tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74179677083820958222024-03-12T19:43:59.102-07:00Military Home Closing CentersAtlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-5932860936271567772012-01-08T05:42:00.000-08:002012-01-08T05:42:08.548-08:009 Mistakes to Watch<h2 align="center" class="h2s20">
9 Buyer Traps and How to Avoid Them</h2>
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<b><i>" <span class="txtArial13">A systemized approach to the homebuying process can help you steer clear of these common traps, allowing you to not only cut costs, but also secure the home that’s best for you."</span></i></b></div>
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<span class="txtArial13"><b>No matter which way you look at it buying a home is a major investment. But for many homebuyers, it can be an even more expensive process than it needs to be because many fall prey to at least a few of the many common and costly mistakes which trap them into either:</b></span> </div>
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">paying too much for the home they want, or</span> </li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">losing their dream home to another buyer or,</span> </li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">(worse) buying the wrong home for their needs. </span></li>
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<span class="txtArial13">A systemized approach to the homebuying process can help you steer clear of these common traps, allowing you to not only cut costs, but also secure the home that’s best for you.</span> </div>
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<span style="color: black;">9 Buyer Traps</span><div align="left">
<span class="txtArial13">This important report discusses the 9 most common and costly of these homebuyer traps, how to identify them, and what you can do to avoid them:</span> </div>
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1. Bidding Blind</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">What price should you offer when you bid on a home? Is the seller’s asking price too high, or does it represent a great deal. If you fail to research the market in order to understand what comparable homes are selling for, making your offer would be like bidding blind. Without this knowledge of market value, you could easily bid too much, or fail to make a competitive offer at all on an excellent value.</span> </div>
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2. Buying the Wrong Home </h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">What are you looking for in a home? A simple enough question, but the answer can be quite complex. More than one buyer has been swept up in the emotion and excitement of the buying process only to find themselves the owner of a home that is either too big or too small. Maybe they’re stuck with a longer than desired commute to work, or a dozen more fix-ups than they really want to deal with now that the excitement has died down. Take the time upfront to clearly define your wants and needs. Put it in writing and then use it as a yard stick with which to measure every home you look at.</span> </div>
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3. Unclear Title</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">Make sure very early on in the negotiation that you will own your new home free and clear by having a title search completed. The last thing you want to discover when you’re in the back stretch of a transaction is that there are encumbrances on the property such as tax liens, undisclosed owners, easements, leases or the like.</span> </div>
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4. Inaccurate Survey</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">As part of your offer to purchase, make sure you request an updated property survey which clearly marks your boundaries. If the survey is not current, you may find that there are structural changes that are not shown (e.g. additions to the house, a new swimming pool, a neighbor’s new fence which is extending a boundary line, etc.). Be very clear on these issues.</span> </div>
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5. Undisclosed Fix-ups</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">Don’t expect every seller to own up to every physical detail that will need to be attended to. Both you and the seller are out to maximize your investment. Ensure that you conduct a thorough inspection of the home early in the process. Consider hiring an independent inspector to objectively view the home inside and out, and make the final contract contingent upon this inspector’s report. This inspector should be able to give you a report of any item that needs to be fixed with associated, approximate cost.</span> </div>
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6. Not Getting Mortgage Pre-approval</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">Pre-approval is fast, easy and free. When you have a pre-approved mortgage, you can shop for your home with a greater sense of freedom and security, knowing that the money will be there when you find the home of your dreams.</span> </div>
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7. Contract Misses</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">If a seller fails to comply to the letter of the contract by neglecting to attend to some repair issues, or changing the spirit of the agreement in some way, this could delay the final closing and settlement. Agree ahead of time on a dollar amount for an escrow fund to cover items that the seller fails to follow through on. Prepare a list of agreed issues, walk through them, and check them off one by one.</span> </div>
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8. Hidden Costs</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">Make sure you identify and uncover all costs - large and small -far enough ahead of time. When a transaction closes, you will sometimes find fees for this or that sneaking through after the "sub"-total - fees such as loan disbursement charges, underwriting fees etc. Understand these in advance by having your lender project total charges for you in writing.</span> </div>
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9. Rushing the Closing</h5>
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<span class="txtArial13">Take your time during this critical part of the process, and insist on seeing all paperwork the day before you sign. Make sure this documentation perfectly reflects your understanding of the transaction, and that nothing has been added or subtracted. Is the interest rate right? Is everything covered? If you rush this process on the day of closing, you may run into a last minute snag that you can’t fix without compromising the terms of the deal, the financing, or even the sale itself.</span> </div>
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Our firm reviews your agreement to purchase and sale for free. For more information please feel free to contact us <a href="mailto:bbalcom@algvip.com">bbalcom@algvip.com</a> or visit our websites <a href="http://www.militaryhomeclosingcenters.com/">http://www.militaryhomeclosingcenters.com/</a> DND-IRP APPROVED LAWYERS FOR NOVA SCOTIA</div>
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</div>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-61211592264724078812011-12-05T17:21:00.001-08:002011-12-05T17:24:21.278-08:00Military Home Closing Centers Nova ScotiaNews update our new Military Home Closing Centers in Nova Scotia. Please feel free to surf our new website to help our military and rcmp relocation clients buying or selling in Nova Scotia. Cheers<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.militaryhomeclosingcenters.com/">http://www.militaryhomeclosingcenters.com/</a>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-50580011110858529792011-11-13T06:25:00.001-08:002011-11-13T15:16:25.734-08:00Military Home Hunting Checklist<br />
<table border="0" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="width: 625px;"><tbody>
<tr><td colspan="4" height="41" valign="middle"> MILITARY HOME HUNTING CHECKLIST</td></tr>
<tr><td height="71" valign="middle" width="54"><div align="center">
<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="71" valign="middle">ASK YOUR MILITARY HOME CLOSING CENTER (MHC )Member to tentatively book a Home Inspector after you set your arrival date. Confirm there is no penalty to cancel or re-schedule the home inspection.</td></tr>
<tr><td height="70" valign="middle" width="54"><div align="center">
<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="70" valign="middle">Bring your cheque book along. You may need to pay for a home inspection and put a deposit on your new home. </td></tr>
<tr><td height="70" valign="middle" width="54"><div align="center">
<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="70" valign="middle">Bring a video or still camera to take pictures of the home you wish to see. Remember, we will need the owners' permission! Our (MHC) will also have a Buy Sheet so you can keep track of the homes you wish to see. </td></tr>
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<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="38" valign="middle">Bring slip-on shoes to get in and out of homes quicker.</td></tr>
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<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="70" valign="middle">If you are bringing younger children along, ask your (MHC) member to arrange for child care to facilitate evening showings and when reviewing and signing important documentation.</td></tr>
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<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="110" valign="middle">Get your (MHC) member to arrange a meeting with a mortgage specialist or provide a list to you before you get here. They will give you the details before you head this way. It is important to get pre-approval so you know what range of homes are available for your family.</td></tr>
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<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="85" valign="middle">Your (MHC) member is partnered with DND-IRP lawyers. Please visit their website <a href="http://www.militaryhomeclosingcenters.com/">http://www.militaryhomeclosingcenters.com/</a> for the closest office for your conveience.</td></tr>
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<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="68" valign="middle">Bring medical referral letters to arrange for new medical practitioners when you have some free time. The sooner you get on wait lists, the better!</td></tr>
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<img height="54" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/CheckButton.gif" width="54" /></div>
</td><td colspan="4" height="81" valign="middle">When we have an accepted offer, but are still waiting to remove our conditions i.e., home inspection, etc., you may wish to take advantage of the time to complete other tasks, such as those noted below, if you are from out of town. Make sure you bring along all required documentation to: </td></tr>
<tr><td height="7" width="54"></td><td colspan="4" height="7"><table border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" style="width: 400px;"><tbody>
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<img height="12" src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/Red_Bullet.gif" width="12" /></div>
</td><td height="27" width="618">investigate schools </td></tr>
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<img src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/Red_Bullet.gif" /></div>
</td><td height="27" width="618">drop off resumes at potential employers</td></tr>
<tr><td width="75"><div align="center">
<img src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/Red_Bullet.gif" /></div>
</td><td height="27" width="618">open bank accounts</td></tr>
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<img src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/Red_Bullet.gif" /></div>
</td><td height="27" width="618">complete change of address cards</td></tr>
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<img src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/Red_Bullet.gif" /></div>
</td><td height="27" width="618">research a babysitter</td></tr>
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<img src="http://dndirp.com/Images/Logos/Red_Bullet.gif" /></div>
</td><td height="27" width="618">set-up utilities/phone/cable</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-88418111083494115942011-11-11T10:22:00.001-08:002011-11-11T13:08:12.376-08:00Military House Hunting Made Easy<h2 align="center" class="h2s20">
10 Things You Must Know When Finding a Home</h2>
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<span class="txtArial13">Once you've decided to buy a home, there's a number of issues that need to be considered. Buying a home will be one of the biggest purchases you make in your life. These <b>10 Things You Must Know When Finding a Home</b>" can make House Hunting trip easier.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">In this report, we outline 10 Questions and Answers to help you make informed choices when purchasing a home. Military Home Closing Centers are available throughout Nova Scotia to help guide you through this process. There are some several Military Home Closing Centers Members close to where you wish to buy that can be reached in advance of your House Hunting trip. For further information or for the closest Military Home Closing Center member near to where you wish to buy your dream home please feel free to email us at <a href="mailto:bbalcom@algvip.com">bbalcom@algvip.com</a> or call 1 877 343 9897. </span><br />
<br />
<h5 class="h5s15">
1. What Should I Look For When Deciding On A Community?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">It is important to communicate your wish list to one of our Military Home Closing Center Member real estate firms approved and listed on our website militaryhomeclosingcenters.com Such things as schools, arenas, location to your employment, museums, restaruants, threatre, art, and entertainment are all critical in the House Hunting selection process. Your Miliatry Home Closing Center Member can help you with this decision. They are trained and experienced professionals, ready, willing and able to serve the military family make a good decision. </span><br />
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2. How Can I Find Out About Local Schools?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Your trusted Military Home Closing Center member will have at your disposal all the relevant information as to schools and communities they can provide to you on request. There will be no need to go find this information. </span><br />
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3. How Can I Find Out About Community Resources?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Again, Your Military Home Closing Center member will have a list of all community information already available for you to review .Ask any questions important to you and/or your family.</span><br />
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4. How Can I Find Out How Much Homes Are Selling For In Certain Communities and Neighborhoods?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Your Militay Home Closing Center members are all DND- IRP Approved real estate agents/lawyers and can give you a ballpark figures by showing you comparable listings. </span><br />
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<h5 class="h5s15">
5. How Can I Find Information On The Property Tax Liability?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">The total amount of the previous year's property taxes is usually included in the listing information. If it's not, ask the seller for a tax receipt or contact the local assessor's office. Tax rates can change from year to year, so these figures maybe approximate.</span><br />
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6. What Other Tax Issues Should I Take Into Consideration?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">All Military Home Closing Centers can make available complete tax information on any homes of interest.</span><br />
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<h5 class="h5s15">
7. Is An Older Home A Better Value Than A New One?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">There isn't a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods, offer more ambiance, and have lower property tax rates. People who buy older homes, however, shouldn't mind maintaining their home and making some repairs. Newer homes tend to use more modern architecture and systems, are usually easier to maintain, and may be more energy-efficient. People who buy new homes often don't want to worry initially about upkeep and repairs. Military Home Closing Centers also have the ability to offer new home construction advice to the military families looking to build their dream home. </span><br />
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<h5 class="h5s15">
8. What Should I Look For When Walking Through A Home?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">In addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists, consider the following: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Is there enough room for both the present and the future? </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms? </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Is the house structurally sound? </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Do the mechanical systems and appliances work? </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Is the yard big enough? </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Do you like the floor plan? </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage space? (Bring a tape measure to better answer these questions) </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Does anything need to be repaired or replaced? Will the seller repair or replace the items? </span></li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Imagine the house in good weather and bad, and in each season. Will you be happy with it year 'round? </span></li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">Take your time and think carefully about each house you see. Ask your Military Home Closing Center real estate agent to point out the pros and cons of each home from a professional standpoint. </span><br />
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9. What Questions Should I Ask When Looking At Homes?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Many of your questions should focus on potential problems and maintenance issues. Does anything need to be replaced? What things require ongoing maintenance (e.g., paint, roof, appliances, carpet)? Also ask about the house and neighborhood, focusing on quality of life issues. Be sure the seller's or real estate agent's answers are clear and complete. Ask questions until you understand all of the information they've given. Making a list of questions ahead of time will help you organize your thoughts and arrange all of the information you receive.</span><br />
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<h5 class="h5s15">
10. How Can I Keep Track Of All The Homes I See?</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">If possible, take photographs of each house: the outside, the major rooms, the yard, and extra features that you like or ones you see as potential problems. And don't hesitate to return for a second look. You may also wish to find out if the home is available online. Photos of the property may already be up on a website for you to review.</span><br />
</div>
</span>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-71533033431568708672011-11-07T06:02:00.001-08:002011-11-07T06:02:36.538-08:00PROTECT YOUR HOME<br />
<h2 align="center" class="h2s20">
<span style="font-family: arial;">Before Disaster
Strikes</span></h2>
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<span class="txtArial13">Fires . . . hurricanes. . . floods . . . earthquakes .
. . tornadoes.... Natural or other disasters can strike suddenly, at any time,
and anywhere. Your first priority, of course, would be to protect your family
and your property. But it's also important to protect against the financial
consequences of a disaster. A disaster can damage or destroy your property,
force you to temporarily live somewhere else, cut the flow of wages and other
income, or ruin valuable financial records.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">Listed here are some simple, common sense steps you
can take now. Before you take any actions, however, you should be sure you have
involved your family or friends whenever possible in decision making and
planning. You also may want the assistance of an advisor, such as a Certified
Financial Planner, insurance agent, or similar financial
professional.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">The important thing is to begin planning now, before
the unexpected becomes a harsh reality.</span><br />
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Protect your property</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">One of the first things to do is find out what
disasters could strike where you live----fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or
tornado, for example. The following steps can help you avoid or reduce
substantially the potential physical destruction to your property if you were to
be hit with a disaster. These steps can reduce your insurance costs, too. For
example, you could:</span><br />
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<li><span class="txtArial13">Install smoke detectors to warn of an apartment or
home fire.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Elevate utilities to upper floor or attic.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Clear surrounding bush to protect your home against
wildfires.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Anchor your house to the foundation, and anchor the
roof to the main frame.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Secure objects that could fall and cause damage in an
earthquake, such as a bookcase or hot water heater.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Install hurricane shutters on windows, and prepare
plywood covers for glass doors.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Cover windows, turn off utilities, or move
possessions to a safer location if you have adequate warning of something like a
hurricane or flood.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">If your home is in a high risk flood area, on a fault
line, or threatened by coastal erosion, consider relocating.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Have your house inspected by a building inspector or
architect to find out what structural improvements could prevent or reduce major
damage from disasters.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">If you haven't yet bought a house, you might take
construction type into account. Frame houses tend to withstand some disasters,
while brick homes hold up better in others.</span> </li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">If you're not sure where to start, you could contact
your local fire department. Fire departments will often make house calls to
evaluate your property and make suggestions on how to improve safety. In
earthquake-prone areas, the local utility can be called upon to come to your
location and show you how and where to shut off gas lines or how to elevate
utilities to get them above a possible flood.</span><br />
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Conduct a household inventory</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Inventory your household possessions by making a list
of everything you own. If disaster strikes, this list could:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Help you prove the value of what you owned if those
possessions are damaged or destroyed.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Make it more likely you'll receive a fast, fair
payment from your insurance company for your losses.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Provide documentation for tax deductions you claim
for your losses.</span> </li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">To conduct a thorough home inventory:</span> <br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Record the location of the originals of all important
financial and family documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, wills,
deeds, tax returns, insurance policies, and stock and bond certificates. Keep
the originals in a safe place and store copies elsewhere. You'll need
accessible records for tax and insurance purposes.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Make a visual or written record of your possessions.
If you don't own a camera or videotaping equipment (and can't borrow or rent
it), buy an inventory booklet and fill it out, or make a simple list on notebook
paper. Ask your insurance agent if he or she can provide one.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Go from room to room. Describe each item, when you
bought it, and how much it cost. If you're photographing or videotaping, have
someone open closet doors and hold up items.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Record model and serial numbers.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Include less expensive items, such as bath towels and
clothes. Their costs add up if you have to replace them.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Be sure you include items in your attic, basement,
and garage.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Note the quality of building materials, particularly
for such furnishings as oak doors or expensive plumbing fixtures.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Photograph the exterior of your home. Include the
landscaping---that big tree in the front yard may not be insurable, but it does
increase the value of your property for tax purposes. Make special note of any
improvements, such as a patio, fencing, or outbuildings.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Photograph cars, boats, and recreational
vehicles.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Make copies of receipts and cancelled checks for more
valuable items.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Get professional appraisals of jewelry, collectibles,
artwork, or other items that are difficult to value. Update the appraisals
every two to three years.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Update your inventory list annually.</span>
</li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">Sound like too much work? Computer software programs
designed for such purposes can make the task much easier. These programs are
readily available in local computer stores.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">Most important, once you have completed your
inventory, leave a copy with relatives or friends, or in a safe deposit box.
Don't leave your only copy at home, where it might be destroyed.</span><br />
<h5 align="left" class="h5s15">
Buy insurance</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Even with adequate time to prepare for a disaster, you
still may suffer significant, unavoidable damage to your property. That's when
insurance for renters or homeowners can be a big help. Yet, many people
affected by recent disasters have been underinsured-or worse-not insured at
all. Homeowners insurance doesn't cover floods and some other major disasters.
Make sure you buy the insurance you need to protect against the perils you
face.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">If you own a home:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Buy, at a minimum, full replacement or replacement
cost coverage. This means the structure can be replaced up to the limits
specified in the policy.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Investigate buying a guaranteed replacement cost
policy. When and where available, these policies can pay to rebuild your house,
including improvements, at today's prices, regardless of the limits of the
policy.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Have your home periodically reappraised to be sure
the policy reflects the real replacement cost.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Update the policy to include any home improvements,
such as basement refinishing. Annual automatic increases may not be enough to
cover these.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Buy a policy that covers the replacement cost of your
possessions. Standard coverage only pays for the actual cash value (replacement
cost discounted for age or use).</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Be very clear about what the policy will and will not
cover, and how the deductibles work (the part you pay before the policy
pays).</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Check government operated insurance pools if you find
it difficult to obtain private coverage because of a recent disaster. Premiums
often run higher than market rates, but this is better than no coverage.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Use your home inventory list to check that your
policy's coverage matches the value of your possessions.</span> </li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">If you rent: </span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">If you are renting, consider locating outside a high
risk flood area or away from a fault line.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Buy renter's insurance, which pays for damaged,
destroyed, or stolen personal property. Your landlord's insurance won't cover
damage to or loss of your possessions. Also, consider special coverage like
flood insurance for your belongings.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Be clear about what a policy will cover. Some
policies cover more than others. For example, will the policy pay for living
expenses if you have to live somewhere else temporarily, or for damage from
sewer backup?</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Comparison shop for the best coverage at the best
price. Other than government flood insurance, policies vary from company to
company. Policies in most areas are very affordable. Start with the company
that insures your car. Discounts are often available if you carry more than one
policy with a company.</span> </li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">If you are moving:</span> <br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Select a home in an area not on a fault line, in a
flood area, or at risk from coastal erosion.</span> </li>
</ul>
<h5 align="left" class="h5s15">
Consider special coverage</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Insurance for renters and homeowners won't cover
certain types of losses. Ask your insurance agent or financial planner about
special or additional coverage for the following:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Floods- Homeowner policies don't cover damage from
flooding. Call your current insurance company or agent first about getting
coverage.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Earthquakes- Premiums typically are high, and
deductibles may range from 5% to 20% of the policy's coverage. Still, such
coverage may be better than no coverage. (Earthquake coverage for the contents
of a home usually is separate.)</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Home offices- Some policies automatically extend
coverage to computer equipment and a few other items of business property. Talk
to your agent to determine what items would or would not be covered. If
necessary, you could buy additional business coverage at a modest cost. Or it
may be better to buy a separate small business policy, which would also provide
more coverage. </span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Building codes- Ask your agent about additional
insurance to cover the costs of meeting new, stricter building codes.
Frequently, after a disaster people get shocked with rebuilding costs that are
much higher because building codes have changed. All current codes must be met
when rebuilding. Consider additional structural improvements that provide more
protection.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Other potential problems- This would include problems
such as underground mines (located beneath your property) sewer backup, or
mudslides.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Big-ticket items- Purchase additional coverage for
specific jewelry, collectibles, artwork, furs, or other big-ticket items.</span>
</li>
</ul>
<h5 align="left" class="h5s15">
Where to keep cash</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">After a disaster, you may need cash for the first few
days, or even several weeks. Income may stop if you can't work. To help stay
solvent, consider the following:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Keep a small amount of cash or traveler's checks at
home in a place where you can get at it quickly in case of a sudden evacuation.
A disaster can shut down local ATMs and banks. The money should be in small
denominations for easier use.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Set aside money in an emergency fund. That can be
tough to do on a tight budget, but it can be well worth the effort. The fund
can be very helpful, not only in a disaster, but in other financial crises, such
as during unemployment or when unexpected expenses like legal fees arise.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Keep your emergency funds in a safe, easily
accessible account, such as a passbook savings account or a money market
account.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Keep some funds outside the local area, since the
disaster that affects you could also affect your local financial institutions.
A mutual fund money market account in another city is one option to
consider.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Keep your credit cards paid off. You may have to draw
on them to tide you over.</span> </li>
</ul>
<h5 align="left" class="h5s15">
Use an evacuation box</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Buy a lockable, durable "evacuation box" to grab in
the event of an emergency. Even a cardboard box would do. Put important papers
into the box in sealed, waterproof plastic bags. Store the box in your home
where you can get to it easily. Keep this box with you at all times, don't
leave it in your unattended car.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">The box should be large enough to carry:</span> <br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">A small amount of traveler's checks or cash and a few
rolls of quarters.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Negatives for irreplaceable personal photographs,
protected in plastic sleeves.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">A list of emergency contacts that includes doctors,
financial advisors, clergy, reputable repair contractors, and family members who
live outside your area.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Copies of important prescriptions for medicines and
eyeglasses, and copies of children's immunization records.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Health, dental, or prescription insurance cards or
information.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Copies of your auto, flood, renter's, or homeowners
insurance policies (or at least policy numbers) and a list of insurance company
telephone numbers.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Copies of other important financial and family
records (or at least a list of their locations). These would include deeds,
titles, wills, a letter of instructions, birth and marriage certificates,
passports, relevant employee benefits documents, the first two pages of the
previous year's income tax returns, etc. Originals, other than wills, should be
kept in a safe deposit box or at another location.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Backups of computerized financial records.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">A list of bank account, loan, credit card, driver's
license, investment account (brokerage and mutual funds), and Social Security
numbers.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Safe deposit box key.</span> </li>
</ul>
<h5 align="left" class="h5s15">
Rent a safe deposit box</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Safe deposit boxes are invaluable for protecting
originals of important papers. If you don't have a safe deposit box, keep copies
in your evacuation box or with family or friends. Original documents to store
in a safe deposit box include:</span> <br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Deeds, titles, and other ownership records for your
home, autos, RVs, boats, etc.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Birth certificates and naturalization papers.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Marriage license/divorce papers and child custody
papers.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Passports and military/veteran papers.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Appraisals of expensive jewelry and heirlooms.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Certificates for stocks, bonds, and other
investments.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Trust agreements.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Living wills, powers of attorney, and health care
powers of attorney.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Insurance policies (copies are sufficient).</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Home improvement records.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Household inventory documentation.</span> </li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">Generally, originals of wills should not be kept in a
safe deposit box since the box may be sealed temporarily after death. Keep
originals of wills with your local registrar of wills or your
attorney.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">Deciding on a safe and convenient location is an
issue. You may want to consider renting a safe deposit box in a bank far enough
away from your home so it is not likely to be affected by the same disaster that
strikes your home (for instance, bank vaults have been flooded). Keep the key to
the safe deposit box in your evacuation box.</span><br />
<h5 align="left" class="h5s15">
Home safes and fire boxes</h5>
<span class="txtArial13">Safes and fire boxes can be convenient places to store
important papers. However, some disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, or
tornadoes, could destroy your home. Usually, it's better to store original
papers in a safe deposit box or at another location well away from your
home.</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">If you have time...</span><br />
<span class="txtArial13">Some disasters, such as tornadoes or earthquakes,
strike with little or no warning. Others, such as floods or hurricanes, may
allow some time to prepare. If there is enough time, you could take the
following actions:</span> <br />
<ul>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Decide what household items you would put on a very
short priority list. For example, imagine you could take only one suitcase or
pack a single carload. What would you take? Involve the whole family in this
discussion. Take jewelry and other small valuables.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Take irreplaceable heirlooms, mementos, and
photos.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Don't bother with replaceable items such as
televisions, furniture, computers, and clothing (except what you need to wear
for a few days).</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Be sure, however, to take a battery-powered radio and
spare batteries so you can stay informed.</span>
</li>
<li><span class="txtArial13">Take important papers and computer disks if you have
a home business.</span> </li>
</ul>
<span class="txtArial13">Whew! These are a lot of ideas. You may not be able
to do everything that is suggested---that's OK. Do what you can. Taking even
limited action now will go a long way toward preparing you financially before a
disaster strikes.</span></span></div>
<span class="txtArial13">
<div>
</div>
</span>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-23986229798382842672011-11-02T06:34:00.000-07:002011-11-02T06:35:54.608-07:00Tips on Buying<iframe width="420" height="315" src="<a href="http://www.youtube.com/embed/o0J0Ygn20NI">http://www.youtube.com/embed/o0J0Ygn20NI</a>" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-84462381187625984432011-11-01T15:33:00.001-07:002011-11-02T03:42:48.263-07:00Halifax & Region Family Resource Concert<span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">Join the 36 Canadian Brigade Group Band at the Halifax & Region Military Family Resource Centre (Halifax site) for a wartime memories concert Thursday, November 10. Come and listen to the likes of Glen Miller and Bob Hope, enjoy music from the "Bandrew Sisters" and 1NSH Pipes and Drums. The evening will be filled with music, entertainment and refreshments. The concert begins at 7:30pm at the Piers Military Community Centre in Windsor Park and admission is a goodwill offering with all proceeds going to the Halifax & Region Military Family Resource Centre, a registered charity. For more information call 427-7208.<a href="http://www.relocatecanadianmilitary.com/">Military Reocation Home Closing Centers</a></span>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-4523740029529068362011-10-31T18:08:00.000-07:002011-10-31T18:08:17.616-07:00Military Home Closing Centers/ Divsion of Atlantica Law Group<div class="divBgBlue floatLeft">
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Contact Us</h2>
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Kentville 1.902.679.0110<br />
Greenwood 1.902.765.3382<br />
Bridgewater 1.877.343.9894</div>
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VIP Client Advantage Plus</h2>
<h3>
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<img alt="" src="http://www.algvip.com/images/Scales92.jpg" style="float: right; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 10px;" />Atlantica Law Group (ALG) is a registered regional law firm with coverage throughout Atlantic Canada. ALG Law Group is a full service law firm with focus on real estate transactions, corporate law, and debt recovery. <br />
Clients of Atlantica Law Group enjoy benefits, advantages, and discounts by simply registering with the firm under its VIP Client Advantage Plus programs. All VIP Clients have the exclusive privilege of direct contact with any lawyer in the firm via phone, email, or in person if requested.<br />
Whatever your legal needs may be, please feel free to give us a call for a free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you. <br /><br />Providing service to our clients throughout Atlantic Canada with coverage in<strong> <br />Halifax, Bedford, Sackville, Dartmouth, Windsor, Kentville, Greenwood, and Bridgwater<em>.<br />Call toll free <span style="color: #004477;">1-877-343-9894</span> for more information.</em></strong></div>
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<br style="clear: both;" />Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-45299333722728551532011-10-19T17:07:00.000-07:002011-10-19T17:10:52.632-07:00Buying Real Estate<div class="title01">
Welcome</div>
<strong>Why do I need a real estate lawyer?</strong> For the majority of home buyers, the purchase of a home will be the single largest purchase and investment in their lifetime. The legal process can be overwhelming for some, and simply put, you want to ensure that the transaction is smooth and comfortable. The importance of working with <strong>experienced real estate lawyers</strong> cannot be overstated.<br />
<div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" height="6" src="http://www.realestatelawyernovascotia.com/images/hr01.gif" width="467" /></div>
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<img align="right" alt="" border="0" height="146" hspace="10" src="http://www.realestatelawyernovascotia.com/images/temp02.jpg" width="146" />Experience On Your Side</div>
At <strong>Atantica LawGroup</strong> , <a href="http://www.algvip.com/">http://www.algvip.com/</a> our lawyers are seasoned and professional real estate practitioners. Many have <strong>practiced real estate law in Canada for over twenty years</strong>. At ALG, our lawyers practice designated law. That means that their preferred areas of practice include real estate and related transactions. Our experience includes legal negotiation, arbitration, conflict resolution, and if necessary, real estate litigation.<br />
<br />
We are <strong>Approved DND ( Byron Balcom and Bernie Conway)</strong> lawyers and have represented several hundred members of the military relocate to Nova Scotia. see <a href="http://www.relocatecanadianmilitary.com/">http://www.relocatecanadianmilitary.com/</a> We offer our clients and military families many discounts, advantages and benefits through our vipclientadvantageplus.com website. Plus visit our Military Gift Program. <br />
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Unique Experience</div>
Our mission is to provide outstanding service at competitive rates while ensuring our clients are fully protected and have a happy and successful experience using our law firm. If you need a <strong>real estate lawyer in Nova Scotia</strong>, Atlantic Canada, or even across Canada, email us <a href="mailto:bbalcom@algvip.com">bbalcom@algvip.com</a>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7417967708382095822.post-77187931035762853722011-10-19T15:56:00.000-07:002011-10-19T15:56:57.984-07:00Military Relocation Centers www.relocatecandianmilitary.com<div class="title01">Welcome to <strong>ALG's Military Relocation Site</strong></div>We've helped many service personnel in their relocation needs over the years, and now stand ready to help you.<br />
<strong>Atlantica Law Group</strong> is registered with the Federal Government's Integrated Relocation Program as administered by the Brookfield Global Relocation Services for Province of Nova Scotia.<br />
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Visit the <a href="http://www.cfsuo.forces.gc.ca/adm/psc-csp/irp-bpr/index-eng.asp">Canadian Forces Integrated Relocation Program</a><br />
<div align="center"><img alt="" border="0" height="6px" src="http://relocatecanadianmilitary.realestatelawyerns.com/images/hr01.gif" width="467px" /></div><div class="title01"><strong><img align="right" alt="" border="0" height="180px" hspace="10" src="http://relocatecanadianmilitary.realestatelawyerns.com/images/temp02.jpg" width="146px" />Rewards For a Job Well Done</strong></div>Our firm with five (5) law offices throughout Province of Nova Scotia is a dedicated and experienced Relocation real estate law firm.<br />
Reolcation clients of Atlantica Law Group enjoy benefits, advantages, and discounts by simply registering with the firm under it's Vip Client Advantage Plus programs. Each Relocation client will receive a Vip Client Advantage card they can use to receive their benefit, advantage, and or discount.<br />
The Canadian Military in Nova Scotia both through the Halifax, Shearwater, and Greenwood bases have proven their value and worth both nationally and internationally. ALG Law Group wishes to salute our Military both home and abroad and say thank you so much for all you do for us in Canada.<br />
Visit ALG's <a href="http://www.algvip.com/vip/military.php">Canadian Military Gift Program</a>.<br />
For further information feel free to email us at <a href="mailto:bbalcom@algvip.com">bbalcom@algvip.com</a>Atlantica Law Grouphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02503735064394902964noreply@blogger.com0