Prepping for hurricane and cyclone season

Prepping for hurricane and cyclone season

Every year thousands of dollars worth of damage is done to homes and properties across the country as hurricanes and cyclones hit. The worst ones are those that result in the loss of human life, but all can bring devastation and the trauma of having to rebuild.

That’s why it’s so important to prepare for hurricane and cyclone season before it arrives.

Check Your Building

It is important to understand the difference that regular maintenance can make to your property. Simple measures like installing a sub floor ventilation system from Extract Air can prevent damp from getting into your building.

Moisture is a key ingredient in weakening the structure of a building; making it more vulnerable to hurricanes and cyclones. Something as simple as a pump can actually improve the chances of your building surviving.

Assess The Risk

It’s a good idea to check how likely your area is to suffer from hurricanes and cyclones. If you’ve lived there for several years you’ll already have an idea regarding this.

While anywhere can be hit it is worth knowing whether you’re a high risk area or not.

Emergency Supplies

If you’re in an area which is prone to hurricanes and cyclones it’s worth getting some emergency supplies together. This should include food and water to keep your family going for at least a few days. You also need to have a light source, the ability to stay warm and a grab bag which will enable you to escape the area quickly if you need to.

Insurance

It is always worth checking what your current insurance covers you for. If you haven’t got full coverage you may be surprised to learn that it can take up to 30 days for new cover to take effect. Get it sorted before you actually need it.

Check Your Yard

If you have trees and other items in your yard which are likely to become an issue in high winds then you need to look at having them trimmed or even removed now.

It is also important to look at what your risk of flood is and prepare your barriers now.

Alongside this it is a good idea to chat with your neighbors and get an idea regarding what plans they have and how you can work together if the worst happens. This is a great back-up and a way to help ensure you and your family get out if you need to.

Keep A File

You need a plan for your escape route; preferably at least two options. You also need a plan regarding what supplies should be in your home to help you survive the aftermath if the power is out but your house is still standing.

Once you’ve designed your plan it’s a good idea to write it down and keep it somewhere that is safe but easy to access. This will help to ensure everyone knows what they have to do and how to do it.

There’s no harm in practicing what to do; it will make it easier if the worst does happen.

 Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

 

Career Goals: A Great Job Doesn’t Have To Be Just A Dream

Career Goals: A Great Job Doesn’t Have To Be Just A Dream

As a busy woman, your job and career can take up a huge majority of your life, so it’s crucial that you feel that you’re gaining plenty of experience, appreciate, and satisfaction as possible in your place of work. However, this is not the case for many, and you might be getting the feeling of dread every Sunday evening before it’s time to get up and go back to work on Monday again. If this is the case; now is a great time to look into how to make a positive change so that your working life happiness can increase and give you a positive future ahead.

 

There are several things to think about before you start taking action to change your career and life, so begin preparing yourself as soon as possible. The following are some ideas, inspiration, and advice for those looking to further their career, whether that means a boost up in their current job, a new place of work, or taking a new path altogether so that reaching those goals isn’t’ just a dream.

 

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/grey-felt-journal-to-do-list-on-a-white-desk-6423/

 

Retraining Could Be A Great Option

 

If there is always something that you feel you’ve wanted to do, but simply haven’t got the qualifications; there’s no time like the present to take action and begin to retrain or train further into your chosen field of work. Many job opportunities will accept you at a lower level than you’re aiming for if they know that you’re already on the path to having the right certificates and qualifications. You’ll be able to show your willingness during job interviews, and your dedication to your potential new line of work, by being proactive and understanding the steps needed to get where you want to be.

 

Therefore, it’s worth looking online at courses, education, and degrees that you’re able to fit around your current job. It’ll be a tiring process, but well worth it in the long run. Whether you get your operations management degree online or study in a college setting for your qualification in psychology; there are a plethora of options out there, waiting to be explored. If your training is to further your current career; talk to your employer about your options, and see if they can accommodate your new schedule better.

 

When You Love Your Career, But Not Your Path

 

If you’re already working within the field that you’re happy, enjoy the majority of your responsibilities, but are craving a change of pace or scene; you could just need to see what your alternative options are in your career. Perhaps you’ve always worked on the manual side of things, and you feel that it’s time to move into an office environment. Having on-the-ground experience in a role will always ensure that you’re qualified to apply for positions elsewhere within a particular company, or take a slightly new direction within the same line of work.

 

Therefore, don’t be put off by a new environment and way of working; you could be just what a business is looking for, regarding what you can bring to a new area. Maybe you feel the opposite, and want to get your hands dirty, after being sat at your desk for years; find out what training will be needed, and articulately explain why you’ve had a change of heart regarding your role. Employers will be more open to hiring within their company than they would bringing in somebody new, so you’ll already be off to a great start.

 

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

 

Bringing that 5 star look into your living space

Bringing that 5 star look into your living space

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a luxury show home but don’t see how your budget or current situation can allow this to happen then fear not; it is possible to bring the 5 star look into your home without spending a fortune.

In fact it’s much easier than you think. All you need to do is follow these tips:

Add A Bespoke Piece

Just one bespoke piece of furniture can transform any room in your home. You need to speak to someone who specializes in residential joinery. They will be able to help you identify the piece that works best for the space you have available and your budget.

The idea is to create a piece that is practical but catches your eye. This will draw the attention of anyone entering the room and immediately create the 5 star feel.

Upgrade Your Bathroom

White is perfect for a bathroom; it will remind you of your last stay in a hotel. Revamp your bathroom to include a glass walk in shower, white tiles and perhaps, if you have room, a Jacuzzi tub. Your bathroom should also be well lit. It will scream style.

Try to keep the towels and other accessories white or a similar pale color; this will enhance the luxury feel.

Your Entrance Hall

This is the first part of your home that you and visitors see. First impressions do count!

Take a look at the stairs and consider removing the existing balustrade. You can replace it with a stylish metal one or even an invisible glass one. Alongside this you’ll need mirrors to reflect the light and a centre piece. This should be the one thing that all eyes are drawn to.

Your centerpiece will reflect the style of your home but it doesn’t need t be set n the centre of your room. Choose a nice wall space and make sure your chosen piece is well lit; just like the artwork in a lavish hotel.

Cover Your Windows

How you cover your windows can make a huge difference to how your home feels and is perceived. Take your time choosing curtains and avoid the wooden blinds. They may be effective but they won’t help you get that 5 star feel.

This is one area where you shouldn’t skimp; if necessary get a professional to make the curtains for you. They need to fit the window and open to frame it; allowing light in and creating a stylish look.

Lighting

The brighter your house is the larger it will feel and the more 5 star it should appear. Light is essential even if you don’t have a lot of windows.

You can bounce the existing light round your home through the use of mirrors and the strategic placement of lamps will help to give that light, airy feel.

Flow

It is very important to be able to move effortlessly between your rooms. Each room should be designed to serve its purpose and allow you to move freely round your home. This is similar to how a hotel designs its space and is exactly the look and feel you want.

 

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram. 

Ways to make a few extra dollars before the holiday season

Ways to make a few extra dollars before the holiday season

When it comes to prepping for the holidays, everyone feels they could use a lot more time and a little extra cash to ease the pressures of the season. Managing your time is another whole article… But here’s a few ideas that people have used to add a little extra cash flow into their mix.

Go retail

Getting a part-time job in a retail store could be a great option to make some extra dough. A lot of stores are looking for holiday help on a yearly basis. Bonus: The employee discount could benefit you in your holiday shopping.

Work the farm

Taking a seasonal job at an orchard or tree farm could give you a great outlet for earning some extra money. Bonus: Being outside and around nature is a great way to beat depression and stress. Being one with the earth and working the dirt has been known to boost the immune system.

Take a bet

Some individuals have found great benefit in playing games online to win some extra dollars. Try out games online in the comfort of your home. Bonus: Some people can take a little cash and turn it into a lot more. Gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know had a gambling addiction, seek help.

Sell your old treasures

I’m always an advocate for donating your old items around the holidays. But if you’re looking to earn a little extra cash, try selling somethings online. There’s several auction sites and consignment sites to sell your old treasures. Bonus: As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another’s treasure. Tired of that old designer bag? Fetching a few dollars while trading off for more closet space and bringing someone else joy, can get you some nice extra holiday cash.

There are plenty of ways to earn some extra money to help with the holiday. Remember, when it comes to buying gifts and things for the holidays, there are also plenty of sales to be had. Shop smart. Stress less. And enjoy the real meaning of the season…giving to those in need and spending time with those you love.
Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

The worst house in the best neighborhood vs. The best house in the worst neighborhood

The worst house in the best neighborhood vs. The best house in the worst neighborhood

 

 

One of the biggest issues when selecting a home is what neighborhood you want to live in. Conventional wisdom says that purchasing the worst house in the best neighborhood will give you all the perks of the best areas without the impressive price tag.

But, is this a good tactic or should you be looking at the best house in the worst neighborhood?

The Worst house in the Best Neighborhood

 

If you move into the best neighborhood you’ll have the opportunity to rub shoulders with the rich. However, no matter what you do to the house it is unlikely it will shoot up in price. The only way in which this would be possible is if you pumped money into your house and transformed it into something more like your neighbors.

Of course you could use a reputable service like Peter Bracey to transform the outside of your home and perhaps even extend it. But, you’ll always be competing against people that have more money to spend.

Another risk of the best neighborhood is the cost of living is likely to be higher, simply because of the area. In short, you are likely to find your finances stretched in all directions.

If you want to rub shoulders with the rich (and perhaps famous) and you’re not worried about a return on your investment then this may be the right choice for you.

The Best House In The Worst Neighborhood

If you’re looking for a bargain you may be tempted to look at the neighborhoods where others fear to tread.

This is certainly a route to getting your dream home but you’ll need to remember that you can’t move your home.

You may also struggle to sell the property as potential buyers may not be sure about the neighborhood.

In addition to this you are likely to have to deal with the problems that make it a bad neighborhood. This could include the threat of violence and damage to your property; especially if others in the neighborhood see you as better off than them and therefore an easy target.

In many ways this is not a good option unless your worst neighborhood is not actually so bad. You simply need to consider the crime rate of the neighborhood.

It is also unlikely that your home will rise in value; making the best house in the worst neighborhood no better a prospect than the worst house in the best neighborhood.

Make Your Choice

On the face of limited financial gain for either property and the additional risks that come with the worst neighborhoods you would think that the worst house in the best neighborhood is the better choice.

However, you should also consider looking for the worst house in the hottest neighborhood. This doesn’t have to be a good or bad area but one that is rapidly improving in popularity. The result is likely to be a rapid increase in the value of your property and a pleasant place to live.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram. 

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