While a major renovation project can set you back tens of thousands of dollars, there are way more affordable ways to give your home a new look.
See Our List: 100 Most Influential Money Experts Read: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch
Here are some ideas for upgrading your home that will cost just $20 or less.
Invest in New Decor and Accessories
“Whether it’s using books for decor or finding a new art piece, accessories can make a [room] feel totally new,” said Yasmine El Sanyoura, home designer at Opendoor.
You can find affordable home decor at places like Target and HomeGoods.
Know: 5 Brand-New Items at Dollar Tree That Cost Way More at Target Costco’s Best Deals? Employee Reveals 10 Standout Buys for Your Money
Rearrange Your Furniture
Moving around the layout of your furniture can instantly make a room look and feel different, and this is an upgrade you can make at no cost.
Take Our Poll: Are You Planning To Buy or Sell a House This Year?
Change Out Your Throw Pillows
Switching out your throw pillows can give your living room or bedroom a new look.
“Throw pillows are magical,” said Lisa Modica, interior designer and owner of Cherry Tree Interior Design. “Grab some in a few colors and patterns that match your color palette in your room, fluff them on your sofas and chairs, and you’re set.”
DIY Art
If you’re artistically inclined, consider painting a mural on a blank wall or DIYing your own canvas art. You can find plenty of inspiration on places like Pinterest.
Opt for Thrifted Furniture
Thrifted furniture can be pricey, but you can also find gently used furniture that people are giving away for free. Check places like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for furniture steals.
“When you’re shopping for used furniture, there are a few things to keep in mind,” said Dan Wiener, founder of Homedude. “First, make sure the furniture is in good condition. Second, make sure the furniture is the right size for your room. Third, make sure the price is right. And fourth, make sure the style of the furniture matches your home décor. Often, gently used furniture can be found at a fraction of the price of new furniture.”
Add a Chic Throw Blanket
Throw blankets instantly add warmth and dimension to a room. You can find affordable throws at Walmart and Target.
Save More: 8 Items To Stop Buying at Grocery Stores If You Want To Save Money
Bring in Some Greenery
“Plants are an inexpensive way to upgrade your living spaces,” said Stefan Bucur, founder of The Rhythm of the Home. “They add fresh greenery and a lively presence.”
You can find small- to medium-sized houseplants at affordable prices at places like Trader Joe’s and Home Depot. Faux greenery is often even cheaper, and you can find small fake plants for $20 or less at Target.
Declutter and Organize
A thorough decluttering session can make a space look refreshed, and it doesn’t cost a thing.
“A cluttered area always looks less impressive than an organized area,” Bucur said.
Restyle Your Bookshelf
Bookshelves can make a statement — or they can just look messy. Consider restyling your bookshelf by arranging books by color, and adding small affordable decorative pieces to tie everything together.
More From GOBankingRates
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 9 Easy Ways To Update Your Home for $20 or Less
Images of devastation emerged after the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. We watched water sweep away vehicles and houses; we saw stunned men and weeping women in the ruins. But we also heard about survivors whose homes weren’t flattened or inundated, people who subsisted on stockpiled food and water while waiting for help. Living on the “Ring of Fire” means temblors and tidal waves are a fact of life — and so is disaster preparedness.
We need to be prepared, too. The Department of Homeland Security’s Ready America program says we should be able to sustain ourselves for at least three days after an emergency, whether that’s a hundred-year storm or a civil insurrection. How ready are you?
Right now, before anything bad happens, is the time to build your emergency kit — and you can do it on a budget. In fact, you probably already have some (or a lot) of what you need.
The (Sometimes Icky) Basics
During those three days you need to be fed, hydrated and sheltered. You also need a place to poop.
Yeah, that’s gross. You know what else is gross? The idea of everyone in your apartment building or subdivision yelling “Gardyloo!” and flinging slops out the window. Cholera epidemic, anyone?
When I was a kid, predictions of bad weather had us filling bathtub and buckets. That’s because if we lost power we lost our well pump, i.e., no way to flush the toilets. That’s still the first line of short-term defense; if you have any warning, stash yourself some water.
When that’s gone you’ll need at least one large container into which everyone can evacuate. Maybe a repurposed five-gallon detergent, paint or pet-litter bucket? If you don’t have one:
It’s possible to buy a toilet seat that snaps onto a bucket, which makes things easier. Or buy a prefab one (search online for “bucket toilet”) for $20 or less. Decide now where you’ll put your temporary toilet. The garage? The back porch? Maybe even in the actual bathroom? Anywhere but the place where you plan to eat and sleep. Trust me on this.
Ready for an overshare? Here’s how I’d handle disposal if the you-know-what hits the fan here in Seattle:
Use the bucket (in a former life, it held detergent)
Put soiled paper into a garbage bag (and tie it really tightly between uses)
Flush the contents of each, little by little, once the emergency has abated
Please do not do your business in the condo-complex yard, no matter how much fun it is to pee outdoors.
Important: You’ll want a bottle of hand sanitizer close to the bucket. Really close. E. coli is nothing to fool with.
Food and Drink
Ready America recommends one gallon of water per person per day. It’s easy to buy bottled water but much cheaper to fill up two-liter soda bottles, or inexpensive pitchers or jugs. (Don’t drink soda? Surely someone you know does.)
Refill the containers every few months; mark it on the calendar so you don’t forget. Don’t just dump the old water, though. Use it in some way, such as:
Watering houseplants or your garden
Bathing (add hot water unless you like your tub-time tepid)
Cooking
Filling pet dishes
Doing hand laundry
Washing vegetables or fruit
When it comes to emergency rations, you can go as stripped-down or as fancy as you like. But it must be something you’d eat anyway, because you’ll need to rotate and replace your stock. If an earthquake happens six years from now, do you want to be eating 2011 ramen?
Some obvious choices:
Canned beans, stews, soups, fruits, vegetables, meats and/or fish
Protein bars, granola bars, dried fruit
Powdered milk and cereal
Peanut butter or other nut butters
Crackers or pilot bread; I recommend the latter, because it lasts for-freakin’-ever
Note: For more on pilot bread, see this funny video from The Anchorage Daily News.
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Then watch a second, even funnier video from the same source.
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If you’ll have a way to heat water, consider a few instant soups or other dehydrated foods such as hummus or bean dip. Flavored noodle cups/bowls do go on sale; check Asian markets for the best selection. Hot drinks are both warming and soothing, so stock up on bouillon cubes, teabags, instant coffee and hot chocolate mix.
Survival Shopping at Bargain Prices
The camping section of your local sporting-goods stores has quite a selection of dehydrated meals. So do online stores that sell survival/disaster preparedness supplies. But I’m focusing on inexpensive ways to prepare.
So watch for sales and use coupons and/or rebates when possible. A few of my better supermarket deals: envelopes of pre-drained tuna for free, granola bars for a penny each, cocoa mix for 5 cents per serving, a large bag of M&Ms for 50 cents, 12 ounces of peanuts for 69 cents.
Olives, marinated veggies, sun-dried tomatoes and other fancy foodstuffs from the dollar store will liven up your basic grub. After two days of PBJs and canned beans, a few pickled vegetable will taste like manna.
The dollar store has cheap bandages and rubbing alcohol, too. So do places like CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid; I’ve obtained baby wipes (aka “shower in a pouch”), hand sanitizer, analgesics, energy bars, crackers and batteries free or nearly free thanks to rebate programs at those stores.
About those batteries: Aim for at least one flashlight per room. Hand-cranked flashlights (and radios) don’t need batteries. If you can’t afford one right now, put it on your wish list; maybe Great-Aunt Irene will give you that instead of a cheese log next Christmas.
If you must use candles, select votive-type ones and set them inside wide-mouthed jars, placed in areas where no one can accidentally knock them down. Buy the votives for pennies at post-holiday clearance sales. Those sales are also good for cheap paper plates and bowls — not eco-friendly but really useful if you can’t do dishes for days.
Layering is essential in cool or cold temperatures. Watch for thermal underwear, wool pants and other useful items on Craigslist/Freecycle or at yard sales. I bought polypropylene longhandles and a down vest at a thrift store. Make sure everyone has a stocking cap, too.
Look around your house to see how much of this stuff you already own. Most of us at least have sweaters or sweatshirts. If you’re not in a super-cold area, a comforter might double as a sleeping bag. A hibachi could substitute for a bottled-gas camp stove — but remember you can use these things outdoors only, because carbon monoxide is deadly.
Miscellaneous Tips
You can’t truly be ready for a disaster. It’s always stressful and often terrifying. However, you can at least be prepared. Here are a few more items to keep in mind:
Learn the location of your local/regional emergency shelter, just in case.
Keep a cache of cash — smalls bills and coins — on hand. No power means no debit or credit if you do find a store that’s open.
Put supplies where you can get at them easily, not down in the crawlspace or up in the rafters.
Wheeled garbage cans make great storage: Your items will be protected and movable. Label each one so you can find what you need, fast.
Water left over after making tea? Don’t let it get cold again — pour it into a thermos.
You’ll want basic first-aid supplies, including an anti-diarrheal medication. Many of these items can also be bought cheaply or free with those drugstore rebates.
On maintenance meds? Get in the habit of refilling as soon as you’re allowed, i.e., don’t wait until you take your last pill to call it in.
Choose no-salt canned vegetables. Not only are they healthier, you can use the drained-off liquid to dilute canned soup. Save the syrup from canned fruits, too, to sip for quick energy, settle an upset stomach or sweeten a cup of tea.
Don’t forget pet food and litter. Factor in extra water for Fido and Fluffy, too.
Have some playing cards or small games that everyone can play. I suggest Mad Libs.
Make sure you have a manual can opener. You’ll feel darned stupid asking to borrow a neighbor’s.
How about it, readers: Any ideas for getting ready without breaking the bank?
Inside: A biweekly budget is a budget that is broken into two-week periods. Learn how to create biweekly budgets and download your free template.
Many people create budgets, but only a few budget on a biweekly basis.
That is an interesting statistic because 43% of Americans are paid on a biweekly pay period (source).
So, the thought process is more people should be interested in learning knowing how to create a biweekly budget. But, in reality, most people give up on budgeting or move to a budget-by-paycheck method.
Recently, we moved over to a biweekly pay period. And thus, we quickly had to change how we focused on budgeting.
While most financial bloggers and gurus would agree, budgeting with biweekly paychecks makes the whole concept of budgeting hard.
While biweekly budgeting isn’t easy, it can be done!
This post will show you how to create an easy-to-manage and effective biweekly budget so that you can conquer your financial goals in the most efficient way possible!
We will go through the exact steps I use to create a biweekly budget to cover two weeks’ worth of expenses, get one month ahead on your bills, or adjust your planning to cover your monthly expenses.
This is a basic example, and you should use your own personal situation when developing your own budget.
Do you struggle to keep your finances on track? If so, here are some tips for creating a biweekly budget.
What is a biweekly budget?
A biweekly budget is a budget that takes into account a person collecting a paycheck every 14 days. This type of budget is beneficial for those who are paid on a biweekly schedule, as it allows them to plan their spending more effectively.
However, many people find it difficult when bills are due on a monthly basis.
Difference between biweekly and semi-monthly paychecks
When receiving paychecks twice a month happens with two types of pay schedules either biweekly or twice-per-month. The difference between these two schedules is the number of checks per year.
Those who are paid biweekly receive 26 checks per year, while those who are paid twice-per-month receive 24 checks per year.
Making a budget on a biweekly income can be difficult because the total number of checks received in a year varies depending on the pay schedule you have.
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How does a biweekly budget work?
A biweekly budget divides your budget into two parts, one for each paycheck that is received. This can be helpful for those who want to better track their spending or for those who want to save money.
It can be helpful to think of your biweekly budget as two separate budgets – one for bills and one for everything else.
When you create a biweekly budget, you are essentially creating two budgets over the span of ten months. Then, in the other two months, you will receive three paychecks; thus, need to create three budgets.
Since many monthly expenses remain the same when switching from a month budget to a biweekly budget, knowing which expenses should be increased or decreased beforehand can make the process smoother.
Additionally, it is helpful to know how much money you will need for each check. That way, you won’t have to worry about bouncing checks or accidentally overdrawing your account.
How to create a biweekly budget
Creating a biweekly budget is a great way to start getting your finances in order. You can either create your own template or use one of the many templates that are available online for free.
One popular template is ours!
Money Bliss Biweekly Budget Template (see below to get your copy). This template is available as a free download and can be used in conjunction with our budget binder. The planner allows you to track your income and expenses, as well as financial documents such as bills and bank statements.
There are a few key things to keep in mind when creating a biweekly budget:
Adjust your budget as needed.
Be flexible when adjusting to this 2 week budget style.
Compare your regular expenses to your spending from the past month.
Now, here are the steps to creating a biweekly budget that works.
Step 1: Print out a calendar
You need to print out the dates you get paid from your employer. On the biweekly paycheck, Fridays are usually pay dates; you just need to know which Fridays!
So, print out a blank calendar. Write down when you get paid along with when your bills and expenses are due.
This will help you get an idea of where you are spending your money and where you can cut back.
Many people find it helpful to color code by category and add stickers. This will help you see your budget at a glance.
Step 2: Put in a buffer
This will help ensure that you don’t have to worry about going into debt if something unexpected comes up.
Ideally, you should try to save at least two weeks’ worth of living expenses so that you know you’ll be able to cover your costs even if something goes wrong.
For us, all of our income goes into an “income checking” account. Then, at the beginning of the month, we transfer money into our “bills checking” to cover our expenses for the month.
Then, we always have at least one month of expenses on hand – just in case.
Step 3: Organize expenses
The easiest way to do this is by category. There are a few different ways to categorize your expenses, but the most common are:
Fixed or recurring expenses: These are expenses that happen every month, like rent or utilities
Variable or occasional expenses: These are expenses that happen each month but vary in amount, like groceries or entertainment
Annual or quarterly expenses: These costs are less frequent, but take a good chunk of your budget like an annual insurance payment or kid’s sports fees
One-time only expenses: These are one-time only costs and you don’t anticipate them again.
For most people, the struggle happens when organizing expenses. The expenses you “forgot” about are what blow your budget. Honestly, these are not forgotten expenses – just something you forgot to plan for.
Step 4: Focus on Zero Based Budgeting
Additionally, it’s important to use a zero-based budgeting approach.
With this method, you start by assigning every penny of income a job, whether it be for rent, groceries, or savings. This way, you can make sure that you’re not overspending each month.
A zero-based budget is a type of budget that starts with the assumption that there is nothing in your bank account.
This includes both predictable and unpredictable costs.
In the next steps, you will lay out what paycheck will cover what bills.
For example, some costs, like your rent or mortgage payment, will likely stay the same from one biweekly period to the next. By taking into account both types of expenses, you can get a more accurate picture of how much money you will need each pay period.
Learn more about zero based budgeting.
Step 5: Write your first biweekly budget
Writing a biweekly budget is the first step to creating financial stability. It’s important that you set up a plan for each paycheck to make sure your bills get paid.
When creating your first biweekly zero-based budget, you’ll want to start by paying your immediate obligations. This includes any bills or fixed expenses like rent or car payments that are due during the first pay period. After that, focus on covering your variable expenses such as groceries, gas, or eating out.
To make sure every dollar has a job, you should consider these tips:
If you have any leftover money at the end of the month, send it to your savings or make extra debt payments.
Make sure that each category in your budget has a specific amount assigned to it.
Keep track of your spending so that you can stay on track and adjust as needed.
Paying your most important bills first is a crucial step in making sure that your finances are on track.
Step 6: Write Your second biweekly budget
The second biweekly budget is a budget that’s typically created for the 2nd paycheck of the month. This budget would cover the next two weeks and may need to cover expenses at the beginning of next month before you get paid again.
Just like creating a budget plan for the 1st paycheck, you will do the same again. Prioritize any fixed expenses first, then add in variable expenses or sinking funds to contribute to.
In order to make your budget as accurate as possible, you should account for fluctuations in your expenses. This is where the buffer comes in – you put a certain amount of money aside each month to cover any unexpected costs. Then, you can start planning for them in the upcoming months.
Once again, if you have leftover money after budgeting for the two weeks, you can either send it to your savings account or start paying down your debt. If you choose to save, make sure that the money is in a place where it will earn interest and grow over time. If you choose to pay down debt, make sure that the payments are more than the minimum amount due so that you can see results quickly.
Step 7: Start tracking
Now that you have your biweekly budget template set up, it’s time to start filling in the numbers and track your budget. This part can be a little tricky, but with a little effort, you’ll be able to save money and get ahead on your debt payments.
First, take a look at your income and expenses for the month. How does this compare to what you’ve budgeted? If you’re coming in under budget in some areas, great! You can either use this extra money to bolster your savings or make extra debt payments. However, if you’re over budget in some areas, don’t worry – we’ll work through that below.
Next, take a look at your sinking funds.
These are accounts where you save money each month to cover specific expenses. How much money do you need to save each month in order to cover your bills? If you’re not sure, take a look at your past bills and use that as a guide. Once you know how much money you need to save, divide it by two and put that amount into your biweekly budget.
This will help ensure that you always have the money you need saved when the bill comes due.
If you have any leftover money after filling in your budget, send it to savings or make extra debt payments.
You can also use this extra money to invest in yourself (by taking classes, for example), but be careful not to overspend!
Creating and sticking to a biweekly budget is a great way to start saving money and getting your finances under control.
Biweekly budgeting tips
When it comes to budgeting, biweekly budgets can be a helpful way to streamline the process. By taking an hour or so at the beginning of each month to set up your budget, you can avoid potential headaches down the road.
It’s also important to remember to write everything down! This includes both fixed and variable expenses.
Tip #1 – Change Due Dates of Bills
If you’re having trouble with your bills, don’t hesitate to call companies and ask them to change the due dates.
This is something I do whenever I open a new credit card. I want the credit card date to close at the end of the month.
Tip #2 – Age Your Money
You may also want to save up for one month’s worth of expenses so that you always have a cushion in case something unexpected comes up.
This is also the first step to stop living paycheck to paycheck.
When you have a cushion of savings, you’re less likely to fall into debt if something unexpected happens.
Tip #3 – Track Your 2 Week Budget
There are plenty of tools for budgeting out there. In fact, here are the best budgeting apps available.
It offers a variety of helpful tips for getting started, as well as ways to automate time-consuming tasks. With this tool, you’ll be able to improve your budgeting and financial insights in no time!
Many popular options include a budgeting app, Excel, or Google Sheets. Pick what works best for you
Tip #4 – Focus on Your Goals & Finances
In order to be successful, you’ll need to set financial goals for yourself and make plans to achieve them.
As with any other goal, it’s easier said than done! It can take a lot of time, work, and effort to reach your goal.
If you’re not sure where to begin or what goals are right for you, here are some examples:
This is just a sample of the types of goals you can set. If you’re not sure where to start, just think about what’s important to you and your family.
What are some financial goals that you have? Write down your goals and make a plan to achieve them.
What to avoid when you’re paid biweekly
When you’re paid biweekly, there are a few things you should avoid in order to make the most of your money.
You need to learn which payment type is best if you are trying to stick to a budget.
Since biweekly budgeting can be more difficult, you need to know the pitfalls to avoid.
Pitfall #1 – Spending All your Money Too Quick
First, don’t spend your money as soon as you get it. This will leave you with nothing left for the following two weeks.
When having to use one paycheck to cover most of your big expenses like mortgage/rent or insurance, that leaves very little money for groceries or gas
Try to have a savings goal and save for that.
For example, don’t wait until the end of the month to spend all your money. This can help you save more money and have something left over at the end of the month.
Pitfall #2 – Forgetting Bills
Second, don’t forget to budget for bills and other expenses. Make sure you have enough money to cover your costs, especially those non-frequent bills like car registration.
By doing this, you’ll be able to ensure that you have enough money each week to cover what you need.
Pitful # 3 – Quit Bi-Weekly Budget Completely
Yep, I get it budgeting your paycheck over a 2-week budget is difficult. It may feel like pushing a square through a circle. It takes a different mindset and a little more planning to make it happen.
If anything, try to avoid impulse buys. Wait until the next paycheck and see if you still want the purchase. That will help you not to overspend on unnecessary items.
What to do when you have a third paycheck?
This is the BEST benefit of a biweekly paycheck. Twice a year, you will receive 3 paychecks in a month instead of just two.
Looking forward to having a third paycheck, you can either save it or spend it.
If you save it, you can use it as a down payment on a house or invest it in a retirement fund. If you spend it, you can use it to pay down debt, remodel a house, buy a new-to-you car, or go on a vacation.
There are a few things you can do when you have an extra paycheck:
Use it to pay down debt: If you have high-interest debts, using your third paycheck to pay them off can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Invest it: If you’re comfortable with taking on some risk, investing your extra paycheck could lead to bigger returns down the road.
Sinking Funds: Those yearly expenses can weigh heavily on your budget. So, set extra money aside for those payments.
Put the money towards your goals: Whatever your ambition is, here is money to help you get there faster.
Spend it on something fun: Obviously, this isn’t the smartest option, but if you’ve been working hard and deserve a little treat, go for it!
Just make sure that you’re not spending more than you can afford.
Free Printable Bi weekly Budget Templates
There are a number of different printable 2 week budget templates that can help you get your finances in order. Most of them are simple and easy-to-use, and they’re not scary to look at. In addition, many of them have templates that you can download and/or punch holes into so that you can use them as binders or notebooks.
One great option is the budget tracking worksheet. This cute template is simple yet effective, and it will help you track your spending each month.
How do you make a monthly budget with biweekly pay?
There are a couple of ways to make a monthly budget if you receive biweekly paychecks. You can either budget by paycheck, divide out your expenses between biweekly paychecks, or focus on a monthly budget.
If you choose to budget by paycheck, you’ll create a new budget for each pay period and then stick to it. This method gives you a better understanding of the flow of money in your bank account and will help you keep track of your bills more carefully.
The other option is to budget monthly, which is for people who live paycheck to paycheck. In this case, you would budget off 24 paychecks and make plans for your two budget paychecks. Then, two of your paychecks would be budgeted for the monthly budget.
However, many people argue the Budget-By-Paycheck method can help reduce stress since it allows for more flexibility.
In either case, it’s important that you track your spending throughout the month so that you can make adjustments as needed.
Time to Create Your Bi weekly Budget Calendar
This budget will be a little more complicated than your monthly budget because your paychecks are not always going to be paid on the same day of the month. However, most of your bills are usually fixed and don’t change from month to month.
So, you need to plot out which bills you will pay with each paycheck ahead of time in order to make sure you have enough money to pay them all and keep them organized.
It is important to remember that when creating your budget, you need to give yourself some grace to make sure it works for you while you work on perfecting your budgeting style.
For us, having a buffer of money in our “income checking” account takes away the stress of bills and anxiety that we will run out of money. We understand that we need to use sinking funds for those variable expenses.
However, it is important to note that a biweekly budget tends to forget events such as birthdays or vacations from being considered in spending plans. So, make sure to include them.
Now that you have a good idea of how much money you make and how much money you need to live comfortably, it’s time to start creating your biweekly budget.
Also, taking time to understand your personal financial statement is important.
From all of the free and paid budgeting apps, here are our top budgeting apps to check out!
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Do you have HIV and need life insurance? Honestly, to save you a lot of time and energy please understand that your options are limited. Get in touch with someone who knows the limited number of life insurance companies that will offer a policy for someone being treated with AIDS.
Sometimes people ask me about HIV life insurance, and I tell them you don’t need to talk to 20 different agents or insurance company representatives, because you probably are aware that there are only a few options to buy life insurance if you have HIV and are being treated for it.
The Basics about Getting Life Insurance with HIV
Finding affordable life insurance can be daunting no matter what. But finding life insurance with HIV can be even more daunting due to the pre-existing medical condition that could trigger an early payout from an insurance company. Obviously life insurance companies are in the business of managing their risks and their business to a profitable level.
They must underwrite the applications they receive from consumers looking to buy life insurance. This means they have to have general guidelines for their agents and underwriters to decide whether they will issue a policy to a particular applicant.
If the life expectancy of a certain individual is shortened due to a medical condition like AIDS, then their options to buy life insurance just took a nose dive.
However, there is good news for AIDS patients who need life insurance.
Life insurance companies have been under Social Pressure for years to offer some type of HIV life insurance
Recent studies have indicated that the life expectancy for patients diagnosed with AIDS has increased. There has been more data available in the last few years that have indicated an improved mortality rate for those with HIV.
Life Insurance Options to Consider
Like I mentioned earlier, your medical condition is limiting the choices you have to choose between various life insurance companies. Listed below are the 4 most popular options when considering buying life insurance:
Group life insurance from your employer – generally the amount of death benefit available in this situation would be around $10,000 if you are the employee, and possibly only up to $5,000 if you are the Spouse, or Domestic Partner.
Action Point: If you work for a small employer, then you might be able to ask the business owner to see if they can increase the Death Benefit to up to $50,000 for employees and up to $25,000 for spouses or partners.
Voluntary life insurance from your employer – this might be your best bet to get a higher death benefit up to $75,000 or $100,000 without evidence of insurability. There are more and more life insurance companies that are promoting their voluntary life insurance program to employers. Some of these companies with even go down to 5 or 10 employees and still offer some type of Guaranteed Death benefit amount to employees. A few of these will also offer a guaranteed amount to spouses or partners.
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance – The most common type of insurance coverage that someone can qualify for with HIV is guaranteed issue life insurance. This is the type of life insurance that does not require a medical exam or ask health questions.
Most of these companies have a maximum issue amount of around $10,000 of death benefit. Of course, these policies are more expensive than normal, but at least an individual with HIV could still get life insurance coverage.
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Underwriting Factors for HIV Positive People
There are various factors that life insurance companies consider when setting the premiums for individual’s that are HIV positive.
How advanced is the HIV disease?
There are three stages of HIV infection and the process is typically slow. The primary infection or the initial stage of infection is distinguished by flu like symptoms. The second stage is the longest typically lasting 8-10 years with no symptoms. The third stage is when the body’s immune system is weakened and symptoms are usually caused by other illness such as cancer or pneumonia that they have contracted.
So one of the items taken into consideration is how advanced the individual’s HIV is. They also do understand that medicine has advanced and there are now medications that slow the progression of the disease.
If the individual’s HIV turns into AIDS then it is probable that the life insurance company will no longer offer their traditional life insurance coverage to that individual.
What is the life insurance applicant’s age?
One of the insurance companies that will consider someone with HIV for a traditional insurance policy requires the patient to be between the ages of 21 and 49, while another company prefers the applicant to be at least 45 years old, and another one requires the person to be 50 years old to get insurance coverage. For the group life insurance and guaranteed insurance plans age mainly affects the life rates but not the underwriting.
What is the general health of the individual with HIV?
Life insurance companies also will want to know how active is the applicant from a daily lifestyle basis and are they able to work, hold down a job, etc. They want to see someone who obviously is not on their death bed, but can still function and can live a physically active lifestyle.
Does the person have other serious medical conditions?
This makes sense that if someone infected with HIV also has pneumonia or cancer, or some other disease that could be a result of a weakening immune disease, then the life insurance company may not offer an insurance policy. Another illness related to HIV that concerns life insurance companies is Hepatitis B and C.
Is the patient undergoing treatment?
Life insurance companies also prefer that the applicant is currently taking the antiretroviral medication to prolong the life of the individual. Even though there is no cure for the disease, promising results from this type of combination therapy is one of the reasons that life insurance companies began offering life insurance policies to people who are positive for the HIV virus.
What if you Already Have Life Insurance
If you happen to be one of the lucky ones that already had a life insurance policy prior to being diagnosed with HIV, then by all means do the best you can to continue to pay premiums and keep your life insurance policy in force.
Why Buy Life Insurance if you have AIDS
HIV or human immunodeficiency virus is a retrovirus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). AIDS causes failure of the immune system which allows life threatening infections to thrive, and is a major contributing factor which can lead to a premature death.
HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and the exchange of bodily fluids mainly blood to blood exchanges. Sharing needles and syringes from illegal drug use are common causes of blood to blood exchanges that result in HIV and eventually AIDS.
For an individual with AIDS who is confronted with the reality of death, buying or having life insurance can serve at least 2 purposes:
The first purpose of having life insurance is generally for the coverage of funeral and burial costs, which eases the financial burden that the survivors have to cover.
The second purpose for having life insurance is providing financial legacy for those left behind which can be used to pay for any medical debt incurred before death. Having trouble finding health insurance with HIV often leaves many families of HIV/AIDS patients with massive medical debt to pay.
Life insurance provides individuals with HIV and their families the safety of knowing that they will be taken care of in the event of death (whether from HIV or another medical reason).
Other Considerations with a Life Insurance Policy
Beneficiary – This can be a difficult decision for the policy owner for an applicant with medical problems. My recommendation would be to consider making the beneficiary the person most responsible for taking care of any debt obligations, as well as who will be responsible for making potential funeral arrangements. Keep in mind that life insurance proceeds do not go through probate, so the beneficiary will probably be dealing with the life insurance death claim, and not necessarily the Executor of the will.
By the way, if you don’t have a will – get one.
Accelerated Benefit Rider – If the insured is diagnosed with a terminal illness (terminal meaning within 12 to 24 months, depending on the insurer), then some policies will go ahead and pay out sometimes up to 50% of the death benefit. The one caution here is that it is actually sometimes paid out as a loan, and you are charged interest against the loan. If the insured then lives a long time beyond the 12 to 24 months, the ongoing interest will lessen the balance of the death benefit once death occurs.
Sell your life insurance policy if you need money now– This is known in the insurance industry as a Viatical Settlement. There are companies that will buy out your life insurance policy so the policy owner can benefit from the proceeds while still alive. This was more commonplace prior to insurance companies offering the Accelerated Benefit Rider.
HIV is a difficult illness to live with and finding life insurance with HIV can also be difficult. An individual that is diagnosed with HIV should look into getting life insurance as soon as they are able before the disease progresses.
Gather the following arsenal: a saw (bonus points for a miter saw), a drill, wood screws, high-strength wood glue, a tape measure, sandpaper, stain, and spray paint. In addition, have a level within reach, just in case your creation starts to resemble the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Next, decide on the frame’s style. Ensure it reflects — pun intended — your taste and blends effortlessly into your current décor. Fancying a rustic, farmhouse vibe that would make Chip and Joanna Gaines proud? Or, perhaps, a chic, contemporary vibe or something whimsical and eclectic is more your style.
While investing in fancy lumber is tempting, let’s not forget we’re on a budget. Reclaimed wood is a fantastic choice for a rustic look, but it might cost you more. If you land regular lumber, worry less. Well-chosen and skillfully applied stains can transform even the most ordinary piece of wood into a breathtaking masterpiece that matches your chosen style.
Measuring your mirror helps with the dimensions of your frame. So, it’s not those moments you eyeball it and hope for the best. Consider the proportions of the mirror and the surrounding space to achieve perfect harmony. An oversized frame can create a bold statement and visually balance bulky items within an area, yet it might overwhelm a small room. On the other hand, a slender frame offers a more subtle, minimalistic look but could ultimately look visually weak.
Mortgage Investors Group, or MIG for short, has a familiar story in that they were founded by a small group of loan officers before growing into a billion-dollar independent mortgage bank.
What makes them more special is the fact that they’ve been around since 1989, a testament to their staying power in the very unforgiving mortgage industry.
That means surviving a few housing booms and busts, yet carrying on and continuing to grow along the way.
A couple of their claims to fame include being the Tennessee Housing Development Agency’s (THDA) top lender annually since 2003.
And the number one USDA home loan lender in Tennessee every year since 2014. Let’s learn more about them.
Mortgage Investors Group Fast Facts
Direct-to-consumer retail mortgage lender
Offers home purchase loans, refinances, and reverse mortgages
Founded in 1989, headquartered in Knoxville, TN
Funded about $4 billion in home loans last year
The 3rd largest mortgage lender in the state of Tennessee
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency’s (THDA) top lender since 2003
The #1 USDA home loan lender in TN since 2014
Mortgage Investors Group is a direct-to-consumer retail mortgage lender based out of Knoxville, Tennessee (pictured above is the Sunsphere from the 1982 World’s Fair there).
As noted, they got started all the way back in 1989 by co-founders Chuck Tonkin II and Chrissi Rhea, along with five colleagues.
Today, the company has grown to 26 branch locations and 450 employees, with more than $20 billion in closed loans since inception.
This means you can apply for a mortgage at a local branch or online via their website.
Last year, they mustered nearly $4 billion in total loan volume, despite only working in the Southeast.
They’re licensed in just nine states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
In their home state, they are the third largest lender, beaten out only by behemoth Rocket Mortgage and megabank Wells Fargo.
The company is also quite active in nearby Alabama and Georgia, the #1 USDA loan lender in Tennessee, and the top Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) lender since 2003.
Roughly 60% of their volume consisted of home purchase loans, meaning they’re probably a good choice for a home buyer.
The rest was made up of mortgage refinances, home improvement loans, and reverse mortgages, all of which are geared toward existing homeowners.
How to Apply with Mortgage Investors Group
To get started, you can either visit their website or head over to a local branch if one happens to be situated nearby.
Their website offers a wealth of information, including how-to guides, mortgage calculators, a mortgage glossary, and a loan officer directory.
You can search for loan officers by location or name, then apply directly from their webpage once you find the individual you’d like to work with.
MIG offers a digital mortgage application that uses the latest technology to ensure a quick and pain-free loan process.
This includes the ability to fill out an app from a smartphone or computer, eSign disclosures, and scan and upload documents.
Additionally, their on-site underwriting, loan processing, closing, and appraisal services mean you can get to the finish line without delays.
This is especially handy in a competitive housing market where time is money and then some.
Available Loan Programs at Mortgage Investors Group
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term, cash out, streamline
Conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
Jumbo loans
FHA loans
VA loans
USDA loans
Reverse mortgages
Reverse purchase mortgages
Georgia Dream loans
THDA loans
Down payment assistance loans
Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options available in various loan terms
One standout area for Mortgage Investors Group is their selection of loan programs, which is seemingly endless.
Aside from all the usual stuff like loans backed by Fannie, Freddie, and the FHA/USDA/VA, they offer jumbo loans, reverse mortgages and even reverse purchase mortgages.
They also have several options for first-time home buyers and low-to-moderate income borrowers, including the Georgia Dream loan and THDA loans.
Their Home Court Advantage program offers up to 105% of the purchase price and includes a second mortgage that can cover down payment, closing costs, and other prepaid items.
Both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages are available in various loan terms, including 15-year fixed mortgages and 5/1 ARMs.
They lend on all major property types, including single-family homes, condos/townhomes, and multi-unit investment properties.
Mortgage Investors Group Rates
Mortgage Investors Group says they’re here to get you an affordable mortgage with award-winning service, but they don’t post their mortgage rates online.
In order to get pricing, you’ll either need to call up a loan officer on the phone or fill out a preliminary application online to get in touch with one.
At that point, you’ll you be able to receive a mortgage rate quote and determine what lender fees they charge, if any.
Because they don’t publicize mortgage rates, the only real hint we have is customer reviews, which are generally favorable.
But pricing will always depend on the loan scenario in question. And you should always obtain several mortgage rate quotes to ensure you don’t miss a lower-priced, quality option.
Be sure to compare Mortgage Investors Group’s quoted mortgage APR to other lenders, which factors in both lender fees and the interest rate.
Mortgage Investors Group Reviews
Over on Zillow, Mortgage Investors Group has an almost-perfect 4.97-star rating out of 5 from over 2,500 customer reviews.
Many of the recent reviews indicate that the interest rate and/or closing costs were lower than anticipated, a good sign if you want a low-cost mortgage.
They’ve also got a perfect 5.0-star rating from over 100 Google reviews, along with a 4.7-star rating on Facebook from roughly 130 reviews.
The company is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and currently holds an ‘A+’ rating based on customer complaint history.
Speaking of, they’ve only had one complaint closed over the past three years.
To summarize, Mortgage Investors Group seems to be a particularly good choice for home buyers thanks to their wide range of first-time home buyers loan programs.
This is especially true for those short on down payment funds or income, as they work extensively with the Tennessee Housing Development Agency and USDA.
But they’re also quite active when it comes to mortgage refinancing as well, so they could also be a great choice for an existing homeowner too if their mortgage rates and fees are competitive.
Mortgage Investors Group Pros and Cons
The Good
Offer a digital mortgage application and in-house processing/underwriting
Can apply for a home loan from any device or in-branch with a human
Tons of loan programs to choose from including first-time home buyer and reverse mortgages
Excellent customer reviews across ratings websites
A+ BBB rating
Lots of free loan calculators and how-to guides on their website
Website also available in Spanish
The Maybe Not
Only licensed in a handful of states in the Southeast
Do not publicize mortgage rates or lender fees online
Are you looking for ways to save money on your weekly family budget? Look no further!
With discounts on food, to toys, to clothing, to household items, and more, Dollar General offers a lot of deals to help stretch your hard-earned dollars. I’ll dive into the particulars of how to find not only the clearance items but also the penny deals.
If you are new to penny shopping, I’ll explain the program, and at the bottom of this post, you can find the penny list and clearance items to help you save big and keep more money in your pocket!
Just want this week’s list? Click here to see the latest deals!
What is the Dollar General Penny list?
What are penny deals, you may ask? If you can catch the deal in time, you can buy all sorts of items from your local Dollar General store for just one penny!
Penny items are products that are being cleared out of the store. This can be from a product that is being discontinued or has gone past the 90% off clearance price. Penny items are generally supposed to be taken off the shelves already, but many stores don’t clear these in time. These discounted items ring up as a penny so the sales associates can easily identify them and know to pull the rest from the shelves.
How does Dollar General penny shopping work?
Penny shopping isn’t for the faint of heart. It will take determination and visiting the store in person – and that doesn’t guarantee success.
Every Tuesday, select items are discounted to one penny. Most weeks, there will be penny items, but some weeks won’t. To stay up-to-date, check out my list below to see what items are being discounted.
There are a few frustrating things to be aware of when shopping for penny items. For one, just because an item has been listed for a penny doesn’t mean your store will have them because the employees have pulled them. These items are usually donated locally or sent back to the manufacturer. Also, you will find that in some stores, the item may be listed as a penny, and the store 1 mile down the road doesn’t.
The other frustrating thing is that while the registers of most stores will have the updated prices once the store opens on Tuesday morning, some of the newer systems don’t update until later in the day and sometimes not until Wednesday.
Last, just because you scored a deal, some stores may not let you purchase penny items once they ring up as $0.01 at the register. Most stores aren’t going to fight this, but while I haven’t had an issue at my stores, I’ve heard stories of some stores not allowing the sale.
To use the app, don’t enter the UPC in the search bar. Instead, click on the scanner icon on the search bar and then click “enter barcode number”
Click on the scanner icon
Enter the barcode number
How to check for penny deals?
A powerful tool to help search for which stores have the deals is the Dollar General app (iOS / Android). While you can’t use te DG app to search for penny items exclusively, you can use the app to do a price check by scanning the UPC (Universal Product Code) of the items before headding to the register. Word of advice – the app is able to check prices in real-time, so make sure the app has been updated before checking prices so the new markdowns are loaded.
A UPC is a bar code on the packaging that is used to scan the item.Here is a picture of what you are looking for.
The Dollar General app is fairly accurate on pricing, but there have been exceptions. Generally, if the app shows either $0.00 or $0.01, the price for that item is usually a penny!
In addition to using the app to scan the item in the store to see if it shows the price of a penny, you can also use it to search all of the stores around you by typing in the UPC to see what they have in stock. To check, set your location and type in the UPC of that week’s discounted items. Then change the location of the stores that you shop to see what inventory is available to purchase.
Where can discounted items be found?
You can find Dollar General penny items anywhere within the store. I have the best luck finding them mixed in the clearance sections, by the register, and end caps. But don’t skip the normal-priced areas of the store. You never know what you may find.
There are sometimes clues about where the product is located when searching in the app. If the product name has “Fr End ck”, that means it’s up by the cashier.
In general, you should never ask employees about penny shopping. They know about it, but they are supposed to have pulled these items from the shelves. And most importantly, don’t complain about penny items or call corporate if your store won’t sell penny items to you. Complaining could cause corporate to end this practice, so in the long run, you are better off going to another store.
That said, I have a friend who, like clockwork, visits her Dollar General store right at 7 am every Tuesday, and when her local Dollar General store opens, the cashier pulls the items and puts them by the register for her. It took a little time, but it can be done!
Is penny shopping legal?
A lot of people ask whether penny shopping is legal, and yes, it is. As long as the item is on the sales floor, Dollar General’s policy is to sell penny items. It is worth noting that their policy isn’t to let you go back for more items, though.
What about clearance items?
In addition to penny times, it’s also worth checking for checking Dollar General’s clearance items as there are some great deals to be found that are on sale.
Dollar General is also a gold mine after major holidays and events, especially after Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, the end of summer, and the Super Bowl.
Clearance merchandise usually starts at 50% off of full price but can also go as high as 90% off. Usually, if those 90% off items don’t sell, they become penny items.
A great place to find deals is in the weekly ad and their website. Dollar General has BOGO deals and instant savings when you buy participating products. They also take manufacturer’s coupons, and Dollar General has a coupon for $5 off any $25 purchase, which is usually released on Saturday. And yes, you can pair the big weekly sales and clearance items with manufacturer coupons and the $5 off coupon to save big money!
Pro Shopping Tips
Prices are automatically updated, and most registers are updated before the stores open. So, being at the store when it first opens each Tuesday morning is usually the best way to get the deals. Each store operates differently, and they don’t update until later in the day or even on Wednesday. Once you learn how your local stores operate, it’s not common for the timing to change.
Stores that aren’t well organized and a bit run down seem to have dealt more consistently than the better run stores.
Some Dollar General stores have updated their registers, so you have to wait until the employee to complete ringing your order up before the price drops to a penny. It’s a little stressful watching that total climb, but a bit of a rush when it does.
Please be respectful of the Dollar General employees. They don’t set the policy, and getting mad at them makes their job much harder.
Getting deals is great, but I have known people who buy every item on sale, without thinking whether they will actually use it. I get the rush of a deal, and while this is none of my business, I hope you will consider that if you aren’t going to be able to use the item by the expiration date, to leave penny items behind for the next shopper or donate them. Getting a deal is great, but if it is thrown away, was it really a deal?
Dollar General Penny List & Markdowns
May 2023
May 30, 2023 – No Penny list May 23, 2023 May 16, 2023 May 9, 2023 May 2, 2023
April 2023
April 18, 2023 – No Penny List | Markdown List April 11, 2023 April 4, 2023 – No Penny List
March 2023
March 28, 2023 – No Penny List March 21, 2023 March 14, 2023 March 7, 2023
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Last updated – August 11, 2022
You may have seen the phrase “Rain Check” in your store’s weekly ad or been asked in the store if you want one. But, what is a rain check, and how does it work? Below you’ll find your complete guide to understanding and using rain checks.
It has probably happened to you. There is a great deal on something at your store. You stop by to pick it up to find out that the store is entirely out of stock. Does that mean you have to miss out on the deal? Not necessarily.
Some stores will offer rain checks on items that are sold out. But what exactly is a rain check? How does it work? I explain it below for you so that you know how to make sure you use them to ensure you get the best deal – even if it is not in stock right now.
WHAT IS A RAIN CHECK?
A rain check is a voucher given to customers for items that are out of stock. It allows them to purchase the product at the sale price at a later date.
WHY DO STORES OFFER RAIN CHECKS?
Stores will give out rain checks to retain customers. They know popular items may sell out and want to extend that sale price beyond their inventory.
DO ALL STORES OFFER RAIN CHECKS?
While most stores will offer them, not all stores do. You will need to inquire at checkout or possibly at customer service. However, keep in mind that not all items are eligible for rain checks.
DO RAINCHECKS EXPIRE?
That varies from store to store. They may never expire at some stores and may be valid for just ten days at another. Review your rain check carefully to find out when it expires.
ARE RAIN CHECKS REQUIRED IF AN ITEM IS SOLD OUT?
No. Rain checks are not required. The fine print in the store’s weekly ad will indicate if the item is not eligible for a rain check. If nothing is noted, then in most cases, it will be. However, the product must not be available at all in the store.
HOW DO I REDEEM MY RAIN CHECK?
When you get to the checkout, hand the item and rain check directly to the cashier. He or she will need to override the price and manually enter the sales price.
It is most helpful if you save your rain check products until the end of your entire purchase. Otherwise, if your item is scanned in the middle of your purchase, the cashier will need to review your transaction to find the price and make the adjustment.
Doing it this way makes the cashier’s job a little simpler and saves both you and other customers possible frustration.
DO I HAVE TO REDEEM THE RAIN CHECK AT THE SAME STORE THAT ISSUED IT?
In most cases, yes. However, if it is a national chain (such as CVS, for example), some stores may accept another location’s raincheck. Ask before attempting to use it.
CAN I USE COUPONS WHEN USING A RAINCHECK?
Yep – you sure can! As long as the coupon is still valid and falls within the store’s coupon policy, you can redeem a coupon for a product when redeeming a rain check.
CAN I GET A RAIN CHECK ON SPECIAL OFFERS?
It depends on the store or the store manager. For example, if you shop at CVS, they have a code beneath every offer in their sales flyer. The cashier will note the code on your rain check, so when it is redeemed, you can earn your Extrabucks. However, other stores may not offer them on select promotions.
Using rain checks is a smart way to take advantage of sales, even if the item is not available. Don’t be afraid to ask for one. The worst thing that will happen is the store will say no.
Are you considering embarking on a “do it yourself” project to remodel your home? While the idea of taking on a DIY project can be exciting and cost-effective, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes that homeowners often make during the remodeling process. Whether you recently purchased a home using Redfin in Irvine, CA, or are planning on upgrading your Albuquerque, NM, home, we have put together a list of common DIY remodeling mistakes to provide you with valuable tips on how to steer clear of them
1. Neglecting building codes and permits
One of the most critical mistakes homeowners make is failing to pay attention to building codes and permits. Even if you’re not required to obtain a permit for your project, it’s essential to adhere to building codes and best practices. Neglecting these guidelines can lead to issues when it’s time to sell your home, potentially derailing the sale or necessitating costly after-the-fact permits and demolitions. Remember, pulling a permit is crucial, even if you’re tackling the work yourself.
To ensure compliance with building codes, contact your local building department to determine whether you need a permit for your project. While obtaining a permit may be an inconvenience and incur expenses, it’s vital to prioritize safety, protect your investment, and maintain the well-being of your community. If your project involves specialized knowledge, such as building a deck, consult an expert who understands local codes, structural load requirements, and can provide the necessary expertise for a safe and sturdy structure.
2. Using cheap materials
Trying to cut costs by using cheap materials is a common pitfall during DIY projects. While it’s understandable to keep your budget in mind, compromising on material quality can lead to higher maintenance expenses in the long run. Prioritize quality when selecting materials to ensure your project withstands the test of time and avoids costly repairs or replacements down the road. Research different options, compare prices, and choose materials that strike a balance between affordability and quality. Investing in higher-quality materials upfront will save you money and headaches in the future.
3. Underestimating project time
Underestimating the time required to complete a project is another frequently encountered mistake. This oversight often results in rushed work, suboptimal outcomes, unexpected issues, and last-minute calls for professional help, leading to additional expenses. When estimating the duration of your DIY project, seek guidance from experienced professionals and allocate twice the allotted time. Take the time to create a detailed project plan. Break down the tasks involved, allocate realistic timeframes for each step, and add extra time as a buffer for unforeseen challenges. By setting realistic expectations and allowing ample time for each stage of the project, you can ensure a smoother and more successful remodeling experience.Doing so will alleviate stress and ensure that your project is completed to the best of your ability.
4. Taking on more than you can handle
Attempting tasks that require specialized skills without the necessary training can be detrimental to both your budget and personal safety. Professionals like design/build firms, plumbers, HVAC specialists, and electricians have honed their skills through years of education and training. If you’re unsure about your ability to handle a particular aspect of the project, it’s best to reach out to local home remodeling companies or maintenance specialists for assistance. While it may seem like a cost-saving measure initially, taking on more than you can handle can result in expensive remodeling mistakes and compromise the overall success of your project. It’s crucial to prioritize safety and the longevity of your investment by relying on professionals who can bring their expertise to the table. Remember, what makes a project truly complete lies in the attention to detail provided by experienced tradespeople.
5. Hiring unlicensed contractors
Opting to hire unlicensed contractors, often friends or acquaintances, in an attempt to save money can have serious repercussions. Homeowners frequently encounter incomplete projects or dissatisfaction with the final results when working with unlicensed contractors. This often necessitates hiring licensed professionals to fix or replace the work, resulting in additional costs. Understand the importance of hiring licensed contractors from the start to ensure the successful completion of your project. If you opt to hire a license contractor, here are 7 vital questions you should ask them before starting any home improvement project.
6. Failure to plan in advance
To avoid unexpected expenses and change orders during construction, it’s essential to plan ahead and select your finish materials before requesting bids from contractors. Costs for items like cabinets, flooring, and tile can vary significantly, and failing to specify these materials can lead to underbidding or overbidding by contractors, making it difficult for homeowners to compare bids or financially prepare for the project. Plan your project meticulously, double-checking all materials and products for size, style, and content before commencing construction. By doing so, you can minimize time, frustration, and waste while ensuring you have sufficient supplies throughout the project.
7. Inadequate space planning
Poor space planning can lead to various issues, such as clashing doors, uneven floor transitions, or inadequate clearances in kitchens and bathrooms. Take the time to create accurate scale drawings, models, or full-size mock-ups of your project. This proactive approach allows you to identify and address potential problems before construction begins, as rectifying these issues afterward can be challenging or sometimes impossible.
8. Relying on TV portrayals
TV shows often portray DIY projects as smooth and effortless, downplaying the challenges and difficulties involved. Homeowners who underestimate the complexities of these projects may find themselves overwhelmed and ultimately seek professional help after encountering setbacks. Keep in mind that real-life projects rarely unfold as seamlessly as they do on television. Be prepared to invest time, effort, and research to achieve the desired outcomes and avoid any remodeling mistakes.
9. Inaccurate measurements
Accurate measurements are essential for the smooth progress of any remodeling project. Inaccurate measurements can lead to significant delays, complications, and even costly mistakes. Whether you’re replacing windows, installing plumbing fixtures, or working on other aspects of your project, taking the time to measure carefully and accurately is crucial. Take the time to measure carefully and seek guidance from professionals or experts, they can provide you with valuable advice, tips, and techniques to obtain precise measurements, mitigating the risk of errors and ensuring a smooth progression of your project. Remember, accuracy in measurements is a fundamental aspect of successful remodeling, and investing time and effort into this task will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
10. Insufficient bathroom waterproofing
Properly waterproofing your bathroom is of utmost importance before embarking on a DIY remodel. Neglecting this critical step can lead to significant and costly water damage in the long run. Bathrooms are exposed to high levels of moisture, and without effective waterproofing, water can seep into the walls, floors, and substructures, causing mold growth, rot, and structural issues. Additionally, water damage can extend beyond the bathroom itself, affecting adjacent rooms and compromising the integrity of your home. By ensuring thorough waterproofing, you not only protect your investment but also create a safe and healthy environment in your home. It is worth investing the time and effort to get it right, either by hiring a professional or conducting extensive research to ensure proper installation of waterproofing materials and techniques.
By familiarizing yourself with these common DIY remodeling mistakes and the corresponding preventative measures, you can approach your home improvement project with confidence. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize safety, follow building codes, allocate sufficient time, and seek professional help when needed. With proper planning, attention to detail, and the right approach, you can achieve a successful DIY remodel that enhances your home while avoiding costly mistakes.
How would you describe your interior design style? Are you more drawn to the clean lines and neutral color palette of a modern home, or does your space have the personality of a rom-com main character? Perhaps you prefer to keep things cozy all year long, or maybe you’ve designed your space to look like a palace with luxurious decor and vintage Victorian pieces. Whatever your vibe may be, your aesthetic is an extension of who you are. But interior design isn’t just a form of expression — according to an expert, your decor style may be tied to the stars. So if there’s an interior design style you’ve always felt spiritually connected to, this may be why.
If you have an outgoing, energetic disposition, you’ll probably be drawn to the eye-catching, over-the-top appeal of a maximalist home. If you’re more reserved, then you’ll likely feel at home in a comfy, cozy apartment that feels straight out of a movie. HomeGoods Style Expert Stephanie Watkins shares which home decor aesthetics best represent each sign based on their characteristics and preferences, so the next time you’re in the mood to give your home a total makeover, you can model your new design style around this list.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
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Taureans aspire to live in the lap of luxury, and having a house that looks like a mansion is one of the ways they’re able to make their dreams come true. “[Taureans’] homes are relaxation havens for the mind and body, often featuring comfortable seating in lush fabrics, classic wingback chairs, luxurious decor, and spa-like touches,” says Watkins.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
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Watkins describes Geminis as “maximalists,” and shares the sign is always “trying new trends and creating an eclectic home” with bright colors and bold patterns.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
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Cancers are homebodies to their core, and because they spend so much time at home, they want their space to be cozy yet nostalgic with plenty of photos, memorabilia, and family heirlooms.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
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Leos live a glamour-filled life, and their homes are no exception, per Watkins. “Leo’s homes are glamorous, bold, and filled with impactful furniture and art,” says the expert. “They love to use lavish and ornate furniture and decor, with elaborate color and patterns that show off their unique style.”
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
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If you know anything about Virgos, you know they’re all about organization. As a result, Watkins explains the earth sign gravitates towards “pieces that have both function and style,” like benches with storage or aesthetically pleasing bins.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
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As the sign of the scales, Libras strive for harmony and balance not just in their personal lives, but in their home decor, too. Per Watkins, the air sign is able to create a “symmetrical yet welcoming home environment that focuses on others and their needs.” This is accomplished with modern and neutral decor “to enhance the zen of their space.”
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 22)
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“Scorpios thrive on the unexpected,” says Watkins. “This translates to a home that feels refined but rooted in a warm, modern, yet classic, style. They are drawn to sensuous, tactile elements of the home. They’re often attracted to velvet chairs and sofas, soft and plush wool pillows, silk decor, and high thread-count bedsheets.”
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
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Sagittarians are known as the adventurer of the zodiac, so you can expect their homes to be filled with unique decor pieces from their travels, as well as natural elements such as planets to bring the outside world to them. Watkins recommends using accents like printed rugs, dip-dyed vases, and bright patterns to introduce a “worldly influence to the home.”
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
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The pragmatic sign of Capricorn prefers to “decorate with items that have value and function, with a heavy emphasis on reliability and practicality,” Watkins tells Bustle. Because they like their space to feel “organized and minimally styled,” the earth sign is typically drawn to sleek minimal furniture and Scandinavian styling and decorating, per the expert.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
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Natural elements like plants and wood-based decor are a must for Aquarians, and designing their space in a way that’ll make others feel at home is a given for the community-centric air sign, too. Watkins explains that Aquarius achieves their “thoughtful” guest room setups by providing an extra pair of bedsheets or even a carafe for water on the nightstand.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)
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Pisces value their serenity and downtime, which is why their homes are covered in calm, cozy decor pieces like “candles, plush, velvet blankets, and chenille textured pillows,” per Watkins. The water sign within them also feels a connection to the Coastal aesthetic, so if you’re crashing at your Pisces bestie’s apartment, be prepared for plenty of beachy colors and peaceful decor.