Want an outdoor space to entertain friends and family when the nicer weather comes? Before starting construction, you may want to consider whether a deck or patio is best for your home. Here are some of the factors you’ll want to carefully weigh before making your decision. What is the difference between a deck and...
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In our digital age, online platforms and social media sites offer an abundance of financial advice. However, the ease of internet access also paves the way for the spread of financial misinformation. From untrained family members to self-proclaimed online finance gurus and AI-powered resources, inaccurate financial counsel can have detrimental effects, potentially leading to monetary...
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Are you prepared for hurricane season? In an average season, about 18 named storms occur. Of those storms, 3 are typically major hurricanes and another 6 vary in intensity, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).[1] The time to prepare for a hurricane is before it hits. By knowing how to prepare for...
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How much do you spend on groceries weekly? The cost to feed a family of four can range from about $773 to $1826 per month, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture November 2021 Report.1 If you’re grocery shopping on a budget, use these 10 ways to help save money on groceries. 1. Make a...
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The phrase “exotic pets” brings up a plethora of associations, many of them negative. Illegally sourced monkeys, baby tigers, Burmese pythons let loose in the Everglades, these are just a few of the headlines that come to mind. But the truth is that these are just the most publicized examples of exotic pets. There are...
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It’s no secret that gas prices have soared over the last year. In fact, we’ve seen gasoline prices skyrocket by almost 50% since September of 2020 across the country. The reasons behind this increase in gas prices vary, ranging from disparities in refining and retail costs to disruption in oil distribution and fluctuations in taxes...
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Working remotely seems like a great option for giving your career more freedom, but it can also have its own unique challenges. Whether you’re new to working remotely or are a longtime practitioner, these quick tips will help you boost productivity, streamline your process and make the most of your endeavors. Working from home means...
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You don’t have to live near a canyon or forest for your property to be threatened by wildfire. Nearly 1/3 of U.S. homes are in wildfire-prone areas, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). The impact of a wildfire can be tragic and expensive. For instance, the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Department of the Interior spend a staggering $3.5 billion a year combating the fires. Key to lessening the damage to homes and businesses is knowledge and preparation.
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What is an emergency fund? Sometimes called a rainy day fund , an emergency fund is money that you set aside to serve as your financial safety net for when you need it. What qualifies as an emergency? To a certain extent, an emergency varies by the individual, but one way to think of it...
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While many people think tornadoes impact only the Midwest, every state in the country is vulnerable to tornadoes, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Approximately 1,200 tornadoes hit the U.S. each year, causing an average of $24,000 in home damage and $4,000 in auto damage Strong winds from tornadoes can seriously damage the structural...
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No one could ever love your children quite like you do. But in the unlikely event that both you and your partner pass away, it’s important to have a guardian named in your will (the only place where this directive can be given) who can care for your children in your absence. Deciding who this...
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Airfares are rising and airport security lines are getting longer, so why not plan a hassle-free “staycation” this year? You’ll save time and money and, if you plan it right, you’ll feel more relaxed when it’s time to go back to work. The key to the perfect staycation, experts say, is to treat it like...
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Retailers do whatever they can to attract online shoppers—free shipping, easy returns, coupons and bargains on things for your favorite foodie or your animal lover. Online shopping days like Cyber Monday have been rivaling and beating brick-and-mortar sales in many industries. Unfortunately, increased online activity entices scam artists, putting your personal information at risk. Learning...
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Having virtually no yard maintenance is one appealing benefit of apartment living. But while this lifestyle is convenient, you may find yourself wanting a little more greenery in your home. Bringing the outdoors in is an easy way to enliven your apartment. Even small spaces have room for a bit of nature, and adding a...
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In 2017, roughly 16.7 million people were affected by identity theft, totaling at nearly $16.8 billion stolen. Many seemingly harmless behaviors can make you vulnerable to identify theft: making purchases over the phone, recycling old bills or logging onto free WiFi. And simply losing your wallet or digital devices can be a golden opportunity for...
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