribal Fusion, BurstMedia or Fastclick and display the banners on their site; or through contextual advertising such as Google Adsense or Intellxt
Banner ad networks:Burst Media http://www.burstmedia.com
Fastclick (ValueClick). http://www.fastclick.com
Advertising.com. http://www.advertising.com
Tribal Fusion http://www.tribalfusion.com
Contextual Advertising Networks:Google Adsense https://www.google.com/adsense/...
Yahoo! Publishing Network (currently in beta and available to US publishers only)
http://publisher.yahoo.com/
Intellixt http://vibrantmedia.com/site/web_01a5.ht...
Quigo Adsonar http://www.quigo.com/adsonarexchange.htm
IndustryBrains http://www.industrybrains.com
Commission Junction Evolution http://www.cj.com/solutions/optimized_ad...
b. Affiliate Programs - you sell other people's products that your audience may be interested in; and you get a certain commission after the desired action was done (whether a sale, a lead, subscription to email newsletter, or however this is defined).
Commission Junction http://www.cj.com
Clickbank http://www.clickbank.com
Linkshare http://www.linkshare.com
c. Paid online content. Hoovers.com or WebmasterWorld.com Supporters forum all require paid subscription before accessing the informationd. Content licensing and syndication. Some publishers such as the Associated Press get paid every time their content is published elsewhere3. Through income opportunities on the Web such as paid surveys - they typically won't earn you much, but can give you a few cash
Pinecone Research http://www.pineconeresearch.com
GreenField Online http://www.greenfieldonline.com
Harris Poll Online http://www.harrispollonline.com
BuzzBack http://www.buzzback.com
SurveySite http://www.surveysite.com
SurveySavvy http://www.surveysavvy.com
Survey Spot http://www.surveyspot.com/http://www.internetpaidsurveys.com/
You may want to read the following books:121 Internet Businesses You Can Start from Home The Best Internet Businesses You Can Start
2 years ago
Source(s):
How to Earn Money on the Webhttp://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol122/earn....
Earning Money from Surveys http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol121/onlin...
Hope you enjoy them.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
How much knowledge does a man require?
How much knowledge does a man require? This is a complex question. Two days ago I asked this question to my friends. And they gave me some exiting answers. I have arranged my today's blog by those clever and intelligent answers. Hope you will enjoy them.
1) Required knowledge. Knowing knowledge is not important using that knowledge is important.
2)To an extent where he realises he knows very little.
To an extent where he realises he need to always learn / know more.
To an extent where he knows what he knows and what he doesn't.
To an entent where he feels he can make things better with whatever little things he knows.
To an extent where he realises he CANNOT know everything that exists.
;-) ;-)
3) knowledge is like an ocean.no one can see it's end.
so there is not a particular level to gain knowledge.
4) I myself know a little of everything and nothing about anything. A broad knowledge of everything if possible and an extensive knowledge of a few subjects is enough for most people as long as they continually try to update their knowledge, a man can never know to much unless it its the fact that his lady is sleeping with his best mate. lol
5) A child starts with little knowledge. It gathers as it goes. The real life situation is the best teacher to teach you the required knowledge.
6) knowledge of the hereafter is a must, all other knowledge are for this short life. complete knowledge is from Allah, so pray to Allah to improve the knowledge. Rabbi zidni ilmaa. as prophet moses asked to Allah almighty.
7)it depends how much he can carry...because knowledge is not counted it is weighed.
8) Enough to keep winning
This all the answers. Have u got it? How do you enjoy?
Review..
How much money does a person need to be happy?
Accounting Day cover story.
1) Required knowledge. Knowing knowledge is not important using that knowledge is important.
2)To an extent where he realises he knows very little.
To an extent where he realises he need to always learn / know more.
To an extent where he knows what he knows and what he doesn't.
To an entent where he feels he can make things better with whatever little things he knows.
To an extent where he realises he CANNOT know everything that exists.
;-) ;-)
3) knowledge is like an ocean.no one can see it's end.
so there is not a particular level to gain knowledge.
4) I myself know a little of everything and nothing about anything. A broad knowledge of everything if possible and an extensive knowledge of a few subjects is enough for most people as long as they continually try to update their knowledge, a man can never know to much unless it its the fact that his lady is sleeping with his best mate. lol
5) A child starts with little knowledge. It gathers as it goes. The real life situation is the best teacher to teach you the required knowledge.
6) knowledge of the hereafter is a must, all other knowledge are for this short life. complete knowledge is from Allah, so pray to Allah to improve the knowledge. Rabbi zidni ilmaa. as prophet moses asked to Allah almighty.
7)it depends how much he can carry...because knowledge is not counted it is weighed.
8) Enough to keep winning
This all the answers. Have u got it? How do you enjoy?
Review..
How much money does a person need to be happy?
Accounting Day cover story.
Monday, June 9, 2008
How much money does a person need to be happy?
Here is a question that has been asked several time and probably the appropriate answers can't be found yet.Once I asked this question to my friends and they give me some good answers. I would to like to share it with you.
Enjoy.
1) How much money does a person require to be happy?
1) There's a proverb "No money no talk ".Of course ,we need money to satisfy our livings and luxurious.I need much money to round the world and to be happy..One million may be..Nevertheless,one thing cannot be bought by money..that is happiness ,health and true love..
Alice S.K.Tan
2) A man can never have enought money to please him if his health is in danger because that comes first so this is a difficult one. Also once a man get a dollar, he'll eventually want two. Once he obtains two he'll want four. Get my drift most people no matter how rich they are will never be satisfied with money because of the ugency to need more. Also, just cause you have money, it doesn't mean it can buy you happiness it can also cause trouble because evryone closest to you will want there share as well. So in my opinion to little money is hard to live on, to much monry is a stressor, it's that right amount that varies from person to person that makes you happy and yet won't stir attention to others around you.
Jay N
3) Will I believe in having the finer things in life (Limousine, Limousine Hummer H2, Hummer H2, Lamborghini Diablo & Lear Jet) and I am working hard on geting that. I persionaly don't thank any amount of money can buy happyness. If you are unhappy befor you got the money you will rich but just as unhappy after words.
Mr. Hord
4)Yes, money is nice to be able to provide shelter, food etc... But, it has never made me happy, nor would it ever make me happy. Happiness comes from within, and having Jesus as my best friend. I know it might sound corney, but it really isn't, it's the truth and I have experienced it.
Briee J
5) Enough to buy a beautiful home with all the perks in an Idyllic place.
Enough to have all your loved ones set for life.
Enough to travel anywhere you want in the world once a year.
Enough to donate to your most heartfelt charity.
But not too much that you forget who you are and sell your soul.
Fire Dan
6) none
money cannot buy happiness
I am happy and even if i was poor as dirt and living on the streets I would still be happy as long as I still had my husband the love of my life and my beautiful baby girl
Proud new mormmy
7) it depends on how you view money--some people could care less if they had a lot of material things and some can't get enough money. I think as long as you can pay your bills then money is not important to happiness
Katlvr12
8) how could u ask that u do not need money to happness have u ever herd of the saying money does not buy happness
Michael S
9) as much as it takes...
sometimes that means none... :) depends on the person
some people feel they are happy with it... some people dont really care... happy has many meanings and its hard to really say what brings happiness...
Fancy beans
10) I bet the pre-history humans were plenty happy without it
Overcast kid
11) money doesn't equal happiness. You simply adapt to wanting more after getting more.
Princes Leia
12) Money can't buy happiness cause it's priceless
Rally
13) enough for good basics and some extra for goody fun
-Garcia
14) 1 million dollars
- Steph M
15) Enough to pay the bills and have a little left afterwords
James Bond
16) Without limit.
-Vikas gupta from India as Gimi J
17) Just enough for food, daily basic needs, to pay bills .... and a bit for that rainy day.
-Mmmmm
18) Enough to make others sad.
-McSquizz
19) "a little bit more"
-A Shadow
20) for me, enough to give my son the best of everything he needs
-Bing
21) i'd say at least a few mil. of course this is after you own a house and have paid all your bills.
-the _ulti..
Now let me know what do you think about money. How much do you need?
Enjoy.
1) How much money does a person require to be happy?
1) There's a proverb "No money no talk ".Of course ,we need money to satisfy our livings and luxurious.I need much money to round the world and to be happy..One million may be..Nevertheless,one thing cannot be bought by money..that is happiness ,health and true love..
Alice S.K.Tan
2) A man can never have enought money to please him if his health is in danger because that comes first so this is a difficult one. Also once a man get a dollar, he'll eventually want two. Once he obtains two he'll want four. Get my drift most people no matter how rich they are will never be satisfied with money because of the ugency to need more. Also, just cause you have money, it doesn't mean it can buy you happiness it can also cause trouble because evryone closest to you will want there share as well. So in my opinion to little money is hard to live on, to much monry is a stressor, it's that right amount that varies from person to person that makes you happy and yet won't stir attention to others around you.
Jay N
3) Will I believe in having the finer things in life (Limousine, Limousine Hummer H2, Hummer H2, Lamborghini Diablo & Lear Jet) and I am working hard on geting that. I persionaly don't thank any amount of money can buy happyness. If you are unhappy befor you got the money you will rich but just as unhappy after words.
Mr. Hord
4)Yes, money is nice to be able to provide shelter, food etc... But, it has never made me happy, nor would it ever make me happy. Happiness comes from within, and having Jesus as my best friend. I know it might sound corney, but it really isn't, it's the truth and I have experienced it.
Briee J
5) Enough to buy a beautiful home with all the perks in an Idyllic place.
Enough to have all your loved ones set for life.
Enough to travel anywhere you want in the world once a year.
Enough to donate to your most heartfelt charity.
But not too much that you forget who you are and sell your soul.
Fire Dan
6) none
money cannot buy happiness
I am happy and even if i was poor as dirt and living on the streets I would still be happy as long as I still had my husband the love of my life and my beautiful baby girl
Proud new mormmy
7) it depends on how you view money--some people could care less if they had a lot of material things and some can't get enough money. I think as long as you can pay your bills then money is not important to happiness
Katlvr12
8) how could u ask that u do not need money to happness have u ever herd of the saying money does not buy happness
Michael S
9) as much as it takes...
sometimes that means none... :) depends on the person
some people feel they are happy with it... some people dont really care... happy has many meanings and its hard to really say what brings happiness...
Fancy beans
10) I bet the pre-history humans were plenty happy without it
Overcast kid
11) money doesn't equal happiness. You simply adapt to wanting more after getting more.
Princes Leia
12) Money can't buy happiness cause it's priceless
Rally
13) enough for good basics and some extra for goody fun
-Garcia
14) 1 million dollars
- Steph M
15) Enough to pay the bills and have a little left afterwords
James Bond
16) Without limit.
-Vikas gupta from India as Gimi J
17) Just enough for food, daily basic needs, to pay bills .... and a bit for that rainy day.
-Mmmmm
18) Enough to make others sad.
-McSquizz
19) "a little bit more"
-A Shadow
20) for me, enough to give my son the best of everything he needs
-Bing
21) i'd say at least a few mil. of course this is after you own a house and have paid all your bills.
-the _ulti..
Now let me know what do you think about money. How much do you need?
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