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7 mistakes to avoid when selling a house

7 mistakes to avoid when selling a house

Selling a house can be overwhelming yet time-consuming, similar to buying one. One may sell one’s house when downsizing, relocating, or trying to take advantage of a hot housing market. The process of selling a house has many steps and connected elements, which may cause one looking to sell the house to make certain errors. Avoiding these mistakes is crucial to safeguarding one’s finances and ensuring a smooth house-selling process. Misjudging the cost of selling Closing costs make up the largest portion of home-selling expenses. A few years ago, closing costs were estimated at 1 percent of the total sale price of houses. This percentage tends to fluctuate depending on the state of a given house and other factors related to the house sale transaction. Apart from closing costs, other expenses include preparing one’s home for listing. Then, if necessary, the costs are also associated with home improvements and repairs. All these costs mean that one may spend more than thousands of dollars when one decides to sell the house. Setting an unrealistic price tag When one sells one’s home, the temptation is always to price it as high as possible and then cash in on it once it is sold.

9 mistakes to avoid when applying for home loans

9 mistakes to avoid when applying for home loans

Owning a home is a huge financial decision that demands careful planning and proper evaluation of the property. Buyers, especially first-time home buyers, must consider various factors before making the purchase. Applying for a home loan can be a challenging process, and at times, people end up making mistakes that may lead to their applications getting rejected. It is crucial to carefully understand the process and avoid common errors to ensure a successful application. Ignoring credit check Credit score is a key factor to consider when it comes to home loans, car loans, personal loans, credit card applications, and more. It helps lenders determine how reliable the individual is and if they are eligible for the loan. The score can significantly affect the loan application and the chances of approval. Before applying for a home loan, individuals should check their score and take measures to improve it if needed. Check for any discrepancies; if any are present, speak to the bank to fix them. Unreliable debt-to-income ratio One of the key factors lenders consider before offering home loans to individuals is their debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. The ratio gives them a comparative overview of the obligations the individual has to take care of against their monthly gross income.

10 Black Friday home security deals that might be offered

10 Black Friday home security deals that might be offered

Ensuring the optimum safety of a home requires a bit of research to find the correct home security solutions. The holiday period proves to be the perfect time to invest in these home security systems, as the Black Friday sale lets you avail yourself of multiple deals as per your budget. Here are some estimates of the home security deals you can expect in 2022 based on offers from last year’s shopping season. 10 Black Friday home security deals to anticipate Level Lock The Black Friday sale is expected to bring more than a $50 discount on the set of smart locks offered by this brand. These are simple to install on the doors you currently have in your home. The locks also come in an in-touch edition and are app-enabled, so auto-lock and unlock can be easily achieved. Abode People looking for a home security system that works well with Alexa, Home Kit, and Google Assistant can opt for this brand. Abode is expected to provide its iota Security Kit at a discount of $70, just like last year. Furthermore, the Abode Cam 2 supports easy usage both indoors and outdoors and is also expected to be available at a discount of more than $12.

Smart home devices – 10 best Black Friday deals

Smart home devices – 10 best Black Friday deals

Every year, Black Friday comes with some of the most exciting deals. This day is meant to make everyone happy, both shoppers and retailers. Shoppers through the amazing deals available and retailers by the increased footfall and sales. From furniture to smart home devices, the list of products offered is endless. If you are considering buying some of the latest smart home devices on sale this Black Friday, then the following list might help you. Amazon Echo One of the most talked about smart home devices is the Amazon Echo. Alexa guides you through endless recipes and other instructional videos on voice command. The camera shutter gives privacy, and an entire home can be controlled by just one device. This product is likely to be on sale this Black Friday. Arlo Security Camera An indoor and outdoor security camera is almost necessary for a smart home. The features are endless as it streams at a 2K resolution and is fully weatherproof. The Arlo Security Camera is more suitable than other 1080p cameras. There is two-way audio that lets you see and communicate clearly with people before you let them into your home. On this sale extravaganza day, you can avail yourself of this device as it could be offered at a reasonable rate.

5 mistakes to avoid while using vacuum cleaners

5 mistakes to avoid while using vacuum cleaners

Vacuum cleaners are one of the most reliable home cleaning appliances. With the help of the machine, cordless or corded, one can get rid of dirt, cobwebs, and allergens found around the house. The device is used for cleaning purposes, therefore, it is vital to handle the vacuum cleaner correctly for optimal usage. That said, not everyone knows how to use a vacuum cleaner efficiently. Below are the common mistakes made while using them: Failing to empty or clean dust bags and filters It is important to empty and clean vacuum dust bags regularly. Failing to do so can affect the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner. Despite vacuuming, if you still notice dust stains on the carpet or the floor, it’s an indicator to empty the dust bag. Another tell-tale sign for the removal of dust bag is when your vacuum cleaner seems to be losing its suction power. The frequency of emptying the vacuum bags will depend on how often you use the device. A full vacuum dust bag will lead to an accumulation of dust and the breeding of bacteria and germs in the bag. Many latest models are equipped with disposable bags that are much more convenient.

Top 4 air purifiers and how to choose the best one

Top 4 air purifiers and how to choose the best one

With increasing sensitivity to allergens and rising pollution levels, air purifiers have become essential appliances. According to Bloomberg, the air purifier market will likely exceed $7 billion by 2032. This is not surprising at all, given how polluted the indoor environment can be, with the principal sources being dust, fires, car emissions, and cooking. Today you can find all kinds of purifiers, so here is all you need to know before buying one: Top air purifiers Here are some of the best options for your home: Levoit LV-H132 One of the top-rated purifiers, the LV H132 by Levoit, is compact and small, with a capacity for filtering up to 129 square feet. It has a HEPA filter (or high-efficiency particulate air filter) capable of eliminating 99.97% of pollen, dust, odor, smoke, pet dander, and mold spores. It promises an outstanding performance backed by features like a three-stage filtration arrangement consisting of a HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter, and a pre-filter. Additionally, it comes with three fan settings, allowing you to control the purifier’s volume and speed. Furthermore, it is so tiny that you can easily place it on your desk. Levoit VeSync Core 400S Smart air purifier While most top purifiers on this list effectively eliminate pollutants from the air, the VeSync Core 400S by Levoit goes one step further and allows you to check the air quality indoors as well as outdoors.

5 popular vacuum cleaners to choose from

5 popular vacuum cleaners to choose from

A vacuum cleaner is a great companion since it makes home or office cleaning efficient. But, buying the right one is not easy with multiple choices in the market. So, if you understand various factors such as the need, convenience, area and nature of your residence, product features, etc., it’ll help heaps. You will make a cost-effective purchase, one that’ll sustain for long. Here is a list of the most popular vacuums in the country: Upright vacuum cleaner from Shark APEX This one is a must as it is one of the best bagless cleaners that can clean carpets and floors with equal effectiveness. Also, it is sealed, implying that the dust retention power is better. Although, the sound levels are pretty low, but even in the absence of the bag, its capacity to filter out small particles is exceptional. The added advantage of this model is its easy-to-convert feature in a canister. This feature, along with its 30ft long cord, helps the cleaner reach out to shady nooks and corners, below the furniture, and other tricky spots or crevices. You will also love that the HEPA filter is washable, which means you have less stress of replacing it regularly.

6 common mistakes people make when vacuuming

6 common mistakes people make when vacuuming

While most homes in the country have vacuum cleaners, only a few homeowners know how to use the device correctly. Although this versatile home appliance is convenient, it is an investment. However, by simply learning how to handle the machine, you can use it lifelong. Thankfully, most of the mistakes are avoidable. Let’s take a look at the six most common vacuuming mistakes that we tend to make and how to avoid them. Six common vacuuming mistakes to avoid Vacuuming in one direction This is the most common mistake homeowners tend to make. People often use the cleaner in a single direction. However, the appliance is designed to operate in both directions. When you use the cleaner in one direction, it sucks up the dust and grime from one direction and leaves behind the contaminants from the other side. However, when you use the appliance in both directions, a higher concentration and percentage of stubborn allergens, dirt, hair strands, and dust get removed. Optimal use of the device is possible only with bi-directional usage. Using the machine too fast Most people believe that since the vacuum cleaner is a machine, it can do the work fast. While it is faster than manually dusting and brooming the floor, it still takes time to clean the place.

8 cleaning mistakes that make the house dirtier

8 cleaning mistakes that make the house dirtier

Keeping your surroundings clean and free of dust and germs is essential. Most people undertake cleaning rituals as a part of their daily chores. However, without realizing it, they may be doing more harm than good while going about the cleaning tasks. These common cleaning mistakes we often make leave behind a trail of dirt, allergens, and grime. Here’s a list of eight things to avoid doing when cleaning your home: Reusing sponges without disinfecting Most of us reach out for the sponge without even thinking twice, especially when wiping kitchen countertops and bathroom sink tops. Sponges are good absorbers of grime, but they are also perfect for facilitating the growth of bacteria and other micro-organisms. When you repeatedly use the same sponge, it is easy for the bacterial growth to get transferred to your kitchen and bathroom surfaces. Such a mistake is common but one that can prove to be enormously costly. The solution is to use microfiber clothes to wipe these commonly exposed surfaces instead of a sponge. But if you love the sponge, make sure that you disinfect it from time to time. Also, ensure that you change the sponge or the microfiber cloth every month. Ignoring common touchpoints Every house has common touchpoints, like the door knobs or the taps.

8 critical home renovation mistakes to avoid

8 critical home renovation mistakes to avoid

Home renovations are a major task, especially if you own a big house with a complex design. A lot of deliberation must be done before the project can even begin. Right from coming up with ideas to drawing a plan on paper, you need to consider multiple factors before hiring professional contractors for the job. Further, you must avoid making the following mistakes in planning and executing the home renovation project. Miscalculating your budget Everything costs money. Whether simple repairs or a complete makeover, you must be prepared to spend your hard-earned bucks. But that doesn’t mean you can’t set a realistic budget. Typically, a home renovation is estimated to cost 10% to 15% of the home’s total value. Whatever the estimate, always keep an additional 10% to 20% buffer over the agreed amount. Experts suggest this as a general rule of thumb for calculating the final cost. Material and labor rates keep fluctuating, so you might end up underpaying or overpaying depending on the extent of the job. The bottom line is never underestimate the budget, or you may fall short of the actual costs. Neglecting the natural layout of your home Home renovation is a complex job. It involves making significant modifications to the entire space, including the living room, bedroom, and kitchen.

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6 exciting offers on the iPhone 14 Pro series

6 exciting offers on the iPhone 14 Pro series

The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are Apple’s most technologically advanced Pro lineup. These phones have been launched with exciting new features like Dynamic Island and an Always-On display, which create an immersive user experience. They are powered by the A16 Bionic chip, which is the fastest chip available on the market. Additionally, the phones have cutting-edge features that are perfect for managing everyday tasks and creative projects. These Apple models come in different storage options and color variants. The prices of the phones depend on the storage option chosen. Let’s explore the various offers provided by different service providers. Pricing and availability The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are available in different storage options. The starting price for the iPhone 14 Pro is $999, which includes 128GB of storage. The starting price for the iPhone 14 Pro Max is $1,099, also with 128GB of storage. The price increases as one chooses higher storage options. One can purchase these models from the online Apple Store, offline stores, and third-party sellers. Deals on the iPhone 14 Pro 1. AT&T Limitless Plan AT&T is also providing the best trade-in savings of up to $1,000, which matches the carrier’s best deal to date. Even though this specific deal doesn’t include any bonuses or extras, customers will find one of the greatest offers at AT&T. The trade-in rebate for the basic iPhone 14 is set at a maximum save of $700, so if AT&T is the preferred carrier, we strongly advise getting the Pro model. 2. Walmart (with $100 off carrier devices) Walmart is providing a great deal on carrier smartphones. A $100 price reduction for monthly payments over 36 months is accessible for AT&T and Verizon users. This could be an attractive option for those who don’t want to trade in a previous model for a lower price at one of the leading carriers. 3.

Top 8 Features of the iPhone 15

Top 8 Features of the iPhone 15

Apple has unveiled the iPhone 15 and its equally terrific counterparts – the iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. By now, users must have played around with several new features, especially those on iOS 17, such as the Standby Mode or NameDrop. But other exciting features and specifications added this year need a mention. Here are some specifications to get the most out of the iPhone 15’s brilliance. Performance The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are powered by the same A16 Bionic processor found in the iPhone 14 Pro series. One can witness a similar level of performance as last year’s high-end phones. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max come with Apple’s latest A17 Pro processor. According to Apple, this new processor is “10 percent faster” in terms of CPU and “20 percent faster” in terms of GPU (graphics) compared to the A16 Bionic processor. Apple has emphasized the smoother graphics and gaming performance of the iPhone 15 Pro models, thanks to the A17 Pro processor’s hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This technology allows for impressive lighting effects in games. Design All iPhone 15 models have received the latest design that features softer contoured edges compared to the sharper one on the iPhone 14. There is a titanium frame with brushed metal that looks shiny and polished on the Pro and Pro Max variants. Moreover, these models also feature thinner bezels, giving a premium look. Colors The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus come in five color options, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and black. Another key feature to look out for is Apple’s new color-infused back glass with a frosted matte texture. Camera Apple has significantly upgraded the cameras on its latest iPhone 15 lineup. The primary cameras on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus have been increased from 12 megapixels (MP) to 48MP.

11 Tips to Enhance the Samsung Galaxy S23 User Experience

11 Tips to Enhance the Samsung Galaxy S23 User Experience

Samsung phones are known for their exceptional features and are a frequent addition to our list of top Android phones. These phones come packed with many features, including support for Dolby Atmos, the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 CPU, and a large screen. To help one make the most of the new Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus and enhance user experience, we have compiled some helpful tips and tricks to uncover some of its hidden capabilities. 1. Use Galaxy and Android applications Samsung phones have access to two app stores – the Galaxy Store and the Google Play Store. While the Google Play Store is available on all Android devices and offers a wider range of apps, the Galaxy Store can only be accessed on Samsung devices and offers some unique apps that are not available on the Play Store. 2. Get the fingerprint sensor set up When users initially set up the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, they will be asked if they want to set up the fingerprint sensor. If one needs to add another fingerprint later, Samsung has made this process simple and easy to do. 3. Personalize the side key By default, pressing the side key activates Bixby, Samsung’s virtual assistant. However, most people prefer using the power-off menu when they click and hold the key. The good news is that the side-key motion on the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra can be easily customized to suit the user’s needs. 4. Modify the lock screen The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra comes with an improved lock screen that offers many options for personalizing the device. One can customize the clock by changing its design, font and even adding widgets with lots of graphics. One can also choose how alerts are displayed on the lock screen to suit one’s preferences. 5.