Tips For Planning a Great Family Road Trip

It’s no surprise that traditional road trips are the most popular type of vacation  families take in the United States. According to Travel Agent Central, almost 80 percent of the families who took a vacation in 2016 chose a road trip instead of another type of vacation. Road trips are cost-effective, and they give families the freedom to stop when and where they like, for as long as they like. In this age of rising airline baggage fees, driving also allows families the choice to pack more of what they need and pick up souvenirs along the way.

Traveling together in the car is also a great way for families to bond with one another. This is especially important these days, when many families struggle to maintain a healthy work/life balance and often have a hard time managing to have dinner together more than one or two nights a week. Read on for some helpful ideas you can use to plan your next family vacation on the road.

Think About Renting a Trailer or RV

If you will be traveling for a week or more, you may want to think about renting a trailer or RV if you don’t have one of your own. The benefits of traveling in a trailer or RV are several, particularly if you have small children who get impatient after long hours on the road. Traveling with an RV or trailer will make it possible for you to stay at campgrounds along the way, which can save you money on places to stay. You will also be able to cook your own meals, which is another potential money saver, as eating out can often burn up more than half of a family’s vacation budget. Cooking your own food can also give your family healthier options for meals than what you’ll find in many restaurants, and all RV manufacturers find extremely clever ways to create storage space inside your vehicle to store plenty of vittles for the road.

If you opt to rent an RV or trailer, make sure to rent from a reputable dealer. If you are lucky enough to have your own and don’t need to rent one, make sure you have the proper insurance, roadside assistance coverage and a Good Sam RV warranty in case something goes wrong on the road.

Think About the Places You’ll Stop at Ahead of Time

One of the fun things about a family road trip is planning it. Once you know where you’re going, find out what attractions are along your route. Maybe there’s a hiking spot you’ve always wanted to try, or an amusement park where you can all enjoy a fun afternoon. Don’t forget to look for interesting museums along the way, too.

Knowing what you’d like to see before your trip starts will help give your vacation some organization, as well as give everyone some things they can look forward to seeing. But remember that often the best things about a road trip are the unexpected adventures. Advanced planning doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t make unplanned stops along the way.

Have a Plan For Where You Will Stay

The last thing you want is to arrive at a hotel or campground after a day of driving to discover that there are no accommodations available. Whether you’ll be camping or staying at hotels or in rental homes, it’s smart to make reservations for the places you’ll be staying ahead of time.

Do Some Research Ahead of Time

It is always worth it to find out about the destinations you will be going to before you arrive. Doing this will help you and your family get more out of your road trip. If you will be visiting a wildlife reservation, for instance, you may want to look up what types of animals and plants can be found there or find out about scenic areas your family might want to see. If you will be going to an urban area, find out what the best attractions are and see about purchasing tickets in advance. You might also consider making reservations for tours ahead of time so you will be sure to get the bookings you want.

Know What to Do if Something Goes Wrong

Nobody likes to think about getting hurt or sick on vacation, but it sometimes happens. Pack a first-aid kit that includes things like cold medicine, bandages, and an over the counter pain reliever. If you will be traveling to different country or to another state, be sure to contact your health insurance carrier before your trip to ask if you will be covered. If not, you might want to consider purchasing a travel insurance policy that includes health coverage.

This is a collaborative guest post, the ideas and views expressed do not necessarily represent those of Mommy Ramblings.

 

 

 

 


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Top Reasons to Work From Home

Are you thinking about working from home? Loads of people are attracted to the idea of telecommuting because of its long list of benefits, from more time with the kids to a casual wardrobe. It’s a big decision that requires planning, but it’s not as daunting as it might seem. Consider these top reasons why you should work from home.

Flexibility

work from home

Undoubtedly one of the best reasons to work from home is flexibility. You’re the master of your schedule and can set your own hours. Are you a night owl? Carry on, Johnny Carson. Want to have lunch with your best friend? No need to check in with the boss. Take as long as you like.

With time for family and friends, creative ventures, and even travel, you can pursue a level of work/life balance that a regular 9 to 5 commitment can’t match. Just don’t let all this flexibility leave you crunched for deadlines.

Plenty of Opportunities

Today’s employers are continuing to embrace a variety of full and part-time telecommuting opportunities. From language translation services to medical billing, the global shift towards remote-friendly workplaces is on the rise.

Advertising is a key industry that offers a variety of ways to fulfill your dream of a nomadic work life, like influencer marketing. LinkedIn is touting thousands of available freelance influencer positions that help businesses connect with influencers, build PR programs, and track ROI — with lucrative starting salaries too.

Tremendous Income Potential

If you’re blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit, achieving success as a freelancer or remote employee is within reach. In addition to saving big on work-related expenses such as gas and office apparel, working from home might be a profitable venture.

Bloggers can earn $12,000 a year or more, while virtual assistants and graphic designers are raking in as much as $5,000 monthly from their home office. This level of control lets you set your income goals and may add up to a consistent, livable income.

Vloggers

Design Your Space

Just imagine your new work space. What comes to mind? Is your new office chair an overstuffed recliner or the picnic table in the park across the street? You don’t have to cram your remote office into a spare closet or the corner of your living room. Gone are the days of being tied to a clunky desk and secondhand rolling chair.

You can fit your office anywhere, and you’re not tied to your home either. Use your kitchen’s breakfast bar as a standing desk or take your laptop to your favorite coffee shop around the corner. Most libraries offer free Wi-Fi and a quiet environment that’s perfect for contemplating innovative ideas. Take your job on the road while traveling and never miss out on life again.

More and more people are choosing to work from home. For many, it’s a great fit and a lucrative career move. But it’s not a magic solution to the woes of the workplace. You still have to put in the effort to reap the rewards.

Podcast

 

This is a collaborative guest post, the ideas expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Mommy Ramblings.


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“More For Mom: Living Your Whole and Holy Life “

Overwhelmed is a word that many mothers are well acquainted with. There was a time when I would utter that word daily to express how I was feeling. However, our society makes us feel that we should not be feeling that way. It tells us we should be able to have it all and tie it up in a bow. That just is not reality, and leaves many moms feeling that they are alone and failing. The most important thing to know, is that you are not alone and you are a great mom.

When life seems to be coming at you faster than you can handle, there is a way to reset your spiritual and emotional health.  More for Mom will encourage women to stop believing the lie that more is needed from them, and start living with the truth that more is available for them.

"More For Mom"

With real-life talk, humor and convicting biblical truths, Kristin Funston helps hard-working mamas to look at each day and each facet of their life to discover what happens when they believe God has more for them than what they think the world needs from them.

And what He has available is a whole and holy life, just waiting to be claimed–a salvation and day-to-day reality complete just as it is. The pieces of each mom’s life–the work life, mom life, social life, etc.–are mended together through Christ to complete her one whole life, set apart because of Him.

This book is a stepping stone to help working mothers reset their spiritual and emotional health, habits, and relationship with God. There are performance pressures at work, home, and mind-sets that affect a mom’s ability to feel complete and live more closely aligned with God. This book includes the beginning steps for moms to walk in wholeness and holiness by asking God for more.

About the Author

Kristin_Funston

With a passion for writing, Kristin Funston encourages women in a way that is relatable and practical, with a healthy dose of humor. She is a member and employee of Hope Presbyterian Church and works as the Marriage and Family Coordinator and a leader in the women’s ministry. She is also a regular contributor to multiple blogs including The Better Mom, City Moms Blog, TODAY Parenting, and Scary Mommy. Funston resides outside of Memphis, TN with her husband and three daughters. She has a master’s degree in Communication Studies from New Mexico State University. You can find out more about her at KristinFunston.com and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.


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How European and Nordic Design Still Influences American Style?

Interior design is a form of art in itself. Plenty of thought and care go into creating a warm and inviting room that will be a reflection of the homeowner and their personal taste. The American Style as we know it, is a beautiful one. It’s suited to a fast-paced life that Americans seem to lead day in, day out. However, did you know that the inspiration for that beautiful living room you are now lounging in while reading this, came from a completely different part of the world?

In the past, we have relied heavily on the style of the Old Continent. In fact, the European and Nordic design still influences American style as we know it today. Whether you are contemplating improving your home or simply interested in learning more about design, paying attention to what’s listed below could come in handy before you know it!

How does European and Nordic design still influences American style?

Functionalism as the staple of the Nordic design

Have you ever visited the Nordic regions? If you have, then you know that life here can get very harsh. Just imagine how it must have been for the people of by-gone times, who were still creating the region we know today. They had to come up with different ways to survive the harsh Nordic climate, and it all began with the creation of their homes. The functional and minimalistic style the Americans love today came from the Nordic region in Europe. To best see how this style has affected the American one, just take a look around your home, and pay attention to the following details.

How does European and Nordic design still influence American style? 

  1. Bright colors

The day in Scandinavia is rather short. People wanted to make the best use of those few hours of daylight they get, as well as brighten their environments when the sun goes down for the day. That’s when they turned to bright colors. When you look around yourself, you will inevitably see pastel colors and light. This type of environment is elegant, clean, enticing, and inviting. If you want to introduce the Nordic style into your American home, all you have to do is change the color of a few key elements. Or add another coat of paint to your walls. It’s a good way to improve the look of your house, stay on the budget, and bring in some elements of one of the most popular interior design styles today – the Nordic style!

The Nordic style is dedicated to using the natural sunlight to the max.

  1. Open-plan spaces

Those who have recently bought homes know that the open-plan concept is not only trendy but highly desirable. It allows for greater freedom to decorate and it improves the functionality of a household. Not to mention that it gives a beautiful look, especially when designed according to the latest trends. Whether the open-plan concept would arrive to the US were it not for the Scandinavia is a mystery. It was the practicality of the Nordic design that made it possible for us to enjoy a beautiful, clean, and clutter-free house today.

If you are moving to a new place and buying a house, consider it best to buy a house with an open-plan concept. And if moving to a state as sunny as Florida, it’s precisely when you should abide by the Nordic trends. They will allow you to reap the benefits of living in a sunny state to the max. If and when relocating to South Florida with ease, or planning to do it, just pay attention to the property you settle in. It will be of great importance for the overall quality of your life.

The open-plan concept is not just beautiful – it’s also practical!

  1. Simple forms

Aren’t the simple things always the sweetest ones? Wouldn’t you prefer to be able to do all the things in life without too much hassle? If you were relocating to another state, wouldn’t it be better to find a quality moving company like Moving Kings Van Lines FL right away, without having to spend days searching for it? Wouldn’t it be nice to pack up your items without wasting weeks spent worrying about it? Likewise, how amazing would it be to live in a simple yet sophisticated home? To answer your question – it would be incredible.

Luckily, all you have to do is follow the European and Nordic style. Simple forms are a recognizable feature of the aforementioned style. That can probably be best seen through the invention of the famous egg chair. This piece of furniture can today be found in all American homes, as well as trendy coffee shops. And what is it if not a simple and beautifully made piece? It’s also not made from any rare nor expensive materials. That’s something all Americans crave – a beautifully furnished house that didn’t cost a lot. 

The European and Nordic style is eternal

If there is one thing that can be said for sure is that the European and Nordic style isn’t likely to go out of style any time soon. It’s a design that is based on functionality, minimalism, as well as beauty, and those can never get boring. When you take into account that it’s also budget-friendly, you can easily see why Mommy Ramblings is so in love with it!

That European and Nordic design still influences American style is no secret. What is the burning question is whether or not you’ll decide to incorporate it in your home. The answer is a tough one. If you are a practical person that is enamored with the clean look, you will most certainly opt for this design. On the other hand, if you love bright colors and warmth, the Nordic style might not be suited to your taste. But, you can’t know until you try, so don’t be afraid to give it a go.

This is a collaborative guest post. The ideas and views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Mommy Ramblings.

 


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A Smart Consumer’s Guide to Smart TVs

If you have spent any time in an electronics store or department – or done any research on televisions – in the past few years, you’ve likely noticed the increase in televisions described as “smart TVs.” No, this doesn’t mean that you’ll get smarter by watching them (although you might, depending on what you watch.) Smart TV simply refers to the fact that the television has the ability to connect to the internet built right in. With a smart TV, you don’t need to connect to any sort of device, whether a streaming stick, gaming system, or cable box to access content online.

Given the proliferation of streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, owning a TV that offers this connectivity seems like a, well, smart thing to do. Before you shell out for a new set and hire a professional Phoenix TV mounting company to install it, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and understand exactly what a smart TV can and cannot do.

smart tv guide

Smart TVs: The Upside

The biggest advantage to smart TVs is their simplicity and convenience. In most cases, you simply need to turn it on, connect to your home network (most people use WiFi, but if you stream 4K content or play a lot of games, directly connecting via the ethernet port tends to give better results) and start streaming. You’ll still need to subscribe to the services you want to use, but generally speaking, smart TVs already have the most popular apps already installed on their operating system.

Streaming content isn’t the only capability of most smart TVs, though. Some models will also coordinate with your smart home devices, including Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home.  This allows you to control other devices or complete other tasks right from your TV. Some TVs even come with a voice remote, so you don’t have to spend time scrolling through listings or hunting and pecking to search for your favorite shows – or find the news you’re looking for, weather reports, or sports scores. If you have your TV connected to a home assistant, you can even order a pizza or see who is at the door without getting up, for the ultimate couch potato experience.

Generally speaking, smart TVs only cost about $100 more than “regular” sets, and for the average family, offers all of the bells and whistles that they want. That doesn’t mean they are ideal for everyone, though.

Smart TVs: The Downside

The biggest drawback to smart TVs is one word: security. As with any device that is connected to the internet, smart TVs are vulnerable to security risks, and have been hacked and taken over by criminals, who have stolen information, spied, and used the devices for nefarious purposes. Some of the security issues are easily avoided by using passwords and installing updates as they are released, but it’s important to understand that a smart TV can put your personal information and privacy at risk. At the moment, TVs that are powered by specific streaming platforms like Roku or Android tend to have the most regular security updates.

Another drawback is the availability of content. While all smart TVs offer the major streaming apps, the availability of other content varies by TV. Some TVs don’t offer apps for free content, or connect to other smart home devices, limiting their functionality. In general, more expensive TVs have more content options (as well as better picture and sound) so you need to carefully review the smart features before you by to ensure that you are getting everything you want.

best smart tv buying tips

 

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, it’s reaching the point where all TVs sold are going to be smart TVs in some form or another. It’s quickly becoming the standard for manufacturers. That being said, if your current set works well, there’s really no need to invest in an upgrade yet. You can “upgrade” your existing set by using a set-top box or streaming stick, like Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, or Chromecast. These devices generally run anywhere from $35 to $150 and allow you to stream the major services to your TV, and in some cases, offer additional functions. Carefully compare each of your options to ensure you get the apps and functions you want and expand your TV viewing options.

New Smart TV

This is a collaborative guest post. The ideas expressed do not necessarily represent those of Mommy Ramblings.


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The 828 Movement Bracelet Meaning & Giveaway #828Movement #MakeADifference

I am proud to share the 828 Movement with you. The 828 Movement is a non-profit organization where 100% of the product proceeds go directly towards supporting education in underfunded schools across the USA.

The organization started when two friends came together in May 2017 with the hopes of making a small impact. It expanded from there to honor the President, Margot Sandy’s recently passed Grandmother who was a humanitarian, college graduate, teacher, community leader and advocate for change.

Margot who is an Amazon #1 Bestselling Author, Product Development Engineer with 10+ years experience in industry and has been traveling the world while running an entrepreneurial enterprise hopes to raise awareness on some of the persistent unequal issues in our school systems, provides examples of career paths for students and recognize the efforts of our teachers.

The 828 Movement continues to spread positive images of people past and present that are doing great things in the community. They also offer a way for everyone to participate in the fight for education equality, by introducing stylish new jewelry items to proudly wear and hopefully make a difference with the school donations and upcoming college scholarships.

100% OF THE NET PROFITS GO TO UNDERFUNDED URBAN AREA SCHOOLS IN AMERICA. 

828 Movement Bracelet

 

 

EACH RING AND COLOR CHOICE HAS A MEANING TO HONOR THE PAST EFFORTS FOR EQUALITY, SUPPORT THE PRESENT PURSUITS FOR JUSTICE AND STAY HOPEFUL FOR THE FUTURE.

 The Past: 13 metal rings
To remember the 13th amendment and lives lost
in the struggle to abolish slavery.

 The Present: Engraved ring for August 28th
To honor the date 8/28, when important events in the fight for equality line up in history.

 The Future: a single ring for hope
The pursuit for educational equality continues

MISSION

EDUCATION IS AN IMPORTANT ISSUE WE ALL CAN SUPPORT TOGETHER. BY BUYING AND WEARING AN 828 BRACELET WE ARE STANDING UP AGAINST INEQUALITY IN OUR SCHOOLS.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” ~Helen Keller

“SOMEWHERE INSIDE ALL OF US IS THE POWER TO CHANGE THE WORLD” ~ROALD DAHL

Giveaway:

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Little Swag Pack Giveaway #LittleGlowUp Challenge

This giveaway and post is sponsored by NBC Universal. As always my words and views are 100% my own.

 

Girls Trip’s Regina Hall and Black-ish’s Marsai Martin both star as Jordan Sanders — Hall as the take-no-prisoners tech mogul adult version of Jordan and Martin as the 13-year-old version of her who wakes up in her adult self’s penthouse just before a do-or-die presentation.

Insecure’s Issa Rae plays Jordan’s long-suffering assistant April, the only one in on the secret that her daily tormentor is now trapped in an awkward tween body just as everything is on the line. Little is an irreverent new comedy about the price of success, the power of sisterhood and having a second chance to grow up — and glow up — right.

Check out the trailer below:

Will Packer, blockbuster producer of Girls Trip, the Ride Along franchise, and ten movies that have opened No. 1 at the U.S. box office, including Night School, No Good Deed and Think Like a Man, brings an all-new perspective to the body-swap comedy.

Little is directed by Tina Gordon (writer, Drumline) with a story by Tracy Oliver (Girls Trip) and a screenplay by Oliver and Gordon, based on an idea by teen actress Martin. The film is produced by Packer and his producing partner James Lopez and by Kenya Barris (Girls Trip, Black-ish), and is executive produced by Preston Holmes (Night School), Hall, Marsai Martin and Josh Martin.

Take the #LittleGlowUp Challenge on Instagram

Little is on Instagram as “LittletheMovie” and use the hashtags #LittleGlowUp and tag @MommyRamblingsBlog.

Giveaway

The Limited Edition Prize packs contains:

1 – Little “I Woke Up Like This” Promo Custom Tank.
1 – Little Promo Eye Sleeping Mask (As seen in the film)
1 – Little Promo Nail File

Limited Edition #LittleGlowUp Challenge Prize Pack Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Enter for your chance to win using the Rafflecopter widget below. Good Luck!

Open to US residents. The prize will be sent via FedEx or USPS. No P.O. Boxes please. Please note that the assets included within this message were delivered to you to promote NBC Universal . Any actions (including contest and competitions) that you complete with the provided assets are your liability, and should comply with both local and international laws. Also, please remember to disclose that you are working with NBC Universal , or that NBC Universal supplied these materials to you if required by local law.

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Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase Blu-ray Giveaway! #NancyDrew #TheHiddenStaircase

**“Warner Bros. Home Entertainment provided me with a free copy of the Blu-ray I reviewed in this Blog Post. The opinions I share are my own.”**

Nancy Drew And The Hidden Staircase is available now  on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack & DVD!

I am excited to share this Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase Escape Room & Mystery Match Blog App so you can solve the mystery and help Nancy out of a jam! How long do you think it will take you to crack the code and escape the room?


Check out the trailer below:

Uncover the Mystery When Nancy Drew And The Hidden Staircase
from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment on
Digital and on
Blu-ray™ Combo Pack & DVD

Based on the Bestselling Book! The iconic mystery solving teenager from the classic Nancy Drew books is back with an all-new feature-length film that will keep you guessing until the very end!  Executive Produced by Ellen DeGeneres, the film stars Sophia Lillis (IT and “Sharp Objects”), Sam Trammell (“True Blood” and “This is Us”), and Linda Lavin (“The Good Wife” and“Alice”) and follows Nancy Drew in her new town, making new friends and on a mission to solve the case!

After the death of his wife, Carson Drew decides to leave Chicago behind and make a fresh start with his daughter in River Heights. But for 16-year-old Nancy Drew, life in a small town is mighty dull. She longs for excitement, adventure, and the chance to make a difference. Nancy gets that opportunity when she is asked to help solve the ghostly activity at the Twin Elms mansion. Can she help explain the creaking footsteps, exploding lightbulbs and the ominous creature? Is it the handiwork of high-school bully Derek Barnes? Or is it possible that the ghost of original owner Malcolm Colfax is back for revenge? Recruiting her best friends George and Bess, along with local “mean girl” Helen, Nancy Drew is on the case!

Giveaway:

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings. One lucky blog reader will win their own Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase on Blu-ray! Thank you to Warner Bros. for the review Blu-ray and for sponsoring this great giveaway on Mommy Ramblings. Open to US residents.

Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase Blu-ray Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Enter for your chance to win using the Rafflecopter widget below. Good luck!!!

The prize will be sent via FedEx or USPS. No P.O. Boxes please. Please note that the assets included within this message were delivered to you to promote Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Any actions (including contest and competitions) that you complete with the provided assets are your liability, and should comply with both local and international laws. Also, please remember to disclose that you are working with Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, or that Warner Bros. Home Entertainment supplied these materials to you if required by local law.

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What To Expect When Renting Your Property Out To Tenants

Renting Your Property

Many property owners consider the idea of renting out their houses to tenants. However, whether it’s for the benefit of gaining extra income or paying down your debt for the family’s needs, becoming a landlord can be indeed a big challenge. It can even become big trouble when specific considerations aren’t made. Whether you’ve inherited property or your family have decided to live abroad for good, here’s what you should expect when you’re planning to put your place up for rent, especially for families searching for new homes:

There are specific landlord-tenant laws you have to understand.

When it comes to becoming a landlord, the first thing you should do is to know and understand the landlord-tenant law. Most states observe specific landlord-tenant laws that can help rent your property out to tenants. Before doing anything, it’s essential to follow the procedures and processes about security deposits, the number of notices you have to give tenants when you want to evict them, and the extent of access to your property. By understanding the law, you’ll be able to manage your rental property and your tenants properly.

You have many responsibilities as a landlord.

 After understanding how the law works, you need to figure out if being a landlord is a responsibility you can handle on your own. From staying on top of repairs and maintenance to collecting rent and looking out for your tenants’ housekeeping skills, you have to understand all of these things to get started. So, try to ask yourself if you’re ready to perform all the responsibilities involved when deciding to rent your place out to other people.

Once you’ve decided to become a landlord soon, start looking for websites like Gumtree Real Estate where you can post ads about your rental properties. That way, you’ll get more prospects coming in to inquire about the rental.

 You need to prepare your property before renting it out.

 With several competitors in the market these days, you don’t want to rent your family’s property as it is since tenants tend to be choosy, especially if there’s an increased availability of rental properties. Below are the things you need to do to prepare the place for renting and improve the overall look of the property:

  • Clean your home and ensure that all appliances are in good condition.
  • Give your property a fresh coat of paint if the existing paint starts to peel off.
  • Make sure that the place is well-lit.
  • Check the electrical and plumbing systems if they’re working correctly.
  • Make sure all windows and have appropriate locks for safety purposes.
  • Ensure that your property is free of hazards, such that both your interior and exterior don’t have unstable handrails or broken steps.

Painting Rental Property

You need to set the right price.

Once you’re done with the preparations and you’ve already determined your responsibilities as a landlord, then it’s time to set a competitive price for the rent. You can start by getting to know the rates of other rental properties in your neighborhood or community. As mentioned, tenants have a variety of rental properties to choose from. Thus, consider giving some good deals and be sure you pinpoint the best features of your place.

You have to screen potential tenants.

Once your property is ready to be shown, begin searching for the right tenants who will occupy your place soon. By renting out your property to them, it means you expect them to take care of the place and pay the rent on time without delays. Get the best tenants through the following:

  • Collect references for prospective tenants and review their credit histories. The potential tenants’ credit scores can be a helpful screening tool to determine whether to accept or deny a rental candidate.
  • Do an interview with your candidates to ensure you’ll be comfortable dealing with them.
  • Perform a background check by checking references from previous landlords and employers.

Once you’ve got the right tenant, discuss the reasonable security deposit you’re going to ask. From there, make necessary arrangements for the appropriate payment schedule.

Preparing a contract of lease is a must.

When you already find your tenants, you need to prepare a contract of lease to get started. Under these circumstances, you may opt to hire an attorney or a project manager to customize the lease. If you decide not to ask help from anyone, you can utilize the standard lease form that you can find on the Internet. However, it’s important to review the form and see if there’s a need to tweak it to suit your situation. An example of a provision you may want to customize is whether you allow pets and the applicable rules you’re going to follow.

Renting Your Property

Conclusion

Renting your property out to tenants can be a massive undertaking. It’s also the kind of business that you’re going to have for yourself and more importantly, your family, thus careful consideration is required. By knowing what to expect in the rental process, you’ll get yourself in the right direction with the least amount of headache and best possible results. Not only that but you can also get to help some families looking for a new home within your area.

Australia, energy, gas, electric

This is a collaborative guest post. The ideas and views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Mommy Ramblings.

 

 


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“Parenting First Aid” For When You Feel Like You Are Failing

Do you struggle with parenting your children? That’s a silly questions because we all do at some point. Some days we can feel like we are on our last nerve or dangling at the end of our rope. At times when you feel you are failing at raising your children, you need a pep talk and some insight. Cue Marty Machowski’s, Parenting First Aid and brew a cup of tea.

Parenting First Aid

This uplifting and faith-strengthening devotional book for parents,  will help to encourage you in the midst of  your trials. Full of Scripture, testimonies of faithful parents, and insightful meditations, Parenting First Aid equips moms and dads to run to God and trust his ability to do what they can’t.

Parenting isn’t getting any easier, especially with the introduction of insta-porn on electronic devices, the ease of access to drugs, and the ever-increasing blurring of sexuality. This useful resource is for the weary and overwhelmed parents struggling with their children’s choices, and the culture that wars against their souls.

For families with small struggles or weighty parenting trials—such as children involved with drugs, sexual sin, and teenage rebellion—Parenting First Aid is full of personal, real testimonies of God’s faithfulness to those experiencing hardship.

The easy-to-use format provides encouragement to turn to God in the midst of family difficulty. While God does not promise happiness and ease in parenting, all can find comfort in God and peace beyond understanding through the Scriptures and meditations found in Parenting First Aid.

About the Author

Marty Machowski is a Family Life Pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where he has served on the pastoral staff for more than twenty years. Marty leads Promise Kingdom, the gospel-centered children’s ministry of Covenant Fellowship. He and his wife Lois and their six children reside in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

He is the author of The Gospel Story Bible, Long Story Short, Old Story New, the Gospel Story Curriculum, Prepare Him Room Advent curriculum and devotional, Wise Up family devotional and curriculum, Listen Up family devotional and curriculum, Dragon Seed, and The Ology.

I was provided with a copy of this book to facilitate my post. As always, my words and views are 100% my own.


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