Is Microphilanthropy For You?

Charitable giving comes in many forms, but the latest trend is toward microphilanthropy, which involves direct interaction between individual donors and projects. This giving is popular because donors can give small amounts that make a big difference and choose where their money goes. Some examples include DonorsChoose.org, which funds specific project requests from teachers in U.S. public schools; GlobalGiving.org, a marketplace that connects donors to 1,000 pre-screened grassroots charity projects around the world; ModestNeeds.org, which assists families who are unable to pay their monthly bills; and Kiva.org, which is peer-to-peer micro-lending to the applicant of the donor’s choice. You can check out these organizations, get tips on setting your philanthropic goals for 2011 and research more than 5,500 other charities by visiting www.charitynavigator.org, an independent charity evaluator.

Sleep On it: Dreams May Help You Solve Problems

Did you know Paul McCartney composed “Yesterday” in a dream? Studies show that when you dream, you’re more open-minded and may see things from a different perspective. Here are two different approaches you might try to solve a problem or increase your creativity: 1. Clear your mind before you go to sleep. Read a book, talk about something else, go to sleep, and trust your subconscious. 2. Focus on the problem you want to resolve. Form it into a question (for example, “What should I say to have a successful meeting?”), write it down, and visualize a positive outcome. With either method, write down what you remember about your dreams when you wake up. They may be illogical, but the imagery or events could be a metaphor for a solution that relates to your problem. These techniques require a positive attitude and lots of practice, but they can help you! For further information, look up the work of dream psychologists, such as author Deirdre Barrett.

Preparing Pets To Move

Moving to a new home is hard enough, but it can be even more stressful for pets. Take note of these tips to make the move for critters easier:  If you’ll be moving overseas and/or flying to your new home, check on paperwork requirements early in the planning prep.  Meet with your vet to fill prescriptions, update vaccinations, and get a copy of your pet’s medical records.  Get your pet used to a carrier or riding in a car if these are new experiences. Maintain routines as much as possible.

Is it possible to purchase a home with a small down payment?

Lenders have always offered government backed FHA programs which allow lower credit scores, higher income to debt ratios with 3.5% down aimed at first time buyers. More lenders are also offering a 5% down conventional product with mortgage insurance premiums. Other ways to buy a home with little down include using local or federal government programs, using a tax refund, and asking a relative or friend for a financial gift. Before you do any of the above, consult a professional REALTOR® about your options. A REALTOR® also will provide you with direction and connections to a lender and help you avoid costly traps and pitfalls in the home-buying process. For more information on down-payment options, ask for my Free Consumer Report “4 Quick Ways To Buy A Home With Little Down.” I’ll send a copy right to you. My lender John Porter at Mortgage Masters is ready to go to work for you today. 206-954-8736 or john@mortgagemasterwa.com

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

Thanks to all of my clients and friends who support my practice and graciously referred me to your friends and neighbors! Rather than pester people with unwanted calls and visits, I build my business based on the positive comments and referrals from people just like you. I couldn't do it without you! Your trust in me and Coldwell Banker will never be taken for granted and anyone you send my way will get nothing but the best in quality and personal representation. Outstanding service is how a good agent builds their business and from my first days in the business in 2000 I have strived to become an agent you are proud to recommend to others. Thanks again!!

Inexpensive Pest Control

Before you call in a top-dollar professional to handle your pest invasion problem, try one of these cheaper options: • If you have ants, make a spray of vinegar and water (one part vinegar to one part water). Spray at their entrance into the house, whether it’s at a door, window, or baseboard. Spray their trail completely. • Make homemade ant bait with a mixture of Borax and sugar. Place the mix in small containers. If sugar doesn’t work, mix Borax with something fatty or oily. • If gnats are a problem, let soil in indoor plants dry out completely. This kills any larvae that are nested there.

Build An Emergency Fund

Everyone knows they should have an emergency fund, but how much should you actually save? Websites like practicalmoneyskills.com and bankrate.com have online calculators to help address your specific needs, but generally speaking: • Create a simple budget and sock away about six months of living expenses. • Be honest about your actual living expenses to avoid underestimating. • Don’t mindlessly toss extra money into an emergency fund. Overfunding an emergency fund takes money away from investments that could be earning a higher financial return.