Category: Love & Money

We all know the saying “money can’t buy happiness.” But is there truth to that statement? Our relationships with people are often reflected in our relationship to money. For example, someone who is very stingy with their money may also be stingy with their affection. Or someone who is always trying to get rich quick may be attracted to partners who are also interested in superficial things. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. But in general, our relationship to money says a lot about our approach to relationships. If we’re always trying to save or earn more money, we may be afraid of intimacy. If we’re always spending lavishly on others, we may be trying to buy love. Ultimately, our relationship to money is a reflection of our deepest values and desires. And that’s something worth thinking about the next time we reach for our wallets.

Incredible Tips for a Fuss-Free Miami Home Buying Experience

Purchasing a house is a monumental decision with long-term financial and lifestyle implications. In the vibrant city of Miami, the real estate market has shown remarkable growth, with property values appreciating by a whopping 188.09% over the last decade. This booming market makes Miami an attractive place for potential homeowners.

However, before taking the plunge, it’s vital to weigh various factors to ensure you make a well-informed choice. This guide will explore crucial considerations to remember as you embark on the journey to find your dream home in the heart of Miami.

Understanding the Local Real Estate Market

Before buying a house in Miami, it’s crucial to have a grasp of the local real estate market. Prices can vary significantly from one neighborhood to another. By understanding the market trends, you’ll be better positioned to find a home that fits your budget and meets your expectations.

It is advisable to research recent sales data, talk to local real estate agents, and compare prices in different areas. This will give you insights into the market dynamics and better prepare you to make a wise investment in the Miami housing market.

Planning Your Move to the New Place

Once you’ve secured a new home, the next step is planning the move. This process can be difficult, but with the right help, it becomes manageable. Hiring a reputable moving company is a wise decision as it takes off the stress associated with moving.

A good choice for those in the area would be a local Miami moving company, which will have a strong understanding of the locality. They can help efficiently manage the moving process, ensuring your belongings are safely transported to your new home. Taking this step will provide a smooth transition into your new abode in Miami.

Home Buying Financial Readiness

Before jumping into the process of purchasing a house, it’s crucial to assess your financial readiness. Look closely at your credit score, savings, and overall financial health. This step will help determine if you’re financially prepared to take on a mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and other homeownership expenses.

It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your budget and what you can comfortably afford. After all, you do not want to be house-poor.

Identify Your Housing Needs

Every homebuyer has unique housing needs and preferences. Consider factors like location, size, layout, and features that matter most to you and your family. Think about the type of neighborhood you want to live in and any specific amenities or facilities you desire near your future home.

By clearly identifying your housing needs, you can narrow your search and focus on properties that align with your criteria.

Mortgage Pre-Approval

Obtaining a mortgage pre-approval is a crucial step in the home-buying process. It involves working with a lender to determine the loan amount you qualify for based on your financial information.

Pre-approval helps you as a buyer and sets a realistic budget. It’s an essential tool for negotiating with sellers and ensures you don’t waste time looking at homes beyond your budget.

Home Inspection

A home inspection is a vital step before finalizing a home purchase. It involves hiring a professional inspector to evaluate the property’s condition and identify any potential issues or needed repairs.

A thorough inspection can uncover hidden problems that may not be visible during a casual walkthrough. Armed with this information, you can make an informed decision on whether to proceed with the purchase, negotiate repairs, or walk away from the deal.

Budget for Closing Costs

In addition to the down payment on your new home, you’ll need to budget for closing costs. Closing costs typically include fees for services such as appraisals, title searches, credit reports, and legal fees.

These costs can add up, so it’s essential to be financially prepared. Work with your lender and real estate agent to estimate your expected closing costs and factor this into your budget when planning your home purchase.

Future Growth and Resale Value of Potential Homes

While purchasing a home, it’s crucial to consider its potential for future growth and resale value. Research the neighborhood’s long-term prospects, including plans for infrastructure development, schools, and amenities.

A property in an area with a positive growth outlook is more likely to appreciate in value over time, providing you with a sound investment.

Negotiate Wisely When Buying a House

Negotiation is a significant part of the home-buying process. Once you’ve found a home you love, work with your real estate agent to craft a competitive offer.

Be prepared to negotiate with the seller, and don’t hesitate to ask for repairs or concessions based on the results of the home inspection. Effective negotiation can help you secure a favorable deal and ensure you’re comfortable with the terms of your purchase.

Plan for the Long Term When Purchasing a New Home

When buying a home, it’s important to think long-term. Consider your future plans and whether the property aligns with them. Are you planning to start or expand your family? Will your commute change? Are there any potential changes in your financial situation?

While it’s impossible to predict everything, having a clear vision of your long-term goals can guide your home buying decisions.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home is a huge decision. To make the buying experience as smooth and stress-free as possible, potential home buyers in the Miami area need to be well informed and prepared. It is essential to do your research, consider your needs, secure finances, have a budget, and partner with an experienced real estate agent.

Real estate agents have the knowledge and access to resources to help you navigate the market and find what you’re looking for. With these tips in mind, Miami home buyers can have an amazing experience.

Please share any useful home-buying tips with us below!

November 6, 2023
Moving to London: Some Simple Advice
Moving to a big, bustling global city like London can seem thrilling yet daunting. With its world-renowned sights, rich history, arts and culture, fashion, food and nightlife scenes, and plentiful career opportunities, it’s no wonder over 8 million people call London home.

If you plan on joining the ranks of Londoners, read on for some key tips to make your move and transition to London life go as smoothly as possible.

Finding a Place to Live in London

One of the first steps when relocating to London is sorting out where you will live. With high demand and limited housing stock, finding a suitable place at an affordable price can be tricky. Here are some of the main options to consider for housing when moving to London:

Renting

The most common route is to rent rather than buy property. As a major metropolis, rental prices in London vary widely across the different boroughs, with central areas like Mayfair and Chelsea being the most expensive.

Just like anywhere these days, housing is not cheap, no matter what option you choose. On average, across Greater London, expect to pay between £1,200 – £2,000 per month for a modest one-bedroom flat. Less central areas like Croydon and Ilford tend to be more affordable. Check major rental listing sites like Rightmove and Zoopla to search current listings and get a feel for prices.

House sharing/flat sharing

Sharing a property with other renters is very common for younger people or tenants on tighter budgets. Searching for a room in a shared house or apartment starts at around £700 per month, which shares the cost of rent.

Useful sites to find house share listings include Spareroom, Gumtree, MoveFlat, and IdealFlatmate.

Shared ownership

Shared ownership can help first-time buyers in London and east London, in particular, to gradually get a foot on the property ladder. With this scheme, you purchase a share of a property, typically between 25% – 75%, and pay subsidized rent to a housing association on the remaining share that you don’t own.

Shared ownership is one helpful option for those who don’t qualify for social housing but can’t afford to buy a home outright.

Social housing

Applying for council (local authority) or housing association homes is another potential avenue for more affordable long-term housing for Londoners on low incomes or benefits. However, be prepared for very long waiting lists, especially for family-sized homes. Patience and persistence is key.

When viewing rental flats or rooms in person, take time to check out and get a feel for the neighborhood, local amenities like shops and restaurants, proximity to public transport, any noise issues, etc., to determine whether the location and property will suit your needs and lifestyle.

Navigating Transport Options for Getting Around London

London boasts a world-class transport system, though traveling during packed rush hours can be energy-sapping. Here’s a quick guide to the main transport options for getting around the UK’s sprawling capital:

The London Underground (Tube)

The Tube is the quickest and easiest mode of transport for moving between central London destinations and beyond. London’s underground metro system comprises 11 different colored lines that broadly service different areas.

Key lines for central London include the Central, Victoria, Northern, Circle, District and Jubilee lines. Check the latest Tube map for help visualizing London’s underground network.

Overground trains

In addition to the Tube, suburban rail networks like the London Overground, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), and Thameslink provide wider metro coverage to outer London areas not serviced by underground lines.

These are particularly handy for reaching destinations in residential boroughs like Shoreditch, Stratford, Greenwich, Richmond, and more.

Buses

London’s extensive red bus network helps fill gaps the Tube doesn’t reach, especially for shorter cross-city trips within central London.

Buses run 24 hours a day, though they are less frequent in the early morning. Single bus journeys cost £1.65 or use an Oyster card for fare capping.

Taxis (black cabs)

London’s ubiquitous black cabs can be hailed on the street when the yellow light is on. These are most useful as a backup option when tube stations are closed or if you have lots of luggage. However, taking traditional taxis regularly can get pricey.

Cycling

Cycling has become more popular in London despite the often-hectic traffic. Seek out quieter designated cycle routes or backstreet roads, or join one of London’s public bike hire schemes like Santander Cycles for short rides between docking stations.

Walking

Central London is fairly compact and walkable, depending on where you need to go. Always have an umbrella handy! Useful apps like CityMapper can suggest walking times between destinations.

Investing in an Oyster card is advised to take advantage of capped daily and weekly fares across London’s public transport network. Top up your Oyster card online or at stations. Contactless payment cards are also accepted.

Finding Work and Advancing Your Career in London

As a major global city and financial, media, technology, and cultural hub, London offers abundant employment opportunities in fields like finance, professional services, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and more. Here are some tips for job seekers relocating to London:
- Polish up your CV to highlight relevant skills, achievements, and experience for your chosen roles. Adapt your CV for each application rather than sending a generic version everywhere.
- Tap into your professional network, contacts, and connections already based in London who may be able to suggest insider job leads or make introductions. Attend industry events and conferences to expand your network.
- Regularly browse major online job portals like Indeed, TotalJobs, Monster, and LinkedIn to search for current openings. You can also look for London-based jobs directly on company career web pages.
- Seek help from specialist recruitment agencies and headhunters focusing on your particular sector or industry. Register with agencies for access to opportunities.
- Be vigilant for job scams – avoid any employers asking you to hand over money for training, visas, or equipment before you start working. Research companies before accepting job offers.
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews by researching the company, practicing your responses, and having questions ready to ask the interviewer. Reread the job description and think about how to sell yourself best.
- Don’t just look at the well-known sites. Checking London’s local papers like The Evening Standard and community papers and websites can sometimes uncover more unique job listings. Gumtree is another option.
- Once employed, take advantage of opportunities for training and development to boost your skills. Network internally and get to know key people in the organization to further your career.
- In the meantime, if you are seeking employment opportunities and want to advance your career, especially in areas or sectors such as government, defense, or certain industries with sensitive information, it’s advisable to consult professionals like a security clearance attorney. Several sectors often require individuals to obtain clearances for certain roles in a bid to guarantee the protection of classified information and national security interests. For this reason, you may need the guidance of these professionals throughout the process, including application preparation, navigating potential issues that may arise during background checks, and addressing any legal complexities associated with clearance denial or revocation.
Registering for Essential Services as a London Resident

Once you’ve secured housing and employment, an important next step is getting registered for the key services you will need living and working in the city:

Register at a GP surgery

Having a local general practitioner (GP) is vital for accessing NHS healthcare services in London. Use the NHS website to search for GP practices accepting patients near your home or work and register with one.

Sign up to an NHS dentist

Likewise, being registered with an NHS dentist will allow you to get subsidized dental checkups and treatment. You may need to go on a waiting list. There are also private dentists if you want to pay out of pocket.

Open a UK bank account

You’ll need a UK current/checking account set up to manage paying rent, bills, salaries etc. Major banks like HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds have branches throughout London. Compare account features and fees.

Get a local mobile phone

Purchasing a UK SIM card or signing up with a mobile provider will provide you with a London phone number. Leading carriers include EE, Vodafone, O2, Three, and Giffgaff.

Sort your internet

Arrange installation or signup for broadband, fiber, or 4G/5G home internet through one of London’s main providers like BT, Sky, Virgin Media, or TalkTalk. Compare speeds and prices.

Purchase a TV license

Watching or streaming live broadcast television legally requires paying the annual TV license fee, which is around £159 per year. Failing to purchase one risks a fine.

Set up utilities

Contact utility companies like British Gas, EDF Energy, or E.ON to set up gas, electricity, and water accounts for your home.

These everyday services make adjusting to life in the capital easier.

Enjoying All That London Has to Offer

Once the essentials of housing, employment, transportation, and services are handled, it’s time to enjoy living in one of the world’s most iconic and diverse cities!

Here are some ideas for making the most of London’s abundant leisure activities, arts and culture, food scene and nightlife:
- Tour London’s numerous historic and cultural iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and more. Multi-attraction passes like The London Pass offer discounted entry to sites.
- Wander through charming historic neighborhoods like Westminster, Notting Hill, Covent Garden, Islington, Hampstead, and Greenwich and take in the atmosphere, architecture, cafes, shops, and people-watching.
- See spectacular musicals, dramas, comedies, and more at West End theatre venues from huge stages like the National Theatre to smaller fringe theatres on the Strand or Shaftesbury Avenue. Queue early for discounted day tickets.
- Sample the diversity of international cuisine from around the globe. Try Chinatown, Southall for Indian curries, Turkish food in Dalston, Vietnamese in Shoreditch, and much more.
- Relax with picnics, boat rides, and open-air events in London’s many green spaces and parks on sunny days like Hyde Park, Regents Park, Hampstead Heath, and Richmond Park nearby.
- Peruse the stalls at London’s colorful outdoor markets like Borough, Portobello Road, Old Spitalfields, Camden, and Brick Lane Markets for street food, vintage fashion, antiques/collectibles, and handmade crafts.
- Take advantage of free museums and galleries like the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, V&A, and more.
- Hit the shops on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Westfield malls, or discover unique boutiques, bookstores, and galleries in areas like Soho, Marylebone, and Shoreditch.
- Make the most of London’s pumping nightlife scene – theatre, concerts, clubs, comedy, pubs, and bars offer evenings out for all tastes (drink responsibly, of course!).
Living in London, days out, entertainment, and leisure activities are abundant. Take advantage of all this world capital has to offer! The key is being open-minded, curious, and willing to try new experiences. Enjoy London’s countless opportunities.

Have you ever been to London?
October 30, 2023
Should You Sell Your Home to a Cash House Buyer?
Selling your house to a cash buyer can be tempting, especially in a down market. Ready cash and a quick sale is appealing. But is it the best option for you? Here are some pros and cons to weigh when considering selling to a cash house buyer:

The Pros of Cash House Buyers

1. Speedy Sale

Cash buyers can sometimes close in as little as 7-10 days. You get your money fast and avoid a long, drawn-out sale. This works well if you need to relocate or liquidate quickly.

2. No Mortgage Contingency

Buyers financing a home purchase can back out if they hit snags getting a mortgage. All-cash deals have no financing clause, so the sale is more likely to close.

3. Flexible Timeline

Cash investors may purchase properties “as is.” That saves you time and money on repairs and cleanup. Some are even willing to buy an occupied home and then let you stay in it rent-free for a period.

4. No Showings or Open Houses

You avoid the hassle of prepping your home for showings and open houses. Just accept the cash offer and move on.

The Cons of Cash House Buyers

1. Below Market Value Offers

Cash buyers typically offer 10%-25% under market value to profit on their quick flips. That missing equity could add up to tens of thousands you lose out on.

2. Limited Competition

With one offer on the table, you lack the advantage of bidding wars and multiple competing offers driving up the price.

3. No Agent Guidance

New home sellers benefit from the expertise of an agent guiding them through the process. Cash sales are direct, with no representation or advisor in your corner.

4. Investment Condition Homes

Cash buyers often look for cosmetic fixers they can quickly rehab and resell for big profits. Your home may be left looking “loved” versus move-in ready.

Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Cash Offer
- How did they arrive at their offer price? Get comps for better negotiating leverage.
- Are there any hidden fees or closing costs for you?
- How quickly must you vacate after closing?
- Do you have recourse if they default on the sale? Get it in writing.
- Is the offer contingent on any inspections or appraisals?
Ultimately, the convenience and speed of a cash sale must be weighed against leaving equity on the table. Companies like Cash House Buyer Guru offer advice on cash house buyers who provide full market value cash offers, helping you decide. Consult an attorney and agent before signing anything.

Selling to a cash buyer is not an all-or-nothing proposition. With the right considerations, you may be able to get the best of both worlds – a fast sale and optimal value. Here are some tips to maximize your proceeds even when dealing with a cash investor:

Counter at Higher Price

Cash buyers expect you to come back with a higher price. Don’t accept their first offer. Consult comps and agents to establish fair market value. Counter at least 5-10% above their initial offer, citing comparable sales. Cash buyers expect negotiation, so don’t be shy.

Provide Independent Appraisal

Paying for an independent appraisal gives you an objective price opinion to support your higher ask. Cash buyers know this appraisal would hold weight if you went to court over valuation disputes.

Offer Home Warranty

Sweeten the deal by purchasing a one-year home warranty covering repairs after the sale. This gives the buyer peace of mind and saves you from dropping the price for minor fixes.

Take Advantage of Urgency

If the cash buyer needs to flip your home quickly, use that urgency as leverage. Remind them of the headaches and costs of tying up capital in a prolonged sale. Dangle other (even imaginary) buyers to pressure them.

Educate Yourself on Market Value

Consult real estate agents to learn the true market value and typical bargaining ranges. Know what nearby homes have recently sold for. You’ll negotiate from strength armed with this data.

Sell with Contingencies

Rather than a simple all-cash sale, create protections for yourself by selling with contingencies. Make the sale contingent on you finding suitable housing, closing your new purchase, or occupying the home for a period after closing.

Stage Properly to Maximize Value

Make small upgrades like fresh paint and minor repairs to boost home value. Clean and de-clutter to show the home in its best light.

Staging demonstrates pride of ownership that buyers reward with higher offers.

Be Ready to Walk Away

If the cash offer still comes in too low after negotiations, be willing to walk away. List the home on the open market or contact other cash buyers. Just be sure you have solid reasoning for your counter price.

Check References Thoroughly

Research the cash buyer online for reviews and complaints. Verify previous transactions with sellers to confirm they are reputable and deliver on promises. Don’t assume all-cash buyers are equal.

Consult Your Tax Advisor

If you sell below market value, you may face capital gains tax implications. Understand possible tax penalties before accepting a reduced price. Your advisor may also have tips for minimizing tax impacts.

The bottom line is cash buyers need you more than you need them in most cases. Bring data-driven expectations, patience, and a willingness to negotiate into the deal to get your best return on investment. Just don’t let convenience blind you to leaving real money on the table. Know your walkaway number beforehand.

Have you ever had an offer from a cash house buyer?
October 24, 2023
Florida Real Estate Investment: What Foreign Buyers Need to Know

The Sunshine State of Florida has long been the land of opportunity, and it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular states in the U.S. Tourists and many others who have chosen to relocate enjoy the multitude of benefits this state has to offer, and the growing population only further fuels the demand for residential real estate. Let’s explore Florida real estate investment and see if it’s worth it in 2023.

The developing Florida real estate market

Over the past year, housing prices in the state have nearly risen by 14%. As the pandemic’s peak declined, tourists and investors rushed to the coast. This led to increased demand for housing stock and a reduction in supply. Apartments and houses began to sell faster.

For a long time, Florida real estate investment has been a go-to for foreign investors. Unfortunately, with covid travel restrictions, this declined during the pandemic. But 2023 is a new year, and things are slowly returning to normal.

While the year is still young, Florida leans more toward a seller’s market, which doesn’t mean Florida real estate investment is impossible. It just means you have to want it more.

Real estate prices

The average cost of a home in Florida is about $407,000. When considering Florida real estate investment, it is important to understand that the price consists of several aspects:

Location

Obviously, home and apartment costs in places like Miami will be higher than in areas like Tampa. You are paying for the desirable nightlife, culture, and luxury.

In addition, homes in desirable school districts, close to recreational activities, and located in up-and-coming neighborhoods will usually be much more expensive than the same size home in a less desirable area.

Before moving to a new city, think hard about the lifestyle you want to have and what your budget can handle.

Home size

Most people believe that the bigger the home, the better, but what if we told you there was more to it than just square footage? Location, of course, plays a huge role in the cost of a home, but even when you take location out of the equation, size can still have an effect.

Typically, the more space a home offers, the more expensive it will be. This phenomenon can be attributed to a few different factors, the main one being the cost of materials. More building materials are needed when constructing a larger home, which can drive the project’s cost up.

Additionally, larger homes often feature higher-quality finishes, like marble countertops and hardwood floors, which also add to the market value of the home. Plus, there are things like maintenance to consider – the importance of furnace maintenance can’t be underestimated, for example, so it’s worth getting some prices so you can properly budget.

Florida real estate investment prices are dynamic

Although it may be tempting to believe that a home’s value is fixed, home prices can be affected by various factors, from current market trends to the unique attributes of the neighborhood where the home is located.

For those looking for a good Florida real estate investment, the key is to arm yourself with the right knowledge. Start by researching the local real estate landscape online.

You’ll find comprehensive details on the current pricing in the area, the availability of comparable properties, and more. Plus, the website has a catalog with a wide range of options, from apartments to houses – whether you’re considering an investment or a permanent residence, you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs.

What do you need to get a loan to buy real estate in Florida?

Foreign real estate investors in Florida who are interested in obtaining a mortgage loan will find that they generally need to have at least a 30% downpayment plus other deposits.

Those with good credit may have better chances of being approved, and it’s wise to work with a bank that is well-versed in international operations.

What documents are required to get a mortgage loan in Florida?

In most cases, the procedure for obtaining a loan for Florida real estate investment is simple. A passport and a valid visa are sufficient to apply for a foreign citizen loan. Banks may request additional documents depending on the type of mortgage program and the loan size.

A licensed mortgage broker will guide you through every step of the loan process, from applying for a loan and preparing the necessary paperwork to signing loan documents without traveling to the US.

Foreign real estate investors looking to purchase property in Florida should be aware of closing costs, which typically range from 2-3% of the total value of the property. These fees include registration with state authorities, legal verification, attorneys, insurance, and more.

Prospects for the Florida real estate market

Florida is a top destination for foreign real estate investors and with good reason. Its growth rate is the highest in the country, and economists predict that trend to continue. Comfortable climatic conditions, low taxes, and affordable housing prices make it an attractive destination for immigrants and ex-pats alike.

Unemployment is steadily dropping, further boosting the state’s economy and, naturally, driving up real estate prices. So, don’t miss out! Invest in Florida housing now – before prices rise even more.

Do you think Florida real estate investment is a good idea?

March 8, 2023
How to Increase the Value of Sports Memorabilia

Besides being a huge gaming fan, growing up in Central Kentucky means that I also have a love of College Basketball. The Kentucky Wildcats are the only team in town, and so that’s the sports memorabilia I collect.

From the time I was about ten years old, I remember tuning in to watch every game that I could. My first year really following the team was the 1991-1992 season. This was just removed from Kentucky coming off of NCAA sanctions.

This also is one of the most haunting UK seasons ever thanks to Christian Laettner. To this day, that shot is shown every year during the NCAA March Madness.

It was just a few years later that Kentucky made one of its best 3-year runs in the NCAA tournament. In 1996 they won the national championship, were runner up in 1997, and again won the national championship in 1998.

[click_to_tweet tweet=”Do you own an item used by an athlete or have his signature on something significant? It could increase the value of the memorabilia! #SportsMemorabilia #autograph” quote=”Do you own an item used by an athlete or have his signature on something significant? It could increase the value of the memorabilia!”]

It wasn’t until 2012 when Anthony Davis won every award in college basketball and also won the National Championship. That summer I learned that the players from that team were leaving the team to go to the NBA.

Before that, however, they were traveling around the state and meeting with fans and signing autographs. This started my love of collecting UK memorabilia.

I was able to get my UK polo shirt signed by all five players that started in the National Championship games. Since then, I have been able to collect signatures from a majority of the players that have gone on to play in the NBA, including Karl Anthony Towns, Devin Booker, Tyler Herro, and many more.

I have jerseys, posters, magazines, and basketballs that have been signed by many players.

Collecting Sports Memorabilia

Perhaps you already purchased some collectible sports memorabilia, buying it as an investment in the future. But now you are wondering what you can do to make it worth even more money.

There is a super-easy way to increase the value so that you can sell it in ten years and make a profit. Investing in sports memorabilia is fun if you love sports, but it can also be lucrative, so you need to do everything in your power to earn from it.

Get Signatures

The best thing to do is to find the athlete who is connected to whatever memorabilia that you have.

For example, maybe you have a Wayne Gretzky rookie card from when he first came into the NHL. Perhaps you have a jersey that was worn by Brett Favre when he still played with the Packers and when he was a legend in Wisconsin.

You could be a huge college basketball fan and have to deck out your game room in its memorabilia (like me). These items would be worth a lot more, especially those that make it to the NBA if they are signed.

If you can find the star player your collectible features, you may be able to get them to sign the item for you. It might be worth a lot of money on its own, just think how much money it will be worth if they sign it.

Know the Rules

If you want to do this, make sure you find out if the person has any stipulations about signatures. Some players will only do it at games, for instance.

Others might only do it for money at special signing events. Learn about this so that you can approach them in the right manner and get the autograph. Happy collecting!

Do you collect anything?

August 7, 2020
How to Save Money on the Video Games Your Kids Have to Have

Video games can be incredibly awesome ways for your kids to pass the time on dreary days, and even meet new people online that share their interests. The only problem is that video games can be expensive, especially during the holiday season. But before you start giving up buying groceries to buy video games, there are a few ways that the resourceful dad can get her kids the games they want without spending a ton of money.

Use a Game Rental Service

In most cases, your kids want video games that they have never played. They have seen the awesome commercials on the television, but they have no clue what the game really is.

The cheapest way to avoid buying brand new games that your kids lose interest in after a couple of hours is to get a subscription to a video game rental service. You can get games in any format you need at a low monthly rate. Plus this gives your kids a chance to try the games before you buy them.

Take Advantage of Downloads

Playing free games online is a great way to save money. If your kids have to have that newest game the day it comes out and renting the game is not good enough, then you can get the PC download version of the game and save more than half off the retail purchase price.

It would be best to get a bigger drive to take full advantage of game downloads due to the substantial storage space required by modern games. As games become more graphically advanced and immersive, their file sizes increase, too. Internal storage on computers may quickly fill up, limiting the number of games that can be downloaded and stored locally.

An external hard drive offers additional storage capacity, allowing you to expand the game libraries without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games. Even when the worst happens, you can use data recovery services to get back your downloaded files.

Trade Video Games

If you have a game that your kids no longer want, then you could try and see how much the local video game store will give you for the game. The chances are pretty good that you will only get offered a fraction of what you paid for the game.

A smarter move is to find a good video game trading website and offer to trade that game to someone with a game your kids want. You only pay for the postage, and your kids get a new game to play.

You can also set up a network of local parents to swap games with as well.

Buy Used Games

It could be argued that the market for used video games is almost as large as the new game market.

Your favorite online auction website has pages and pages of used video games for sale. There are also websites dedicated specifically to the process of buying and selling used video games.

These websites can save you money when you purchase used games, and you can also use these sites to sell your kid’s old games and get a lot more than the retail store down the street would give you.

If your kids love video games, then you need to be creative with how you buy games. There are plenty of ways to get the games your kids want without spending a small fortune.

“Some trees flourish, others die. Some cattle grow strong, others are taken by wolves. Some men are born rich enough and dumb enough to enjoy their lives. Ain’t nothing fair.”

– Red Dead Redemption

What is your favorite video game?

January 17, 2020