Five tips for kitchen redos

* Add color and light. Splashes of color and artwork can transform a kitchen from a workspace to a fun, vibrant family-gathering spot. To show off those dazzling colors, choose window treatments that let the sunshine in. And take a look at the windows themselves. High-efficiency replacement windows and patio doors can not only save you money over their less-efficient predecessors from the second they are installed, but they often retain most of their value should the home be sold, according to industry statistics. Simonton Windows offers a variety of types, sizes and styles across a number of collections, and can help you find the right windows for your remodeling needs. For detailed window options, visit www.simonton.com.



* Add appeal and ease. Stainless steel continues to be the most popular finish for kitchen appliances, sinks and fixtures. Besides its modern, sleek appearance, stainless steel cleans easily and resists wear and tear. That is especially true for kitchen sinks, which receive the brunt of abuse. New lines of stainless-steel sinks, in a variety of styles, configurations and sizes, are available from Moen. To ease renovation, the new styles feature an updated drop-in deck design. These drop-in sinks include Moen's refreshed sink-deck design, a minimal, transitional style that coordinates with a variety of decor and faucet designs. The new recessed deck allows sponges or other wet items placed on the deck's inner ledge to drain back into the sink, and not onto the countertop. The sinks' wear-resistant, uniform, brushed finish offers durability and resistance to chipping, cracking, staining or peeling.



* Go bold with fixtures. For topping off a kitchen-remodeling project, nothing beats bold and functional fixtures. The new STo collection of stylish, modern faucets from Moen encompass a slim, sleek design, including the innovative, integrated pulldown wand which neatly docks inside of the spout. The rounded, high-arc spout of the STo faucet features a tubular design that unites with a cube-shaped base. Adding the finishing touch is a rectangular lever handle. Available in both single-handle pulldown kitchen and bar/prep pulldown models, STo faucets also feature Moen's Reflex system, which offers self-retraction of the wand, as well as an exceptional range of motion, generous reach and secure docking retraction. Choose the Spot Resist Stainless finish, with Chrome and Matte Black as other finish options. For more information about Moen products, visit www.moen.com.



* Store in style. Kitchen storage can be practical and stylish. After determining what you don't like about your current cabinetry - consider location, storage capacity, storage flexibility, material and finish - find out what options you have. MasterBrand offers a spectrum of cabinetry products ranging from standard to custom, with solutions for every budget and lifestyle. For more on cabinetry products from MasterBrand, visit www.masterbrand.com.



* Freshen the flooring. While design, color and surface appeal are important considerations, you'll also want kitchen flooring that can live up to your lifestyle and provide the comfort and durability you need, according to bobvila.com. Natural stone and ceramic tile are high-end products that ooze taste and elegance. If selecting these hard surfaces, also invest in mats for areas where you'll be standing for longer periods of time. Linoleum and vinyl offer the look of tile or wood in a more economical, easy-to-clean package. Hardwood has made great strides as a flooring option for kitchens, due to improved product quality and sealing technology.

Six ways to keep your workouts regular, fun and injury-free

In a perfect world, you'd develop a workout schedule for the next six months, stick to it flawlessly and find yourself at the level of fitness you hoped to achieve. But as many know all too well, life sometimes gets in the way, be it in the form of an injury, lack of motivation or simply running out of time. While sticking to a regular workout schedule is a challenge, there are a number of ways to keep you moving both physically and mentally.



Making your workouts fun, getting creative with both your routine and schedule, and making a few simple changes to stay healthy are all great steps toward sticking to your fitness goals. Ryan Sutter, a former professional football player who also happened to be the top choice on "The Bachelorette", now finds himself in the role as a fulltime firefighter and family man. Yet he still enjoys amateur athletic pursuits to keep himself if shape, such as mountain bike races and marathons.



Sutter offers six tips to fellow weekend warriors looking to stay in shape:



* Set successive short-term goals to keep you going. For example, schedule a 5k one month and a mountain bike race for the next. The feeling of accomplishment you get from fulfilling each goal will help you achieve the next. You can even set weekly goals with rewards, such as allowing yourself to order a pizza after sticking to your schedule for that week.



* Use peer pressure in a positive way. Enrolling in team sports or group activity can help provide the motivation for sticking to your plan. When others are depending on you, you're less likely to skip out.



* Vary your activity. Run one day, play basketball another and hit the weight room the next. One benefit to a varied routine is keeping you interested, but it's also great for your body. Different activities use different muscle groups, meaning a varied workout helps you become more comprehensively fit and can help you avoid overuse injuries. "Focus on being an athlete rather than a specialist," says Sutter.



* Listen to your body. You're likely to have some aches and pains, but those can be reduced with the proper treatment. Always take time to warm up before and stretch after workouts, and ice sore areas after your workout. To make icing easier, keep an ACE Brand Reusable Cold Compress in your freezer at both home and work. More injury prevention tips can be found at www.acebrand.com.



* Get creative with your scheduling. Look for ways to make workouts a part of your daily routine. "I really enjoy yoga in the morning with my kids," says Sutter. Rather than heading out to dinner to catch up with your friend, see if he wants to hit the racquetball court instead. Or maybe you can occasionally bike to work instead of driving, spending the minutes you normally would be sitting in the car working out.



* Always keep your gym bag stocked and with you. This way, you can't back out of your workout because you weren't prepared. "There are three essentials I keep in my gym bag: food for energy, hydration to keep me going and clean clothes to change into when I'm done with my workout," says Sutter. "You may also want to keep an ACE Brand Bandage that offers compression to help you deal with any soreness that might arise."



"The most important thing is to have fun," says Sutter. "Otherwise, it's easy to lose sight of why you're working out in the first place."

Proper footwear for weekend warriors

Being tied to a desk all day combined with overdoing sports activities on the weekend has landed many a participant on the sidelines. Now experts say those who play a hard game of sports once a week, but are inactive the other six days, are even more at fault for the injuries that plague them.

"In addition to failing to train sufficiently for the sports they participate in, many weekend warriors also fail to select the proper footwear," says Ryan Robinson, a Canadian Certified Pedorthist and president of the Pedorthic Association of Canada. "Not wearing the correct footwear can cause problems ranging from minor discomfort such as blisters, corns and calluses to more serious conditions including repetitive stress injuries to the joints and muscles."

Robinson cautions that one pair of running shoes may not serve for all sports. Joggers should wear running shoes which are specifically designed to absorb shock and propel them forward. However, running shoes are not appropriate for a game of basketball, which requires footwear to withstand side to side motions to protect against injury. Choosing footwear appropriate to your sport reduces the risks of injury and helps you play smart.

Equally important to wearing activity-specific footwear is replacing shoes at the end of their lifespan, often something weekend warriors neglect to do. The cushioning and supportive materials in running shoes break down over time, even if they're not being used, leaving the wearer without the support they require. Depending on the use, running shoes typically have a shelf lifespan of 600-700 kilometers, or around 12 months. If you are a distance runner, however, you will need to replace your running shoes more frequently than that.

As with all footwear, athletic shoes must fit properly. Shoes that are too long, too short or too wide can affect the function of the foot. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a recreational athlete, get your athletic footwear professionally fitted by foot expert, such as a Canadian Certified Pedorthist. This simple step will help keep you off the sidelines and in the game.

More information on reducing sports-related foot injuries can be found online at www.pedorthic.ca/injury-prevention

Smart, stylish renovations for any age

(BPT) - Most Americans over 50 want to stay in their home as they age, but few are making the renovations they need to ensure easy and comfortable living for years to come.



In fact, 80 percent of people older than 50 say they would prefer to remain in their home indefinitely, according to an AARP survey. The Hartford and MIT Age Labs found that while 96 percent of baby boomers are aware of the changes they could make to their current home to make it more comfortable as they grow older, only 26 percent have made such modifications.



Consider some of the following functional, yet beautiful, touches that help make a home safer and more comfortable for residents of all ages.



* Hardwood floors



Replacing carpet with hardwood floors can help accommodate difficulties ranging from respiratory problems to decreased mobility. Unlike carpet, hardwood flooring doesn't trap dust, pollen or other particles that cause problems for those with allergies and respiratory issues. Wheelchairs and other mobility equipment can glide more easily over a hard surface, and hardwood floors require far less maintenance. Homeowners can choose from a variety of hardwood flooring options that meet their needs and fit their budget at retailers such as Lumber Liquidators, North America's largest specialty hardwood flooring retailer.



* New furniture



Changing out furniture can make a huge difference in the comfort and style of a home. Enhance maneuverability by allowing ample room between furnishings, and by picking accessible pieces such as counter-height dining tables and chairs. Likewise, it's easier to sit in and stand from firmer sofas and chairs than deeper, softer options.



* Kitchen updates



Kitchen shelves that pull out make utensils, pots and pans, and ingredients much more accessible, and do not require a kitchen remodel. A wide range of products and kits enable homeowners to easily install sliding shelves themselves, or they can hire a contractor to do the job. Also, consider swapping out knobs for handles on cabinets and drawers to make them more accessible and easier to use.



* More lighting



Make sure all areas of your property - inside and outside - are well lit. Pendant lamps, inset ceiling lights and track lighting help illuminate a room from above, preventing glare that can cause temporary blindness. Opt for switches to turn lights on and off, and locate them at the entrances of each room. If a home's wiring isn't set up this way, the homeowner may need to contact an electrician.



As we age, we want to remain as independent as possible, which includes being able to stay in our own home for as long as possible. With a few functional changes, homeowners can create a beautiful space now that can enable them to live more comfortably later.

Five tips to help chart a path toward financial success

Understanding how to build credit and how to use it responsibly helps consumers make decisions that lead to financial success. And making responsible decisions that can help you chart a path toward a successful financial future is easier when you're well informed. Free tools from sources such as the American Bankers Association, National Foundation for Credit Counseling and Wells Fargo's free, online Hands on Banking program can help consumers of all ages increase their credit know-how. These five tips can help you take control of your finances, manage your money and build a stronger credit history.



Five steps to strong credit



1. Check your credit report: Once a year, consumers can request a free credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies - Equifax, Experian and Transunion - at AnnualCreditReport.com or call 877-322-8228. Review the reports carefully and correct any errors.



2. Understand the factors that affect your credit: Whether you are new to credit or have been using credit for some time, your credit score gives lenders a snapshot of your credit risk. By understanding what impacts your score, you may be able to improve it.



3. Raise your credit score: Managing your credit responsibly over time is one of the best ways to build, maintain, and improve your credit score. Five key criteria are generally used to calculate a consumer's credit score:

• Payment history: Information about whether you've made on-time payments has the most impact on your score.
• Credit accounts: A balanced mix of different types of credit can help improve your score.
• Credit usage: Owing a lot or being near your credit limit on multiple accounts negatively impacts your score.
• Length of credit history: Reviewers check to see if you can responsibly manage credit accounts over time.
• Credit applications: Opening multiple new credit accounts may represent a greater risk for lenders.

4. Create and monitor your budget: A budget gives you more control over your finances and helps you eliminate unnecessary expenses.



5. Know what lenders look for. When consumers apply for a loan, lenders assess their credit risk based on a number of factors, often called the Five Cs of Credit:

• Credit history. Have you established credit and is your credit score high enough to qualify you?
• Capacity. Is your income sufficient?
• Collateral. Does the collateral you're borrowing against have enough value?
• Capital. Do you have assets set aside as another source for repayment?
• Conditions. Does the current economy or purpose for the credit make it a risk?

Wells Fargo offers a variety of free tools designed to help individuals at any life stage learn ways to manage their finances more responsibly. For more information and resources about how to use credit sensibly to achieve financial goals, visit www.wellsfargo.com/creditsmart.

Bathroom remodels that look like a million bucks - for $1,000 or less

The average cost of a bathroom remodel tops $16,500, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report. But you don't have to spend the average to achieve above-average results when it comes to updating a bathroom.



Generally, people renovate or remodel bathrooms for two main reasons: to boost their home's resale value, and to enhance their own enjoyment of the room. A bathroom renovation yields a 62 percent return on investment at the time of resale, Remodeling Magazine's report indicates. How much more will you enjoy that ROI - and the improved livability of your bath - if your initial investment was just $1,000, rather than tens of thousands?



Fortunately, the bathroom is one room in the house where you can accomplish a lot with $1,000. Here are four updates and upgrades that cost less than 10 Ben Franklins, but can leave you feeling like a million bucks when you step into your new bath.



1. Redo walls and floors



The key to bringing this job in under $1,000 is to do the work yourself. The actual materials - paint for the walls and tile, stone or vinyl for the floor - can be purchased for a relatively low cost. By doing the work yourself, you avoid high labor charges. Most bathrooms require only a gallon or two of paint, so you can easily stay on budget even if you purchase a high-end brand. It's also possible to find plenty of cost-effective flooring options, from luxury materials like marble to more economical ones such as ceramic tile or vinyl. After the materials, your second biggest investment for this project will be the time it takes to learn how to do the job right. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of educational material online and many home improvement stores even offer free classes in how to lay new floors.



2. Switch out the shower door



After the walls and floor, the shower door is probably the third largest surface - and design element - in your bathroom. Unless your home was custom-built, chances are your shower door is bland and basic, albeit functional. Replacing a plain shower door with one that features a design, pattern or frosting can add personal flair to a bathroom. Manufacturers like Sterling offer a variety of shower doors that are both beautiful and functional, including patterned shower doors. In addition, Sterling's frameless doors feature the company's trademarked ClearCoat technology, which creates a barrier between the water and glass to keep the door looking pristine and new. Prices vary depending on the style of door you choose, but you'll find many budget-friendly options.



3. Swap out the shower enclosure



Cracked, chipped ceramic tile or an old, stained shower enclosure can make your bathroom look tired, dated and dirty. Replacing the shower enclosure can give the room a whole new look. Plus, if you only have a tub and would like to add a shower, an enclosure is a fast, easy and cost-effective way to achieve your goal. Or if a tub doesn't suit your design and lifestyle needs, you can replace it with a shower enclosure.



Products like Sterling Ensemble Curve shower enclosures are sized to fit standard 5-foot bath alcove spaces, and installation doesn't require you to move the drain location. Replacing a tub with an enclosure makes for a spacious, luxurious showering experience. The Sterling products start for less than $700.



4. Update fixtures



Few bathroom upgrades have a greater impact on efficiency and beauty the way changing fixtures can. Whether you opt for a low-flow showerhead or a high-efficiency toilet that requires less water to flush, replacing older fixtures can update the look of a bathroom and yield long-term savings on utility bills. With abundant color, shape and design options in everything from commodes to sinks, faucets to shower controls, it's possible to find fixtures that suit every design taste - and price point. Smart shoppers can find budget-friendly options that will allow them to replace more than one item, giving a bathroom a fresh look and feel.



Virtually any upgrade you make in a bathroom can enhance the value - and your enjoyment - of the space. Fortunately, with some do-it-yourself savvy and the right products, you can make your bathroom look and feel like a million dollars without spending a bundle.

Easier mortgage processes, positive attitudes inspire renters to buy

Thirty-two percent of American households are renters, according to the National Multi Housing Council. Generally, more people younger than 30 occupy rentals, while the percentage of people who own their home increases with age, NMHC statistics indicate. People decide to buy a home for many reasons, but the recent real estate market downturn caused many Americans to rethink their assumptions about renting and owning.



Even with many real estate experts predicting the market will continue to improve, it pays to carefully evaluate how home ownership does - or doesn't - figure into your long-term financial goals. If you've been renting and wondering if it's time to apply for a mortgage and buy your own home, consider these points:



1. Renting isn't always the cheaper option, and comparing your monthly rent payment directly to a mortgage payment won't give you a clear picture of the financial impact of either option. Online calculators, like Guaranteed Rate's rent vs. buy online calculator, can give you a better understanding of the comparison. With mortgage rates consistently low and rental markets competitive across the country, real estate experts agree that in most major metropolitan areas it will still be cheaper in the long run to buy than continue to rent.



2. While the days of zero-money-down mortgages are essentially over, it's a misconception that you need a huge amount of money to buy a house. Yes, you'll almost certainly need a down payment, but different lenders will require different percentages. Research your mortgage options before you begin house hunting so you'll know how much you'll need to save in order to secure a mortgage - and the home of your dreams.



3. Although the mortgage application process is detailed, it doesn't have to be drawn out and tedious. Many lenders now allow you to initiate the process online, and Guaranteed Rate has recently overhauled its website to allow borrowers to apply for a loan, track the approval process and receive their home loans all online. The eighth-largest retail mortgage company in the U.S. allows customers to choose and customize their loans, submit an application and receive an official approval letter all at www.guaranteedrate.com. Automating the application process compresses the traditional time frame from days - sometimes, even weeks - into minutes. As part of the process, applicants also receive the credit reports from all three major credit bureaus.



4. Buying a home affords you the opportunity to really grow your roots, but the flipside is that in order to get the most out of your investment, you need to stay put for a while. If you anticipate being in your current job and living in your current town for at least five years, the long-term investment of buying a house will make more sense for you. If you anticipate a job change or a move within a few years, you may want to hold off on buying a house. The good news is, doing so gives you more time to save toward a down payment so you'll look even more appealing to lenders when you are ready to buy.



While only you can decide if homeownership is right for you and your family - and if now is the right time to buy - keep in mind a few statistics from Trulia.com: 42 percent of renters say they regret not having bought a home, and 31 percent say they want to buy a home in the next two years.

How to put together a casual, yet professional look

When the directive comes down from management that your workplace is moving to a casual dress code, it's usually cause for office-wide celebration. More and more companies these days are recognizing the importance of keeping their employees comfortable, and are adopting looser standards for their corporate dress codes.



If your company goes casual, it doesn't mean you should stop paying attention to your professional appearance. Take advantage of the relaxed standards of a more casual dress code, but try to avoid some of the pitfalls that might cause you to look sloppy and unprofessional.



Play the situation



When you're spending the day in the office, casual attire that fits into your dress code is totally appropriate. But the dress code doesn't always apply to every situation you might run into during the course of your workday. If you have an important meeting with an associate from another company, more formal attire is appropriate, whether it's spelled out in your dress code or not.



Keep it clean



No matter how relaxed the dress code is, it's never a good idea to wear jeans with holes in them or a coffee-stained shirt. Like it or not, wearing frayed or worn clothes will negatively affect how co-workers perceive you.



Get the right fit



Even with casual items like jeans and polo shirts, finding the right fit can mean the difference between a crisp and well-put-together and stylish look and a drab appearance. Dark jeans present a crisper look that's more appropriate for business settings and styles with a wider cut around the boot usually pair better with loafers, boots and casual dress shoes - even though your tennis shoes may be comfy, leave them at home for play time.



When shopping for work-appropriate jeans, wear shoes and a shirt you'd normally wear for work to get an idea of what style fits best with your work attire. Several clothing brands offer a number of work-appropriate jeans for men and women for less than $30 a pair. It's important to note that you don't have to break the bank for a professional yet casual look.



You should avoid certain styles of jeans in the workplace. Men: While your build and personal style might allow you to brilliantly pull off skinny jeans on the weekends, don't be tempted to wear them in the office. Women: You might turn heads with the way you wear those low-rise jeans, but opt for something less revealing for the workplace.



Err on the conservative side



If you have to ask yourself if your outfit is too revealing, chances are it is. Women should refrain from low-cut blouses, just as men should resist the urge to ditch the t-shirt underneath that button-down shirt. If your dress code is casual enough to allow for T-shirts, refrain from wearing anything containing messages or images that could be deemed by anyone as offensive. You can impress your friends with your witty T-shirt on the weekends, but your peers - or superiors - may not share their sense of humor.



While there are certain things to avoid when composing your work-casual look, remember to enjoy the freedom and comfort allowed by your relaxed dress code. By keeping your wardrobe stocked with casual attire that fits your body well, looks clean and crisp and is appropriate for the workplace, you'll maintain comfort while exuding professionalism and confidence.

How to save big with last-minute vacation planning tips

There's no need to ignore your last-minute itch for travel. Try a few travel tips and planning strategies to ensure your trip is not only memorable and stress-free, but saves you cash, too.



1. Skip air travel and save at the pump



Last-minute plane tickets are costly, so for spontaneous trips, consider hitting the road instead. Pack up the car, RV or motorcycle and let the road be the gateway to your next great vacation. Download an app that tracks gas prices, like gasbuddy or Gas Guru -so you can always find the best price per gallon to cut down on fuel costs. Want better fuel economy? Improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure, says the U.S. Department of Energy.



2. Uncover hidden gem locations



Popular tourist towns with massive crowds will always cost more than those hidden gems visited by fewer folks. Get destination inspiration on websites like www.LiveLifeLocal.com. With a focus on car, RV, boat and motorcycle travel, the site - created by Safeco Insurance - makes it easy to search for fun destinations and routes by geography, vehicle and tags. You'll find valuable content from authors and bloggers as well as everyday users passionate about travel.



3. Be flexible and ask for discounts



If you can be flexible with travel dates, you might be able to score a last-minute deal. Booking accommodations for weekdays rather than weekends will save you cash, and often there's more availability last-minute. If you know you want to travel in the near future, call hotels and campgrounds and see if they offer discount rates for open rooms/sites. Often rates are reduced 24 to 48 hours prior, but you need to ask. For hotels, a discounted room is better than a vacant room. For you, a fantastic deal awaits. Check out sites like Orbitz.com, Expedia.com or Booking.com.



4. Plan activities en route



Getting there is half the fun when you plan stops along the way. When you're short on time, go online to map your route and discover unique places to stop along the road to your final destination. For example, LiveLifeLocal lets you map your route and suggests nearby activities. To help organize and plan your stops along the way, you can add your preferred activities to a "collection" on your online vacation portfolio. It's a great way to quickly research and organize a last-minute vacation, plus it is free. Just add a title and save it for easy access, then share adventures on your favorite social media sites and make all your friends jealous.



5. Package and save



When it comes to saving money, package deals are a great way to ease a tight budget. Can you bundle activities together and purchase all your tickets for a deep discount? Does your hotel offer any freebie activities to local attractions along with a reservation? Always ask about possible discounts and packaged savings so you can get the best deals throughout your last-minute trip.



Give in to the wanderlust and take that last-minute trip with confidence. Whether you're hitting the road solo or bringing the whole family along, a few simple strategies will ensure a trip to remember without breaking the bank.

Small improvements indicate Americans taking steps toward better credit

When you're struggling with thousands of dollars of debt, saving a few bucks here or there may seem like a drop in the bucket. Yet in financial terms, those drops add up, and can ultimately create a more positive overall picture. That seems to be the case for the country, as evidenced by a recent report on credit scores and credit habits among American consumers.



Experian's third annual State of Credit report, which analyzes the average VantageScore (an industry-leading consumer credit risk score with scores ranging from 501 to 990, with higher scores representing a lower likelihood of risk), debt levels and credit use of people living in more than 100 U.S. cities, found that in the past year:



* Americans' average credit scores edged upward for the second consecutive year.



* Average debt decreased slightly.



* Income rose by nearly one and a quarter percent.



* Foreclosures fell by 12.59 percent.



* Among the 10 cities with the highest credit scores, eight had improved average scores over last year. Among the 10 cities with the lowest average scores, seven also improved their credit scores.



The cities with the highest average credit scores were: Minneapolis (787); Madison, Wis. (786); Wausau, Wis. (785); Sioux Falls, S.D. (784); Cedar Rapids, Iowa (783); San Francisco (783); Green Bay, Wis. (781); La Crosse, Wis. (779); Boston (778) and Duluth, Minn. (777).



The lowest average scores were found in Harlingen, Texas (688); Jackson, Miss. (702); Corpus Christi, Texas (706); Shreveport, La. (708); Monroe, La. (709); Augusta, Ga. (710); El Paso, Texas (710); Myrtle Beach, S.C. (710); Memphis (711) and Savannah (713).



While many of these indicators point toward a renewed focus by Americans on wise credit habits, there are also signs that consumers still have room for improvement, says Maxine Sweet, vice president of public education for Experian. In uncertain economic times, credit and debt management is often viewed as an indicator of Americans' overall financial well-being. As our nation and individual consumers struggle to emerge from recession, establishing and maintaining good credit has never been more important.



Sweet offers consumers some basic credit information:



If you haven't already done so, check your credit score and report so that you have a benchmark for improvement. It's important to understand the financial behaviors that influence the information in your credit report. Once you understand how your financial behaviors affect your credit report, you'll be able to take steps to improve your credit history and, subsequently, improve your scores. Factors that affect your credit score include:



* Bill payment history - Paying bills on time is the single most important contributor to good credit. Late payments negatively affect your ability to get credit since they indicate a stronger likelihood that you will make late payments again or will be unable to pay your debts in the future. Even if the debt you owe is a small amount, it is crucial that you make payments on time.



* Credit card balances and other revolving credit - If you max out your credit card or charge balances that are very close to your limit, you will increase your balance to limit ratio, or utilization ratio. A high utilization ratio may indicate that you are tempted to charge more than you can pay and therefore, negatively affect your credit score.



* Length of credit history - How long you've had certain accounts matters for your credit history. What's more, if you have negative information on your credit report, time is your ally in improving your credit score. While steps like catching up on late payments and paying down debts can help improve your score, there is no overnight fix for a low credit score. Improving your score will require time and discipline.



To learn more about building and maintaining a strong credit history, visit LiveCreditSmart.com.

How to finance a small business

Whether you need start-up capital, funding for innovation or money to purchase equipment, access to sufficient credit is integral to running a successful small business.

Banks offer a variety of financial solutions for businesses, but to secure funding entrepreneurs need to crunch the numbers and prove they have a strong plan and the business savvy to execute it successfully.

TD Canada Trust offers small business owners advice on what to bring to the table when negotiating or renegotiating access to credit with their financial institution:

• Clearly state why you need credit - Your business plan plays an important role when it comes to securing financing, because it conveys your vision to potential investors. Make sure your plan clearly articulates the amount of money you need and accurately explains exactly what you intend to do with it.

• Demonstrate your ability to repay credit - Come armed with detailed personal and business reports and financial projections to demonstrate how you'll repay the loan. Banks want to see that you thoroughly understand your business' financial health, including cash flow and credit needs.

• Show your passion - You must be willing to invest some of your money into the business. Explain what you would do if you are not successful with your credit application to demonstrate persistence and commitment to your ideas.

More advice on financing a small business is available online at www.tdcanadatrust.com/smallbusiness/resources.jsp

Bumps in the real estate buddy system

1. There's this buyer who's been in the house for two years already. But then he just stopped paying.



2. There are sellers who won't sell the house the way you want them to. After six months, you just heard the news that the house was sold at a very low price. So, it kept you wondering, "Why didn't they consult you back?" or "Why did they sell it to someone for a lesser price?" Emotion is the reason. The sellers were so fed up with their emotions after 6, or maybe even 12 months, that they reached a point where they decided to finally accepted it: They need to move on and lower the price to have it sold quickly.



3. Another situation is when the seller just wants to move on with their lives. They reach a point where they just want to have a peace of mind because it's never about the money. At the end of the day, they want the house sold and they'll do anything to get rid of it so they can continue on with their lives.



4. If your buddy's house isn't selling, they might be calling to tell you:



"My wife and I have talked and we would like to express our sincere gratitude for everything you've done. I know you've been selling our house for $400,000 and we've had lots of people coming here. However, things haven't been working out but we're really thankful for your hard work. We also talked of how we eagerly want to move on with our lives because it's such a hassle on our part and we've come to a decision where we just want to move on. We're really grateful for your work and we do want to have the house sold at $400,000 but we were thinking of $320,000?"



So, these are just some of the bumps you and your buddy will be going through. But still, it's always good to consider a Buddy System.



You must both understand that you are not working for the seller and the seller is not working for you either. Instead, you are buddies. You are a team. You work together to get the house sold. You get the paperwork organized and come up with deals so that you can both benefit from this joint partnership. You get what your buddy wants and at the same time gain the profit.



But in the end, the Buddy System can help both buddies maintain a good relationship towards each other, and achieve a nice deal!

Five ways to stay upbeat and energized during the holidays

As Christmas carols hit the airwaves and the snow begins to fall, the joy of the holidays brings out the best in everyone - right? With a seemingly endless to-do list of shopping, cooking, entertaining and decorating, the holiday season can quickly become a recipe for anxiety.



The true meaning of the holiday season can be overshadowed by the demands of preparations, but it shouldn't be. By planning ahead, taking care of yourself and making sure to spend quality time connecting with loved ones, you can stay upbeat and energized during the holidays.



Try these tips to make sure your mood is as bright as the lights on the Christmas tree.



Plan ahead: Instead of subjecting yourself to the last-minute trips to the mall, get shopping done earlier, and do what you can online. If you need to hit the mall, get there when it opens and develop a list beforehand so you can quickly check off what you need. Establish a schedule for the month of December and plan several days in advance for holiday meals and parties. Also, create a budget early in the season, and stick to it. Studies show that finances are often a major trigger of stress during the holidays.



Make meaningful connections the entire season long. Making time to connect with close family and friends - whether through a phone call, e-mail or Skype - will help you remember the true meaning of the holiday season. You can also let your loved ones know you're thinking of them throughout the season by surprising them with the jacquielawson.com Advent Calendar. The animated e-calendar includes 25 holiday animations that transport recipients to a magical version of London. It's a meaningful and unique gift for friends and family, near and far - you'll love sharing stories with loved ones from that day's holiday animation.



"We heard stories of extended families living thousands of miles apart yet sharing the daily ritual of watching the day's animation and then talking with or emailing each other about it," says jacquielawson.com co-founder Mike Hughes-Chamberlain, speaking about the company's first-ever Advent Calendar last year. "Many customers asked us to keep making new calendars each year so it could become a new family tradition."



Take time for yourself. Escape the hustle and bustle of the mall by going to a movie with a friend, or curling up by the fire with a bestseller. Taking a moment to breathe and focus on something unrelated to the holidays will give you a chance to regroup and more effectively tackle the next cookie recipe or holiday party on your schedule. Try spending a few quiet moments of alone time each morning to recharge for the day ahead. And, if you feel like splurging, enjoy a few hours at the spa while you're picking up gift certificates for others on your list.



Avoid over-committing. With holiday parties to attend and host, cookies to bake and deliver, and tackling an ever-increasing Christmas card list, the holidays can easily swirl out of control. Decline the office cookie exchange this year, and cut down your gift list. You'll be better able to savor the most important things of the holiday season when you're not frantically running from one commitment to another.



Exercise and eat right. In a season where schedules get busier as the holidays get closer, make one thing a standard in your daily routine. A trip to the gym or an exercise class helps you relax and unwind. If you can't make it to the gym, incorporate more walking into your daily routine. Park a little farther from the store entrance, or take a walk to see the neighborhood Christmas displays. Try to focus on your nutrition and avoid overeating, a major cause of holiday and post-holiday anxiety. Make sure to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet, and avoid that extra cookie when you can. Usually, one is enough to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Get smart about buying insurance

From home and health to auto, life, disability and more, it's important to be smart about how you buy coverage to limit costs, purchase the right coverage and avoid redundancies.



The best place to start is on your state's official government website, says FindLaw.com, the nation's leading website for free legal information. There you will find a list of licensed insurers so you can be assured that you're dealing with a legitimate company.



"Work with a reputable insurance agent who represents a financially sound, highly-rated company," advises Ed Susolik, an attorney who specializes in insurance law at Callahan & Blaine in Santa Ana, Calif. "As is often the case, you get what you pay for. You don't want to add to a tragedy by discovering that you're underinsured or that the policy you've purchased from a little-known company is fraught with loopholes."



Here are some additional tips from FindLaw.com on purchasing insurance coverage:



Follow the law. Check the laws of your state. You may be required to carry certain types of insurance, such as liability insurance to operate a car, motorcycle or boat. This also applies on the federal level, for example, with the passage of the Affordable Care Act, all Americans will be required to carry health insurance as of 2014.



Read your policy. Many Americans don't read their insurance policies and hastily sign contracts without considering the implications. For example, if your health insurance covers 90 percent of all medical bills and you require significant medical attention, the 10 percent for which you're responsible could add up. If you have trouble understanding what a policy proposal covers, don't hesitate to slow down and ask your agent for clarification or get a quote from a different company. Remember: you're buying insurance to ease, and not trouble, your state of mind.



Plan for major milestones. Major events will trigger the need to purchase insurance or increase your existing coverage. With the birth of a first child, parents should consider purchasing term life insurance. It offers a benefit to a spouse and child to cover living expenses if one parent dies before the child reaches adulthood.



Inspect your home insurance. Carefully review your home insurance policy. Are you insured for your home's market value or replacement value? The replacement value is the cost of rebuilding your house, while the market value is based on an appraisal of its value in relationship to surrounding homes. Your agent should be willing to work with you to sculpt the policy that meets your needs.



Consider flood insurance. Standard homeowners insurance typically does not include flood insurance. First, determine the level of risk for flooding in your area. There are a few options online, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency's website (www.fema.gov), where you can search your address and assess flooding risk. Your insurance agent also should have access to this information and can explore your options with you.



Add an umbrella policy. It's not a bad idea to purchase an umbrella liability policy to provide additional coverage above and beyond your homeowner's insurance. This helps in situations where you could be at fault for accidents, such as your dog biting a mail carrier or a tree in your yard falling onto a neighbor's car.



Research renter's insurance. Apartments can be burglarized or damaged like any other property. If you rent, consider purchasing renter's insurance to cover assets such as computers, furniture and other significant items.



Inventory your belongings. Take photos or videos, with audio descriptions, of your property so you and the insurance company have an accurate record of your belongings in the event of a fire or other accident. Capture your home, prized possessions and high-value items such as cars, boats, jewelry and collections. Store the files on a portable hard drive in a secure and safe location, such as a safe deposit box.



To learn more about insurance and the law, visit FindLaw.com.

Big design ideas for small kitchen spaces

Bigger isn't always better in the real estate world, and what's more, it's not always possible. With more home owners downsizing from McMansions to smaller, more manageable houses, and a growing number of people opting to rent rather than buy, many families are looking for new ways to decorate, design and work with smaller spaces.

Kitchens sell homes, but this most-used room in the house hasn't escaped the "less is more" trend, either. Interior designers, decorators and home product makers are responding to the growing demand for practical, beautiful options that make sense in smaller kitchens.

If you're looking to make a big impact in a small kitchen, here are a few ideas to get you started:

Work the walls - You may love your cozy kitchen, but that doesn't mean you want to make it look or feel any smaller than it already is. Lighter wall colors can help a little kitchen feel more open and airy. One winning decorating technique for small kitchens is to paint the majority of the wall space in a light neutral tone, like a pale cream or taupe and then add a pop of brighter or darker color to one accent wall or area. You can edge up the excitement of this technique by using a mural for kitchens on the accent wall, rather than just a different paint color. Have an oddly shaped niche in your kitchen? You can turn that problematic space into a design statement with custom, repositionable wallpaper that can be custom-sized and custom-colored to fit your specifications. This unique product can be adhered and re-adhered hundreds of times so you can take it with you to your next house if you choose.

Smart-size your appliances - Sure that 30-cubic-foot stainless steel refrigerator is beautiful in the showroom, but how much will you love it when you can't fully open the door in your small kitchen? Refrigerators come in several sizes, so you should be able to find one that will fit your space. The same is true for stoves, microwaves and dishwashers. Choosing appliances that make size-sense for the space you have not only improves the livability of your petite kitchen, it can improve your efficiency as well.

Get creative with storage - One of the biggest challenges of a small kitchen is finding space for everything from pots and pans to flatware, dishes and foodstuffs. Small spaces call for storage creativity. Whether you hang some pots and pans overhead, replace traditional cabinet shelves with pullout drawers or use special racks to store plates vertically, you can find plenty of creative small-kitchen storage solutions.

Liven things up with light - Often, a small kitchen will have just one window - or no window at all. Yet light is an important way to make a tight space feel more expansive and inviting. Task lighting is essential for work areas in small spaces. Pendant lights can create ambiance and provide practical illumination without sacrificing any wall space. And if you crave natural light for your windowless kitchen, consider installing a skylight. Tubular skylights can bring sunlight into your ground-floor kitchen even if there's a second floor above it.

Small kitchens are here to stay, whether as part of the trend toward smaller, more efficient homes or the reality of rental unit life. With some decorating creativity and practical design tactics, you can ensure your small kitchen yields large benefits - both in terms of enjoyment and resale value.

Protect your home against winter's wrath

(NC) As Canadians, we are fortunate to experience nature's splendour through all four seasons. However, extra steps need to be taken to protect your home against damage that could be incurred with cold temperatures, ice, and snow.

"Preparing your home for old man winter's arrival will help you to protect your investment," says Royal LePage broker Carla Bouchard. "A few simple steps can restore your peace of mind and have your home winter-ready." Bouchard recommends the following tips for winter home preparation:

1. Clean out your gutters and install gutter guards. Reduce the chance of an ice dam by removing debris from your gutters. Ice dams form when indoor heat melts the ice on your roof. If there is nowhere for the melted ice to flow, it will collect in your gutters and re-freeze, causing potential water damage when warmer temperatures return. The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation also recommends using electrical de-icing cables or low-corrosion chemical de-icers.

2. Use a chimney sweep service at least once per year. Many Canadians enjoy a crackling fire on cold winter nights. Chimney sweep services remove soot, blockages and any accumulating creosote, a highly flammable substance, from your chimney, thereby reducing the potential for a chimney fire.

3. Protect pipes located near the exterior of your home. Frozen pipes are one of the most common problems caused by freezing temperatures. It is important to ensure that pipes running through your garage or other exterior areas are well insulated. If you plan to be away, set your thermostat at 65 degrees Fahrenheit and open cupboards under your sinks to allow heat to flow through. You can find more information at www.royallepage.ca. www.newscanada.com

Gifts that can help close the generation gap

Grandma gives Johnny wool socks. Susie delivers ear buds to Grandpa, who thinks an MP3 player is a character in a James Bond movie. When it comes to the gaps between generations, gift-giving can cast into stark relief the differences between age groups. But it is possible to find gifts that spring from common ground - and that can help close the generation gap.



Sports-related gifts are one area where the generations can meet. Many children idolize current sports figures, but are unaware of the legends that played before today's stars. From boxing to gymnastics, and the four major professional leagues, every sport is loaded with history.



Taking the young person in your life to a sporting event is a great way to share your stories while enjoying the way the game is played today. Sitting in a crowded ballpark or arena, cheering with other fans can create unforgettable childhood memories that will be cherished and passed along to the next generation. Other ways to create a bond using sports-related gifts include retro jerseys, hats and gear, all of which have become increasingly popular among the younger generations.



Sports aren't the only pop culture phenomenon with time-tested tradition and history. Certain super heroes, like Spider-Man, and movie characters, such as James Bond, have maintained high popularity and long-lasting success. This is a special year for both characters, as they are celebrating their 50th anniversaries. In celebration, Activision has released two brand new video games that honor the characters' history and include classic scenes and characters from the movies and comic books.



Video games are extremely popular with the younger generation; 25 percent of all people who play video games are 18 or younger, according to the Entertainment Software Association. And 190 million households own a next-generation gaming console.



The Spider-Man franchise debuted in 1962 as a comic book. The tales of Peter Parker growing up as a teenage high school super hero have transformed into TV shows, multiple comic strips and a series of films. The latest video game shares the same name as this summer's blockbuster and the original comic book - The Amazing Spider-Man. The game is an epilogue to the most recent film, and brings Spider-Man back to his natural habitat, protecting the streets of Manhattan.



The James Bond franchise is the longest continually running and second highest-grossing film franchise in history. Dr. No, the first James Bond film, debuted in 1962.The latest video game portrayal of the illustrious Bond, titled 007 Legends, includes an overarching storyline tying together five classic Bond movies - Goldfinger, In Her Majesty's Secret Service, Moonraker, Licence to Kill and Die Another Day - along with a downloadable mission from the latest movie. Throughout the game, Bond's past antagonists, like Jaws, Hugo Drax and Oddjob, are up to their old tricks. From the classic villains to the famous Aston Martin, 007 Legends is a great way to assimilate with the younger generation and tie back the past generations' recollection of the Bond franchise.



Grandpa was able to read the Spider-Man comics when Peter Parker was a shy teenager and watch classic Sean Connery James Bond films and will now be able to enjoy watching his grandchildren interact with the same characters and storylines that he grew up with and loved. Gift giving should be an experience that both the recipient and giver enjoy. Relive your childhood through holiday gifts and create a new memory for the young person in your life.

Kitchen space-saving tips for city dwellers

(NC) As Canadians continue to opt for condo and apartment living, maximizing space has become increasingly important. This is especially important for kitchens, which have the tendency to collect an abundance of utensils and gadgets, from coffee makers and mugs to containers and cutlery. To keep your kitchen in tip-top shape and free of anxiety-causing clutter, follow these space-saving tips:

• Think up: Don't limit yourself to using what's been provided; utilize the ceiling to install a pot rack to free up drawer space. Have empty space above your cupboards? Pop some pretty storage containers on top to help clear counter space.
• Use your walls: Since you're short on space, hanging mirrors on your walls can help create the illusion of a larger kitchen. You can also add inexpensive shelves and hooks to help store items and keep your kitchen looking tidy.
• Edit: If you don't need it and you can live without it, get rid of it, especially in your fridge. Condiments that don't need to be refrigerated, for example, can be moved to a cupboard. In small spaces it's especially important to control odour; use Arm and Hammer Fridge Fresh, which can be suctioned to the inside of the fridge to increase shelf space and eliminate odour. Remember to replace it every three months, say on the first day of every new season.
• Store unused items: Do you really need that ice cream maker on your counter all year? Store it away for the season to free up counter space. The same goes for those other gadgets you love but rarely use. Consider putting items you don't use frequently up high or under your counter.

More information can be found at www.armandhammerbakingsoda.ca.

www.newscanada.com

Shape your financial future by checking your credit report and scores

Do you know what's on your credit report? Do you know your credit scores? If you don't, you're not alone, but now is a good time to better understand how they work before you go apply for that loan. By waiting to check your report and scores until you want to buy a car or house, you may discover too late your financial history forces you into strict loan terms with high interest rates, or, worse, disqualify you from getting any loan at all. How can you avoid this situation?



Responsible past credit behavior, a healthy credit score and understanding your debt picture all play crucial roles in achieving your overall financial goals. So reviewing your credit report and knowing your VantageScore credit score and how you compare to others is essential. By reviewing your report, you can verify the information in it, and take actions to correct any item that may require it. If you have any negative marks, now is the time to take action to address those issues and increase your credit score.



Perhaps the biggest misconception about credit scoring is that all the three major credit bureaus - TransUnion, Equifax and Experian - produce the same score. Although similar, there are many different scoring formulas, so variations can occur.



The three major credit bureaus partnered to develop VantageScore credit score to make credit scores more consistent and predictable across all three credit bureaus.



VantageScore credit scores fall within a range of 501 to 990 and include a letter grade from A to F. the higher your score, the better. Even though new methods provide more consistent formulas, there may still be variations across the three credit bureaus because information on individual credit reports may differ from bureau to bureau. Furthermore, each company is provided updated information from creditors on different days of the month, so an increase or decrease for one might happen on the first day of the month while another may not occur until the 15th.



These differentiators are why it's important to know all three of your scores, which you can easily get with a paid TransUnion membership. If you find the scores you have are lower than you'd like, there are some key things you can do. Most credit scores are derived by looking at these five attributes. By understanding what makes up these five factors, you can begin to change your behavior to improve your credit scores.



1. Payment history: A good record of on-time payments will help increase your credit scores. Review your credit reports closely and regularly. Late payments and other negative marks typically remain on your credit reports for up to seven years from the date of first delinquency. If you do find a mistake, take the proper steps to correct it so you can increase your scores.



2. Credit account history: An established credit history makes you a less risky borrower. Keeping old accounts that you have paid off can also help because keep your debt-to-credit ratio more favorable. Think twice before closing old accounts before a loan application.



3. Outstanding debt: High balances in relation to your credit limits can lower your credit score. Aim for balances less than 35 percent of your total available credit. You can determine your debt-to-credit ratio by reviewing your credit report now.



4. Recent inquiries: When a lender or business checks your credit in response to an application, it causes a hard inquiry on your report and may result in a slight ding to your credit score, so apply for new credit in moderation. Remember, viewing your own report and score is counted as a soft inquiry and doesn't change the score one way or another.



5. Types of credit: A healthy credit profile has a balanced mix of credit accounts and loans. It shows you have paid bills in the past and know how to manage different types of credit obligations. By reviewing your current credit reports and learning what your three scores are, you'll set yourself up for financial success in the future. Visit www.transunion.com for more information.

Tips for meeting your financial goals this year

As with any other goal, the key to achieving your financial goals is laying out a process that will ultimately lead you to success.



If you've set yearly financial goals in the past, but have failed to achieve them, now is a great time to re-evaluate your process. And don't let past failures discourage you, because you are not alone - only 12 percent of consumers reached their financial goals in this year, according to a recent Zogby IBOPE survey commissioned by TransUnion, one of the three major credit reporting companies.



"Now is the perfect time to appraise your current financial situation and make goals for where you want to be," says Heather Battison, TransUnion's senior director responsible for consumer education.



So what can you do to ensure financial success in the coming year? TransUnion offers five tips for planning and achieving your goals:



* Check your credit reports every three months. Monitoring your credit can help you recognize bad financial habits, like making late payments, which can affect credit score. Regularly checking your credit report is also a way to protect yourself against identity theft. If you ever run into a situation where you suspect identity theft, TransUnion provides a guide for what to do next.



* Check for accuracy. Make sure the information on your credit reports is up-to-date and reflects your current credit history. Give yourself at least 30 days to resolve any issues. Online dispute forms are available at TransUnion.com.



* Know your score. Your credit score helps determine your interest rates on credit purchases. A healthier credit score can help you receive the best interest rate, ultimately putting more money in your pocket as your work toward achieving your financial goals.



* Create a monthly spending plan and stick to it. Breaking down your spending habits into smaller and more manageable increments can help you achieve your financial goals. Through breaking it down by month, you can also set aside a fixed amount each month to deal with unexpected financial emergencies that may come up later in the year. If you don't have to spend this reserve fund, you can treat it as a year-end bonus, or, even better - put it toward next year's goals.



* Take additional measures to minimize your exposure to identity theft. In addition to frequently checking your credit, you can sign up for a credit monitoring service that will alert you whenever something changes in your report.



Setting yourself up for a successful financial year means developing plans now that you can execute as the year goes on. Additional planning tools to help you understand your credit information, manage your debt load, protect your identity and help you achieve your financial goals can be found TransUnion.com.