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Opening Night Coming for Joliet Slammers Baseball!
Multiple Offers and Appraisals ... Learning to Co-Exist Successfully
Buyers Decide Within 8 Seconds Whether They Are Interested In A Home
Students from Naperville, IL to Appear on "Late Show with David Letterman", Thursday, May 10th
I May Not Be Yoda, but I'm Darn Close!

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Gene's Bit of Blogging

Savings Advice

I May Not Be Yoda, but I'm Darn Close!



I May Not Be Yoda,
but I'm Darn Close!




     Yesterday, I was reading yet another blog about the low interest rates presently available to home buyers seeking mortgage financing. 

     Seems another new historic low was announced. Something not quite so noteworthy anymore, as we all have grown used to hearing about how the rates have dipped, dipped, and dipped again. 

    
Wake up & Smell the Coffee!  Contact Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender for Mortgage Info & Service today!     And therein lies my big worry, both as a mortgage lender and as a parent.   I think buyers have grown quite weary and fairly complacent. 

     Low interest rates, such as we are seeing presently, should be news that sends home buyers (currently seeking and potential) all giddy.  They should be doing a happy-dance. 

     But although rates remain a topic of interest for mortgage applicants  I speak to, the rates we are seeing do NOT stimulate action in the housing market or number of inquiries for financing you would predict.  So many potential buyers simply are doing nothing in response.

     And I find that sad.  That attitude translates into so much potential lost savings .  So many opportunities simply being ignored.  

     I believe that many potential buyers falsely believe they cannot buy.  That they will not be approved for loan.  It's certainly the mantra repeated by the media.  And it seems nowadays, everyone knows someone that knows someone that has an awful story to tell about the financing process.  Heck, I even hear it within our own industry.

     The truth of it is that there are many successes being celebrated out there.  The majority (around 62%) of people that apply for a mortgage loan DO get financing and successfully buy a home.  (Remember, we've seen the result of and are suffering from no one being turned away.)

     Now, do mortgage applicants have to work at finding their successes?  Yes!  Is it easy?  No!  Are they frustrated at times throughout the process?  H#*$ yes!  Should the process be like this?  No!   I'm a mortgage lender and I think it sucks that buyers and those refinancing are put through the ringer like they are. But the process is what it is ...


     So if that is the truth ... and the process is what it is, at least at this point, I ask ... What are you, if a hopeful and/or potential home buyer, going to do?  What's your reaction??    

    I've written some about this  in the past ... my own personal experiences with rates, home buying, and financing over my 35+ years within the mortgage and real estate industry.  It's been interesting, to say the least.

     But over all those years, one thing has remained true for home buyers and those seeking mortgage financing: No matter how bad your financial situation.  No matter your credit scores.  The situation and your scores CAN be improved and turned around.  Help is available. 

     Okay .. okay ... you're right.  I need to add an asterik to those statements ...


  •     Asterik 1:  With time, care, and patience.
  •     Asterik 2:  If willing to do some hard work.

    
     And therein, lies some of the current problem.  Many people hate the asteriks. But taking that into consideration, my question becomes this: 

    If you ever hope to buy a home ... now or in the future ...

     Are you going to let those asteriks scare you away from starting the process?  Are you going to let the need for some hard work and patience intimidate you into foregoing inquiries about your home buying capabilities and options?

   
    Are you going to let all those stories ... those asteriks ... steal REAL opportunity from you? REAL SAVINGS??  And yes, I said steal.  
   
     I can talk to you all day and all night about what I think is the right thing for you to do.  And it will be "yadda yadda yadda" ... just noise in your ears.  Or I can tell you this ...
 
Website and Information re: Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender
I may not
be Yoda,
but I'm
darn close!
 
    
     I'm a mortgage lender, yes.  But more importantly, I'm a  husband, a dad, and now a grandfather too.  And that is where my message (and vast wisdom) to you springs from.   

     I've been there.   I've stared-down growing insurance costs.  Rising taxes.  Emergency repairs at the home.  Health bills for braces, glasses, broken noses, emergency hospital trips. 


     I've had to come-up with unexpected costs ... dues for sports camps, traveling leagues.  I've shelled-out extra for Size 15 Nikes.   I've looked college payments in the eye.  And I'll tell you ... your child you never thought you'd hear it from?  Yep, even MORE schooling ... LAW school!  Then wedding plans start.  Times 2 ... within 6 months of one another.  Heart-tugging Grandchildren aren't far behind. 

     All of these expenditures and more might be in your future as they were in mine, you just never know.  So take it from someone that knows ... you need to look for, and take advantage of, every savings when you can. 

    Listen to Yoda ...
 
     The savings you can and will reap by buying now and locking-in a historically low interest rate?? Cha-Ching!  The savings you can and will reap through the lower housing prices found in many markets right now? Cha-Ching Cha-Ching! 
Those savings WILL come in mighty handy later ... believe me. 
 
      Forget whatever negative you have heard.  Take action.  Reach out.  Pick-up a phone.  Text.  Email.  Whatever!  Do it on your break.  At lunch time.  Before you head to bed.  

    Ask your questions.   Don't just accept what you're hearing on the news ... or from others, no matter who they are.  Fight for every option, work for every advantage, every opportunity you can find.  You owe it to yourself and your future. 

    Contact me.  Even if you have challenging financial and credit issues.  Get started on bettering your finances and future.   It costs you zippo ... absolutely nothing to talk to me. 

     You'll be glad we talked.  I'll be glad to hear from you ...




    * You can find me in several convenient ways:
Contact Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender - The Federal Savings BankDirect:   815.277.4036
Cell/Text:   708.921.6331
Website:  www.genemundt.com
At Skype:  630.219.1316
Through Your Mobile Device: 


    
    
 
   
      
 
 

I Promise to Love, Cherish, and .... Pay My Bills??




     *  Food for thought: 

        According to the 2010 Current Population Survey (conducted annually by the U.S. Census Bureau), there are about 7.5 million unmarried opposite-sex couples cohabiting in the United States today, a well as another 620,000 same-sex couples. The same source reported that married couples now account for only 48 percent of all households.


     
Contact Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender        More and more often, especially with young, first-time home buyers, I am assisting unmarried partners with their mortgage financing ... and I'm seeing huge differences in many of their money-handling styles and skills.   While I see it in older couples too, the differences often are far more dramatic in the young.  It's very clear ... one partner is the saver, the other is the spender.  The conversations I have with them certainly reflect that too, as do their credit report(s).

    Right now, I am working with a young, unmarried couple hoping to buy their first home and obtain a mortgage.  Well, I should say ... SHE is hoping to buy a home.  I'm not sure about him. SHE has been the catalyst of each and every call.  Every piece of information or documentation I receive to advance their mortgage comes from HER.  He has been forthcoming with little.  He's also been very non-committal and evasive with answers.  I'm a bit unsettled about him, to be truthful.

     Now this young couple, may or may not end-up completing their sales transaction.  I say their chances are 50-50 at best right now.  The outcomes depends on how persuasive SHE can be.  And if he quits dragging his feet and finally commits to the process.

    It's just my opinion too, but I think this couple has bigger issues that should concern them.  Their credit reports read like a life story.  While both partners are young, they are old enough to have already established financial outlooks, habits, and distinguishable spending personalities.  Theirs are vastly different on all counts.  Extremes.  And because of that, I see all sorts of problems before them long term.  Red flags screaming out "Warning!" and  "Caution!" 

Contact Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender for Mortgage Lending Advice      Should this couple hope to have a long, happy, and successful future together, I'd suggest they have a sit-down and talk about their finances ...soon.  Possibly even counseling.  I think they need to be honest with each other about their financial histories (something I think she is possibly unaware of ... or doesn't understand the ramifications of) ... and their financial goals and dreams for the future. There should be no surprises ... no secrets kept between them.

     They, as well as any couple (married or unmarried), should both know, understand, and then commit to what financial responsibilities lay before them. They should also know just how and what they hope to contribute as they move forward together ... and how and what they hope the other will contribute as well.  An indepth, lengthy, honest conversation is warranted.

      And as unromantic as it sounds, especially for this couple and other unmarried couples, this conversation needs to cover  any future "what-ifs" ... and how those "what-ifs" affect them legally, should they part or die.

   Unmarried partners must not assume that the legal options and protections provided them are the same as for married persons.  It is my opinion that protections ... legal protections ... need to be arranged and put into place for each in this couple.  That is especially so prior to a large financial purchase/commitment, such as this home ... or a car.

      Unfortunately, I do not see much financial harmony within MY young home buying couple right now ... or the likelihood of any real indepth communications between them or any attorney occurring in the near future.  Time will tell if they can make a "go" of this, or not.  I'm hoping they prove me wrong ... and all ends-up well.

      But I urge anyone hoping to buy a home with someone else, especially as a non-married partner ... discuss your plans and goals with one another.  Then talk to a knowledgeable, experienced real estate attorney prior to making the financial commitment of buying a home or other large financial purchase.  Understand and know your options and possible outcomes.  Love and protect yourself enough to take these precautions ...
    

    
     *  In need of mortgage and credit advice?  Some mortgage and financial planning guidance? Contact me.  I'll put my experience and expertise as a mortgage lender and financial planner to work for you.  Together will work towards a successful home purchase and find the financial solutions that suit your present financial needs and your future goals.
   Contact me at any of the following:
Direct:  815.277.4036   Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
Skype:  630.219.1316
    

Military Discounts for Active, Reserve, and Retired Vets


 

    *    My guest blog below, entitled "Military Discounts for Active, Reserve, and Retired Vets", comes courtesy of Anita Clark, Realtor from Warner Robins, GA.  

     Although Anita adds helpful tips and suggestions for those that live in the Warner Robins, Ga area ... or are thinking of relocating to that region ... this information will prove useful for Veterans, no matter their location.

     As noted by Anita Clark, please inquire as to the individual establishment's/retailer's participation in these discounts prior to purchase.  Participation is based solely upon the individual locations discretion.

     Should you need information or answers regarding VA loans or other mortgage/financial services, please do not hesitate to contact me.  I will be happy to assist you in every way I can.

    Hope the information and opportunities for savings posted here helps all the Active, Reserve, and Retired Vets out there.  You most certainly have earned them .. and much more.  As always, thank you for your service ...

    Gene
   





     Please forward to all active duty, reservists, and retired US military personnel you know

     Discounts galore at over 200+ stores for vets and their immediate family members.

Remember to ALWAYS show your military or retired ID.  Happy shopping...You deserve it!


  Verify with the store/organization that the discount is still available.   Participation by business owners is at their discretion.

  • 1-800-Flowers - 7% to 60% off
  • A&W - Discount varies
  • ADT Security - Discount varies
  • Advance Auto Parts - 10% off
  • Aeropostale - 20% off in-store
  • Agentsource.com - Up to 40% off standard real estate closing costs for active duty moving in the US or Canada
  • Alamo Rent A Car - Discount varies
  • American Airlines – Discount varies
  • American Eagle - 10% off (manager discretion)
  • American Video Productions -10% off
  • Amtrak - 10% off
  • Anchor Blue - 10% off
  • Anheuser – Busch Amusement Parks - Discount varies
  • Anna’s Linens - 10% off any in-store purchase
  • Apple Computers - Discount varies, sign up here
  • Applebee’s - Discount varies
  • Arby’s - Discount varies
  • Ashford University - Discounted tuition at $250 a credit, books are covered for all required courses, waived application fee, and waived technology fee
  • Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association (ASMBA) - Free membership and free $5,000 AD&D coverage. See my ASMBA post for more details.
  • AT&T - Discount varies
  • ATG - $10 off home and garden products
  • Auto Zone - Discount varies
  • Avis - 25% off, online customers use coupon AWD # A555084
  • Azamara Cruises - Discount varies
  • Back Yard Burgers - Discount varies
  • Banana Republic – 15% in-store discount off regular priced items (varies by location)
  • Barnes and Noble – 6% off regular price plus free shipping
  • Barnhill’s – Discount varies
  • Bass Pro Shops – 10% off from the 15th to 22nd of each month
  • Bath & Body Works – Discount varies
  • Bed & Breakfast Inns – Discount varies
  • Best Inns and Suites – Discount varies
  • Best Western – Discount varies
  • Beyond Blossoms – 20% off all flower orders throughout the year
  • Big 10 Tires – Discount varies
  • Blockbuster – Discount varies
  • Boscov’s- 15% off in-store purchases
  • Boston Bill Sunglasses - 10% off
  • Boston Market - 20% off
  • Bronson Labratories – 10% off vitamins/supplements
  • Buckle – 10% off, free shipping
  • Budget – Discount varies, up to 25% off time and mileage
  • Budget Truck Rental – Discount varies
  • Burger King – Discount varies
  • Camino Real Apartments - 5% discount
  • Captain D’s – Discount varies
  • Carl’s Jr. – Discount varies
  • Carnival Cruises - 10% off
  • Champs Sports - Discount varies
  • Charlotte Russe - 10% off
  • Checker Auto Parts - Discount varies
  • Chevy’s Fresh Mex - 20% off
  • Chick Fil A - Discount varies (location dependent)
  • Chipotle - Discount varies
  • Choice Hotels - Discounts varies
  • Ci-Ci’s Pizza - Discount varies (location dependent)
  • Cingular - Up to 18% off your bill and 25% off accessories
  • Clarion Inn - Discount varies
  • Cold Stone Creamery - Discount varies
  • Comfort Inn - Discount varies
  • Coolmilitary.com - 10% off on-line purchases
  • Copeland’s Sports - Discount varies
  • Cracker Barrel - 10% off
  • D.S.W. Shoe Warehouse - 10% off
  • Dairy Queen - 10% off (location dependent)
  • Days Inn – Discount varies
  • Dell Computers – Discount varies
  • Denny’s - Discount varies
  • Dick’s Sporting Goods – Discount varies
  • DIRECTV - Discount Varies. Ask about the $75 Visa Gift Card for new subscribers
  • Discovery Channel Store – Discount varies
  • DISH Network - Discount varies, call 866-395-9955 for details
  • Disney Resorts – Discount varies
  • Disneyland – Discount varies, must buy ticket at the gate
  • Dollar Car Rental – Discount varies
  • Drugstore.com - $10 off $50+ orders & free shipping
  • Dunkin’ Donuts – Veterans advantage members save 10% on all online orders
  • El Molino Coffee Shop – Free shipping
  • Express Clothing Store – 10% off
  • Extreme Outfitters – 10-20% off miiltary gear, on-line and in-store
  • Eyeware - Discount varies, get the discount on-line
  • Fatbikez.com - 18% off. Coupon code: Military
  • Finish Line - 20% off
  • Foot Action - 20% off
  • Foot Locker - 20% off
  • Ford - Discount varies
  • Forever 21 - 10% off
  • Friendly’s Ice Cream Stores – Discount varies
  • GameStop - 16% off all used games & DVDs
  • Gander Mountain - 5% off
  • Gap – 10% military discount 1st of every month (varies by location, in-store only)
  • Geico – 2% to 15% in all states except Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee and Texas
  • GM – Discount varies
  • GNC – Discount varies
  • Golden Corral – Discount varies
  • Great Wolf Lodge - Discount varies
  • Green Island Apparel - 10% off
  • Greyhound - 10% off or ask about the $209 round-trip anywhere in the continental U.S. fare
  • H&R Block - Free tax filing, via Military OneSource
  • Haber Vision - 50% discount on all sunglasses
  • Hanes Outlet Store - 10% off
  • Hard Rock Cafe - 10% off
  • Hertz – Discount varies
  • Hewlett-Packard – Discount varies, on-line company code is 2727
  • HickoryFarms – 10% off, online code is 892848
  • Home Depot – 10% off, in-store
  • Hooters - 10% off
  • IHOP - 20% (location dependent)
  • Imax – $1 off movie tickets
  • Inkshouse – 20% off $50 or more purchase, use cod Mil20
  • ISZY Billards - 10% off (except case lots)
  • Java Cafe - Discount varies
  • Jeep – $500 off
  • Jiffy Lube – 10% off
  • Jockey – 10% off
  • KB Toys - 15% off during advertised Military Days
  • Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants - Discount varies
  • K-Mart - 10% off entire order (online only)
  • Kohl’s – 10% off
  • Kragen Auto Parts – Discount varies
  • Lady Foot Locker - 20% off
  • Lerner – 15% off
  • Long John Silver’s – Discount varies
  • Longhorn Steakhouse – 10% off
  • Lowes – 10% off everyday
  • Macy's - Save $10 on orders over $75
  • Marriott Hotels – Discount varies
  • Maurices - 10% off
  • Mary Kay Cosmetics - 10% off online orders
  • McDonalds - Discount varies
  • Meineke - 10% off parts. In store only
  • Michaels - 10% off each Wednesdays
  • Midas - 10% off
  • Moe's - Discount varies
  • Napa Auto Parts - Discount varies
  • National - Discount varies
  • Nautica - 10% off
  • New York and Company - 15% off
  • Nextel - 18% off
  • Nickelodeon Hotels - Discount varies
  • Nike - 10% off
  • O'Reilly Auto Parts - Discount varies
  • Oakley - Discount varies
  • Office Depot - Free next day business delivery on orders over $50
  • Old Navy - 10% off
  • Pac Sun - Discount varies
  • Panda Express - Discount varies
  • Payless Shoe Source - 10% off
  • Pep Boys - 10% off
  • Pizza Hut - Discount varies
  • Play It Again Sports - Discount varies
  • Quizno’s – Discount varies
  • Race-Depot – 10% off, use code 10MILCITY
  • Rack Room Shoes – 15% off
  • Raising Cane’s Chicken – Discount varies
  • Ralph Lauren Outlet Store - 10% off
  • Ramada – 15% to 30%, depending on availability
  • Red Robin – Discount varies
  • Regal Movie Theaters – Matinee prices for all show times
  • Ripley’s Attractions and Museums – Discount varies
  • Roadrunner - $25 savings on nationwide auto shipping
  • Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – 10% off
  • Rocky Mountain Tracking – 5% off, use code USMILITARY
  • S & K Men’s Wear – 8% off, free shipping on orders over $99
  • Sally Beauty Supply – Discount varies
  • Samsonite – 15% off
  • Schubach Jewelers - 10% off
  • Seventh Avenue - 10% off
  • Ship Any Car - $25 off
  • Shoe Carnival – 10% off
  • Sierra Suites – Discount varies
  • Six Flags Mountain Magic – Service members receive special discounts on admission for special events and specific dates. Tickets must be purchased in advance on-base at MWR or ITT
  • Sizzler – Discount varies
  • Sleep Inn – Discount varies
  • Smooth Fitness - 10% off
  • Sonic - Discount varies
  • Southwest Airlines – Discount varies (not available on all flights)
  • Spencer’s Gifts – Discount varies
  • Sports Authority - Discount varies
  • Sports Chalet - 10% off
  • SportsMemorabilia.com – 10% off, use on-line code mili10
  • Sprint Business – 15% off
  • Suzuki - $500 off
  • Sweet Tomatoes - 10% off
  • T-Mobile - 15% discount on monthly service and waived activation fees
  • Taco Bell – Discount varies
  • Target - $5 off orders over $50
  • Texas RoadHouse – 10% off
  • The Finish Line – 20% off (location dependent)
  • The Melting Pot – Discount varies
  • THMotorSports - 5% off
  • Timberland Outlets - 15% off
  • Tommy Hilfiger - 10% off
  • Toyota – $500 off + $500 for first-time buyers
  • Travelodge – Discount varies
  • U.S. Postal Service - Free Care Package Kit
  • Under Armor Outlet Store – 10% off
  • United Artist Movie Theaters – Matinee prices for all show times
  • Verizon – 23% discount on monthly bills. Applies only to military member’s primary line
  • Walgreens – 10% off each Tuesday
  • Wendy’s – Discount varies
  • Wet Seal - 10% off
  • Wheels Next - $50 off regular priced wheel and tire combos
  • Wing Zone – 10% off in Alabama
  • World of Coca Cola – $2 off standard admission price for service member and up to four guests
  • Wyndham Hotels – Discount varies
  • Zaxby’s – 10% off


    In addition to the military discounts above, here are additionalMilitary Discounts in Warner Robins GA 31088.

   Military relocating to Robins AFB…As a retired Air Force spouse, I understand the unique challenges you face during a PCS move.

     Visit Homes for Sale in Warner Robins  to preview the complete list of Houston County and Warner Robins Real Estate or call me at (478) 960-8055 so we can discuss your Warner Robins Real Estate needs.
 
 
    
 
Anita Clark Realtor LLC
Coldwell Banker SSK Realtors
Cell: (478) 960-8055
Office: (478) 953-8595 x227


Seeing the Light ...a Simple Guide to New Light Bulbs


Seeing the Light ... a Simple Guide to
New Light Bulbs 
  

     Back in 2007, a new law entitled, "The Energy Independence and Security Act" was signed.  It was expanded upon in 2010.  As a result, new requirements and efficiency standards were placed in line for the common light bulb.

     Well, I walked down the light bulb aisle at Home Depot about a week ago and Wow!  Talk about confusing!  So over this  weekend, I did a little reading ... and I thought I'd share what I found.  Hopefully it will prove beneficial to you and the links provided will serve as some guide when you're shopping for light bulbs next time.

    First: The bulbs that are being phased-out are the four most common incandescent bulbs used ... the 40-watt, 60-watt, 75-watt, and 100-watt bulbs.  Sales and supplies of these bulbs will not automatically cease upon the implementation date of the new standards.  Stores will be able to sell their existing supply of 100-watt incandescent bulbs until they're out of stock.  Manufacturers will not be able to produce any more of the bulbs, based on their old energy-emitting standards beyond the law's implementation date.

      It's estimated that as much as 90% of the energy emitted from the old traditional incandescent bulb is wasted as heat, not light.  90%!  The newer, more energy-efficient CFL's (Compact Fluorescent Lights) and LED's  (Light-emitting Diode) can produce the same amount of light while using far less energy.

    Second:  Forget the old standard terminology.  What you need to know and understand now is "lumens".  New light bulb packaging will be required to display "LIGHTING FACTS".  This should be helpful to you while trying to make a comparison of products and buying.   Here's a handy guide that will help you replace your old wattage bulbs with those rated on lumens:

  • To replace a 100-watt incandescent bulb, look for a bulb that gives you about 1600 lumens. If you want something dimmer, go for less lumens; if you prefer brighter light, look for more lumens.
  • Replace a 75W bulb with an energy-saving bulb that gives you about 1100 lumens
  • Replace a 60W bulb with an energy-saving bulb that gives you about 800 lumens
  • Replace a 40W bulb with an energy-saving bulb that gives you about 450 lumens.

    Third:  Other terminology that will now become important refer to the bulbs appearance as "warm" or "cool".  The bulb you choose for a specific location will most likely be based upon your personal taste for these conditions of lighting.

     Fourth:  You DO stand to save energy and money through replacement of your old bulbs with the new.  But how much? 

    
     Below is a rule-of-thumb guide, as to those savings:

  • Energy Saving Incandescents — about 25% energy savings
  • CFLs — about 75% energy savings
  • LEDs — about 75% – 80% energy savings

     It's estimated that  an ENERGY STAR  CFL bulb typically lasts up to 10 times longer than your old traditional bulbs.  And ENERGY STAR qualified LED bulbs do even better,  lasting as much as 25 times longer.

     Yes, these new more energy-efficient bulbs cost more initially.  That can't be argued.  But if you truly realize the savings predicted above over the life of your new bulbs ... you'll be hearing "cha-ching"!

    Fifth:  So you make the decision to replace your old bulbs and invest in new, more energy-efficient ones.  What other information regarding the new bulbs will be helpful moving forward?

     Because CFL's (Compact Fluorescent Lights) contain a small amount of mercury  within them, at the end of their lifespan, these bulbs should be recycled.  That recycling can be accomplished in a variety of ways, but below are your most convenient and accessible.  


     Just a note too ... ENERGY STAR-qualified bulbs earn a ENERGY STAR label by meeting the energy efficiency requirements set forth in ENERGY STAR specifications. ENERGY STAR is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices.  They provide a replacement program to protect your purchase, should the bulb you buy not work.  This is a feature that could be very helpful and cost-wise, given the upfront expense of the new bulbs. 

     Also, please note that not all bulbs are being phased out.  Be aware that the following are not effected by the new law.  The Energy Security Act focuses primarily on "general service light bulbs."  A long list of specialty light bulbs, including plant lights, bug lights, appliance bulbs (such as refrigerator lights), colored "party" bulbs, rough service, 3-way incandescent, and candelabra base bulbs are presently on the exemption list.   Some of exceptions will be reassessed in 2020.

     I hope the above information "sheds some light" on the topic of the new federal standards surrounding light bulbs for you.




     * Taking steps to save money is always wise.  Why not see if you can save money within your present home by refinancing ... or buying a home VS renting.  It costs you nothing to inquire and get the answers you need. Contact me today!  I'll be happy to talk over your personal financial scenario and seek a money-saving solution for you.
    I can be reached through any of the following means:
Direct:  815.277.4036   Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
Skype:  630.219.1316

Have a Daughter? Educate Her About Finance, Credit, and Buying a Home.


   
     Maybe the following has become a more personal worry to me this last year because I became the grandfather to a beautiful baby girl last October.  That certainly has brought the urgency of the following topic "home" to me. 

     In the not too distance past, having conversations with a daughter concerning finances, credit, and buying a home just never would have happened.  Thankfully, those times are now behind us.

    As I've mentioned before in previous posts, talking finances and credit with any child is important. And those conversations and financial education should occur early-on.  The better grasp our children have of these topics, the better for their future.  (Click 4 Previous Post on How Sesame Street is Helping Accomplish This!)

    But for daughters and women in general, the need to talk and learn about this topic takes on special significance and urgency.  Two facts drive this need: 

    First, according to a 2006 study by Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies, the following is currently true:

   The average age when a woman first marries increased as more women sought education and career before committing to a relationship.  (And I add: IF they ever married/committed)

    Secondly, the next statistic is now true ...

    Among Americans 65 years of age and older, 42% of women, but just 14% of men, are widowed. (The cold hard fact is women live longer and generally marry/commit to older men, increasing the probability of them outliving their partner.) 

    These two facts speak volumes about the great need to educate females regarding a host of today's financially-based topics, such as credit, careers, savings, financial planning, buying homes, debt management, and more.

     That said, it is also true that right now the percentage of single female home buyers is much higher than that of single males.  2010 statistics from the National Association of Realtors (NAR)  place single female home buyers at 20%, to just 12% single male buyers.  The number of single female buyers is growing quickly too.  The percentage of single females buying a home on their own today has doubled, in comparison to the 1990's.

     Using these statistics and facts, and then pairing them with the unique and beneficial set of circumstances that surround home buying in the current market (historically low interest rates and falling/lower home prices making it very appealing and more likely that single females will buy) ... you can see how great the need and urgency to have "that talk" and for educating our country's young females in regards to all financial topics actually is. 

     The stated statistics and facts also unfortunately indicate that females are likely to be making some pretty important financial decisions on their own at some point in their future.

      So parents ... educators ... real estate professionals ... financial planners ... loved ones ... we need to step-up and address their needs NOW.  Make the information available in a variety of ways, at varying ages. We also must make sure that when asked questions, we answer them honestly and thoroughly with an eye to female needs. 

     We must see that females get the proper tools and education  they need regarding financial issues so that they can make sound  decisions when called upon ... or when choosing to do so.  This will better equip them during their future, protect them financially, and also help them benefit more fully from their financial decisions as well.

    Contact me if I can be of assistance in any way ...



     * I can be contacted at any of the following:
     Direct:  815.277.4036    Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
     Email:  gene@chicagobancorp.com
     Website: www.genemundt.com
     Skype:  630.219.1316