One of the best decisions you can make to secure your future is to get your finances in order. In our unpredictable world, securing our finances translates to insurmountable peace of mind. To facilitate this journey, a financial planner can be crucial. A financial planner is a professional who helps you handle your finances in terms of saving, investment, growth, and expenditure. Locating the best ‘financial planner near me‘ might seem challenging but with the right tools and guidelines, you just might find the perfect one to align with your financial goals. This article explores the process of finding a top-notch financial planner in your locality. To those wondering, ‘Where’s the best financial planner near me?’ this guide should prove quite resourceful.

Why a Local Financial Planner

One might be quick to ask why they should opt for a local financial planner to a non-local one. The answer is simple. A local financial planner understands the local market, the economic scenario, tax rules, and other policies in your region.

Moreover, local financial planners are easier to reach, are more convenient for face-to-face interactions and can provide a personalized experience that caters directly to your specific needs and objectives.

Finding a Financial Planner

The first step in finding the best ‘financial planner near me‘ is research. The internet is your best friend in this case. Online platforms provide recommendations, ratings, and reviews of different financial planners in your region. Websites such as LinkedIn or Financial Planning Association can provide a wealth of information. Another way is by asking for referrals from colleagues, family, or friends. They may already be working with competent, trustworthy financial planners.

The next step is shortlisting the potential candidates. Check their range of services, quality of work, accreditations, fee structures, and qualifications. Your financial situation will be impacted significantly by their guidance and hence, you need to be sure they’re qualified, experienced professionals.

If you live in New South Wales and you’re looking for a ‘financial planner near me‘, consider seeking out a financial advisor in Sydney. The city is known for its experienced, professional financial advisors who provide a wide range of services.

Questions to Ask

When you finally have your shortlist ready, begin to interview the prospects. This is the time to ask them about their experience, qualifications, how they work, how they handle their clients, their approach to financial planning, and their investment philosophy. Don’t forget to discuss fees and compensation. Find out whether they are fee-only planners (charged directly by the client) or commission-based (they take commission from the products they sell).

Checking Credentials and References

After you’ve interviewed several prospects, it’s time to check their credentials and references. Ensure they’re licensed and check with the regulator in your country or state to make sure. Reach out to some of their current clients to gain insight into how they operate.

Concluding thoughts

Finding the right financial planner near you is not just about choosing the most successful one. It’s about choosing the one whose expertise matches your needs and whose working style you feel comfortable with. So when asking ‘where can I find a good financial planner near me?’, remember that due diligence, thorough research, and careful consideration of their competency as well as compatibility with your financial goal are key.

By Charles Essmeier

A lot has been written in the past few years about the importance of both credit reports and credit scores. The credit report is a listing of all significant financial transactions by a consumer and whether or not those transactions were completed on time and as agreed. The score is a distillation of everything contained on the credit report, boiled down to a three-digit number. That number is supposed to indicate to a creditor or a lender, at a glance, whether or not the consumer in question is worthy of another loan.

Until recently, the three major credit bureaus, Experian, Trans Union and Equifax, all used different but similar systems to devise the credit score, which ranged from 300 at the low end to 850 at the high end. The different systems meant that a consumer checking his or her score with each of the credit bureaus would receive three different credit scores. This led to some confusion as to which score was the “correct” one. The bureaus have recently attempted to solve that problem by creating VantageScore, a unified scoring system that all three bureaus will use. This should result in a consumer receiving the same score no matter which bureau provides it.

But this hasn’t entirely stopped the confusion over credit scoring. Unlike the old systems 300-850 range, the VantageScore uses a different scale that ranges from 501-990. In addition to the numeric score, the VantageScore system will also provide a letter grade, ranging from A-F, as follows:

901-990 – A

801-900 – B

701-800 – C

601-700 – D

501-600 – F

Now the source of the confusion has changed. Many people have erroneously assumed that a score in the old system will be transferred to the new system. That means, to their way of thinking, that a top score in the high 700s or low 80s under the old system is now merely “average” under the new one. How, people are wondering, did a top score suddenly become mediocre?

The answer, of course, is that it didn’t and that comparisons between the old system and the new one are like comparing apples with oranges. The new system is completely different and will use a new set of criteria to create the new score from the ground up. A score in the 800 range under the old system will almost certainly become a score in the 900 range under the new one. Consumers have no reason to be alarmed, and in time, the new system will be better and more easily understood than the old one. After all, nothing tells you that you have done well better than being told that you have received an “A”.

About the Author: Copyright 2006 by Retro Marketing. Charles Essmeier is the owner of Retro Marketing, a firm devoted to informational Websites, including

End-Your-Debt.com

, a site devoted to debt consolidation, credit counseling, payday loans and personal bankruptcy.

Source:

isnare.com

Permanent Link:

isnare.com/?aid=49400&ca=Finances

By Julian Davidson

If you belong to the generation that feeds on technology then Internet banking shouldn’t at all be an issue for you. The Internet for you is the place to get things done quickly without actually going out. Banking is one of these things. For those who are a bit older, the concept of not interfacing with a human inside the bank will be a bitter pill to swallow. They still are yet to be convinced so it is necessary to weigh the advantages and disadvantages for Internet banking.

Apprehensive people know about the many wonders of the Internet and they have heard so much about Internet banking but they are still paying their bills by mail and depositing checks at their branch.

Many people are already using the Internet to shop for items, or even financial packages for mortgages and loans but when it’s time to finalize, they still opt to go to the office of the company they chose and seal things with an agent.

Before comparing the advantages and disadvantages for Internet banking, let us first define the concept so others who do not know yet can have an idea.

The What and Who in online banking

When the Internet started to become very popular and computers began to become more and more advanced, many businesses started to shift their attention to the trend and established their online presence. This same trend also started to reshape the banking industry.

In the past, banks used computers to automate their daily transactions. These days, there hardly is any paper work at all since everything is done online via the bank’s network system. The only thing that serves as a transaction record is the receipt a shopper gets when she’s at the POS of her favorite boutique.

For banks, their Internet presence is a value-added service for existing and new customers.

Online banking goes by so many other names like PC banking, home banking, electronic banking, or Internet banking.

The first ones to test the waters were the large national banks. Soon, regional banks, smaller banks, financial companies, and credit unions joined in and implemented their own electronic banking system based on the Internet. These institutions that have expanded to online have since then referred to as brick-to-click banks as opposed to brick-and-mortar banks. The latter refers to those, which are yet to offer online banking o their customers.

Aside from the brick-to-clicks, there are “virtual” banks that have emerged. These are banks that do not have physical offices or branches, and any tellers or agents. These banks exist only in cyberspace but they still are covered by the same federal regulations that cover the ordinary banks.

Nowadays, the large banks have sites that provide fully secured and fully functioning online banking services that give their customers ultimate convenience. The smaller ones which are a bit more cautious to go full circle offer access to limited banking services like viewing of account balance and history viewing only.

The more banks that go online and succeed in making their services secured, the more that people will have lesser doubts about the advantages and disadvantages for Internet banking.

About the Author: PART 2 – For part two of this article, head on to

Advantages and Disadvantages For Internet Banking

or to learn about other online banks visit http://www.onlinebankingmart.com/ – A popular banking website that provides you with inside information on all the major banks.

Source:

isnare.com

Permanent Link:

isnare.com/?aid=292794&ca=Finances

By Jesse Akre

A wrought iron baker’s rack is a statement of classic elegance that never goes out of style. A baker’s rack is used to store many different items in a kitchen. Many people choose a wrought iron rack for its durability and look. Also wrought iron is a very versatile type of metal, which means there are many different styles available in baker’s racks that are made from it. There are also many different sizes and shapes available in a wrought iron baker’s rack. Some racks are even made to fit in corners so that every inch of space in a kitchen can be utilized effectively. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a wrought iron baker’s rack.

Size

The size of the rack is probably the most important element. Most kitchens have very limited space, and people also like their kitchens to feel very spacious, in spite of this lack of space issue. This is why it is so important to measure the space you have available before you go shopping for a wrought iron baker’s rack. Remember that the purpose of the rack is to add extra storage to your kitchen, not clutter it up. Take the time to measure the space where you intend to put the rack. Measure the length and width of the space, being careful not to measure too far into the kitchen. Remember to leave ample room to move around in the kitchen, even after the new wrought iron baker’s rack is in place.

Another important aspect of size is the kind of space the rack will fit into. Remember that some racks are made to fit into corners, so it is certainly possible to get a corner rack if that is the only space you have to work with. Just remember that baker’s racks can be large or small, and they can come in just about any size you can imagine.

Style

The style of the rack is also very important. While wrought iron is certainly a very classic look, there are also many other styles within the idea of wrought iron. Some wrought iron racks look more old-fashioned than others, while newer racks have a very modern twist to them. Just think about how everything in your kitchen looks and envision the type of baker’s rack that would look great in there.

Also think about the kind of shelves the baker’s rack will need to have. Many baker’s racks that are made from wrought iron have wire shelves that will allow smaller items to fall right through them. Some shelves come with an extra surface that can fit in one or two of the larger shelves on the rack. This surface can be made of plastic, metal, or another material, and it makes the wire shelf very secure so that things do not fall through the slots. Also some baker’s racks are mostly wrought iron, but they have a wooden section that contains one shelf or a drawer or two. Drawers can be very handy for stashing away loose items in the kitchen.

One last element of style to consider is how sturdy the wrought iron baker’s rack is. Take the time to feel several different racks in a store and see how they respond to being nudged by a wayward knee or hip. The highest quality racks will remain quite sturdy, which is certainly very important when thinking about storing breakable items on the rack. Remember that even a rack with wire legs can be very sturdy if it is made properly.

About the Author: Jesse Akre owns Edenvale Shoppes and hosts numerous furniture and furnishings for any home whether it be

kitchen racks

or

furniture console tables

styles and designs.

Source:

isnare.com

Permanent Link:

isnare.com/?aid=691344&ca=Advice

By John- Noble

Close your eyes and imagine the freedom of going where you want to go with your RV, when you want to go, and staying as long as you want before moving on. Sounds terrific, doesn’t it?

But before you hit the road, there are important things you need to take care of to make sure your full time RV dream doesn’t turn into a nightmare. Here are 5 helpful hints to keep in mind before you go RVing full time:

1. Discover if Full Time RVing Right for You

Even if you’ve been taking RV vacations for years, it’s a big step to make the decision to go RVing full time. Couples must both be in this with equal enthusiasm. Remember, no matter how large a rig you’ve got, it’s a small space for someone who doesn’t really want to be there. Before you put your house on the market, consider renting an RV for a year while you hit the road for a test drive of the full time RV lifestyle.

Hint: Check out RV websites and message boards. Get in touch with other full time RVers, and ask all of your questions. Full-timers also have annual conventions, so you might want to check one out before signing on with full time RVing yourself.2.Crunch the Numbers Before You Go Rving Full Time

Before you make the decision to go RVing full time, sit down for some serious financial planning. Set up your budget and figure out approximate costs of everything you’ll spend money during a year of full time RV living including groceries, insurance, cell phone, gas, and rig maintenance.

Then add a percentage as an inflation cushion. When you get to the gas column, add a little more, given the ever-changing prices at the pump. Check the final figure against your savings and investment income, and you’ll have an idea of how long you can afford to stay on the road.

Hint: There are computer programs that can help you manage personal finances and retirement planning. This will help estimate what a year of full time RVing will cost, and will come in quite handy on the road as you pay bills and keep your finances current.3. Learn How to Make Do-It-Yourself Repairs While RVing Full Time

On the one hand, RVing full time saves you the hassle of dealing with all those household repair chores that keep piling up. But on the other hand, it’s up to you to make sure your RV home is kept in tip-top shape both inside and out. Unless you were a mechanic/handyman/handywoman before hitting the road, you’ll have to learn a certain amount of “Doing It Yourself” maintenance and repair skills. Research how to drain your hot water heater and how to check your hookup when you get to/leave a campsite and other important maintenance issues to keep your rig running smoothly and safely.

Hint: Read an RV how-to maintenance manual to get an idea of what’s in store for you once you’re on the road RVing full time.4. Make the Transition from House to RV?

Most new fulltime RVers ask “What about all my stuff?”

If you’re making a commitment to the full time RV lifestyle, you’ll probably sell your house, give a lion’s share of your belongings to friends and family, and have a massive yard sale. But then there’s the stuff you’ve squirreled away that you can’t bear to part with like the birthday gift your daughter made for you in the fourth grade.

For personal items that won’t fit in the RV, consider renting a storage locker when you first set out and see how you feel about what’s in there when you come back to town. Hardly anyone ever misses the stuff they’ve left behind. Besides, having less leaves more room to pick up a knickknack or two on your travels!

Hint: Let your children and other close relatives choose a favorite item to display at their own homes. You’ll be able to “visit” the stuff when you’re in the area, and they’ll always have a reminder of you.5. Stay in Touch When You’re RVing Full Time

21st century technology has made it easy to keep in touch when you’re RVing full time. Get used to email as your primary means of communication with friends, family and personal business contacts. You might want to revise your cell phone plan once it’s your only telephone line. A Personal Mail Box service can hold your snail mail and forward it to you on your route. Or if you have a home base that you return to every couple of months, you can pick it up then. And, don’t forget to arrange to have regular monthly/quarterly payments done via automatic electronic withdrawals.

Hint: There are many online communities for Full time RVing information and resources.

About the Author: John Noble is the Marketing Consultant for Sky River RV Inc –

skyriverrv.com/

California based RV dealer featuring Teton, Allegro, Itasca, T@b and Airstream RV, motor home and travel trailer units for fulltime Rvers.

Source:

isnare.com

Permanent Link:

isnare.com/?aid=190397&ca=Travel

By Nichole Clark

When it comes to 3d4d ultrasound, there are a lot of things that should be taken into consideration. There are several different advantages of this type of ultrasound. While there are a few of these advantages that can be beneficial from a medical standpoint, the majority of the benefits that come from this type of ultrasound are not medically related. Many women desire to have this type of procedure done during their pregnancy because they are able to have a better bond with their unborn baby. Taking the time to look at the different advantages and disadvantages of a three or four dimensional ultrasound can help you to determine if it is right for you.

One of the most common advantages to having this procedure done is the fact that it helps to increase the bond that the mother and father build with their unborn baby. You can actually see the features that your baby will have before he or she is born. When you have this ultrasound done, you are able to see movements of the baby just as you would in real life. You can see things such as thumb sucking, blinking of the eyes, waving arms, kicking and other movements as well. This can really make the feeling of carrying a child more real. Just like feeling the first kick can help to make a pregnancy seem more real, as does a three or four dimensional ultrasound.

Another great advantage to this procedure has to do with the fact that you can actually get photos of your child in the womb. These are actually pretty clear photos that allow you to see facial features and other expressions. This can help fathers bond with their unborn child as well. A lot of times fathers may feel out of the loop when it comes to pregnancy. Taking the time to have this procedure will help fathers to be able to feel like they are more in on the whole experience, which can be a great feeling for expectant fathers. These great photos that you will get from the ultrasound will make an excellent addition to your baby album. Capturing the moments before your baby is born is a great way to remember the moments that you were pregnant and be able to cherish them forever.

Not only will you be able to capture these three or four dimensional photos of your baby, but you can even sometimes get them on video. This will give you something that you can share with your child when they are older. They are sure to find it fascinating.

While you can see that there are many advantages to having a 3d4d ultrasound, you should also know that there is one downfall. Most insurance companies do not cover this procedure; therefore it is usually an out of pocket expense for most people. Take the time to look into this option if you are pregnant, it is sure to be well worth the money that you spend.

About the Author: At Adorable Baby 3D/4D Ultrasound, you are able to “meet” your unborn baby! We use brand new 3D and 4D ultrasound technology so that you can actually see your baby in live 4D motion while in your womb.To book an appointment call 925-522-5700 adorablebaby3d.com

Source: isnare.com

Permanent Link: isnare.com/?aid=459991&ca=Parenting