Saturday, January 30, 2010

How To Compare Low Cost Health Insurance In West Virginia

For more than 50% of all West Virginia households the idea of low cost health insurance is something of a misnomer, because at least half of all West Virginia households report that paying for health insurance is something of a misnomer, because at least half of all West Virginia families can't afford any health insurance at all.

Hopefully this article will shed some light on ways that almost every family in West Virginia can compare and find low cost health insurance without breaking the family budget.

It should come as no surprise that health care costs less for healthy people. One way to save money on health care and to see the doctor less frequently is to eat right and to get plenty of sleep and exercise. Eating right means giving up fast food and fried food - except in very limited quantities. Exercise doesn't have to mean buying the latest infomercial fad - exercise can mean walking briskly around the block or joining a walking group that walks in the mall every morning. Exercise can mean riding your bike to do errands around town and leaving your car at home.

It should also come as no surprise that smoking and using any form of tobacco is not only bad for your health but it will also cost you considerably more in health insurance costs. If you are sincere about comparing and finding truly low-cost health insurance then you can't continue to smoke.

It also means you may have to lose weight. Your BMI (Body Mass Index) is one way health insurance companies determine your monthly insurance premium. The lower your BMI the less you are going to pay. Losing even a few pounds could - hopefully - drop you a notch on your insurance company 's BMI meter and if that happens you could save hundreds of dollars each year.

Find group health insurance. Group health insurance may be less picky about your weight and smoking habits and group health insurance is almost always cheaper than individual health insurance. If your place of employment doesn't offer low-cost group health insurance try asking at any clubs, organizations or associations that you belong to - if that fails ask friend and family if any groups or clubs they belong to offer members group health insurance . If so - join!

Joining an HMO or a PPO can save you a considerable amount over buying health insurance as an individual, but be prepared for the possibility that you may have to give up your favorite doctor - unless your doctor happens to be a member of the HMO or PPO you want to join.

Don't take part in extreme or dangerous sports. Also, if you drive a fast sports car, it may be time to sell it - at least it is if you are serious about finding affordable health care.

Pay your premiums automatically out of your checking account. If your insurance company doesn't have to prepare a bill for you every month they'll pass the savings in to you.

If you are self employed or have a home-based business ask your tax advisor if all or a portion of your health insurance premiums can be tax deductible. A tax savings could make your health insurance a whole lot more affordable.

Buy your drugs over the internet. You might be surprised at the savings you can realize on most drugs if you purchase them over the internet.

Increase your deductible. Obviously you can only do this is your budget will allow it, but increasing your deductible is probably the fastest and most sure way of lowering your cost of health insurance.

Buy your health insurance over the internet. There are literally dozens of websites that encourage you to compare prices on health insurance between different insurance companies. Just don't make the mistake of thinking that you only have to make your comparisons on just one site.

This way you can be sure that your "comparisons" actually have a value for you. If you're serious then be prepared to make comparisons on at least 3 different websites and also be certain that you input the exact same answers in the forms on all three sites you've chosen.

This is how anyone can become an expert and compare low cost health insurance in West Virginia and find the very best and lowest price for health insurance possible. Once you've finished all of your results and choosing the best price you can find.


Friday, January 29, 2010

Where To Find Foreclosure Auctions

If you are, you may be looking in the wrong place. Are you looking to buy a new home?

Foreclosure properties are often considered a great buy, as they are easy to find and affordable. Instead of visiting the online websites of realtors or flipping through their brochures, place your focus on foreclosure properties.

One of the most popular ways that foreclosures are bought and sold is at an auction. This auction typically takes place at a county, town, or village government office, such as the clerk 's department. As for how you can find these foreclosure auctions, they are often advertised in local newspapers. You can also search local records, as foreclosures are public notice.

One of the few downsides to buying a home at a foreclosure auction is the inspection, as you aren't typically granted one. Most bidders are bidding on the home as-is. As-is isn't so bad, but it may be if you haven't seen the property.

With that said, since foreclosures are public notice, you should be able to get the address of the property in question. You will want to drive by. Although you should not judge a book by its cover, a drive by can give you an idea of what to expect. When you have doubts, it may be best to move on and target other auctions.

If you decide to attend a foreclosure auction, the last thing you want to do is just show up. That is unless you are scouting to see how an auction works. When you are serious about purchasing a foreclosed property at an auction, you need to be prepared.

This preparation involves having financing lined up. Many will require that you either have the money on hand or show proof that you do have the financial resources needed to follow through with the sale. Contingency loans are generally prohibited. Check deposits are sometimes required before you can even place a bid.

After this point has passed, you can start the eviction process if the current occupants do not leave voluntarily. This is where they can still fight to keep their home. Many states give current occupants a redemption period or a grace period.

In fact, it is likely that you will be unable to do so. If you are the winner bidder, it is important to know that you may not be able to move into your new home right away. For bids that are not sealed, the auctioneer will start with a figure, often around $1,000 or less and the bidding will continue on. Once everyone has placed a bid, the highest bidder will be announced.

It is not uncommon for bids to be sealed. As for the auction itself, it depends.


This knowledge is important, as many fellow bidders will be investors looking to turn a profit, not buy their first home. If you are unfamiliar with the buying and selling of real estate, foreclosures, or auctions, you can learn a lot. You should be allowed to do so.

As it was previously stated, you may want to attend a foreclosure auction and just sit on the sidelines.



Thursday, January 28, 2010

Tips To Get Rid Of Extensive Debt

Through abiding by several tips, even the worst of debt can be subsided with a little valor and effort. But there are ways out of every impossible situation and getting out of bad debt is no exception. During these trying times, life becomes incredibly stressful.

If you are going through some rough times, bad debt seems to pile up faster than you can make money.


Several Basic Tips to Debt Relief

The first thing one should do when faced with debt is to think of repayment plans. If you haven't contacted the company associated with the debt, be sure to do so and discuss possible payment plans. This will allow yourself time to get the money, while still have cash flow for necessities.

The above tip will also help avoid borrowing money to pay bills. Borrowing money will only worsen your situation, since the money will have to be paid back with interest. This method should be avoided at all costs. In some cases, a family member or close friend will be able to act as a bank, and allow money to be borrowed with a little friendlier term on interest rates.

Although housing is a necessity, it is important to not go overboard. Generally, housing situations should not cost more than 30% of your monthly income if it can be helped. The luxury of a nice apartment is nice to have, but there is no sense in living like a king when there are bills to be paid.

Controlling Spending, Maximizing Earnings

To pay debt off, it 's logical to think that you should be earning more money than you spend. This logical thinking is exactly right! Make sure that all unnecessary expenses are cut. Always seek to take the cheaper way out wherever possible.

Cutting out unnecessary expenses can save a lot of money and turn bad debt into a hopeful situation. To make the process minimize further, another job could be taken to maximize earnings. This way your expenses are cut and your profits are maximized. If this kind of plan is followed, bad debt will only be temporary.

Strategic Repayment Plans

If you owe money to several different sources, always put the high interest debt as your priority. Over time this will end up saving a good deal of money for anyone with bad debt. Since high interest will always cost more money than low interest, this is logically the best solution.

Debt can also be consolidated- meaning that all of your debts will be consolidated into one monthly payment. This requires the help of special agencies and businesses most times- but it is well worth the effort. Instead of stressfully remembering who you owe money and when it needs to be paid, you only need to look forward to one monthly payment. This also helps you budget your expenses with much more ease.

Final Thoughts on Bad Debt Situations

Of course this depends on the level of debt- but with the right budget all that is needed is time and a little effort. Following the above tips will ensure that bad debt is a temporary stressor not long term. Bad debt isn't always impossible to get out of.

Keep your head up high and your nose to the grindstone, and the bad debt will be gone for good. We all know how stressful debt can be- and the phone calls from multiple companies never helps. Also be sure to look into debt consolidation.


Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Credit Repair: What Not To Do!

Beware of Store Cards

And third, store cards tend to give a low credit line, often just above your purchase amount. First, your score will be reduced because of the new account that will soon appear on your report. But it is handy to know that store cards create triple trouble on your credit report. This can be a good deal.

And third, store cards tend to give a low credit line, often just above your purchase amount. Second, your score will be reduced because of the new account that will soon appear on your report. First, your score will be reduced because of the inquiry. But it is handy to know that store cards create triple trouble on your credit report.

This can be a good deal. And third, store cards tend to give a low credit line, often just above your purchase amount. First, your score will be reduced because of the new account that will soon appear on your report. But it is handy to know that store cards create triple trouble on your credit report.

This can be a good deal. Department stores love to push their credit cards by offering a discount on your purchase if you sign up on the spot.


Watch That High Limit

I run a national credit repair company and speak to people all day long about their credit reports. One of the bits of advice that we like to offer our customers is to pretend they only have half the limit on their credit card that they really have. It takes some discipline to do this but it can make a big difference on your credit score. As soon as your balance exceeds fifty percent of your available limit your credit score will start to suffer. If your credit balances are currently close to your credit limits you might consider calling the credit card companies and asking them to increase your limit. You will be amazed at how fast this can make your score go up!

The Auto Shopping Credit Trap

I can???t tell you the number of times that we have looked at a credit report and seen multiple auto credit inquiries. When we ask our customer they inform us that they only went to two different dealers. Auto dealers will often shop for the best interest rate for you. If they shop with three auto finance companies you will have three credit inquiries. These multiple inquiries can have a significant impact on your score. This is not the auto dealers fault. After all, they are acting your best interest, but it is best to be aware of the possibilities. If you are shopping for a car I would suggest not providing your Social Security number until you are settled on the car you want.

No More Mr. (or Mrs.) Nice Guy

Just about every day in the credit repair business we come across someone that was nice enough to co-sign for someone on a car loan. I???m sorry to say this, but chances are that if they need you to co-sign they will not make their payments on time. And this will kill your credit scores. I know that this is a tough call. It is hard to say ???no???. If this situation arises in your life I suggest an alternative approach. Go ahead and co-sign. But when the payment book arrives ask them to give it to you. Have them pay you instead of the auto finance company. You will make the payments on time. And maybe they will feel some extra obligation to make their payments to you on time as opposed to some anonymous auto finance company.

Don???t get complacent

Check your credit from time to time. In December of 2003 Congress passed the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACT Act) which, among other things gives you the right to get a free credit report from each bureau one time per year. This law was passed to protect you from the credit reporting errors that occur far too frequently. Don???t imagine that because you are doing everything right that the credit bureaus are reporting everything correctly. Get your reports and proof read them carefully. It???s your right.

No explanations needed

It???s your money Make sure you are comfortable. Before you hire someone pick up the phone and talk to them. You should never have to commit for a predetermined period of time.

A good credit repair company should be affordable and efficient. They have the experience and knowledge to get the job done for you. If you don???t feel up to the challenge of dealing with the credit bureaus hire a reputable credit repair company. Whatever you do please don???t write an explanation for the credit bureaus to include on your credit report you should dispute it! Are there errors on your report?


All Rights Reserved. All Content. Kemish.

2007 James W. Copyright ??



Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Does Your Car Insurance Cover You For Driving Abroad?

By law, British motor insurers must cover your car for the minimum cover required by the law in other European countries, or the minimum cover required by the law in other European countries, or the minimum cover required by UK law, whichever is greater.

These are some of the most common limits and conditions found on UK policies regarding driving your own car abroad. There are special conditions that may apply however, and you'd do best to check with your individual insurer to find out about limits or conditions on your policy. In most cases, this means that no matter where you are driving your car, you'll have at least Third Party coverage.

No cover for damage to your own vehicle

While you may have cover for collision damages when driving at home, many insurers will only cover damage to other vehicles if you are driving abroad. You can extend your policy to cover damages to your car from fire, theft and collision while abroad by talking with your insurance company or broker.

No breakdown cover abroad

Even if you extend your car insurance to cover you while driving your car overseas, you won't be covered if your car should breakdown on the side of the road. Your insurer may be able to provide international breakdown cover, though you may get a better price on breakdown cover if you buy it in conjunction with your holiday insurance or even through your home insurer.

Advance notification required

Some car insurance companies require you to notify them in advance if you will be taking your car abroad with you. If you fail to give them notice and are involved in an accident, you may be left with only third party cover. Check your policy to find out how much advance notice your insurer requires in order to extend your policy to cover you when driving your car abroad.

Time limits on motor insurance abroad

Some higher end motor insurance policies allow you full coverage overseas for up to a stated length of time - generally 30 to 90 days - at no extra charge. They still require advance notice to extend your coverage, but as long as your overseas visits are less than the stated amount of time, you won't be charged an extra premium. Be sure to check for any limitations on your policy while overseas. In most cases, only repairs will be covered. You'll have to make other arrangements for transportation, car hire and other accommodations.

** Tips for Taking Your Car Abroad **

1. Check to find out how much cover your current motor insurance provides if you are traveling abroad.

2. Arrange for a Green Card through your insurer. The Green Card is an easy way to provide proof of insurance cover in most European countries.

3. Get separate breakdown cover. Most motor insurance policies do not provide any breakdown cover in foreign countries. If you carry separate breakdown cover at home, however, check that policy. Some may cover you for short trips abroad at no additional cost.

It 's a handy way to jot down details of an accident while they are still fresh in your mind. Most will provide one free of charge. Ask your insurer for a European accident statement form and keep it with you. 4.

Always lock the doors, and keep motor insurance and vehicle ownership papers on your person rather than in your car. Because foreign cars are an attractive target for thieves, take precautions to make it difficult to steal your car. 5.


Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Stock Research ? Hedge Funds ? If Bear Stearns Doesn?t Know ? Who Knows???

In any event Bear Stearns would have to be on the short list. Some might say Goldman Sach?s. It might be argued that Bear Stearns is the best managed Wall Street firm in existence. Recent news has taken us into the inner sanctum of Bear Stearns, truly a dominant investment firm in the world today.

As the hedge fund world becomes bigger and bigger as more and more hot money seeks the elusive alpha of maximum performance, it is becoming apparent that more and more newspaper space will be devoted to hedge funds, and private equity.


Taking some of the risks that were involved to achieve this performance is now coming home to roost. Some of these hedge funds in a few years, have grown to possess capital bases equal to that of investment banking firms that have been around for generations. Investment firms for almost a decade sat by and watched hedge funds form, and amass vast investment capital pools while successfully charging 2% management fees, and 20% of the profits.

Bear Stearns is the latest firm to stub its toe in the hedge fund industry. The firm is FAMOUS for quantifying and judging RISK before making its bets. This time however it seems that Bear Stearns threw its usual caution to the wind in embracing the formation of two hedge funds over the last year or so.

The second hedge fund was considered a more highly-leveraged version of Bear?s High ?Grade structured Credit Strategies fund which was formed last year. Both funds were managed by Ralph Cioffi, who up until recent events took hold, had the reputation of being a MASTER at this game, and the game is the subprime mortgage bond business.

Most people are not aware of it but Bear Stearns is the finest fixed income trading firm on the planet bar none, and this has been true for several generations. This makes recent events even more perplexing to understand.

Jimmy Cayne who is Bear?s CEO is embarrassed at the very least, and certainly upset enough that there will be major changes in the leadership of the units responsible for the pain being inflected on the firm?s reputation. This should not have happened at Bear Stearns, that?s the point.

Actions Taken and Implications

Mr. Cayne has made the decision to inject $3.2 billion of Bear Stearns capital into a bail-out of the older fund. Bear is also negotiating with the banks that put up the credit facility for the other fund, the highly leveraged High-Grade Enhanced Leveraged fund. What Bear is trying to prevent is the forced sale of the debt obligations underlying the fund?s investments. These issues trade by appointment as they say, which means they rarely trade at all. Bear knows the Street smells blood, and will take advantage of any weakness that Bear shows.

So what are the implications of this latest hedge fund debacle? It clearly shows that the most sophisticated investors on the planet who put their money into hedge funds may in fact have NO IDEA what they are investing in. Instead, they are betting on the institutional reputation of the firms standing in back of the hedge funds. In this case nobody knew more about this market segment than Bear Stearns, yet they caught in a terrible position.

This is not Cayne?s fault, but as CEO, it is always his responsibility. I believe him to be the finest Wall Street executive of his generation. Nevertheless, his underlings certainly let him down, and they are among the highest paid people in the world today. Some of these industry veterans are drawing $10 million dollar annual incomes. Let the investor beware is the rule of the day, especially when it comes to hedge funds.

But Wait ? There?s More

The average hedge fund uses about six to one leverage in order to obtain the performance success we have become accustomed to seeing in the hedge fund world. Investors in Bear Stearns? fund called Enhanced Leverage put up about $638 million of their own money. The fund was then able to borrow about 10 times that amount. They used repo-financing and a credit facility at the Barclay?s Bank.

Enhanced Leverage then went out and invested about $11.5 billion in both bonds and various and assorted bank debts on the long side. On the short side, they had about $4.5 billion through credit default swaps. These transactions were originated on the ABX Index, all of which were tied into subprime mortgage bonds.

I know you are asking how it all came undone. What happened is that the underlying bonds of the whole market segment are what you could call the subprime market came undone. Back in February, this hurt Bear?s two funds. The funds and the hedges laid on by Bear went under water in March simultaneously. The hedges should have performed when the market worsened, and they didn?t. That was the killer. The hedges did not do what they were supposed to do.

In late May, Bear knew they had to do something. What Bear chose to do was close down the redemption process. In other words, not allow any investors to withdraw their remaining funds, which would create a run on the hedge fund. This is similar to Franklin Roosevelt closing down the banks in 1933, to prevent a run on the banks from taking place.

The banks who lent the money to the Bear Stearns sponsored funds quickly began selling down the securities in the funds in an attempt to back into some kind of positive equity balance. This was all the result of margin calls brought about the funds? poorly performing, and now distressed investments. Bear finally agreed to a bail-out of one of the funds injecting $3 plus billion dollars into the fund. The firm as of now will not rescue the other fund, known as Enhanced Leverage.

In our opinion, Bear will not be the last firm to experience problems with hedge funds, and investors are in for a further rude awakening as the hedge fund industry continues along its under-regulated path of seeking maximum investment performance. Many hedge funds are overextending, and frankly have no idea as to their actual open positions in the financial world.

Bear and nobody is better than Bear says it will be another week or two before it knows the extent of the losses of its investors in these two funds. If that is true of the best managed risk taking firm in the world today, how much confidence can you have in the hundreds of other hedge funds out there that are poorly managed compared to the legendary Bear Stearns.?

It?s great when the market goes against you; these entities literally go out of business. Six to one is normal, and then you get the ones that go crazy and start approaching 10 to 1 leverage in the race for performance. The problem with hedge funds is the leverage.

What you don?t realize is that the bed is sitting on a railroad track with a 100 mile per hour train bearing down on you. You think you?re sleeping on a nice warm bed. The answer is you?d better sleep with your pants on, if you think your money is safe in the hedge fund world.


Would you like to wake up from a coma, owning hedge fund investments for the previous ten years, maybe yes, maybe no, but as an investor, you better be able to answer that question? Would the investments you made ten years ago still be good, or not? He also talks about what would happen if you wound up in a coma, and woke up 10 years later?

Warren Buffett has always talked about being able to sleep at night with your investments.



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