Thursday, December 27, 2007

Casino at it's finest

Golden Palace Casino is one of the most popular and reputable online casinos to be found on the net. The casino is known for their many publicity stunts, but more importantly they are known for having a well-run online casino. Online and open for business since 1997, they have won new customers year after year by having excellent customer service 24/7 available by chat, phone or email. They have excellent bonuses with a very low wagering requirement so you can cash out faster. The casino offers an excellent selection of casino games including six progressive slots and many Video Poker and Power VP offerings. Using PlayTech software and having great sound and graphics adds to the list of reasons why you will want to become a part of the five million-plus customers that have signed up and played at Golden Palace.

It is tThe flagship of all online casinos, Golden Palace Casino is among the world's best known and respected online casinos. Since 1997, serving over 5 million customers, Golden Palace is one of the hottest casino on the Internet.

Little you did know, there's a huge-huge 200% bonus within 15 minutes of your first deposit and a constant stream of comps, rewards, bonuses and cash-back to maximize your bankroll every week.

Golden Palace Casino has won virtually every award in the industry, including: Best Slots, Best Video Poker, and Best Sign-up Bonus, voted by Only Slots Magazine. With accolades like that, you to have check it out.

Golden Palace uses the latest version of the great PlayTech software, and their software and Random Number Generator (RNG) are audited and verified for accuracy by BMM, the most credible casino auditing company. Their games and their graphics are first-rate. The games are easy and fun to play. You'll love playing at Golden Palace Casino!

And the customer support, it's simply among the world's best, with 24/7 live support via email, live chat or toll-free phone call from anywhere in the world. You can't just ask for more...

Players can make deposits using FirePay, credit cards, Neteller, Citadel and many other ways. Golden Palace Casino is licensed by the strictest online casino licensing authority in the world: Kahnawake Gaming Commission..

Monday, December 17, 2007

BubbleBubble

Turn your normal images into something a little more fun! Add cartoon captions to your photos images directly in your browser using the Bubblenator!

Remember the cartoons with the bubble blocks to show what the character was saying? Now you can have fun by creating those bubble blocks on your own photos or images.

Introducing The Bubblenator. Have fun with your images!

The Bubblenator will tun your simple picture into something fun by adding a bubble. This is fun if you love making some comic features on your website. Simply load your picture and use the Bubblenator to add text on the bubble. You can place up to three bubbles to you image. You can choose any text, sizes and style inside the bubble. When your done, Bubblenator will give you the HTML code by clicking the green button. Copy and paste the HTML code on your web page and you can easily see the bubbled image on your webpage.

Turn your normal images into something a little more fun! Add cartoon captions to your photos images directly in your browser using the Bubblenator!

It's fun and easy. Load in your image, then use the Bubblenator to add 'speech bubbles' wherever you want them. Place up to three bubbles onto your image, fill in your desired text for each, change sizes, choose from 'spoken' and 'thought' bubbles.

Once you're done, you will be provided with a HTML code you can use to put your captioned image on your web site, blog, Myspace page or just about anywhere else you would normally add an image. Just copy and paste a few lines and you're done!

A fun little tool to play around with the bubblenator it is!

This is a sponsored post

Fancy!

I was looking at the blogging tags and I saw a tag that has something to do with ‘What’s in my bag?’ kind of tagging. I was following the tags until I saw Beng’s post. I didn’t know she loved luxury bags that much. I saw her Gucci bag and it’s fabulous! Social climbing to the max!! Ha-ha!

Fortunately, I am a bag lover too! I recently purchased my LV Damier Canvas while I was in Italy. I use it all the time and I love it.

But mostly, Europeans are the stylish ones. Since one of my girlfriend lives in Europe, I don’t have to wonder. But you don’t have to be in Europe to purchase the luxury bags at great prices. Did you know that there is a site where you can purchase luxury brand bags? All you have to do is go visit Luxury Handbags at HandbagGirl.co.uk and see for yourself. Shop for your Hermes, or your Chanel handbag at a price you cannot believe.

If you are thinking of a present to buy the wife, or the sister, or the mom - - you are sure to find something for them there. I know someone who gives herself a luxury gift every Christmas. Yes!! She says she deserves it because she worked hard all year! And to that I say amen!!!

Whether it be for you or your love one, we need to live in luxury once in a while. so visit Luxury Handbags at HandbagGirl.co.uk and make your pick.

This is a sponsored post

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Blackberry Software

Are you thinking of buying or downloading some new mobile phone software then check out VisualIT.co.uk. Perhaps you are just thinking of updating your current mobile and not sure of what is the best on the market, then it's really time to pay a visit VisualIT. Then let me know what you thought of it so that others can learn from your experience.

BlackBerry Professional Software provides organizations with hands-on control over their BlackBerry smartphones:

* Browser use – Disable the browser, or prevent access to certain sites
* Phone – Limit long-distance calling to certain employees or certain numbers
* Data back-ups – Enforce back-ups of data at intervals defined by you

Stay confident with advanced security features with Blackberry software, you can rest easy knowing your information stays protected and confidential. You’re arming your business with the same BlackBerry security features that corporations and governments rely on, minus the complexity.

In need for a mobile software?, VisualIT.co.uk it is! They have Software for Blackberry, Windows Mobile OS, Palm OS, Symbian OS, Java /J2ME Software and iPod Maps. Visual IT are always striving to make their solutions as simple to use and useful as possible.

Worry-free installation, set-up and management only at Visual IT.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Quizzes

Do you enjoy doing Myspace Quizzes? At Quizmymates.com you can do/make your own quizzes! Whatever interests you, you can find it at Quizmymates.com! They will never run out of quizzes for you cause right now they have almost 7,441 quizzes created just for you.

You can even create your won quiz! Or you can look at their quiz archive if you like too. At Quizmymates.com you can pimp out your Myspace, Xanga, Hi5 and friendster profile by adding hot quizzes and surveys.

Signing up is as easy as 1-2-3! Just fill up the form with a valid email address, user name that you like/love to use and a password, and by the way this is completely FREE of charge!

There are new quizzes created everyday, from people just like yourself. They also have popular quizzes - it is popular because of it's page views.

Here are the sample quizzes that they have

Newest Quizzes...
Is A Maltese Breed The Right Dog For You?, K tanto me conoses?, How well do you think you know me?, Take my Quiz, What u think of me?, Do you really Know me?!?!, How well do you know me?, Do u really want to take this quizz?,

Most Popular...
If you were a celeb, which would you be?, What song are you?, What animal describes your sex life?, What Video Game Character Are You?, What kind of person are you?, What R you?, Boss Pimp Or Sucker pime, What kind of person do you think I am?, WELL SINCE YOU ASKED..., What song are you?, How well do you know me?

This is just a sample of it's quizzes, there are more in it's site. So if you fancy surveys or quizzes you are more than welcome to visit Quizmymates.com for more surveys and quizzes.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

What you should look for in a credit card

The world of credit cards has become increasingly competitive over recent years, and many people rely on their credit cards for anything from day to day spending to emergencies or one off, larger purchases.

There are many different credit cards on the market these days, with cards to suit all needs and circumstances. However, no matter what sort of card you are looking for there are certain things that you need to look at and compare in order to ensure that you get the right card for your needs and to suit your pocket.

The different areas that you need to compare and look at with credit cards will depend on the type of credit card that you opt for, as different credit cards will have different benefits and areas that will affect how suitable they are for your needs. Therefore you should make sure that you compare the relevant areas based on the type of card that you opt for.

This can be done with ease, convenience, and speed online, saving you time and hassle and enabling you to find a suitable card from the comfort and privacy of your own home. You can also make your application online once you have found a suitable card, and often you will receive an instant decision on your application.

0% cards

If you are looking to take out a 0% balance transfer credit card or a 0% purchase credit card you should make sure that you compare some important areas in order to find the one that offers the best value and is best suited to your needs. For 0% balance transfer or purchase cards you need to compare the different interest free periods, as the length of interest free credit offered can vary from provider to provider.

Obviously, the longer the 0% balance transfer or purchase period the more time you will have to repay your debt before being charged interest. Of course, the point of these cards is that you repay the balance in full before the interest free period expires so that you avoid paying any interest. However, do take into account the standard variable interest rate just in case.

However, your main priority should be the length of interest free credit available, as you can always transfer any remaining balance onto another balance transfer card if you have not repaid it by the time the 0% period expires.

Low rate balance transfer cards

If you are looking to transfer your high interest credit card balances onto a low rate balance transfer card you need to compare the interest rates offered by the different card providers. With these cards you can enjoy a low rate of interest for the life of the transferred balance, but the interest rates can vary from one provider to another.

You should aim for get the lowest balance transfer interest rate, as the deal is for the life of the transferred balance and therefore you won’t have to compare the length of the deal.

Rewards based credit cards

If you are looking to take out a rewards based credit card then you should be the type of person that repays the balance in full each month, as this is the only way that you can really benefit from these cards. Therefore the interest rate should not be your main priority with these cards.

Instead, you should be looking at the level of rewards offered per pounds spent, what sort of rewards are on offer, and whether there are any bulk rewards or other benefits available when you open your account.

If you tend to spread your repayments you will be charged interest on your debt, and this will counteract any benefit from the rewards that you earn, which is why these cards are not suited to those that do not settle up in full each month.

Charity credit cards

As with rewards based cards these cards are only really suited to those that settle their balance in full each month, otherwise you will be charged interest on your balance and this will counteract the benefits – you might as well make the donation directly to charity yourself and get a 0% purchase card in this case.

However, if you do settle your balance in full each month these cards can prove an effective and simple way to donate to charity. You should look at how much is donated to charity per pounds spent, as this can vary from provider to provider, and also whether any bulk donation is made when the account is first opened.

Bad credit credit cards

Unfortunately most bad credit credit cards do not offer any benefits as such, as they are designed to help consumers rebuild their credit. The one thing that you should look out for with these cards is the rate of interest charged, as this can vary from one provider to another.

Although the rate of interest on bad credit credit cards is typically higher than on standard cards, it can still vary and it is therefore advisable to compare rates and find the lowest rate possible.

However, wherever possible you should just use these cards to provide ease, convenience, and improve your credit through timely and responsible repayments, and you should try and settle your balance in full each month to avoid having to pay the high rates of interest.

Source

Personal Loans

A wide variety of personal loans come with different rates of interests. Zeroing in on specific personal loans with a suitable rate of interest is a mammoth task and requires a planned approach. With a huge risk factor being a part of personal loans, it's always advisable to look up for alternative options to get loans. If you are fortunate enough to have a rich relative who can be your sponsor, you're lucky! The other options like home equity, credit cards, and 401(k) loan are any day better than going in for personal loans. But if you are left with absolutely no choice or want to stick to personal loans as your cash source, you better consider these tips before you borrow personal loans.

- Point number one is to get the facts straight. Do not take up personal loans without weighing the pros and cons. One way to do this is to go to online financial websites and compare the interest rates on various loans. Alternatively, you can also call the local banks in your area to learn the interest rates they offer on personal loans. This could give you a fair idea of the value of personal loans you'd be opting for.
- Don't forget to inquire about the rate cap and if the interest rate is fixed or variable. Also get some information on the annual fees.

But if you are a member of any credit union, the above-mentioned tips on personal loans are not for you. In this case, you are at an advantage. That's because credit unions offer interest rates that are 1%-2% lower than any multinational banks.

If you are regular customer of a community bank, you may even enjoy low interest rates on personal loans. Just make sure that you furnish true information to the bank to procure the loan. You might just get lucky to get a loan with fantastic interest rate. Also, don't be in haste to apply for personal loans in many banks. This could be more of a disadvantage to your prospects of getting personal loans. This has a direct bearing on your credit score. Any hasty move on your part to get personal loans could make your credit score go for a nose-dive.

So, what does this teach you? Start making sincere efforts to bring down the interest rates on personal loans by improving your credit history. If you blindly follow your bank's criteria for personal loans, your brand loyalty could cost you dear. A survey done by Intelligence Finance just goes to prove this fact. Coming back to the personal loans with low interest rates, Egg clearly states that some of these could be mere traps to fool the common man. There is only a very small fraction of borrowers who get all the benefits that are stated while taking the personal loans.

While each type of personal loans has its own plus points, the unsecured type outshines the rest. A major benefit with personal loans is the least time required for its processing. That's because it requires only the application form and your credit score for processing. You may get an answer from the bank within three business days of applying for the loan.

But always remember that personal loans should be the last option when you need money to make any purchase. It's always a better idea to postpone the purchase until you've saved enough money to make the purchase. Layaway or other modes of payment could be a better bet than applying for personal loans. So, plan out your requirements and then you can take an informed decision on borrowing personal loans.

The bottom lone is, while personal loans give you ample financial freedom to make any type of purchase, any wrong move on your part could spell disaster. Study the terms and conditions of the personal loans before you commit yourself to the financial institutions.

Source

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Casino at it's BEST

GambleCraft.com Online Casinos guide is a leader in casino news and reviews for the most serious players on the Internet.

GambleCraft.com reviews the most popular casino games and online casinos. You can find the detailed analysis of every game based on: history, rules, player edge and the perfect strategy.

Online casino reviews sections lists the most safe casinos on the Internet. Every online casino listed has been around for quite sometime and has proven themselves to be an honest and reliable casino for online gambling.

They feature the following...

Gambling Tutorial

  1. Origin of probability theory
  2. What is probability?
  3. Significance of expected value
  4. Expected return and player edge


Casino Reviews

  1. Slots
  2. Roulette
  3. Video Poker
  4. Craps

Games Software

  1. Video Poker Coach
  2. Video Poker Calculator
  3. Gambler's Odds
Gamblecraft.com teaches strategy for casino games like roulette, video poker, slots and many more. On it's menu you will find links to online casino game tutorials, casino reviews and software. It's mission? Is to assist people like YOU in learning the proper casino gambling strategies so you will have better odds of winning at online casinos.

GambleCraft is an amazing resource for the Internet gambler. GambleCraft.com is truly the one stop for Online Casino information!

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Pinay Scandal Revealed!

Today I am revealing some "Pinay Scandal" - no it's not about me and my adventures/mis-adventures, ohh gosh I got too much scandals already here in my blog.

What Am talking about is "Pinay Scandal" by Marhgil Macuha. Originally it is an SEO contest. I didn’t think it would catch fire until macuha.com according to Pinoy Ambisyoso, many posted comments on his Pinay Scandal post, and are interested to join this campaign. Get started now - this was simply similar to the Viral Tags that went around and got me right at the bottom - before I knew it, my ratings on Technorati and Alexa has jumped 10-fold! This campaign will generate tons of traffic from Pinoys searching for a piece of something.. and guess what? We just changed the Google Trend for this keyword. They’ll find your blog instead!! Haha!

I will make serial updates to this post adding those that will join the campaign. Let’s continue the experiment and see where it takes us… Goodluck bloggers! Let us change the

The Pinay Scandal Hitlist posted below.


1. Wanna know the latest trend about Pinay Scandal? by Dexter of Tech At Hand
2. Pinay Scandal… The Issue by Darang Sisa
3. Pinay Scandal by Almer Viloria
4. Google Suggested Pinay Scandal by Ada
5. Pinay Scandal by Ada
6. Pinay Scandal by Catzie
7. Pinay Scandal by Jehzeel Laurente
8. Pinay Scandals: Earning Big Bucks? by Nika
9. Pinay Scandal by Heart
10. Looking For Pinay Scandals?! by Eli
11. Pinay Scandal by Eligio
12. Pinay Scandal by Stentorized
13. Pinay Scandal by Caryl
14. Pinay Scandal o Iskandalosang Pinay by Kengkay
15. Pinay Scandal by Hazel
16. Pinay Scandal by Baby Face
17. Pinay Scandal Story by Pinoy Ambisyoso
18. Pinay Scandal by Kenneth
19. Pinay Scandal by JoanJoyce
20. Pinay Scandal, Anyone? by MyGlitch
21. Pinay Scandal Here by Jojitah
22. “Pinay Scandal” Idea by Neil
23. Pinay Scandal… In The Mind Of Pinays by Marikenya
24. The Pinay Scandal - Most Outrageous and Raw Scandal by Chuva
25. Pinoy Scandal Survivor No. 1 Proud Filipina: Julie Borje by Marikenya
26. Pinay Scandal by Chuvaness
27. The Best of Pinay Scandals by Rhodilee
28. Pinay Scandal by Che
29. Pinay Scandal by JeanGrey
30. Pinay Scandal Revealed! by Glitchline
31. Pinay Scandal on the Web by Philippine Elections 2007
32. Pinay Scandal, Let’s Play The Trend by Selaplana
33. The Hottest Pinay Scandals by iRonnie
34. Blog About Filipina, Pinay Scandal And Vedio by Allen
35. Pinay Scandal Video by Ronald Mojica
36. Pinay Scandal by Paulyn
37. Pinay Scandal Videos by Mi
38. Pinay Scandals by Rhyannefranz
39. Pinay Scandal Revealed! by Mesothelioma Info
40. Pinay Scandal or Pinay Sex Scandal SEO Project by Lestat
41. Pinay Scandal Here by Ronald
42. Sendal Videos Sell by Blogging Pinay
43. Pinay Scandal / Pnx And Pinay Scaay Scandal: 18 Above Only by Ceefive
44. Pinay Scandal Me by Marlene
45. Pinay Scandal in Baguio City by Reyna Elena
46. Pinay Scandal, Performing In Bubbles by Kotsengkuba

TOP Gambling!!!

Top Gambling Websites List at Sportsbook-watch.com this website is the real deal of your top gambling resource for online sportsbook, poker and casino reviews and recommendations. On this site you will find links to Sportsbook, Casino and Poker Reviews and links to the gaming websites that they recommend as well as lots of other gambling information.

Visit it's website to discover the most reliable gaming sites on the web. For up to the minute sporting odds and lines Sportsbook-watch.com it is!

And they even provide multi-lingual pages in French, Spanish, German and Italian for it's European betting customers as well as a live sportsbetting odds page which is updated on a minute by minute basis providing you with the latest and best odds online.

And for those people who are new to online gaming and betting they provide a new players's guide and a glossary to thousands of betting and gaming terms to help you to better understand the websites that you will visit and the games that you will play. Isn't that GREAT?

They are the top gambling guide on the web with over 6 years online gaming industry experience within the following areas - Poker Websites, Online Casinos and Online Sportsbooks.
They offer the best gambling resources including site reviews, it's top gambling recommendations and also the best gambling websites.

They introduce you to the top gambling websites and provide you with all the betting information you need to help you choose the right online gaming company for you to place your bets with be it to play poker, casino games or sportsbetting.

They provide the top gambling recommendations FREE of charge, telling you which gaming websites offer - Top gambling payouts, Top gambling bonuses, The best and most fair gambling rules and The top gambling resources and betting information.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Financing Commercial Real Estate

Financing sources for commercial real estate include mortgage banking firms, savings and loan institutions, regional banks, insurance companies, and private investors. Commercial real estate financing can take on very different terms, and the way deals are structured is based on a number of factors, including:

* Anticipated use of the property;
* Anticipated returns from the property;
* Geography;
* Type of real estate;
* Size of real estate;
* Perceived risk to lender;
* Market conditions.

Each of these areas must be examined by the business owner prior to seeking commercial real estate financing. Business owners then need to examine the type of loans offered by lenders in accordance with their needs and anticipated growth. Unlike obtaining financing for residential real estate, where the transaction is based on the value of the home at the time of the sale, commercial real estate financing will be based — in part — on the value of the business in the future.

While some lenders specialize in specific types of commercial ventures, such as warehouses, retail operations, or apartment complexes, others provide across-the-board financing to a wide variety of commercial ventures. For the business owner, the key to starting the process is to have the necessary paperwork in order. Despite the many types of financing and types of commercial real estate, lenders remain primarily concerned with the level of risk they'll be taking. Therefore, they must see the following documentation:

* Income and expense statement for the property demonstrating a solid income stream;
* Financial statements on all principals involved as owners of the property;
* Profiles of the management team;
* Property appraisal;
* Financial statements on the borrowing entity;
* Plans, including construction blueprints (if available) for the use of the property.

Unlike most residential real estate transactions, the potential borrower is asked to pay 1 to 2 percent of the terms of the loan (referred to as “standby points”) to show a commitment to the deal. This amount is refunded once the loan is closed. If the lender decides to offer a loan, a
commitment letter is presented with their terms included. The loan agreement will usually include the length of the loan, interest rates (fixed or variable), and what the loan is for (new construction, the purchase of an existing property, refinancing). As the borrower, the business owner needs to see that the terms will allow the business to grow, and not derail such progress. Such a commitment letter or loan agreement will likely also include:

* Closing conditions;
* Owner occupancy requirements;
* Affirmative and negative covenants regarding what the borrower does and does not agree to do;
* Representation and warranties.

Once the lender and borrower have negotiated and come to mutually agreeable terms, the closing process follows, and it is usually more complex than that of a residential mortgage. Issues such as tenants, leases, environmental reports, and even zoning ordinances may all need to be factored into the closing process, which can take up to two or three months, in some cases

The key to commercial real estate financing is to find a lender that will meet the needs of the business, and then allow the business to grow. The right business can increase the value of the real estate it occupies, but only under an agreement that allows it to move forward.

Source

Top 10 Commercial Real Estate Loan Mistakes

It is common for businesses to need commercial loans both at the start-up phase and once the business is up and running for equipment, expansion, or special projects. To make the right impression and secure the loan you need, it is important to be aware of some common mistakes.

1. Not thoroughly researching your options. You want to ensure that you have done your due diligence and reviewed commercial loan terms from different banks and other commercial lenders.

2. Not selecting the best lawyer. You should hire a commercial real estate attorney -- one who is very experienced in negotiating the types of real estate loans you are seeking. This is not the time to go with a friend or sister-in-law who happens to be an attorney.

3. Failing to have a definite plan. Lenders want to see that you have a plan in place for using the money. They also want to see a timeframe in which you anticipate completion of the planned project.

4. Failing to have a business plan. It is always advantageous when seeking a loan, or any type of funding, to have a well-structured business plan that includes all of the necessary operating and financial data. For more information on business plans, see Ten Reasons You Need a Strong Business Plan and the AllBusiness.com Business Plan Center.

5. Not having cash ready to put into the project. Before you apply for a commercial real estate loan, you need to make sure you have some available cash on hand. Commercial lenders want to see that you are investing your own money to cover a percentage of the project.

6. Not reviewing your balance sheet. Before taking out a loan, you should review your balance sheet and analyze your cash flow and liabilities to make sure that while paying off the loan you will still have enough money to run the property properly. For more information, check out The Balance Sheet for Small Businesses.

7. Failing to negotiate the best deal. This ties in closely with number two, regarding a competent real estate attorney who can help you negotiate the fine points when reviewing a commercial real estate loan offer.

8. Going straight to a familiar lender. Yes, it is good to have a rapport with a lender, particularly when you need a loan. However, there are new real estate products offered constantly, and it is worth your time to check out some of the other possibilities before going straight to your favorite lender.

9. Not checking with the SBA. It is always worthwhile to check with the Small Business Administration to see what loans they can help you attain and what advice they may offer.

10. Not having your ducks in a row. Make sure you have all the documentation that the lender would expect, and be prepared to show why the property or project makes fiscal sense.

Source

Monday, November 5, 2007

Funding Dreams with a Personal Loan

That special project that you've planned is sure to make a difference in your life personally, professionally, or spiritually. Don't let the opportunity slip away with delusions of lottery winnings or a call from Deal or No Deal! If you need to create your own windfall of cash, a personal loan may be your best option.

The personal loan is an extension of credit provided by a financial institution. Unlike car loans, student loans, or mortgage loans, the funds borrowed are not designated for a specific purpose. Potential uses could be business start-up costs, a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, a dream wedding-literally anything you desire.

Types of Personal Loans

Personal loans can be either secured or unsecured.

* A secured personal loan requires collateral. This is usually a savings account, CD, or stock portfolio. Secured loans are easier to obtain than unsecured loans, particularly if your credit is less than stellar.

* An unsecured personal loan requires no collateral, but it will likely carry a higher interest rate and more restrictive terms.

The repayment structures for personal loans usually fall into one of three categories:

* Installment. Similar to a car loan, an installment loan has fixed interest and monthly payments.

* Balloon. A balloon loan is structured with lower monthly payments and a large "balloon" payment due at the end of the term.

* Single Payment. In this scenario, the lender requires just one payment of interest and principal at a future date. The single payment structure is typically reserved for very short-term borrowing.

Obtaining a Personal Loan

Since each lender has its own defined terms for personal loans, it's vital to shop around. Start with your bank; as an existing customer, you may be offered a discounted rate. Online banks and lending websites are also great resources. Collect several offers and compare terms. Once you pick the program that suits you best, your lender will walk you through the borrowing process.

A personal loan can help you make that dream a reality, and it's much easier to plan than winning the lottery. Is that opportunity knocking?

Source

Tips on Applying for Personal Loans

It's happened to everyone: Some unexpected expense pops up, and you don't have the cash to handle it. Your first instinct might be to reach for that credit card, or call Aunt Betty to ask for a loan. However, neither of these options is ideal. The answer may lie in heading to a local lender and applying for an unsecured personal loan.

Personal loan basics

A personal loan is a monetary advance made to you usually from a bank, credit union or finance company. Most personal loans are unsecured and carry a fixed interest rate. Maturity terms can vary widely, depending on the lender-some programs are as short as six months, and others as long as 10 years. The right time period for you will depend on how much money you need to borrow, what the interest rate is, and what you can afford to pay back each month. In addition to banks and credit unions, online banks and lending websites are also great resources to use for these types of loans.

It's always important to compare apples to apples when applying for a personal loan. Request written proposals from at least three different lenders, and compare each on the following:

* Interest rate (Compare this to the cash advance rate on your credit card, too.)
* Annual fees
* Restrictions on prepayments
* Length of repayment schedule

Scam Protection

Personal loans fall under the credit practice regulations administered by the Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Trade Commission. Unfortunately, the existence of regulations banning unfair or deceptive credit practices doesn't keep everyone on the straight and narrow. Ultimately, your best protection is shopping around and comparing the terms of several different lenders.

If you need money, don't pull out your credit card. And leave dear Aunt Betty alone. A little research may prove that a personal loan will provide you the funds you need with a structured repayment schedule that you can afford.

Source

The Art of the Budget

Budgeting is like art. Both require discipline and perseverance, and both can yield a beautiful end product. The difference is that you don't need talent for good budgeting; you only need determination and a few simple tips.

No one likes going on a diet, but everyone loves the finished product. The same principle holds true when you use a budget for debt management. You may have to stop indulging in items that you can't afford, but ultimately, you won't be disappointed when your bank account gets fat with savings.

To create a budget, take a pen and paper and write down your monthly income and expenditures. Then follow these budgeting tips:

Remember the fun


Paring everything back to the bare necessities is the knee-jerk reaction when you start creating your budget, but it isn't practical or realistic. Life's too short to cut out all the fun. However, if you can pare back those "fun" funds to about 5 percent of your income, you'll be in good shape.

Minimum-only is a major problem

If you have credit card debt, pay more than just the minimum balance. Put some extra dollars toward the principal-otherwise your debt will never go away. You can also take out a debt consolidation loan and combine all your credit card balances into one tax-deductible loan.\

Pay yourself first

Set up an automatic savings program where you put aside savings every month. Even a little bit of savings set aside regularly can result in a large chunk of change over time.

Don't let your rainy day funds dry up

It's easy to get into serious debt when your back is up against the wall. Create a rainy day fund, generally 3 to 5 months worth of income, just in case you run into a desperate situation. If you don't, you may find yourself forced into a bad credit mortgage or borrowing from relatives.

Budgeting is like dieting: You begin enthusiastically, but your willpower wanes over time. The key to sustaining a budget-like a diet-is to make it realistic. Include money for entertainment, and save a little bit every month. Once you've adjusted to your budgeted lifestyle, you'll feel good about saving more and spending less.

Source

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

NFL Jerseys

Looking for a great NFL Jerseys? You can find great nfl jerseys at uniformset.com

These nfl football uniform sets even make a special Christmas gifts for children. If you're tired of giving your kids the usual Christmas gifts, then these sets will give your a child a thrill on their Holiday! The sets include an official logo NFL Jersey, NFL Helmet, double stitched pants, and iron on numbers. If your child is energetic and will be playing catch with the football in the backyard, get the matching shoulder pads so he can play with dad. These sets are not to be used in real contact sports activities. They are a fun playtime outfit. These sets are really GREAT! Cause they can be used as kids pajamas too.

It it more fun. You can even used it as a Halloween costume! These nfl jerseys has the every NFL and College team covered like... Dallas Cowboys, Atlanta Falcons, Washington Redskins, Miami Dolphins, Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles,
New York Jets, New York Giants, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, Green Bay Packers, Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, Minnesota Vikings, Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphin, New Orleans Saints, St Louis Rams,
Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Red Skins and many more...

Friday, October 26, 2007

Exam Results Successful Examinees - 2007 Licensure Examination for Teachers

Exam Results
Successful Examinees - 2007 Licensure Examination for Teachers


• ELEMENTARY LEVEL (A - D)

• ELEMENTARY LEVEL (E - M)

• ELEMENTARY LEVEL (N - Z)


• SECONDARY LEVEL (A - D)

• SECONDARY LEVEL (E - N)

• SECONDARY LEVEL (O - Z)

Top 10 highest places:

ELEMENTARY LEVEL

1.Angelo Aniag Unay (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Macy Marie Mendoza Valdez (Philiipine Normal University Manila)

2.Mark Gleen Ocasla Cidro (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Ma. Luisa Odi Marcelo (Philippine Normal University-Manila)

3.Gerry Cabrera Areta (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Babylen Abaja Arit (Philippine Normal University-Lopez, Quezon) Grace Ann Sauquillo Estores (Philippine Normal University-Manila)

4.Candy Pearl Nacario Cabag (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Pinky Laser Escalona Ilaga (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Jenny Carlos Paguyo (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Joseph Randolph Pino Palattao (Philippine Normal University-Manila)

5.Jonalee Cataquiz Bandoquillo (University of the Philippines - Diliman) Ruby Rose Rodriguez Briones (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Maria Ursula Gabon Caturan (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Hernilyn Veric Pelarco (Mindanao State University-Gen. Santos City) Raychel Hipolito Punsalan (Assumption College-Makati)

6.Nenita Balando Cabidog (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Phoebe Cesar Ocampo (University of Mindanao-Davao City) Ma. Lovena Veladiez Moneva (University of the Philippines- Diliman)

7.Janess Marie Caberte Encarnado (Holy Name University (Divine Word Tagbilaran) Kristine Frances Alcantara Muni (Universidad de Santa Isabel) Vannie Jill Estrella Samonte (Bicol University-Legazpi)

8.Nowell Santos Torres (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Nympha Dumaya Villanueva (Philippine Normal Univesity-Isabela)

9.Glyna Jamila Acenas (Andres Bonifacio College) Rhodaline Fajardo Escala (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Anita Cua Lim (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Hannah Mia Abrenica Navidad (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Alberto Urmeneta Rañin (Leyte Normal University) Louwell Ted Jayson Sevilla (University of Southeastern Philippines-Davao City)

10.Shiela Marie Perandos Castro (University of the Philippines -Diliman) Anna Renissa Sta Tersa Cuneta (Assumption College-Makati) Arthur Ronald Juinio Dayrit (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Christyn Amargo Escurzon (University of Mindanao-Davao City) Grizchelle Villanueva Odtuhan (Philippine Normal University-Manila)

SECONDARY LEVEL

1.Joel Lising Adamos (University of Santo Tomas) Manuel Tablante Eusebio (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Aaron Dalisay Galamgam (University of the Philippines-Diliman)

2.Virgo Mamaclay Gulan (Philippine Normal University-Isabela) Melissa Elinore Manuel Wang (Ateneo de Manila University -QC)

3.Sherwin Barrete Iñigo (Mindanao State University-Marawi City) Missy Dazzle Molinyawe Olea (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Blessilda Perez Rapoza (Philippine Normal University-Manila)

4.Eisha Vienna Maliksi Fernandez (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Julius Abel Bicos Galpao (Centro Escolar Unversity-Manila)

5.Rommel Ambal Ramos (University of Batangas)

6.Jorge JR Salvador Baclor (Philippine Normal University-Manila) Tom Ng Chu (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Celina Punzalan Sarmiento (Philippine Normal University-Manila)

7.Nestor Gonzales Acala (Mindanao State University-Marawi City) Ferdinand Licup Aguila (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Rachel Edita Oñate Roxas (University of the Philippines-Los Baños) Mona Lisa Pardilla Siacor (Central Philippine University)

8.Gissella Bahoyo Lebron (De La Salle University-Manila) Helma Yusa Mesa (University of the Philippines-Diliman)

9.Agripina Lagasca Arboleda (Saint Louis University) Oliver Garejo Daitol (University of the East-Caloocan) Angeli Soledad Roque Echiverri (University of the Philippines-Diliman) Angelita Profeta Radiel (University of the Philippines-Los Baños)

10.Krystal Dianne Masangkay Dolarte (Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Sta. Mesa) Glaiza David Tarine (Holy Angel University)

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Your Home Improvement Loan and Finding A Good Contractor

With home design shows like Trading Spaces, Extreme Home Makeover and others ruling the ratings, many people have developed design fever. The quickest way to slake that thirst is with a home improvement loan, also known as a home equity loan.

A home improvement loan lets you use the equity in your home to fix it up. Equity is the cash difference between what your house is worth on the market and what you still owe on the mortgage. This loan gives you cash up front so that you can afford to make your house look exactly the way you want. When shopping for a loan, make sure to:

* Get multiple home improvement loan quotes from lenders so you can get the best rates

* Check your free credit report to find out your credit score and increase your negotiating power



Whether you’re planning an addition for a growing family or getting new storm windows, finding a competent and reliable contractor is the first step to a successful and satisfying home improvement project. It's the first smart purchase you'll make with your new home improvement loan.

Your home is not only your castle, it's an investment. So be cautious when you hire someone to work on it. Home improvement and repair and maintenance contractors often advertise in newspapers, the Yellow Pages, and on the radio and TV. Your best bet is a recommendation from friends, neighbors, or co-workers who have had similar improvement work done. Get written estimates from several firms. Ask for explanations for price variations. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder.


Who's Who in Home Improvement Professionals
Depending on the size and complexity of your project, you may need a number of different professionals:


* General Contractors manage all aspects of your project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, getting building permits, and scheduling inspections. They also work with architects and designers.

* Speciality Contractors install particular products, such as cabinets and bathroom fixtures.

* Architects design homes, additions, and major renovations. If your project includes structural changes, you may want to hire an architect who specializes in home remodeling.

* Designers have expertise in specific areas of the home, such as kitchens and baths.

* Design/Build Contractors provide one-stop service. They see your project through from start to finish. Some firms have architects on staff; others use certified designers.



Don’t Get Nailed
Not all contractors are trustworthy. Here are some tip-offs to potential rip-offs. A less than reputable contractor:


* Solicits door-to-door

* Offers you discounts for finding other customers

* Just happens to have materials left over from a previous job

* Only accepts cash payments

* Asks you to get the required building permits

* Does not list a business number in the local telephone directory

* Tells you your job will be a "demonstration"

* Pressures you for an immediate decision

* Offers exceptionally long guarantees

* Asks you to pay for the entire job up-front

* Suggests that you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows. If you’re not careful, you could lose your home through a home improvement loan scam



Hiring a Contractor
Interview each contractor you’re considering. Ask these questions:


* How long have you been in business? Look for a well-established company and check it out with consumer protection officials. They can tell you if there are unresolved consumer complaints on file. One caveat: No record of complaints against a particular contractor doesn’t necessarily mean no previous consumer problems. It may be that problems exist, but have not yet been reported, or that the contractor is doing business under several different names.

* Are you licensed and registered with the state? While most states license electrical and plumbing contractors, only 36 states have some type of licensing and registration statutes affecting contractors, remodelers, and/or specialty contractors. The licensing can range from simple registration to a detailed qualification process. Also, the licensing requirements in one locality may be different from the requirements in the rest of the state. Check with your local building department or consumer protection agency to find out about licensing requirements in your area. If your state has licensing laws, ask to see the contractor’s license. Make sure it’s current.

* How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year? Ask for a list. This will help you determine how familiar the contractor is with your type of project.

* Will my project require a permit? Most states and localities require permits for building projects, even for simple jobs like decks. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project. Be suspicious if the contractor asks you to get the permit(s). It could mean that the contractor is not licensed or registered, as required by your state or locality.

* May I have a list of references? The contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients who have projects similar to yours. Ask each how long ago the project was completed and if you can see it. Also, tell the contractor that you’d like to visit jobs in progress.

* Will you be using subcontractors on this project? If yes, ask to meet them, and make sure they have current insurance coverage and licenses, if required. Also ask them if they were paid on time by this contractor. A "mechanic’s lien" could be placed on your home if your contractor fails to pay the subcontractors and suppliers on your project. That means the subcontractors and suppliers could go to court to force you to sell your home to satisfy their unpaid bills from your project. Protect yourself by asking the contractor, and every subcontractor and supplier, for a lien release or lien waiver.

* What types of insurance do you carry? Contractors should have personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. Ask for copies of insurance certificates, and make sure they’re current. Avoid doing business with contractors who don’t carry the appropriate insurance. Otherwise, you’ll be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.




Check References
Talk with some of the remodeler’s former customers. They can help you decide if a particular contractor is right for you. You may want to ask:


* Can I visit your home to see the completed job?

* Were you satisfied with the project? Was it completed on time?

* Did the contractor keep you informed about the status of the project, and any problems along the way?

* Were there unexpected costs? If so, what were they?

* Did workers show up on time? Did they clean up after finishing the job?

* Would you recommend the contractor?

* Would you use the contractor again?

Source

Home Improvement Loan

A home improvement loan is money lent to a property owner for home repairs, updates or remodeling. Home improvement loans are not necessarily secured by the property they are intended for and may simply be classified as home improvement loans by the lender. These loans can be secured or unsecured and are usually short term.

Home Improvement Loans Home improvement loans are intended to increase the value of your home so it is important to think carefully about where best to put the money. After all, the money spent on home improvements is added to your overall cost of the home and you want to be able to recoup this cost if and when you decide to sell.

Things to Consider about Home Improvement Loans

1. Are you over-building for the neighborhood? Adding a huge addition could make your house the nicest on the block but also the largest and most expensive, making it potentially harder to sell.
2. How much equity is available for home improvements and what is your maximum budget? If you paid only $50,000 for your home ten years ago and now similar homes on your block are selling for $120,000, then you will have no problem investing in updates and repairs.
3. Are you getting the most for your money? Research has proven that upgrades to kitchens, baths and curb appeal offer an excellent return on your investment. Make sure you spend the money where it counts.

Ideas for Home Improvement Loan Projects

The improvement possibilities for your home improvement loan are almost impossible to calculate. While there are many decorating and design improvements possible, here are a few that are good to consider.

1. Additions - If you have a 2 bedroom, 2 bath house, consider adding a third bedroom. Similarly, if you have a 3 bedroom, 1 bath house, consider adding a second bathroom. And last but not lease, if you have a 2 bedroom, 1 bath house, consider adding a master suite complete with his and her closets and a full bathroom.
2. Updates - Concentrate on bathrooms and kitchens when spending the money from your home improvement loan. Kitchens and bathrooms seem to get outdated so quickly so it is important to use classic design concepts and soft, neutral colors. The lime green bathtub was a hit in 1975 but now desperately needs to be replaced.
3. Curb Appeal - Basic improvements such as landscaping or exterior painting can make a huge difference in the overall perception and value of your home. Keep these projects in mind when setting the budget for your home improvement loan project.

While the goal of your home improvement loan is to make repairs or upgrades to your home, the challenge is to make that money go even further, raising the value of your home above and beyond the level of money spent.

For more information on home improvement loans, please visit our Home Equity page.

Source

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Credit Repair

01. Self Help May Be Best

You see the advertisements in newspapers, on TV, and on the Internet. You hear them on the radio. You get fliers in the mail. You may even get calls from telemarketers offering credit repair services. They all make the same claims:

* "Credit problems? No problem!"
* "We can erase your bad credit - 100% guaranteed."
* "Create a new credit identity - legally."
* "We can remove bankruptcies, judgments, liens, and bad loans from your credit file forever!"

Do yourself a favor and save some money, too. Don't believe these statements. Only time, a conscious effort, and a personal debt repayment plan will improve your credit report.

02. The Credit Repair Scam

Every day, companies nationwide appeal to consumers with poor credit histories. They promise, for a fee, to clean up your credit report so you can get a car loan, a home mortgage, insurance, or even a job. The truth is, they can't deliver. After you pay them hundreds or thousands of dollars in fees, these companies do nothing to improve your credit report; most simply vanish with your money.

03. The Credit Repair Warning Signs

If you decide to respond to a credit repair offer, look for these tell-tale signs of a scam:

* Companies that want you to pay for credit repair services before they provide any services.
* Companies that do not tell you your legal rights and what you can do for yourself for free.
* Companies that recommend that you not contact a credit reporting company directly.
* Companies that suggest that you try to invent a "new" credit identity – and then, a new credit report – by applying for an Employer Identification Number to use instead of your Social Security number.
* Companies that advise you to dispute all information in your credit report or take any action that seems illegal, like creating a new credit identity. If you follow illegal advice and commit fraud, you may be subject to prosecution.

You could be charged and prosecuted for mail or wire fraud if you use the mail or telephone to apply for credit and provide false information. It's a federal crime to lie on a loan or credit application, to misrepresent your Social Security number, and to obtain an Employer Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service under false pretenses.

Under the Credit Repair Organizations Act, credit repair companies cannot require you to pay until they have completed the services they have promised.

04. The Truth About Credit Repair

No one can legally remove accurate and timely negative information from a credit report. The law allows you to ask for an investigation of information in your file that you dispute as inaccurate or incomplete. There is no charge for this. Everything a credit repair clinic can do for you legally, you can do for yourself at little or no cost. According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA):

* You're entitled to a free report if a company takes adverse action against you, like denying your application for credit, insurance, or employment, and you ask for your report within 60 days of receiving notice of the action. The notice will give you the name, address, and phone number of the consumer reporting company. You're also entitled to one free report a year if you're unemployed and plan to look for a job within 60 days; if you're on welfare; or if your report is inaccurate because of fraud, including identity theft.
* Each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – is required to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months. The companies are rolling this out across the country during a nine-month period. By September 2005, consumers from coast to coast will have access to a free annual credit report if they ask for it. Otherwise, a consumer reporting company may charge you up to $9.50 for another copy of your report within a 12-month period.
* You can dispute mistakes or outdated items for free. Under the FCRA, both the consumer reporting company and the information provider (that is, the person, company, or organization that provides information about you to a consumer reporting company) are responsible for correcting inaccurate or incomplete information in your report. To take advantage of all your rights under this law, contact the consumer reporting company and the information provider.

Step 1

Tell the consumer reporting company, in writing, what information you think is inaccurate. Include copies (NOT originals) of documents that support your position. In addition to providing your complete name and address, your letter should clearly identify each item in your report you dispute, state the facts and explain why you dispute the information, and request that it be removed or corrected. You may want to enclose a copy of your report with the items in question circled. Your letter may look something like the one on page 6. Send your letter by certified mail, "return receipt requested," so you can document what the consumer reporting company received. Keep copies of your dispute letter and enclosures.

Consumer reporting companies must investigate the items in question – usually within 30 days – unless they consider your dispute frivolous. They also must forward all the relevant data you provide about the inaccuracy to the organization that provided the information. After the information provider receives notice of a dispute from the consumer reporting company, it must investigate, review the relevant information, and report the results back to the consumer reporting company. If the information provider finds the disputed information is inaccurate, it must notify all three nationwide consumer reporting companies so they can correct the information in your file.

When the investigation is complete, the consumer reporting company must give you the results in writing and a free copy of your report if the dispute results in a change. If an item is changed or deleted, the consumer reporting company cannot put the disputed information back in your file unless the information provider verifies that it is accurate and complete. The consumer reporting company also must send you written notice that includes the name, address, and phone number of the information provider.

If you request, the consumer reporting company must send notices of any correction to anyone who received your report in the past six months. You can have a corrected copy of your report sent to anyone who received a copy during the past two years for employment purposes.
If an investigation doesn't resolve your dispute with the consumer reporting company, you can ask that a statement of the dispute be included in your file and in future reports. You also can ask the consumer reporting company to provide your statement to anyone who received a copy of your report in the recent past. You can expect to pay a fee for this service.
Step 2

Tell the creditor or other information provider, in writing, that you dispute an item. Be sure to include copies (NOT originals) of documents that support your position. Many providers specify an address for disputes. If the provider reports the item to a consumer reporting company, it must include a notice of your dispute. And if you are correct – that is, if the information is found to be inaccurate – the information provider may not report it again.

05. Reporting Accurate Negative Information

When negative information in your report is accurate, only the passage of time can assure its removal. A consumer reporting company can report most accurate negative information for seven years and bankruptcy information for 10 years. Information about an unpaid judgment against you can be reported for seven years or until the statute of limitations runs out, whichever is longer. There is no time limit on reporting: information about criminal convictions; information reported in response to your application for a job that pays more than $75,000 a year; and information reported because you've applied for more than $150,000 worth of credit or life insurance. There is a standard method for calculating the seven-year reporting period. Generally, the period runs from the date that the event took place.

06. The Credit Repair Organizations Act

By law, credit repair organizations must give you a copy of the “Consumer Credit File Rights Under State and Federal Law” before you sign a contract. They also must give you a written contract that spells out your rights and obligations. Read these documents before you sign anything. The law contains specific protections for you. For example, a credit repair company cannot:

* Make false claims about their services.
* Charge you until they have completed the promised services.
* Perform any services until they have your signature on a written contract and have completed a three-day waiting period. During this time, you can cancel the contract without paying any fees.

Your contract must specify:

* The payment terms for services, including their total cost.
* A detailed description of the services to be performed.
* How long it will take to achieve the results.
* Any guarantees they offer.
* The company's name and business address.

07. Have You Been Victimized?

Many states have laws regulating credit repair companies. State law enforcement officials may be helpful if you've lost money to credit repair scams.

If you've had a problem with a credit repair company, don't be embarrassed to report it. While you may fear that contacting the government will only make your problems worse, remember that laws are in place to protect you. Contact your local consumer affairs office or your state Attorney General (AGs). Many AGs have toll-free consumer hotlines. Check the Blue Pages of your telephone directory for the phone number or check www.naag.org for a list of state Attorneys General.

08. Need Help? Don't Despair.

Just because you have a poor credit report doesn't mean you won't be able to get credit. Creditors set their own credit-granting standards and not all of them look at your credit history the same way. Some may look only at more recent years to evaluate you for credit, and they may grant credit if your bill-paying history has improved. It may be worthwhile to contact creditors informally to discuss their credit standards.

If you're not disciplined enough to create a workable budget and stick to it, work out a repayment plan with your creditors, or keep track of mounting bills, consider contacting a credit counseling organization. Many credit counseling organizations are nonprofit and work with you to solve your financial problems. But not all are reputable. For example, just because an organization says it's "nonprofit," there's no guarantee that its services are free, affordable, or even legitimate. In fact, some credit counseling organizations charge high fees, or hide their fees by pressuring consumers to make "voluntary" contributions that only cause more debt.

Most credit counselors offer services through local offices, the Internet, or on the telephone. If possible, find an organization that offers in-person counseling. Many universities, military bases, credit unions, housing authorities, and branches of the U.S. Cooperative Extension Service operate nonprofit credit counseling programs. Your financial institution, local consumer protection agency, and friends and family also may be good sources of information and referrals.

Reputable credit counseling organizations can advise you on managing your money and debts, help you develop a budget, and offer free educational materials and workshops. Their counselors are certified and trained in the areas of consumer credit, money and debt management, and budgeting. Counselors discuss your entire financial situation with you, and help you develop a personalized plan to solve your money problems. An initial counseling session typically lasts an hour, with an offer of follow-up sessions.

09. Do-It-Yourself Check-Up

Even if you don't have a poor credit history, some financial advisors and consumer advocates suggest you review your credit report periodically:

* Because the information it contains affects whether you can get a loan or insurance – and how much you will have to pay for it.
* To make sure the information is accurate, complete, and up-to-date before you apply for a loan for a major purchase like a house or car, buy insurance, or apply for a job.
* To help guard against identity theft. That's when someone uses your personal information – like your name, your Social Security number, or your credit card number – to commit fraud. Identity thieves may use your information to open a new credit card account in your name. Then, when they don't pay the bills, the delinquent account is reported on your credit report. Inaccurate information like that could affect your ability to get credit, insurance, or even a job.

10. Sample Dispute Letter

Date
Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code

Complaint Department
Name of Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am writing to dispute the following information in my file. The items I dispute also are encircled on the attached copy of the report I received.

This item (identify item(s) disputed by name of source, such as creditors or tax court, and identify type of item, such as credit account, judgment, etc.) is (inaccurate or incomplete) because (describe what is inaccurate or incomplete and why). I am requesting that the item be deleted (or request another specific change) to correct the information.

Enclosed are copies of (use this sentence if applicable and describe any enclosed documentation, such as payment records, court documents) supporting my position. Please investigate this (these) matter(s) and (delete or correct) the disputed item(s) as soon as possible.

Sincerely,
Your name

Enclosures: (List what you are enclosing)

The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit www.ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC enters Internet, telemarketing, identity theft, and other fraud-related complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.

Source

Learn more about Your Credit Score

Frequently Asked Questions

01. What is credit scoring?

Credit scoring is the quickest, most accurate and consistent way of determining the likelihood that credit users will pay their bills. Credit scoring began in the late 1950s, and since then, it has become widely accepted by lenders as a reliable means of credit evaluation. Consumers have benefited from scoring's speed and accuracy, which have helped them gain access to a wide variety of credit products.

02. Why should you care?

Increasingly, lenders are trying to fund loans with prices (rates, fees and terms) that more precisely match your risk. In theory, someone with a 900 credit score should get much better rates than someone with a 650 score.

So far, though, it hasn't exactly worked that way, at least not that precisely. There are several grades of credit which have arisen, most notably below the 620 line (A-, B, C, D). But above the 620 line, everyone pretty much pays the same. Lenders can penalize you for poorly managing credit, but don't much reward you for effectively and wisely managing your debt, at least so far.

03. Why credit score at all?

It's not as though consumers have been clamoring for some sort of number, so why are we even bothering to go though this process for each loan? In the past, mortgages have been pooled together for sale, with these pools containing a range of credit risks -- all pretty good, but some better than others, and some worse than others.

Some borrowers would be more likely to pay off their loans early, and others might fail to make timely payments at all. The securities derived from these pools each carried a vaguely known level of risk to the investor, which made holding and hedging these as a part of an investment portfolio a bit of a tricky business.

It's long been the desire of investors to be able to slice and dice portfolios of mortgage loans to add or remove risk (and rewards) to a larger investment portfolio. With known risk, a greater level of performance could be assured. Investors are willing to pay more for a greater level of precision, and began pressing the industry to adopt a means to achieve it. Hence, credit scores; now, a seller can put together a package of loans for sale that aren't from a wide muddy pool of credit risks, but rather from a very specific kind or kinds of borrowers, all with scores which are close together.

04. Who really benefits from credit scores?

Credit scoring is actually a good idea, at least on paper, and some ways in practice, too. The sub-prime lending industry (for borrowers with not-so-good credit) could not have been developed without it. Certain borrowers have seen an explosion in the credit available to them, with more competitors vying for their business, lower rates and more choices in product.

It's safe to say that thousands of homeowners have their credit score to thank for their chance to get a mortgage. The credit score is helping to make loan approvals faster, simpler and more convenient for all kinds of loans. At least so far, however, only folks at the bottom of the scale have seen significant "rewards" for the adoption of credit scoring on a wide basis in mortgage lending.

05. What are credit bureau scores?

Credit bureau scores are just one type of credit score. It is computed and calculated from the information on your credit bureau file at the time it was requested. A credit score is like a snapshot: It sums up, at any given point in time, what your credit history and current usage predicts about your future credit performance.

06. Where do credit scores come from?

Statistical scoring models calculate credit scores. Mathematical tables assign points for different pieces of information that best predict future credit performance. Developing these models involves studying how millions of people have used credit. Score model developers find predictive factors in the data that have proven to indicate future credit performance.

Credit score models can be developed from different sources of data. A custom model can developed from a business's own data on its customers. Information is taken from credit application forms and credit bureau reports. Credit bureau models are developed from information in consumer credit bureau reports.

07. How are credit scoring models used?

Credit scores give lenders a fast, consistent and reliable indication of how likely you'll be to repay a loan according to the terms of your agreement. Scores are usually just one of many factors a lender considers in making a decision. This is particularly true in industries like mortgage lending where appraisals and other information play an important part.

08. Who calculates credit bureau scores?

Credit bureau scores are calculated by the credit bureaus and are based solely on the data in their credit reports at the time a lender requests the score. Lenders usually calculate application scores directly. Custom credit scores can be calculated by lenders or by the credit bureaus with whom they work.

09. What is considered a good credit score?

This is a difficult question to answer. With most scoring models, the higher the score the better. Higher credit scores mean lower risk. For other scoring models it's the other way around. More importantly, every company using scoring decides for itself which scores are "good" and which are "not so good," based on its goals and estimates for certain types of loans.

The credit score is only a tool, not a recommendation; the lender always makes the final determination. That decision may be to offer people with lower credit scores a different product, rather than turning them down.

10. What's bad about credit scoring?

In a word, secrecy. In the bad old days of mortgage lending, you may have been judged by a person or committee who used some subjective process to evaluate you, a process which may have been arbitrary. You didn't know what they wanted to see in a borrower, so you applied and hoped.

Especially in the last 20 years, more and more light has been let into the underwriting process, and that knowledge turned into power for the consumer. Knowing where they stood in a lender's eyes, potential borrowers went from place to place in search of a better deal.

Credit scoring is a high-tech way to draw a big, black curtain between borrower and underwriter. Since the credit score data could not be released to consumer, by both choice and contract, the power in pricing returned to the lender. Armed with a score, the lender knows precisely who you are; but you no longer have any idea exactly how good or bad you appear.

For some loans, lenders have stopped even providing rate quotes when you call. They want you to fill out an application first, so they can extract a credit score for you, knowing full well that once you've applied (and perhaps paid a fee) you're less likely to go elsewhere.

11. Why all the secrecy?

It's been a competitive stance by FICO not to release credit scores. It's simple enough to understand that once that FICO proved that scoring works, that other competing models would be developed. They are, including entries from the credit bureaus, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and others.

But there's a good reason why they have resisted telling consumers about their credit scores and what goes into them. The scoring model depends upon consumers going about their business as usual, paying or not paying bills on time, opening lines of credit and getting credit cards as they normally would.

If you knew that closing out a Visa account you barely use might raise your score by some amount, you would close it. That change in behavior, repeated millions of times (and across the various kinds of credit weighting) would distort or destroy the model, rendering the credit score and scoring process worthless.

FICO has claimed that revealing the score to a consumer would merely confuse the borrower even further, and that the credit score by itself isn't useful without proper understanding of the process.

12. Do credit scores cause overcharging?

Because you can't know how you appear, you might be charged far in excess of what you might pay. Credit scoring may have helped foster "predatory lending", a situation where a borrower, especially less sophisticated borrowers, may fall victim to an unscrupulous lender or broker. This can occur especially in cases where a borrower fails to shop far and wide for a loan, and happens largely in lesser-educated areas, and among the poor and elderly.

While the borrower might have pretty good credit, the salesperson might only offer them loans with high rates, fees, or both; not knowing that they might do far better elsewhere, and lacking both the credit score information and understanding of the process, the borrower signs on for the loan. If the borrower had access to his/her score and a little knowledge of the lending process, they could search more aggressively.

13. What's in the future?

Enough pressure has been building around this issue that regulators and even legislators are getting into the act. Recent, Congress has been considering the Fair Credit Full Disclosure Act (H.R. 2856), sponsored by Rep. Chris Cannon (R-Utah), but no action has yet been take to advance the bill along. The California legislature is also considering a law to force release of credit scores. Soon, FICO and the credit reporting agencies TransUnion, Equifax and Experian are planning to provide evaluations of your credit profile to you, for a fee.

In the meantime, if you are applying for a mortgage, you can certainly ask what your credit score is. FICO has stated that it has no specific objection to providing you with the number as part of a financial transaction.

Source

Your Credit Score

01. Overview

Credit scoring is a statistical method of assessing the credit risk of a loan applicant. It uses mathematical models to evaluate a person's credit worthiness based on their credit history and current credit accounts. The credit score was first invented and developed in the 1950s, but has come into widespread use in just the last two decades.

In the mid 1980s the three major credit bureaus, Equifax, TransUnion and Experian (formerly TRW) all worked with Fair, Isaac and Company (FICO) to develop credit scoring models. These models allow each bureau to offer a score based solely on the contents of the credit bureau's data about a person.

The actual numerical credit score is a number that indicates the likelihood that an individual will pay back a loan. It is typically calculated by reviewing the following parameters:

1. Past payment delinquencies
2. Current level of indebtedness
3. Types of credit accounts currently open
4. Length of credit history
5. Number of credit inquiries
6. How often credit is applied for
7. Other derogatory credit behaviors

Each major credit bureau has its own unique method for calculating credit scores. However, the scoring models have been somewhat normalized so that a numerical score at one bureau is roughly the equivalent of the same credit score at another. Therefore, a score of 600 from Equifax indicates the same creditworthiness as a credit score of 600 from Trans Union or Experian, even though the calculations used to determine those scores may be different at each bureau.

Mortgage brokers and lenders frequently use these scores (commonly known as FICO scores) as an important factor in the decision whether or not to offer credit. The higher your credit score the better credit risk you are. Depending on the credit bureau, credit scores range from 375 to 900 points, but those numbers mean little on their own. They only become meaningful within the context of a particular lender's underwriting guidelines.

Nevertheless, because major institutions in the mortgage industry such as the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) have enforced guidelines for lenders based on credit scoring, certain general rules are accepted. So, in general, credit scoring will place a loan applicant in of the following three categories.

02. Credit Score Guidelines

Scoring models like the one developed by FICO have always been shrouded in mystery, especially when it comes to specifics. Generally speaking, though, they utilize your credit history, income, outstanding debt and debt utilization over the years, access to credit, and other indicators of your financial behavior to determine how likely you are to pay your bills on time, or if at all.

A numerical score is then developed, typically ranging from 300 to 900, with the low end of the scale indicating a poor credit risk. This can tell a lender whether or not he'll lend to you. For example, a credit score of 620 is frequently cited as a "cutoff point" for loans which can be funded by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Below that, and you're usually off into the private "sub-prime" market, where rates are higher.
650 and Above

In general, a score of 650 or above indicates a very good credit history. People with these credit scores will usually find the loan process quick and easy, and will have a good chance to obtain a loan at a relatively low rate of interest.
620 to 650

Credit scores between 620 and 650 indicate basically good credit, but also suggest to lenders that they should look at the potential borrower to asses any particular credit risks. (Average FICO scores fall into this range.) People with scores in this range have a good chance at a loan at a good rate, but may have to provide additional documentation and explanations to the lender before the loan is approved. This means that their loan closing may take longer, making their experience more like that of borrowers in the days before credit scoring, when every individual was researched.
Below 620

A credit score below 620 may prevent a borrower from getting the best interest rates, as they may be considered a greater credit risk-but it does not mean that mortgage funding can't be found. The process will probably be lengthier and, as noted, the terms of loan less appealing, but often a loan can still be obtained.

03. Credit Scoring Models

A typical credit scoring model contains a list of questions and answers. A specific number of points are assigned to each answer. Only information proven to be predictive of future credit performance is used in a model. Below are some examples of what a typical model will (and will not) consider.

Information from your credit application:

* How long you've lived at your current address
* Your current occupation
* Your financial obligations

Information from your credit bureau report:

* Amount of outstanding credit balances
* Amount of credit you are currently using
* Length of time with established credit
* Any late payments made

These items are definitely not considered:

* Your race
* Your gender
* Your religion
* Marital status
* Place of birth
* Neighborhood you live in

According to FICO, the breakdown of your credit score is as follows:

* 35% of the credit score is determined by payment histories on your credit accounts, with recent history weighted a bit more heavily than the distant past.
* 30% is based upon the amount of debt you have outstanding with all creditors.
* 15% is produced on the basis of how long you've been a credit user (a longer history is better if you've always made timely payments).
* 10% is comprised of very recent history, and whether or not you've been actively seeking (and getting) loans or credit lines in the past few months.
* 10% is calculated from the mix of credit you hold, including installment loans (like car loans), leases, mortgages, credit cards, etc.

Other models being employed are sure to utilize these in various weightings, plus other data that may be fed in to the model. These might include your address or zip code, how often you've moved and other public and private information about you.

04. Credit Report Errors

You should correct any errors on your credit report. It's a good idea to review your credit report from each bureau regularly. If you see an inaccuracy, report it to the credit bureau. The three major credit bureaus in the United States are Equifax, Trans Union and Experian. All of these companies have procedures for correcting information promptly. For more information click here.

If you discover incorrect information when applying for a loan, be sure to tell your broker or lender. They should be aware of the fact that erroneous data may lead to an unusable score, and consider that fact when making their decision.

05. Raising Your Credit Score

You can improve your future score, but it is unlikely that any single action you will take will have a large impact on your score immediately. This is because your score reflects your credit patterns over time.

Some things you can do that will improve your credit score in the future:

* Pay your bills on time. Delinquent payments and collections can have a major negative impact on your score. As they get older and you pay all other obligations on time, the delinquent information will have less impact.
* High outstanding debt can affect your score, so pay down any loan balances.
* Apply for new credit sparingly. Shopping for credit can have an adverse affect on your score.

It is important to realize that there is no single action that will immediately raise your credit score. Each time a credit score is calculated, specific reasons (score factors) are delivered to the lender along with the score. If you've been given your score, you can ask your lender for these reasons.

These factors represent the three major reasons why your credit score was not higher. Anything that you can do to address these factors will most likely improve your score.

06. Finding Out Your Credit Score

Many lenders may tell you your credit score, though others may not. One reason is that many different types of scores are in use, therefore the number by itself might not hold much meaning to you. Another is that the credit scores can change on a daily basis as new information is added to your credit file.

A credit bureau score is just a tool that lenders use. By itself it does not tell you if your application for credit will be approved or not. If you find out your score is 610, for example, you also need to know your lender's policy for those borrowers with scores in that range.

Lenders are not required to disclose your credit score, but if you have been turned down for a loan in whole or part because your score was too low, they are required to give you the reasons for the score that you received. These reasons give you valuable information you can use to improve your score.

Source

Your Free Credit Report

01. Access to a Free Credit Report

A recent amendment to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies to provide you with a free credit report, at your request, once every 12 months. The FCRA promotes the accuracy and privacy of information in the files of the nation's consumer reporting companies. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation's consumer protection agency, enforces the FCRA with respect to consumer reporting companies.

A credit report contains information on where you live, how you pay your bills, and whether you've been sued, arrested, or filed for bankruptcy. Nationwide consumer reporting companies sell the information in your credit report to creditors, insurers, employers, and other businesses that use it to evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, or renting a home. There are three nationwide consumer reporting companies:

1. Equifax
2. Experian
3. Trans Union

02. How to Get Your Free Credit Report

Consumers in Western states will first be able to order their free credit reports under the federal law beginning December 1, 2004. Consumers in other states will be able to order their copies according to a regional roll-out.

The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have set up one central website and a toll-free telephone number where you can order your free credit report:

* Visit: AnnualCreditReport.com
* Call: 1-877-322-8228

Or, you can complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form available at the website above and mail it to:

Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

You may order your free credit reports from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies at the same time, or you can order from only one or two. The law allows you to order one free credit report from each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies every 12 months.

Source