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Showing posts with label Tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tips. Show all posts

Thursday, December 2, 2021

What You Need to Think About Before Starting a DIY Project

What You Need to Think About Before Starting a DIY Project
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As someone who is money-savvy, you have learned that the cheapest way to get something done is to do it yourself. With videos online to show you how to do everything from laying a driveway to reupholstering a couch, you can complete more projects yourself than ever before. One major factor that can cause your DIY to fail, however, is to rush into it without careful research and planning. Here are some things to think about before you start your next project.

Take Some Time to Learn

While everyone likes to just get in there and start, patience is certainly a virtue when it comes to DIY projects. Every DIY project takes knowledge and skill, and if you don’t know how to do something, it isn’t likely to come naturally. You need to know the ins and outs of whatever it is you are trying to accomplish. Learn about the materials, watch demonstrations from experts, read step-by-step guides, and practice if possible. While you may believe that you can figure it out as you go and be tempted to skip this step, don’t! That is a great way to waste time and money, having to redo whatever you did wrong. First, take the time to learn!

Estimate Your Costs

There is nothing worse than starting on a project only to realize that it is going to cost more than you can afford. This is why it is critical to estimate costs before starting a project. The HFTB (Hope For The Best) method is not a very practical one and can lead to lost money as you start a project but are unable to finish it. Optimism is great, but when you are estimating how much a project is going to cost, you should be a realist. Think of every single item you will need to buy and price it. That is the only way you can really know if you can actually afford it.

Get the Right Equipment

It can be frustrating to have to delay the start of a project while you acquire the right equipment, but it will save you time in the long run. Having the proper tools makes a world of difference when it comes to how long it takes to finish a project. You can buy the tools you need, but for large items, it is a good idea to investigate renting them. It will be worth having the right equipment when you realize how much more efficiently you are able to perform the work.

Staying Safe

Whether you are working with power tools or climbing on the roof, safety is what matters most. Novices are the most likely people to be injured on a job, simply because they lack the correct safety equipment or knowledge they need to do a job correctly. As you do your research, be sure to watch out for potential hazards and learn how to protect yourself. Wearing protective eyewear, gloves, and shoes is paramount. Knowing how to operate power tools correctly is critical. And using extreme caution when climbing ladders and scaling rooftops is a matter of life or death. You should also properly dispose of any debris you produce. Worksite debris poses a variety of hazards. Self-dumping hoppers increase safety by removing debris from your worksite.

Enlist Helpers

Many projects will be very difficult or even unsafe to perform on your own. Think ahead to the help you will need and ask for help. Enlist neighbors, friends, or family, but be sure to ask them well in advance. They need time to plan, and it is inconsiderate to pop in on a neighbor to ask for their help right then and there. Think of any heavy lifting or two-person jobs you will need to do, and plan accordingly.

Take an Inventory of Your Needs

Before the day of your project, you will be far more efficient if you make a list of everything you will need. This includes all materials, as well as each tool. Strive to anticipate everything. It can be very frustrating to be forced to stop your work to make a store run. Once you have assessed your needs, you can take inventory of what you already have and what you will need to purchase. Do this well in advance, as some items may need to be special ordered.

Gather Your Materials

Before you begin working, grab everything you need and keep it in a convenient, centralized location. This will save you the hassle of making multiple trips around the house in search of the things you need as you work. Organizing it in a systematic way will also save time and energy. As you finish using a tool or material, put it back in its designated spot. An ordered workspace facilitates an ordered mind, and you will find that your project goes more smoothly.

Roll With the Punches

Once you have learned, planned, shopped, and gathered, it is time to get started. Your planning is sure to help your project go as well as possible, but nearly all DIY projects will face some setbacks. If you accept this as fact, then you will be able to roll with the punches when they come. If you expect perfection, you are likely to get discouraged and maybe even give up. Have a plan for how you will react when something doesn’t go as planned. This should include a willingness to try something another way, the determination to keep trying, and a healthy dose of ingenuity and resourcefulness. And this is where your optimism should shine!


Doing a project yourself is a great way to learn new skills, save money, and improve your self-esteem. It can be a real challenge, but few things are more satisfying than sticking something out and completing a difficult task. You will feel the joy of a job well done. If you follow these eight suggestions, there is little that can stop you from success. Soon, you might be the one creating the instructional videos!


Read this next: 4 Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Home Improvement 



Thank you for stopping by and checking out our tips on What You Need to Think About Before Starting a DIY Project! Which tip was your favorite? What other tips would you suggest? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!

 

Have a great day!


    


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Tuesday, November 9, 2021

What to Buy to Create Your Perfect Patio

What to Buy to Create Your Perfect Patio
This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.


The art of designing the perfect patio can be challenging at best and frustrating at worst. Finding stylish pieces that work for your style and your budget is a constant struggle that can leave you drained. But it doesn’t have to be so difficult for you to get the patio you deserve. When building a patio from the ground up, there are a few key things that you need to buy to make sure that you are getting the perfect patio. 

Pavers

Don’t skimp on getting a nice paver to lay the groundwork for your patio. You can only build a patio that is as solid as its foundation. Unless you yourself are a professional paver, then don’t try to do this part yourself—there will be plenty of other steps along the way for you to get your hands in. Professional pavers can make sure that your patio starts off on the right foot. Paying professional pavers to get you started will pay off when you have your dream patio.


Plants

No patio is complete without a few beautiful plants and flowers to decorate. Why have an outdoor space if you are not going to decorate it with the best that nature has to offer? Buying plants is a great investment because if you take good care of them, they can stay healthy and bloom year after year. The decoration that keeps on giving! Get a good mix of evergreens, small trees, bushes, and flowers to give your space the look and feel of a garden. A patio that is lush, green, and vibrant is essential to cultivating the kind of space you want for your patio.

 

An Outside Table

A patio without a place to sit is simply wasted space. You want a table that can anchor your patio and make it a gathering space that people will gravitate towards. Go with something that has plenty of space for seating, is comfortable, and is still easy to clean. You will also want to make sure your table is designed to be left outside year-round. Consider your climate as well when choosing, and make sure that your table can withstand the stresses that your climate might place on your patio table. Refurbishing a used table can be a wonderful, cost-effective choice for an outdoor patio table, so feel free to get a little crafty when it comes to getting an outside table that will be a centerpiece for your patio.

 

New Seating

Your new patio table wouldn’t be complete without some brand new seating to go with it. When picking patio furniture, you have much the same limitations and concerns you have when selecting an outdoor table. You need to make sure you select a material that can hold the climate extremes that your area experiences. For instance, you should keep wood furniture out of the sun to prevent damage—so if you live in an area that gets sun 24/7, you may want to consider a different material. There are tons of great options out there that you can splurge on, so get creative and bring your patio seating to life with your own personal touch.

 

A Patio Safe Fire Pit

There is nothing quite like a homemade s’more on a summer or spring evening, or sipping a beer by the fire on a starry night with your family enjoying each other’s company. A fire pit is basically a patio essential that brings people together and provides warmth on cooler evenings. There are a lot of options for patio safe fire pits, but please, make sure that whatever you choose is truly patio safe! If you prefer burning real wood, or gas, either option is accessible. So go with what your heart desires and pick a style that fits with the vibe you are going for.

 

String Lights

String lights can take any patio and make it look like it came right out of a fairytale. And a very cost-effective choice as well! Hanging string lights over your patio can make nighttime activities all the more fun and easy by providing easy lighting that looks adorable too. There are a lot of options, just make sure you get a set that is considered outdoor use—if you try and leave outdoor lights hanging for too long they will get ruined and you’ll be right back to square one.


A Stylish Outdoor Rug

Rugs are a great way to give your space warmth, texture, patterns, and a little bit of comfort. And don’t think rugs are just for the indoors, adding an outdoor rug to your patio can make it feel like a little living room outside. Whatever you can do to make your patio space as usable as possible will help you use your patio a lot. And after all, what’s the point of having your dream patio if you aren’t going to use it often? Pick a rug that is soft and durable, and can hold up to the outside. There are a lot of amazing options that can fit any style.

 

An Outdoor Speaker System

Music is always a great addition to any space or gathering. The ambiance that you can create in your patio with the simple addition of the right music will blow your mind. You can go with a full on system installed by a pro (or install yourself if you're handy) or you could opt for a nice portable Bluetooth speaker that you can take with you anywhere. Whatever you choose, being able to play music on your patio will bring the good vibes outside with you and help you enjoy your perfect patio to its fullest.

 

Patio design can be fun, creative, and engaging, even if it can also be a headache at times. If you buy these eight items, you’ll be sure that your home patio space is going to be a favorite for friends and family. So snuggle up by your fire pit, grab a few blankets, turn on your string lights and let the good vibes roll on!


Read this next: Handy Tips on Interior Design that Won’t Break the Bank  



Thank you for stopping by and checking out What to Buy to Create Your Perfect Patio! What Create Your Perfect Patio idea was your favorite? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!



Have a great day!



    
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Monday, October 25, 2021

Popular Home Improvements People Are Financing with Home Equity

Popular Home Improvements People Are Financing with Home Equity
This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.

The equity of your home is the current market value of the property and the balance of the outstanding loan you have. The equity you have can be turned into a form of cash. To increase your home’s equity, you pay off the loan and add value by performing maintenance. Reinvest the equity you have back into your home by making home improvements to further improve your return on investment. 

Kitchen Upgrades 

The kitchen is the centerpiece of your home. Countertops and cabinets are used multiple times a day. Because of their extensive use, it is important to invest in nice materials to maintain their life and quality. Material that holds well for countertops includes granite, quartz, natural stone, and other solid surfaces. Cabinets open and close frequently and put up with a lot of spills. Investing in durable wood that has stain and scratch-resistant coating will prolong the life of your kitchen. It is important to remember that cabinets and countertops are semi-permanent features, choosing high-quality materials will save you money without the need to replace them frequently. 

Bathroom Remodels 

Every individual needs a space where they can relax and recharge. Getting ready in the morning is an important routine that should feel luxurious. Investing money into your master bath, especially into custom lighting and a spacious shower, will spoil you and bring your bathroom to a new level. New showers with glass doors tend to be cleaner as they do not harvest bacteria as much as a shower curtain (when cleaned regularly). Custom lighting can significantly improve your getting-ready experience. With a bathroom that looks expensive, you not only give yourself a place to enjoy getting ready, but you also increase the home’s value. 

A New Roof 

The environment can have a major impact on the integrity of your home’s roof. Over time, your roof loses its structural integrity from heavy snow, rain, strong winds, and direct sunlight. Shingles and gutters need to be cleaned out frequently to avoid the buildup of debris, leaks, and permanent damage. Occasionally, you need to replace the roof entirely. Replacing the roof will protect your home from collapsing on itself. A new roof can also increase the life expectancy of your home. As your home ages and increases in value, a roof replacement will give you a large return on investment. 

Deck Additions 

Adding a deck to your backyard has high desirability for current owners and an even higher resale value. There are many ways to improve your lifestyle with all the features you can add to a deck. Adding a deck to relax in the sun, host parties, entertain dinner guests, and even host a picnic is perfect for being social and spending time outdoors. With the addition of a deck, you can expand the interior of your home, install an outdoor kitchen, and have the perfect spot for enjoying your morning coffee. Deck additions are the perfect transition piece from the outside to the inside of your home. 

Floor Replacement 

The flooring in your home doesn’t have it easy. Ground surfaces put up with food traffic, pet claws, spills, and anything else that falls by the wayside. With so much dirt and debris involved, it is impressive that your floor holds up as well as it does. It is generally recommended that carpet is replaced every 10 years, or when you first move into a home. This will help combat allergens stuck in the carpet and general upkeeps. Wood and tile flooring lasts longer when taken care of properly. If your floor is warped, scratched, cracked, or dull, it may be time to investigate flooring replacement options. 

Siding and Insulation 

The siding on your home not only contributes to its curb appeal, but it is the most protective layer against the exterior elements. Coupled with insulation, this is what protects your home from extreme temperatures, and pests. Over time your siding and insulation becomes damaged and loses its integrity. Damaged siding can let in pests, rodents, and mold growth. Your insulation will cease to be effective if moisture seeps into it. These unwanted problems can cause extensive damage to your home that is costly to repair. Investing in durable siding and replacing your insulation will better protect your home. Long-term savings include an increase in energy savings and an increase in your home’s value. 

Windows and Doors 

Like insulating your home with high-quality siding, it is worth the investment to upgrade your windows and doors. Your windows and doors act as a barrier from the outside world, without the added benefit of insulation in between. High-quality windows and doors help control the internal temperature, increasing your energy savings. Energy-efficient doors and windows can also help you qualify for energy tax credits and rebates. Newer models are also better at protecting you from UV rays and filtering the light, without adding a unique tint. They are also safer with added technology to prevent break-ins. 

Landscaping 

Although people tell you not to “judge a book by its cover”, homes are one of those assets that people immediately judge on what they see. If you want to increase your curb appeal, invest in landscaping. Landscaping is as expensive as you make it, but the more you put into it, the higher value your home will be. Landscaping has been shown to recover 267% of associated costs. Landscaping is also great for controlling water runoff and preventing floods during rainy seasons. Ultimately, tasteful landscaping will attract more buyers and increase the value of your home. 

Your home’s equity increases each year. You stimulate the equity in your home even further when you add value with remodels and maintenance. Using your equity to perform remodels will lower your interest rates, act as a tax deduction, and yield a higher return on investment. Continue to treat your home like an investment by using the equity you build to make home improvements that further boost your home’s value.

Read this next: 4 Budget-Friendly Ways to Brighten Up a Dingy Home


Thank you for stopping by and checking out Popular Home Improvements People Are Financing with Home Equity! What home improvement idea was your favorite? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!


Have a great day!



    
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Monday, June 21, 2021

Tips on How to Budget for a Great Summer

How to Budget for a Great Summer
This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.


Tips on How to Budget for a Great Summer

 

Summer is such a wonderful time of year. The kids are out of school, the weather is nice, and there's a grand feeling of fun and excitement that comes with the season. With so many choices for recreation, however, you may find it challenging to fit everything you want to do within your budget. Thankfully, if you plan ahead, you can enjoy all the advantages of summer without breaking your bank!

 

Take in a Matinee

 

Many of the most exciting film releases of the year occur in the summertime. Many summers, you can see a new movie every week for the entire season. Seeing an afternoon showing offers a way to beat the heat and relax. You can see the latest releases and often pay half-price compared with an evening showing!

 

Some movie theaters such as Regal, Megaplex, Cinemark and AMC to name a few, offer summer specials for family-friendly movies, check with your local theaters to see if they offer any of these summer specials.

 

For even more savings at the movie theater, cut back at the snack bar. Your waistline will thank you, and so will your pocketbook. Your afternoon at the movies will be just as satisfying.

 

You can save even more with a movie rental subscription. That way, you can sit back and relax in the comfort of your own home and still enjoy an inexpensive evening of entertainment.

 

Take Advantage of Group Rates

 

Many theme parks and attractions offer a family package or discounts for groups of a certain size. Sometimes, you have to ask for the group rate. But if you're planning an outing with friends, you can stretch the money you save on a group rate and enjoy more of the activities that the summer has to offer.

 

Airlines and hotels frequently offer family or group rates for travel during the summer as well. If you're planning to travel this summer, shop around for the best bargains and save yourself some cash.

 

Think Local

 

In the summer months, many travel far away in search of adventure. In many cases, you can experience a similar adventure without venturing too far from your home. Save money on hotels, plane tickets, and baggage fees by exploring all that your local area has to offer this summer.

 

If you're not sure about what fun things are available in your area, try searching the Internet for your city's name and "tourism." You might be surprised to find that the adventure you seek is right in your own backyard!

 

Browse for Deals

 

Shopping around for the best deal is important when traveling this summer, but it can also save you money close to home. Stiff competition in your neighborhood could cause restaurants, diners, and attractions to offer great specials to steer you away from the competition.

 

Bowling alleys, golf courses, zoos, and many other fun summer activities often have summer deals for customers. If you invest a little time to search for these deals, your friends and family can often enjoy an outing together for much less than you would expect.

 

Know Your Limits

 

Summer offers many recreational choices. Sometimes, however, the best option is to say no. Your body needs rest, and so does your mind. Choose the activities that best fit your interests, and say no to the others. You'll experience more energy and peace within yourself while saving money at the same time.

 

Summer can be an expensive time of year, but it doesn't have to break your budget. By making wise choices with your money and slowing down a little, you can enjoy summer recreation and save money at the same time.


Thank you for stopping by and checking out our Tips on How to Budget for a Great Summer! What budgeting tips do you use? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!


Have a great day!

 

    
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Thursday, March 18, 2021

Top 10 Budgeting Strategies To Help You Curb Overspending

This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.


Top 10 Budgeting Strategies To Help You Curb Overspending 

At Krazy Deal Daze were not just about spending money on Krazy Deals!

In the event that your spending habits have you digging for pennies before the next payday, it might be time for a change. Unfortunately, running out of cash before payday, especially if you do it over and over, can cause a lot of undue stress that can negatively affect not only your pocketbook but your health as well. 

However, all hope is not lost and you can reduce this stress and get back on track with your finances by reevaluating and altering your spending habits.

So how can you accomplish this?

Try these budgeting techniques:

1.      Make a Master List. The first step to any well-thought-out action plan is to develop a list! So you’re going to start by making a list of all your loan payments and credit card bills. You’ll expand your awareness about the number of creditors you have, the total amount you owe, and the due dates of your monthly payments.

·         On the list, have 5 columns: the name of the creditor, your monthly payment, the due date of each month’s payment, the amount of interest you’re charged, and the total amount you owe.

2.      Add other monthly expenditures to your Master List. Next, list things like your rent or mortgage payment, grocery costs, gasoline costs, and anything else you pay monthly. Estimate the amounts for your cable, water, garbage, cell phone, and utility bills, using last month’s statements. Your Master List should reflect all your outgoing expenditures.

3.      Establish priorities. Which bills do you see as the most important? Mark them in some way by highlighting or circling them.

 

·         Don’t know what bill has the highest priority: A good place to start is your housing! Your rent or mortgage should always be at the top of your list. If you require transportation to get to your job, then I would personally have that as my second priority! If you can’t get to work, that can definitely hinder your ability to make the money to pay the bills.

4.      Survey the remaining bills. In looking at these non-priority bills, you can most likely discover some areas in which you can lower your costs.

5.      Examine frivolous expenditures. Are you spending $50 a week on fancy coffees? Do you stop after work for a few beers with co-workers two or three days a week? Are you going out to eat or ordering takeout more than two times a week? If so, consider the amount of money you spend on these sorts of activities. Which expenditures can you reduce? Which can you cut out completely?

 

6.      Call your credit card and utility companies to request lower interest rates or payments. Make a notation on your Master List of the reduced rates and/or payments you receive. Also, note any companies that refuse to reduce your rates. Remember it never hurts to ask and the worst that could happen is they simply say no. Make the decision to stop using credit cards with high-interest rates.

7.      Take decisive steps to reduce your expenses. For example, if you’re paying out $200 a month for premium cable channels and they are unwilling to reduce your bill (In my personal experience they have always reduced my bill when I call and ask for a lower payment), you have the power to cut your cable bill by removing the service completely.

8.      Determine how you can bring in additional dollars. You could consider getting a second job. There are other money-making opportunities you could consider as well. Are you a crafter? Sell your crafts on Etsy. Do you have a lot of items around your house that you don’t use or need anymore? Host a yard sale or list the items for sale on a community marketplace site like Facebook marketplace. Use cashback apps and extension browsers such as Fetch Rewards, Ibotta, Honey, and Rakuten when shopping for necessities. Then, use the extra money you earn to pay off debts. Recognize you do have the power to change things.

9.      Keep your Master List with you throughout the day. Each time you’re about to make a purchase, glance at the list and reflect on your bills and financial goals. Ask yourself if you truly need what you’re about to purchase. Allow yourself to feel proud about this new routine.

10.  Record your thoughts and feelings about the changes you’re making. It’s a challenge to try to change something about yourself, and how you manage your finances is no different. Write down how you’re feeling about adjusting your spending habits. It also helps to write about your financial goals, why you are trying to pay down your debt, why you’re trying to save money, and what are the financial goals you’re working towards.  Be optimistic that you can and will change your financial situation.

 

If you consistently find yourself running out of cash and struggling to pay your bills, vow to follow these strategies to change your spending behaviors. You have the choice to alter your financial habits in powerful ways. You can do it!



Thank you for stopping by and checking out our Top 10 Budgeting Strategies To Help You Curb Overspending! Which tip was your favorite? Any other tips you'd like to add? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!

Have a great day!




    

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