What To Look For In A Chicago Real Estate Investing Online Coaching Program

Real estate is a property that consists of everything that we find on the identified land area. The buildings, fauna, livestock, mineral, and water deposits make up a real estate. In essence, a real estate is a location that has rights to everything in its territory whether above or under the ground.

There are three categories of real estate:

  • Residential Real Estate

These are properties that include houses, underdeveloped lands, townhouses, and condominiums

  • Commercial Real Estate

Commercial real estate is a property used for trade and commerce which includes office buildings, skyscrapers, shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, and the likes.

  • Industrial Real Estate

An industrial real estate is a property used for production, distribution of products, storage, and research. An example of this real estate is a manufacturing facility.

Many people invest in real estate because of its potential to give high rewards. Other entrepreneurs and realtors like the ones in bestrealestatedirectory.com make money through various real estate investing and selling techniques developed over the years.

The question is: “How can you increase its potential or its value?” Learn the tricks on how to boost the value of a real estate property by going through this article.

The Low-Cost Ways

The smallest of things can do so much more. You don’t have to spend too much to improve the quality of your real estate. These simple tips could double the value of your property:

  • Clean your real estate inside and out. A clean property means that it is well-maintained.
  • Repaint the walls and other surfaces that can quickly catch the eye. It is highly recommended to use neutral paint colors as it brings an additional appeal. A newly painted property gives a brand new impression.
  • Accessorize your property by adding attractive plants, outdoor lights, or a new mailbox. These small details invite the senses even more.
  • Replace your fixtures to bring new life to your real estate. Change the light switches, door and cabinet handle, doorknobs, and faucets. These are the things that are always touched. Give our potential buyer the brand new feel.
  • Upgrade your property’s interior design by placing the furniture strategically. Don’t put in so many details in each room as it will exhaust the eyes. Many buyers are also attracted to unconventional approaches when it comes to interior designs. So, don’t hesitate to experiment as long it doesn’t go overboard.

The High-Cost Ways

If you have money to spend, then a renovation can catapult the value of your real estate to a whole new level. Of course, the cost depends on the extent of the makeover and the materials that you will use.

Here’s what you could do:

  • Replace or add doors and windows. These upgrades can make your property more attractive, and it also improves the acoustics of the property by reducing the internal noise. New windows can bring more light. A well-positioned window or door can highlight the outside view of your property.
  • Replace the carpet and upgrade your tiles or hardwood to make it look brand new. A great looking floor is irresistible.
  • People love a quiet place. Make your property noise-free by adding insulations which include rugs, carpets, double pane windows, and even indoor plants.
  • Improve the bathroom by installing new sinks, tubs, faucets, cabinets, lighting, shower, and toilet.
  • Give your property more function by adding a room or removing a wall. This method will improve the floor area. Example: You could take down the living room wall to connect it to the dining area. This upgrade will make the interior look bigger.
  • Put in additional square footage by transforming other rooms into more functional living spaces. Example: You can turn the garage into a guest room.

A complete renovation is the most expensive way of increasing the value of your real estate. This process is time-consuming because it needs to tear down the old materials before installing the new ones. However, this makeover gives way for a more modern design which has a high value in the market.

As a general rule, do not over-improve. It is always better to go on the safe side than risk everything in an attempt to impress the others. Buyers don’t want too many details because they want to leave something for themselves to add or change. Your goal is to get a high return compared to your investment.

It is best to research before you jump into your improvement program. Know the cost of each material that you will use. Determine what will be the value of your property after the improvement to gauge how much money that you need to spend.

 

 

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Singapore Banks Have Access To S$30M Funds To Boost Cybersecurity

If you are updated with the current events, you would know that the country has suffered a serious data breaching this year. The unfortunate event compromised the personal data of 1.5 million healthcare patients including the data of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. These patients are under SingHealth – the country’s largest group of healthcare institutions spanning various clinical specialties, public hospitals, specialty centers, polyclinics, and community hospitals.

Similar stories of data breaching in other sectors have been reported in other parts of the world. Imagine how vulnerable a financial institution can be once its clients’ data has been breached!

With the increasing use of technology in global banking, Singapore needs to combat money laundering and online unlawful acts. I, for one, am vigilant when it comes to checking my balance after a transaction or an online purchase. Fortunately for us, the Singapore government and the financial institutions thought of ways to tackle the situation.

Firstly, the government acknowledged the importance of cybersecurity to financial institutions. Hence, it has signaled its willingness to ease some restrictions on importing talents for the financial-technology industry. The authorities are aware of the talent shortages. That said, financial institutions can either train or upgrade the skills of its existing employees or hire foreign talents who are experts in the field.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Secondly, the Monetary Authority of Singapore offered financial institutions access to a S$30 million grant. This funds can be used to boost their cybersecurity skill-sets and related operations. It is under the country’s Financial Sector Technology and Innovation Scheme, the grant facilitating the development of advanced cybersecurity functions such as computer forensics, malware research, and cyber threat surveillance. The funds could be tapped to cover up to 50% of a financial institution’s qualified cybersecurity expenses, with a cap of S$3 million.

Lastly, local banks can exhaust its current resources to provide cybersecurity services. For instance, three major banks in Singapore have started using artificial intelligence and data analytics to help enhance the detection of illicit cash flows. These banks are DBS, OCBC, and UOB.

We cannot deny that cyber threats continue to evolve throughout the years. Thus, it is highly encouraged for the financial sector to strengthen their cybersecurity capabilities to keep us safe.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

 

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Get Your Pet A “Pink IC” For As Low As S$25

Now, more than ever, pets play an important role in enriching our lives. Whether you own a dog or a rabbit, these pets typically become a part of the family. Some pet owners go beyond dressing their pets by creating social media profiles for them. Creating their own identities strengthens their roles in your homes.

To protect your beloved pet’s identity, you may purchase a “pink identity card”. Do not rush to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) just yet! I am referring to the novelty products produced by two local companies. Both Plus Accessories and MyPetInc create tags resembling the pink NRIC. These products steer away from the traditional round pet collar tags to provide more information to identify your pets. Let us start with the products offered by Plus Accessories.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Plus-accessories

At first glance, one will be shocked by how the wallet-size “pet IC” (i.e., retails for about S$25) looks somewhat like the actual identity card. It has all the necessary details such as the pet’s name, breed, date of birth, country of birth, and identity number. Moreover, it will feature a small picture of your pet. On the top, the card playfully says that it belongs to the Republic of Singapaw! Please note that it takes about 2 months after the confirmation of design to receive the product. What’s more, the Plus Accessories offer pet tags (i.e., about S$28 to S$38) and customized car displays.

On the other hand, MyPetInc was founded in 2014. Its founders created the company to “reunite lost pets with their owners in the fastest way possible”. They created a product that provides more information than a traditional dog collar tag. That being said, relevant information relating to the pet (e.g., health condition, allergies, or address) were considered. Each collar tag is uniquely made and personalized through your order. For instance, small dogs like Chihuahuas and Terriers will be offered smaller collar tags with measurements of 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm.

Image Credits: facebook.com/MyPetIC

What I like most about this tag is that it is waterproof and coated with a layer of material that claims to withstand scratches and bites from your furry pal. MyPetInc collar tag retails for about S$29.50.

For the holiday season, you may want to check these online shops out! 🙂

Sources: 1 & 2

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Things To Expect When Meeting A Financial Adviser For The First Time

You have decided that 2019 is the year that you are going to meet a financial adviser. Many Singaporeans can casually start a conversation about sports, fashion, and travel. However, discussing about money is another story. The mere act of reaching out to a financial adviser brings you a step ahead towards your money goals. That being said, here are the practical things that you can expect when meeting one.

1. YOUR CURRENT FINANCIAL SITUATION WILL BE ASSESSED

A competent and conscientious financial adviser will never assume to know your needs at first glance. It is important for you to provide all the necessary financial information available. I am referring to the bank statements, insurance premiums, tax returns, and so on. These details will help the financial adviser to tackle the toughest question in one’s financial life.

What steps do you need to take to secure your future?

2. YOUR FINANCIAL PHILOSOPHY WILL BE QUESTIONED

Be honest with yourself! What is your philosophy on wealth and investment?

Image Credits: pixabay.com

If you decide to work with a professional to give you advice on money then, ensure that he or she understands your limits. Discuss each other’s financial philosophies as these would dictate his or her actions toward your account. If you are willing to risk it all then, the financial adviser will lead you to that. While, risk averse clients will have more conservative options.

The financial adviser’s approach needs to balance your goals, your financial timeline, and your appetite for risks.

3. YOUR OVERALL PROGRESS WILL BE REVIEWED

With your financial adviser, your milestones will be set on a timetable. Do not be surprised when you are asked about your ideal retirement age or ideal marrying age. These may feel too intimate, but your success lies on having a concrete plan.

Your financial progress will be reviewed based on your plan. You see, Personal Finance is a process. It helps to have a knowledgeable and emphatic professional to track how far you have come and to guide you to your next goal.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

May your financial adviser create the most suitable financial road-map for you. Good luck! 🙂

Sources: 1 & 2

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3 Budget-Friendly Hen Party Ideas

A hen party is a bride’s last hurrah before she ties the knot. Thus, it needs to be a special. Surprise your beloved bridal squad with these creative hen party ideas.

LET THE SWAPPING BEGIN

As fashionistas, your friends may be interested to throw a “Wardrobe Swapping Night”. Start by choosing a venue by volunteering your own flat or your fellow bridesmaid’s. After setting a venue, give the guests an ample amount of time to raid their closets. Ensure that everyone will bring clothing articles or accessories of good condition. Encourage each bridesmaid to share a story behind each item before starting the swap. Stories and negotiations will get better over a few drinks.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Not only will you free up some space in your closet, but you will be able to pass your stylish item to a friend that has been eyeing it for ages!

EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS

For adventurous brides who choose to navigate their lives on the active lane, you may explore the country’s great outdoors! A weekend spent trekking, camping, and cycling is equally frugal and fantastic. Isn’t it amazing to let your hair down and not worry about how you will look for a few days?

Image Credits: nparks.gov.sg

Enjoy dressing down and connecting with Mother Nature by visiting the Southern Ridges and the East Coast Park. The former is one of Singapore’s best walking trails, which covers Mt. Faber, Kent Ridge, Hort, and Telok Blangah Hill parks. It spans through 10 kilometers of lush forest and canopy walkways. While, the latter is the perfect place to have a picnic with friends. Do not forget to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. See the website of National Parks for more details.

TAKE THE TRADITIONAL ROUTE

One of the things that I look forward to experience as a child was having my friends over at my house. Relive your treasured youthful memories by having an adult sleepover. Suitable for a small group of people, having a sleepover entails an intimate hen party experience. What’s more? You will be able to have proper chats while drinking your favorite booze.

Once your venue is set (e.g., the bride’s flat), encourage everyone to bring their share of treats and drinks. Have a supply of indoor games ready as well. Do not forget the classic Twister, Scrabble, and Truth or Dare. You may also put a twist to these classic games by putting the groom’s face all over the cards or other cheeky hints. Have your Netflix account ready as well!

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Lastly, you may hire a person that offers home nail services. Cindy of Tenth Nail provides nail services at your own convenience. Her rates start at S$25 exclusive of the transportation and parking fees. Please book (by calling +65 9004 4605) at least three days in advance to secure her for your hen party.

Sources: 1 & 2

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