#water utility: subscription

[endreal]

I truly fail to see what the difference is between a subscription and a bill except for successful marketing.

[dianight]

---

* Subscription based services includes but is not limited to access to news outlets, music/video players, videogames and other such things. Roughly speaking, those services considered not essential.

It does not include rent, water or other utilities, nor phone/internet usage.

[theambitiouswoman]

Like it or not, you’re in a relationship with anything that takes up your time, thoughts, and energy— and that includes money. In fact, the two longest relationships you’ll have are with yourself and with money. Both of these relationships affect how you live & your relationship with money doesn’t have to be stressful.

Think about how you feel about money. Do you see it as hard to get or something that flows easily to you What do you want your money to do for you? Save for a trip? Buy a home? Setting specific goals gives you direction.

A budget is just a plan for your money. It helps you see where it’s going and where you can make better choices. Focus on what you already have instead of what you don’t. Gratitude can help you feel more abundant.

Create a budget and write down all of your expenses. Most people don’t know where their money goes because they dont take into account their pleasure purchases. Put some money aside for yourself before paying for other things. It’s a simple way to build up your savings. If you have debt, make a plan to pay it off. Start with the high interest ones first.

Don’t fear money. See it as a tool that can come and go. Believe that you can always create more. Share what you can, even if it’s a small amount. It helps you feel more connected to abundance. The more you complain about not having, the less you will continue to have. You have to learn how to think abundantly.

You can downloads any of these apps:

Mint

YNAB (You Need a Budget)

PocketGuard

Goodbudget

Undebt.it

Honeydue

Personal Capital

EveryDollar

———————————

Alternatively, here’s a templare you can copy and paste:

1. Income

• Primary Income: $_________

• Side Income: $_________

• Other Income (e.g., investments, bonuses): $_________

Total Income: $_________

2. Fixed Expenses

(Expenses that stay the same each month)

• Rent/Mortgage: $_________

• Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas): $_________

• Internet/Phone: $_________

• Insurance (Health, Car, Home): $_________

• Debt Payments (Loans, Credit Cards): $_________

• Subscriptions (Streaming, Gym, etc.): $_________

Total Fixed Expenses: $_________

3. Variable Expenses

(Expenses that can change each month)

• Groceries: $_________

• Transportation (Gas, Public Transit, etc.): $_________

• Eating Out/Entertainment: $_________

• Shopping (Clothes, Household Items): $_________

• Personal Care (Skincare, Haircuts): $_________

• Miscellaneous: $_________

Total Variable Expenses: $_________

4. Savings and Investments

• Emergency Fund: $_________

• Retirement (401k, IRA, etc.): $_________

• Investments: $_________

• Specific Savings Goals (Travel, Home, etc.): $_________

Total Savings/Investments: $_________

5. Giving

(Donations, gifts, tithing, etc.)

• Charities/Donations: $_________

• Gifts: $_________

Total Giving: $_________

6. Summary

• Total Income: $_________

• Total Expenses (Fixed + Variable): $_________

• Total Savings/Investments: $_________

• Remaining Balance: $_________

[galaxygolfergirl]

Watcher's Expenses

I didn't major in accounting: I took three classes and it grinded my brain to a fine powder. However, after graduating with a business admin degree, being a former eager fan of their videos, and from a cursory glance over their socials, there's a lot to consider in their spending behavior that really could start racking up costs. Some of these things we've already noticed, but there are other things I'd like to highlight, and I'll try to break it down into the different categories of accounting expenses (if I get something wrong, let me know. I was more concentrated in marketing 🤷‍♀️). I'm not going to hypothesize numbers either, as that would take out more time than I'm willing to afford-- you can assume how much everything costs. Anyways, here's my attempt at being a layman forensic accountant:

Note: All of this is assuming they're operating above board and not engaging in any illegal practices such as money laundering, tax evasion, not paying rent, etc.

Operating Expenses

Payroll: 25+ staff salaries and insurance

Overhead Expenses

CEO/founder salaries

Office space leasing or rent (In L.A, one of the most expensive cities in the US)

Utilities (water, electricity, heating, sanitation, etc.)

Insurance

Advertising Costs

Telephone & Internet service

Cloud Storage or mainframe

Office equipment (furniture, computers, printers, etc.)

Office supplies (paper, pens, printer ink, etc.)

Marketing costs (Social media marketing on Instagram, Youtube, SEO for search engines, Twitter, etc. Designing merchandise and posters, art, etc. )

Human Resources (not sure how equipped they are)

Accounting fees

Property taxes

Legal fees

Licensing fees

Website maintenance (For Watchertv.com, Watcherstuff.com, & Watcherentertainment.com)

Expenses regarding merchandising (whoever they contract or outsource for that)

Inventory costs

Potentially maintenance of company vehicles

Subsequent gas mileage for road trips

Depreciation (pertains to tangible assets like buildings and equipment)

Amortization (intangible assets such as patents and trademarks)

Overhead Travel and Entertainment Costs (I think one of the biggest culprits, evident in their videos and posts)

The travel expenses (flights, train trips, rental cars, etc. For main team and scouts)

Hotel expenses for 7-8 people at least, or potentially more

Breakfasts, lunches and dinners with the crew (whether that's fully on their dime or not, I don't know; Ryan stated they like to cover that for the most part)

Recreational activities (vacation destinations, amusement parks, sporting activities etc.)

The location fees

Extraneous Overhead costs (not sure exactly where these fall under, but another culprit, evident in videos and posts)

Paying for guest appearances

Expensive filming & recording equipment (Cameras, sound equipment, editing software subscriptions, etc.)

The overelaborate sets for Ghost files, Mystery Files, Puppet History, Podcasts etc. (Set dressing: Vintage memorabilia, antiquated tech, vintage furniture, props, etc.)

Kitchen & Cooking supplies/equipment

Office food supply; expensive food and drink purchases for videos

Novelty items or miscellaneous purchases (ex. Ghost hunting equipment, outfits, toys, etc.)

Non-Operating Expenses

These are those expenses that cannot be linked back to operating revenue. One of the most common examples of non-operating expenses is interest expense. This is because while interest is the cost of borrowing money from a creditor or a bank, they are not generating any operating income. This makes interest payments a part of non-operating expenses.

Financial Expenses

Potential loan payments, borrowing from creditors or lenders, bank loans, etc.

Variable Expenses

Hiring a large amount of freelancers, overtime expenditure, commissions, etc.

PR consultations (Not sure if they had this before the scandal)

Extraordinary Expenses

Expenses incurred outside your company’s regular business activities and during a large one-time event or transactions. For example, selling land, disposal of a significant asset, laying off of your employees, unexpected machine repairing or replacement, etc.

Accrued Expenses

When your business has incurred an expense but not yet paid for it.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(If there's anything else I'm missing, please feel free to add or correct things)

To a novice or a young entrepreneur, this can be very intimidating if you don't have the education or the support to manage it properly. I know it intimidates the hell out of me and I'm still having to fill in the gaps (again, if I've mislabeled or gotten anything wrong here, please let me know). For the artistic or creative entrepreneur, it can be even harder to reconcile the extent of your creative passions with your ability to operate and scale your business at a sustainable rate. That can lead to irresponsible, selfish, and impulsive decisions that could irreparably harm your brand, which is a whole other beast of its own.

My guess at this point is that their overhead and operation expenses are woefully mismanaged; they've made way too many extraneous purchases, and that they had too much confidence in their audience of formerly 2.93 million to make up for the expenses they failed to cover.

It almost seems as if their internal logic was, "If we make more money, we can keep living the expensive lifestyle that we want and make whatever we want without anyone telling us we can't, and we want to do it NOW, sooner rather than later because we don't want wait and compromise our vision." But as you can see, the reality of fulfilling those ambitions is already compromised by the responsibility of running a business.

And I wrote this in another post here, but I'll state it again: Running a business means you need to be educated on how a business can successfully and efficiently operate. Accounting, marketing, social media marketing, public relations, production, etc; these resources and internet of things is available and at your disposal. If they had invested more time in educating themselves on those aspects and not made this decision based on artistic passion (and/or greed), they would have not gotten the response they got.

Being a graphic designer, I know the creative/passionate side of things but I also got a degree/got educated in business because I wanted to understand how to start a company and run it successfully. If they’re having trouble handling the responsibility of doing that, managing production costs, managing overhead expenses, and especially with compensating their 25+ employees, then they should hire professionals that are sympathetic to their creative interests, but have the education and experience to reign in bad decisions like these.

Anyways, thanks for coming to my TedTalk. What a shitshow this has been.

[eroticcannibal]

Re: The USA economy being so fucked that $65k a year isn't enough to live comfortably in most of the country: Part of it is that the pound is stronger than the dollar - $65k is more like £50k. That's still a lot of money! But not only is our healthcare ABSURDLY expensive (we're required by law to have health insurance. I have very inexpensive health insurance that covers basically nothing AND a government subsidy to help pay for it. I am paying $680 out of pocket per month. I still have to pay for every single doctor visit and prescription unless I spent UPWARDS of $10,000 in a single year, at which point the insurance actually kicks in and pays for 70% of further expenses. A quick routine check-up with no labwork or prescriptions costs $60 at the cheapest clinic within driving distance. The healthcare situation really is as cartoonish as you can imagine.) our rent is also ridiculous. I am living in a moderate sized city in a studio apartment (no separation between bedroom/living room/kitchen, just a difference in floor tiles to indicate the kitchen and then a bathroom is only other actual room) that is on the lower end of middle-of-the-road. My rent is $2,100 per month. That doesn't include utilities, which are usually around $200 per month for water and power, and then another $70 for my cellphone (which is also my internet connection, because my celular data plan may be slow but it's also unlimited, and a basic subscription to internet for the apartment starts at $65 a month for 20GB of usage and I just can't afford that). I'm not sure what the cost of living is in the U.K. right now. I know you're having a rough time with gas/electricity costs for sure. But here in the US, healthcare and rent are what's eating the majority of our wages at an unsustainable rate.

I mean that rent sounds still too much because fuck landlords but otherwise pretty reasonable compared to the prices I hear over here, those utilities are super low! Pretty high for ur phone and Internet tho.

That healthcare cost is mad tho. And you all need better public transport that would save you a ton.

[lacefuneral]

OFMD is dead in the water. that show is not coming back

but! we can appreciate the show that we have. and the fanworks. and the art. and the BTS we've received from samba and other cast + crew

my assumption is that Max was professionally embarrassed by the renewal campaign and the amount of backlash from the fandom and have dug their talons into the IP. essentially, refusing to let it go so another corporation cannot profit off of it. but making no effort to actually utilize the IP

or even enforce copyright/trademark, i think. because merch & art are freely bought and sold. i don't use youtube but i see clips of the show on there so i assume they aren't getting DMCA'd

i know we want to Believe because Other Shows have Been Saved but the wheel of unsustainable exponential growth based capitalism turns and turns and we are at a point in television history where the enshittification has never been this severe

it is much more financially lucrative to make a new show, let it stream for a bit, and take it off the air as tax write-off. and especially post strike, when there's more protections for writers and actors? more residuals? it's far less likely for written television to be made, more likely for unscripted/low scripted reality TV. and money is to be made in hiking up costs, in forcing you to watch ads, in making streaming user-hostile.

it costs money to make official merch it costs money to host shows online it costs money to produce DVDs and blurays. it's jobs and labor and materials and distribution

and consumers hate... literally every aspect of this. why are our shows being canceled? why can't we physically own our media? why can't we have official merch? why are subscriptions so expensive? why are you forcing ads on us?

the industry is going to collapse entirely. the process has already started. something is going to give, and the streaming companies are going to hemorrhage money

something will emerge from the rubble. eventually. hopefully it's good. hopefully it isn't AI.

[my3sonsmoving]

How do you plan an out of state move in 2024?

Planning an out-of-state move can be a complex and stressful process, but with careful planning and organization, you can ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you begin:

Research Your New Location:

Cost of Living: Begin by comparing the cost of living between your current state and the new one. This includes housing, groceries, utilities, and taxes. Websites like Numbeo can provide detailed comparisons.

Housing: Look into neighborhoods, housing prices, and rental options. Consider factors such as proximity to work, safety, amenities, and school quality if you have children. Online platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com are excellent resources.

Job Market: Investigate job opportunities and the local economy. Sites like Indeed and LinkedIn can help you understand the job market and connect with potential employers.

Lifestyle: Consider the climate, local amenities, schools, and community culture. Explore forums, social media groups, and local news sites to get a feel for the area.

Budgeting:

Moving Costs: Get estimates from moving companies or calculate costs if you plan to move yourself. Include packing materials, transportation, and potential storage fees. Companies like U-Haul provide cost calculators for DIY moves.

Travel Expenses: Budget for gas, flights, hotels, and meals if you’re driving. Websites like GasBuddy can help estimate fuel costs, and travel sites can assist with finding affordable accommodation.

Initial Setup: Plan for deposits, initial rent, utility setup, and any immediate purchases needed upon arrival.

Create a Moving Timeline:

Plan Ahead: Start planning 2–3 months in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Checklist: Develop a detailed checklist of tasks to be completed each week leading up to the move. This should include everything from hiring movers to packing specific rooms.

Hiring Movers vs. DIY

Consider hiring professional movers by researching and selecting a reputable moving company. Check reviews on sites like Yelp and get multiple quotes to compare prices and services.

DIY Move: 

If you decide to move yourself, rent a truck, recruit friends and family, and plan the logistics of driving and unloading. Ensure you have the necessary equipment like dollies and moving blankets.

Declutter and Organize:

Inventory: Take an inventory of your belongings. This helps in estimating moving costs and ensuring nothing gets lost.

Declutter: Sell, donate, or discard items you don’t need. This reduces the volume of items to move and can save money.

Organize: Label boxes clearly by room and content. Use a color-coded system or numbered labels to simplify unpacking.

Update Your Information:

Address Change: Update your address with the postal service, banks, subscription services, and any other relevant parties.

Utilities and Services: Arrange for the disconnection of utilities at your current home and setup at your new home. Ensure you transfer internet, cable, water, and electricity services in time.

Licenses and Registrations: Update your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and voter registration as soon as possible after your move.

Pack Strategically:

Essentials Box: Pack a box of essentials for the first few days, including clothes, toiletries, important documents, and basic kitchen items.

Fragile Items: Pack fragile items with care, using plenty of padding. Clearly label these boxes to ensure they are handled with care.

Room-by-Room: Pack one room at a time and label boxes accordingly. This method makes unpacking more manageable.

Travel Arrangements:

Transport Vehicles: Decide whether to drive your car(s) or have them shipped. Companies like Montway Auto Transport can assist with vehicle shipping.

Pets: Make arrangements for moving pets safely, including carriers, food, and necessary medications.

Accommodation: Book any necessary accommodation if the journey takes more than a day. Plan your route and make reservations in advance.

Settling In:

Unpacking: Start with essential areas like the kitchen and bedrooms to make your new home livable quickly.

Explore: Take time to explore your new neighborhood and meet your neighbors. Familiarize yourself with local grocery stores, pharmacies, and parks.

Emergency Contacts: Find and note down local emergency contacts, such as doctors, vets, and hospitals. Register with local healthcare providers as soon as possible.

Stay Organized:

Keep Records: Maintain a file with all moving-related documents, including contracts, receipts, and inventory lists. This helps in case of disputes or for future reference.

Backup Plans: Have contingency plans in case of delays or unexpected issues. This could include having extra funds for unforeseen expenses or knowing alternative routes.

By following these steps, you can ensure a more organized and less stressful out-of-state move. For personalized assistance with moving in the central Kentucky area, consider reaching out to My 3 Sons Moving and Storage Company.

[solitaria-fantasma]

.

((So the person renting my parents' attached in-law suit is supposedly leaving next month, and my parents 'offered' to have me move in after him as a stepping stone to true independence.

And I put 'offered' in quotes there because my mother had already started sourcing free furniture off of Facebook before I ever said yes (loveseats, console tables, lamps, rugs, etc.), and while I told them that I appreciate the gesture (three utilities included + a $200 concession on rent) I was still doing the math and reducing forgotten subscriptions and didn't know if I could afford it.

I now feel trapped because I have one month to commit and be ready to start paying or bail and start up a family-wide argument bc my sister thinks this is a good idea, too. I have no basis for what my water, AC, or power bills might be per month, I have to rework my gas and grocery estimates due to circumstances and new meds, and I'd have so little left at the end of the month that a single Problem like a car accident or a really bad cold that keeps me out of work longer than I have PTO for would come straight out of my savings.

I feel like I can't back out because my mother clearly wants me out of her space, but I also don't trust her to be my landlord. I've already spent years watching her enter other renter's buildings w/o the 24hr prior notice and come back complaining about how they decorated, how they do their laundry, how they organize, etc..She already does that to my face, but I don't want to live with the anxiety of imagining what she'll say to my dad behind my back, now.

I feel like I'm being set up to fail and have to come crawling back to my childhood bedroom in a year or two with slashed savings and shredded mental health, but I have no other options bc there are no other apartments within an hour's drive of my workplace that rent for anything less than $1576...and if I can barely afford my parents' in-law suite, I damn sure can't afford that.

[lorrainesletters]

The Battle of the Note-taking Apps - Who Will Come Out Victorious?

Review article by Mariz Lorraine | Edited 27 September 2023

Has the wave of digital notes have officially engulfed you and now you are stranded in the middle of a sea of note-taking apps? You convince yourself to do some research but take 2 scrolls on any social media app and you will then be recommended to choose either the free and Microsoft-based OneNote or the holy grail Goodnotes 5. As a loyal Goodnotes 5 user (buyer, let’s be frank) for 1 year now, I have some tea to spill about this blue app.

Key features

I, like many others, move to digital notes for a plethora of reasons, however nothing ever beats the feel of writing with pen and paper. Goodnotes 5 offers 4 types of pen styles that users can easily change with one tap of a button: Fountain pen, ball pen, brush pen, and highlighter.  Organizing notebooks and pages in Goodnotes 5 can also be done easily with folders and page outlines so that your math notes are easily distinguishable from your english notes. Notability, Goodnotes 5’s main competitor, on the other hand, has a revolutionary feature called “study tape” that allows you to cover certain key terms on your notes that can be opened with a tap so that you can easily revise them. Truthfully, you can do this in Goodnotes 5 with a highlighter and the eraser but it is not as convenient as Notability’s study tape. 

User-friendly

Just like most iOS apps, Goodnotes 5 is renowned for its user-friendliness. The easy-on-the-eye user interface combined with the easily tapped “New Notebook” or “Trash” buttons make the app superior to Microsoft OneNote’s hidden side tabs and dimmed pen options. Goodnotes 5 also offers tutorials and guides on how to maneuver the app when you just download it. 

Customizability

Despite being as plain as a sheet of paper when it comes to user interface, Goodnotes 5 is completely customizable when it comes to note-taking. A new notebook’s cover can be changed either by choosing between pre-made notebook covers or by uploading your own covers. For decoration aficionados, Goodnotes 5 allows you to import sticker packs and custom page templates. I utilize these stickers to avoid drawing benzene structures in chemistry and to add cute characters around my boring calculus notes. Yet Goodnotes 5’s customizability is still inferior to its younger sibling, Goodnotes 6. Goodnotes 6 offers full customizability of folder icons and colors on top of the customizability offerings of Goodnotes 5. However, if the default blue folder icon is fine for you, Goodnotes 5 is still the better option. 

Price

Unlimited access to Goodnotes 5 is priced at Rp.169,000 as a one-time cost for users. However, limited access to the app is free for all but users can only make up to 3 notebooks. Unlike Notability which is a subscription-based payment of Rp 89,000 monthly, Goodnotes 5’s one-time payment is better for users that want to test the waters first. 

Importing files

My personal favorite feature offered by Goodnotes 5 is the importing PDFs feature as it allows me to easily annotate my digital coursebooks and do past papers. Importing PDFs and annotating them in Goodnotes 5 is not just eco-friendly since you won’t have to print pages and pages of paper, but it is also much more convenient since you can easily erase, highlight, and move elements around. 

Exporting files

If you can share paper notes with your friends, you definitely can do so with digital notes as well. Users can easily share their notebooks to other Goodnotes 5 users to make it collaborative by sending them a short URL link or by sending an invitation to their email. But how about non-Goodnotes 5 users? Unfortunately you cannot have collaborative notebooks with non-Goodnotes 5 users but you can share PDF or JPEG versions through emails or messages. If you are like me and you are afraid of suddenly losing your files, Goodnotes 5 reassures us with the option to automatically backup your files to your preferred cloud between Google Drive, OneDrive and iCloud. 

Technological advancements

Shifting to digital notes is a sign that the world is becoming more tech-reliant and softwares like Goodnotes 5 have to keep on advancing to follow the status quo. Optical Character Recognition (or more known as OCR) was added to Goodnotes 5 in 2019, allowing people’s messy handwriting to be identifiable by the app when you look for a certain term. As recent as January of this year, Goodnotes 5 added the voice recording feature so you can easily take notes as well as record your teacher’s voice to listen back to when revising. This feature is shared by both Notability and Goodnotes 5 however OCR is a Goodnotes 5 exclusive, so if you are looking for the app with the nerdiest feature out there, Goodnotes 5 is for you. 

Conclusion

If you are confused about which note-taking app to use and are just looking for something easy-to-use and simple, Goodnotes 5 is definitely the best option for you. Its many pen types, countless premade page templates, unlimited storage, and the ability to import and annotate PDFs are the key points for beginners in the digital note space. Its similarity to physical note-taking with the many pen types and page sizes also make the shift from pen-and-paper notes to screen-and-stylus notes a lot easier. 

[alarajrogers]

I don't even understand the whiner's logic up above. Utilities aren't free, right? The guy didn't have water because he didn't pay, right? But the mom's water had not been shut off?

So she was paying the water bill. She was freely giving a neighbor a resource that she paid for, and they cut her off for doing it, despite the fact that she was paying the bill, because they're trying to apply Netflix subscription logic to a resource that humans need, which isn't sold on a subscription basis!

I can't speak for everywhere in the universe, but everywhere I've lived, water is paid for by unit of water, not by unit of residence. So if Jane normally uses X water units, she pays X times Y, the per unit cost of water. Giving Z units of water to John means she is paying (X + Z) times Y. Thus John's water is paid for. Not free. Not stolen. Paid for by Jane.

How the fuck does the government get the right to tell Jane what she's allowed to do with her water? That she's paying for? This is toxic pro-corporate behavior. They don't just want the water to be paid for, they literally want to punish people who can't afford water.

I mean... I do understand that water isn't free. If you didn't get it from the sky, then it has gone through a treatment plant, which is not free, managed by workers, who don't work for free, using chemicals or things like filters that have to be changed, which are not free. (If you did get it from the sky, it should be free. Policies that make it illegal to collect water in rain barrels, on the spurious notion that it deprives the water table of necessary water, as if the people using the water barrels will hoard it forever and never drink it or wash with it, should be considered a crime against humanity.) But yeah, water coming through the pipes isn't free, I get that. But pointing this out is missing the entire problem here (as is arguing against it.)

In this situation, it doesn't matter whether water is a resource that should be free, or should not be free. It wasn't free. OP's mom was paying for it. And they wouldn't let her pay to share her water with an old man in need.

That is radicalizing. You can accept "well, the workers at the water plant need to get paid" and "actually cities put a lot into making their water safe and need to be paid for that" and "if you didn't pay for water, everywhere would end up like Flint because cities wouldn't pay to purify it", and still understand that it's evil to forbid people to share water when they are paying for it, just so you can harshly punish people who can't afford their water bill.

Ironically, if OP's mom was a corporate bottling plant, they would probably have let her bottle the water and send it out of the community for profit, and possibly have charged her less for the water she was using that way. But she was sharing it with a neighbor in need, and that's not allowed!

[thelistingteammiami]

6 Steps to Take After Purchasing a Home

6 Steps to Take After Purchasing a Home | The Listing Team

Buying a home is a significant decision that can feel exciting and overwhelming. After touring homes, negotiating the home’s value, and signing paperwork, you can finally sit back and relax in your new house.

After catching your breath, remember these six crucial steps to take after purchasing a home. They’ll make life easier and safer as you get used to your new neighborhood.

1. Start Your Utilities

The utility companies won’t automatically know when someone moves into a house. The previous owners will tell them what day they should stop sending bills, but it’s up to you to turn the utilities back on. Some people arrange this ahead of time, but you can also do it during your move-in day.

Your utilities will include electricity, water, and internet, but your home may also require activation for things like:

Natural gas.

Sewer.

Trash pickup.

Make a list and plan to start your utilities immediately after securing your move-in date or unloading your boxes.

2. Change Your Locks

Sometimes homeowners include lock changing in their closing deal, but that isn’t always guaranteed. Changing your locks is a significant part of securing your home.

The previous owners, their family members, or their friends who got a copy of the key won’t be able to access the house once it’s officially yours. Add it to your budget and expect it to only take a few minutes.

3. Check Your Homeowners Insurance

Everyone needs homeowners insurance to finalize their home purchase. You signed up for coverage with your preferred provider, but what does your insurance cover? It should help pay for any damage that results from natural disasters or theft. On the other hand, some insurance plans exclude specific perils that damage roofs, foundations, or siding.

Even minor roof damage, like a ceiling leak, could come with a costly repair price tag. Read the fine print for your insurance plan and note any possible damage you would have to pay for in full. A little research could connect you with professionals who would fix those problems for a fraction of the average cost in your region.

4. Forward Your Mail

Don’t forget to forward your mail before or just after your big move! The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) may require 7 to 10 business days to add your new address to their system. They’ll spend a few months forwarding any mail sent to your previous address to your current location, as well as anything directly sent to your current home.

It’s a significant help because it gives you time to receive bills or subscriptions you might initially forget to transfer before your move. The USPS will also send a warning when they’re a few weeks out from permanently removing your prior address from their system.

5. Invest in a Safe

Fireproof safes are excellent for homeowners because they secure your belongings from accidental fires or thieves. Renters also benefit from these. The person in the unit next to or beneath yours could start a fire that damages your whole building.

Safes come in many shapes and sizes, so find one that works for the documents you want to keep. It’s the best place for legal paperwork such as:

Social Security cards and passports.

Insurance policy cards and contracts.

Banking and other financial paperwork.

If you lose your home to a fire, you’ll have everything you need to restart your life elsewhere.

6. Check Your Smoke Detectors

Most home inspectors will check smoke detectors before anyone can finalize the sale. It’s still a good idea to check the detectors after moving in, though.

Installing new batteries makes your home safer and takes one worry off your mind. It only takes a minute and the batteries will make your detectors last for months.

Take These Steps After Purchasing a Home

Celebrate your next home purchase with your loved ones and then update your to-do list. If you remember these six steps to take after purchasing a home, you’ll feel safer and more comfortable in your new house.

[transportationtech]

Must-Have Advanced Features in a Car Wash Finder App

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key. Whether it's finding a good restaurant or locating the nearest car wash, mobile apps have made life easier for consumers. A car wash finder app can be a game-changer for car owners, but to stand out in a competitive market, it needs more than just basic features. Below are the must-have advanced features that can make your car wash finder app a success.

1. Real-Time GPS and Navigation

A car wash finder app should include real-time GPS integration to show users the nearest car wash locations based on their current position. This feature can be enhanced with turn-by-turn navigation to guide users to their chosen location seamlessly.

2. Custom Filters

Allow users to filter car washes based on specific criteria such as:

Type of wash (automatic, hand wash, eco-friendly, etc.).

Price range.

User ratings and reviews.

Additional services like waxing, detailing, or interior cleaning.

Custom filters improve user experience by letting users find exactly what they need with minimal effort.

3. Online Booking and Payments

The ability to book a time slot at the car wash and pay online can significantly enhance user convenience. Integration with multiple payment gateways (credit/debit cards, digital wallets, etc.) ensures a smooth and secure transaction process.

4. Subscription Plans

Include options for users to subscribe to car wash memberships for regular cleanings at discounted rates. This feature not only adds value to users but also promotes customer loyalty for partnering car wash businesses.

5. Live Queue Updates

Provide live updates on the queue status at each car wash location. This feature helps users decide whether to visit a particular car wash now or later, saving time and reducing frustration.

6. Loyalty Rewards and Discounts

Gamify the experience with loyalty points that can be redeemed for discounts on future car washes. Push notifications for exclusive offers or seasonal discounts can further engage users.

7. Eco-Friendly Options

Highlight car washes that use eco-friendly products or water-saving technologies. This feature appeals to environmentally conscious users and sets your app apart from competitors.

8. User Reviews and Ratings

An integrated review and rating system allows users to share their experiences and helps others make informed decisions. Verified reviews add credibility and build trust among users.

9. Car Wash Packages and Service Details

Provide detailed information about the services offered at each car wash, including pricing, package options, and estimated service time. Transparency builds trust and ensures users know what to expect.

10. Integration with Vehicle Maintenance

Enhance the app’s functionality by integrating vehicle maintenance reminders. For example, notify users when it’s time for a car wash based on weather conditions or their last wash date.

11. Augmented Reality (AR) Directions

Take navigation to the next level with AR-based directions, which overlay real-world views with markers to guide users to their chosen car wash location.

12. Multi-Language Support

To cater to a diverse audience, offer multi-language support. This feature is particularly useful in regions with multilingual populations or for apps with global aspirations.

13. Customer Support Chatbot

Include an AI-powered chatbot to assist users with common queries such as locating a car wash, booking a service, or troubleshooting payment issues.

14. Push Notifications for Weather-Based Suggestions

Use weather APIs to send notifications suggesting a car wash after heavy rain, snow, or dusty weather conditions. This feature adds a personalized touch to the user experience.

A car wash finder app with these advanced features can go beyond being a simple utility to becoming an indispensable tool for car owners. By combining convenience, personalization, and innovative technology, you can create a user-centric app that stands out in the market. Whether it’s through real-time navigation, eco-friendly options, or AR directions, these features ensure a seamless and satisfying user experience, paving the way for your app’s success.

Looking for a car wash finder and booking app to launch your own venture? Techtsy's car wash finder is the right one you should start with.

[marblery]

Sustainability and Online Whiskey Shopping

As environmental consciousness has grown, the whiskey industry, like many others, is grappling with the challenges of sustainability. Online whiskey shopping, while lauded for its convenience, also prompts concerns about its environmental impact, prompting both retailers and consumers to consider more sustainable practices.

A significant environmental concern associated with online shopping, including whiskey, is packaging waste. Bottles are often encased in layers of plastic, foam, and cardboard to ensure safe delivery. Some online whiskey retailers are addressing this issue by adopting more eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as biodegradable or recyclable materials that provide adequate protection while minimizing environmental impact.

Moreover, carbon emissions from the transportation and delivery of online orders represent another sustainability challenge. Choosing shipping options that consolidate deliveries or utilize carbon-neutral shipping methods can help mitigate this issue. Encouraging a preference for local or regional distilleries can also reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.

Sustainability in whiskey production is equally important and adds an interesting layer to online shopping. Many distilleries now emphasize sustainable practices such as utilizing local ingredients, reducing water consumption, and implementing waste reduction strategies in their production processes. Online platforms often highlight these distilleries as a way to promote environmentally-friendly options to conscious consumers.

Consumers can actively participate in promoting sustainability by making informed choices when shopping for whiskey online. Researching brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices and supporting retailers that have established sustainability commitments can contribute to a more sustainable industry ウイスキー通販. Engaging with platforms that provide transparency about their environmental policies further empowers consumers to make responsible decisions.

Furthermore, subscription models that focus on sustainability by offering reusable packaging options or opting for minimal packaging can set an example in the industry, illustrating how the online sale of whiskey can align with eco-friendly practices.

The rise of technology provides an opportunity for the whiskey industry to innovate more sustainable solutions. Blockchain technology, for instance, offers a reliable method to track the origin and supply chain of whiskey, providing transparency about its sustainability credentials. Similarly, advancements in eco-friendly materials and logistics are continuously emerging, offering further opportunities to enhance sustainability in the industry.

In conclusion, while online whiskey shopping provides numerous advantages to consumers, including convenience, variety, and access, it also comes with environmental considerations. By advocating for and adopting sustainable practices, both retailers and consumers can contribute positively to the environment, ensuring that the pleasures of whiskey are responsible and sustainable for generations to come.

[chocolatedetectivehottub]

car wash at doorstep price,

car wash at doorstep price,

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is everything. As we juggle busy schedules and daily responsibilities, finding time for car maintenance can be a challenge. One of the most essential, yet often neglected, aspects of car maintenance is washing. A clean car not only looks great but also contributes to the longevity of its exterior. With doorstep car wash services becoming increasingly popular, car owners no longer have to spend time driving to a car wash center. Instead, professional cleaners come to your home or office, saving you time and effort while ensuring your vehicle looks spotless.

What is a Doorstep Car Wash?

A doorstep car wash service involves trained professionals coming directly to your location—be it your home, office, or any other convenient spot. They bring all the necessary tools, equipment, and cleaning products to wash and clean your car without you having to leave your premises. It’s an on-demand, hassle-free service that eliminates the need to wait in line at traditional car wash centers.

Affordable Pricing for High-Quality Service

One of the standout features of doorstep car wash services is their affordable pricing. Gone are the days when you had to pay high prices for professional car washing services. The cost of a car wash at your doorstep is usually determined by factors like the size of your vehicle, the type of wash (basic wash or premium detailing), and the location. However, compared to the convenience and time saved, the price is incredibly reasonable.

Here's a breakdown of typical pricing you can expect:

Basic Wash: A standard exterior wash, including cleaning the body, tires, and windows, typically costs between $10 and $20.

Interior & Exterior Wash: A more thorough wash, including interior vacuuming and wipe-down, usually falls in the range of $20 to $40.

Premium Detailing: This involves deep cleaning, waxing, and a full interior cleaning. The price can range from $40 to $80, depending on the service provider and location.

Keep in mind that many doorstep car wash services offer subscription plans, allowing you to get regular washes at a discounted rate. These plans can be especially useful if you want to ensure your vehicle remains spotless on a regular basis.

Benefits of Choosing a Doorstep Car Wash

Convenience: Perhaps the most significant advantage of doorstep car wash services is the convenience they offer. You don’t have to spend time driving to a car wash station or waiting in long queues. Instead, you can go about your day while the professionals take care of your car.

Time-Saving: A doorstep service allows you to utilize your time more effectively, whether you’re at home or in the office. The car wash service typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of service.

Eco-Friendly Options: Many doorstep car wash companies use eco-friendly products and water-saving techniques to reduce the environmental impact. Some services also offer waterless car washes, which use minimal water and environmentally safe cleaning agents.

No Hidden Fees: Most reliable doorstep car wash services offer clear and transparent pricing with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Professional Care: Doorstep car wash services employ trained professionals who know how to handle different vehicle types and surfaces, ensuring your car gets the best care.

How to Book a Doorstep Car Wash

Booking a car wash at your doorstep is easy. Many service providers offer user-friendly apps or websites where you can book an appointment in just a few clicks. You’ll be able to select the service you want, choose your preferred time slot, and provide any additional instructions. Once you confirm the booking, a team of professionals will arrive at your location and take care of the rest.

Conclusion

A car wash at your doorstep offers unparalleled convenience, high-quality service, and affordability. Whether you’re looking for a quick exterior wash or a detailed cleaning, doorstep car wash services cater to all your needs while saving you time and effort. With prices that are often comparable to traditional car washes and the added benefit of comfort, it’s no wonder this service is gaining traction across the globe. Book your next car wash today and experience the convenience of having your car cleaned without leaving home!

4o mini

O

[officevalle]

From Hobbyist to Professional: How Gaana Helps You Earn Money with Your Music

The music industry is no longer limited to record labels and exclusive deals. Thanks to digital platforms, anyone with talent can carve out a space for themselves and earn a living. Gaana, one of the largest music streaming platforms in India, has become a gateway for independent artists to turn their hobby into a profession. By allowing artists to Upload your song on Gaana and earn money, Gaana empowers musicians to share their art and earn money simultaneously. If you're a hobbyist dreaming of making a career in music, this guide will show you how to leverage Gaana to achieve your goals.

Why Gaana Is the Ideal Platform for Aspiring Musicians

1. A Massive Audience Base Gaana boasts millions of active users who stream music daily. This wide reach ensures that your music can be discovered by fans across diverse regions and genres. Unlike traditional routes, where musicians struggle to find listeners, Gaana provides a ready-made audience.

2. Monetization Opportunities Gaana offers artists multiple revenue models, including ad-supported streams and premium subscription earnings. This means that every time your music is played, you earn. For budding artists, this can be a stepping stone to financial independence.

3. Easy Accessibility for Beginners Unlike traditional music platforms requiring complex contracts and negotiations, Gaana simplifies the process. The platform is designed to accommodate musicians of all levels, making it perfect for hobbyists who want to test the waters.

How to Get Started on Gaana

1. Create a Professional Profile Your artist profile on Gaana is your virtual identity. It’s the first thing listeners will see, so make sure it’s impressive:

Use a high-quality profile picture that reflects your style.

Write a compelling bio that highlights your journey, genre, and achievements.

Link your social media handles to connect with your audience outside the platform.

2. Prepare Your Music for Upload Before uploading, ensure your music meets the required standards. Here’s what you need:

High-quality audio files: Your songs should be in formats like MP3 or WAV with a bitrate of at least 320 kbps for the best sound.

Copyright clearance: Ensure you own the rights to the music or have the necessary permissions if you’re using third-party elements.

Album artwork: Eye-catching visuals are crucial for attracting listeners. Design cover art that aligns with the theme of your music.

3. Upload Your Song Uploading your song on Gaana is straightforward:

Log into your Gaana artist account.

Navigate to the "Upload" section and select your track.

Fill out metadata fields such as genre, language, and mood. Accurate tagging helps your song appear in relevant searches.

Review and confirm your upload to make it live on the platform.

Strategies to Turn Your Hobby into a Professional Music Career

1. Consistent Content Creation To keep your audience engaged, release music regularly. Whether it’s singles, EPs, or full albums, consistency shows commitment and helps you build a loyal fanbase.

2. Collaborate with Other Artists Collaboration can help you expand your reach. Partner with other musicians or producers to create unique tracks that appeal to a broader audience.

3. Engage with Your Listeners Interaction is key to building a community around your music. Use Gaana’s features like playlists and recommendations to connect with listeners. Respond to comments and messages to show appreciation for your fans.

Leveraging Gaana’s Features to Maximize Earnings

1. Utilize Gaana’s Analytics Tools Gaana provides detailed analytics that show how your songs are performing. Monitor metrics like the number of streams, listener demographics, and peak times for engagement. Use these insights to improve your music and marketing strategy.

2. Explore Premium Opportunities In addition to ad-supported earnings, Gaana’s premium subscription model allows artists to earn more per stream. Encourage fans to subscribe for an ad-free experience, which benefits both parties.

3. Participate in Playlists Getting your song featured in popular playlists can dramatically increase its exposure. Submit your tracks to Gaana’s editorial team or create your own curated playlists to promote your music.

Promoting Your Music Beyond Gaana

1. Social Media Campaigns Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share updates about your music. Post teasers, behind-the-scenes clips, and links to your Gaana profile to drive traffic.

2. Collaborate with Influencers Music influencers on YouTube, TikTok, and other platforms can help you reach a larger audience. Partner with them to feature your song in their content.

3. Offline Promotion Don’t underestimate the power of traditional promotion. Perform at local events, distribute flyers, and network with industry professionals to spread the word about your music.

Success Stories: Inspiration for Aspiring Artists

Several independent artists have found success on Gaana. These musicians started as hobbyists but turned their passion into full-time careers. Their journeys highlight the platform's potential and show how strategic use of Gaana can lead to fame and financial stability.

Artist A: Grew from 1,000 streams in their first month to 1 million streams within a year by consistently uploading songs and engaging with listeners.

Artist B: Used Gaana's analytics to refine their music style, resulting in viral hits that topped the charts.

Artist C: Leveraged collaborations to expand their audience and boost earnings.

Overcoming Challenges as a New Artist

Starting on a platform like Gaana can be daunting, especially for hobbyists with no prior experience. However, the key to overcoming these challenges is perseverance and adaptability:

Challenge: Standing out among thousands of tracks. Solution: Focus on creating unique and high-quality music.

Challenge: Limited resources for promotion. Solution: Use cost-effective methods like social media and word-of-mouth marketing.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a hobbyist to a professional musician is a journey that requires effort, dedication, and the right platform. Gaana provides all the tools and opportunities you need to share your music with a vast audience and earn money while doing what you love. By creating a strong profile, consistently uploading quality content, and leveraging Gaana’s features, you can turn your passion into a sustainable career. Don’t wait—upload your song on Gaana today and take the first step toward professional success.

Related Articles:

For further reading, explore these related articles:

How to Upload Your Song on Gaana as an Independent Artist

How to Upload Your Song on Gaana Without a Label

How to Upload Your Song on Gaana with No Upfront Fees

How to Upload Your Song on Gaana Quickly: A Comprehensive Guide

For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit DMT Records Private Limited.

[excaliburmovers]

Things to Do Before Moving to a New City

Planning a move to a new city can be thrilling but also overwhelming. Have you thought about how to make the transition seamless? From finding the right neighborhood to packing efficiently, there’s a lot to juggle. 

With a little planning and help from experienced professionals like Excalibur Moving and Storage, your move can be smooth and stress-free. Here’s a checklist to guide you.

Research Your New City

Start by learning about your destination. For instance, if you’re relocating to Ashburn, VA, research neighborhoods, schools, healthcare facilities, and public transportation options. Check local community boards or join online groups to get a feel for the area. Knowing the cost of living, job market, and recreational spots will help you settle in faster.

Secure Housing

Before moving, finalize your housing arrangements. Whether buying a home or renting an apartment, schedule visits to inspect properties. If you can’t visit in person, use virtual tours or enlist a trusted local agent. Movers in Ashburn, VA, like Excalibur, can even help coordinate delivery to your new address, saving you time and stress.

Organize Important Documents

Gather all essential documents like birth certificates, medical records, and school transcripts. Keep them in a safe, easily accessible folder. If you’re moving with kids, arranging for school transfers ahead of time will simplify their transition.

Declutter and Pack Smartly

Moving is the perfect time to declutter. Donate or sell items you no longer need to lighten your load. When packing, label boxes clearly by room or content type to make unpacking easier. Consider professional packing services from trusted movers like Excalibur Moving and Storage to ensure your valuables are safely transported.

Set Up Utilities and Services

Before moving, arrange for utilities like electricity, gas, water, and internet to be activated at your new home. Notify your bank, insurance providers, and subscription services of your address change. Redirect mail through the USPS to avoid missing important documents.

Get Acquainted with Local Services

Find local healthcare providers, grocery stores, and fitness centers ahead of time. Knowing these details will ease your transition and make your new city feel like home sooner.

Why Choose Excalibur Moving and Storage?

Moving to a new city can feel daunting, but Excalibur Moving and Storage has your back. As experienced movers in Ashburn, VA, they offer comprehensive relocation services tailored to your needs, ensuring every detail is handled with care. Start planning today and make your relocation a success!

Know more about our affordable and quality products stay social with us on: Facebook , Instagram & Pinterest