Fitness Equipment Apparel Your Gym Garb Guide

What to wear, and what not to wear to the gym? When this million-dollar fitness equipment apparel question presents itself on gym days, even the strongest muscles turn to jelly.

Fitness equipment apparel has the potential to become the make-or-break factor in a fitness program - especially if you are just starting out with your get-in-shape routine.

The idea isn't to make your fitness equipment apparel part of your workout-routine. This can easily happen if you are constantly lifting straps, instead of weights; tying laces, instead of being tied up at the workstation; doing pull-downs, instead of pull-ups; or giving an entirely new meaning to doing push-ups.

You don't want to be wrestling to improve the flexibility of your fitness equipment apparel, instead of your body's. If your clothes have some stretch in them, it will be much easier to stretch yourself to the limit!

Let's start with fitness equipment apparel fabrics. To make the most of your time in the gym, you have to feel completely comfortable. Dryness, tear and abrasion resistance, stretch, ventilation, ease of movement, and durability are all factors to keep in mind.

Look for labels with references to materials such as Supplex, Lycra, Spandex, Cotton, Polyamide, Coolmax, Dri-Fit, or a combination of these. Cotton on its own is usually not the best choice. It tends to hold on to moisture, becoming unpleasantly clammy and heavy. Who goes through the workout effort in order to g��n weight?

If you want to keep your cool, it is important to choose light-weight, tight-fitting fitness equipment apparel. The materials should have the characteristic of pulling sweat away from your body, transporting it to the outside of the material. The moisture can then evaporate, leaving you dry and comfortable.

An example of this is the Nike Dri-Fit range, where a high-performance microfiber polyester fabric with this quality is used. On a hot day, you wont need more than this. On a cold day, a base layer can be added for extra warmth.

For superb ventilation, knit-in mesh panels under the arms, and at the back are incorporated into some fitness equipment apparel ranges. Make sure you have no excuse to throw in the towel during those first, demanding weeks, by checking for tubular seamless body construction, and flat stitching. You don't want a seam chafing you raw in an unmentionable place!

The bottom-line in fitness equipment apparel usually consists of shorts. If you don't feel comfortable in these, choose easy-to-wear calf-length or full length workout pants. A good choice is Moving Comfort's range. DriLayer fabric, a mixture of Polyester and Lycra, will keep you cool, and it remains almost pill-free even with repeated washing.

You can also try the Adidas fitness equipment apparel range. Their �Mind Body� Moisture-Wicking Pants, will keep you cool and dry. These come with an elasticated waist, and a drawcord. It has handy on-seam pockets. The hem is open for comfort.

A fitted t-shirt or tank top takes care of the top half of your fitness equipment apparel search. Try a stylish, Nike Rock 'n Sport Top for women. A nice touch is the sleek racer back.

A vital part of your fitness equipment apparel is your shoes. Cross-trainers may be your best choice for the gym. Look for good support, flexibility, and cushioning.

The Optima is a good shoe to start with. It is durable and receives excellent reviews. It offers a 5mm sole. The breathable canvas upper ensures comfort, and a good fit.

Another sensible choice would be New Balance. With ABZORB cushioning in the heel, you are assured of excellent shock absorption. Leather upper offers comfort and breathability. Durability is improved with the solid rubber outsole.

The Nike Shox range includes lighter, flexible shoes in their fitness equipment apparel. These are excellent for workouts. Nike concentrated on cushioning and impact protection in the design. Internal stitching, and a one-piece tongue and innersleeve prevent chafing.

The four Nike Shox columns are made of a resilient foam that enhances the durability of the shoe. The shoe has an extremely responsive feel. Lightness is added with a lattice design.

It is a good idea to keep the color scheme of your fitness equipment apparel on the dark side throughout. This will give you a more streamlined look. A loose t-shirt for before and after the workout, may also lessen any self-consciousness. All the major manufacturers such as Adidas, Reebok, and Nike, offer quality, moisture-wicking gym wear.

When you buy fitness equipment apparel, little thought goes into the research behind the brandname. Nike's laboratory, for instance, has some of the most sophisticated scientific equipment to enable researchers to come up with the best designs and materials for peak performance.

The processes involved in testing include motion analysis, kinetics, foot-pressure measurement, ankle range of motion, heart-rate monitors, high-speed video, temperature sensors, and much more. All this to bring you the best possible shoes, shorts, or tops.

If you are partial to a particular equipment range, why not show your loyalty by wearing fitness equipment apparel with their brand name? Companies such as Cybex and Nautilus offer all you need to be able to make the most of your time in the gym. Nautilus offers the Dri-Release� range, with shorts, tanks, and other apparel choices for your workout.

You have to feel so comfortable that you are able to forget about your attire. You can't work on your own flexibility if your clothes doesn't show some flexibility first! Your fitness equipment apparel has to be able to MOOOVE with you..

For more information visit Best-Gym-Equipment.com
About the Author

Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

Tips to Improve Your Home's Chances of Selling

Want to sell your home fast and at top dollar? Try enhancing the garage! Garage? Before you think I have completely lost my mind, let me explain. Women love kitchens, men love garages. Yet, most people completely ignore and destroy their garages to the point that they can?t even get one car in there. I can never understand that. There is so much value to having a clean, organized garage whether your home is on the market or you plan on staying there until the kids grow up.

When people plan to put their home on the market their thoughts sometimes turn to ?What can I do to make my home wow someone on a limited budget?? Renovating the kitchen or the bathroom can cost upwards of $15,000. Cleaning, organizing and making over the garage could cost under $3,000 and can provide a huge bang for the buck especially if you are trying to sell your home in a competitive market. Every family has one neat freak and sometimes it?s the man of the house. And, remember what I said earlier ? men love garages. Many times when I am showing homes, the women migrate to the kitchen and the men go right for the garage.

Here?s some easy and cost effective ideas for your garage:

?Do a thorough sorting of the items in your garage. Make separate piles of keep, toss, and donate. Follow through on the toss and donate before you move on to the next step.

?Paint the walls in a taupe or grey color using satin or gloss paint finish. This way when you need to wipe up, it will be easy to do. Plus this finish will last you years longer than the builder?s flat white paint you started with.

?Buy some inexpensive fully finished, full back cabinets with easy clean melamine interiors and exteriors. Make sure that they hold a load of at least 100 pounds per shelf. Things we store in the garage are heavy. Mount some top cabinets for seasonal storage and some lower cabinets for items used more frequently. Be sure to mount the lower cabinets off the floor a few inches to prevent water damage.

?Look into some of the new finishes for the garage floor. There are some good ?do it yourself? finishes and some professional chemical and stain resistant floor coatings that will really wow the family or the prospective buyer. If you go for the ?DIY?, don?t fail to fully follow the instructions of the product you choose ? you could end up with a peeling mess. It?s best to consult a professional for floor coatings.

One of the biggest benefits to you as a homeowner when you put the time and effort into organizing your garage is the expanded living area and ease of finding all the necessary tools and utility items quickly when you need them, not to mention a home for your precious cars. The other advantage is the added and increased dollar value the extra, usable space has just brought to your home. When you are trying to sell your home quickly and at top dollar in a competitive market, focus on the garage, it will bring you some good results.

Bob Lipply is a top Real Estate Broker Associate in the Tampa Florida Real Estate area.? He and his team have been helping families relocate to Florida and on the selling end get top dollar for their homes with great success.? Lipply Real Estate also specializes in Clearwater Florida Real Estate visit his website where you can search the MLS for up to date available homes for sale.

What is Tarot?

Top 5 Classic Board Games

If you were to make a list of your favorite indoor board games what would you include? Would chess be one of them? Or are you Life or Scrabble fan? There are a large number of board games that are classics and have stood the test of time. These people often have a large collection of them and they are always looking for something new. But, the fact is, that some games are must-haves. These games have transcended generations and we hold them dear to our hearts. This list has been compiled after aggregating results from several sources. Our global top 5 list is:

1. Monopoly: This is one of the world's most well known board games. The game is a game of real estate, purchasing property, developing it and then making sure others lose their money before you do. This board game has a number of different versions to reach from young kids to the most sophisticated of all professionals. There are deluxe editions as well as fun loving Disney editions, sports editions, and even cat and dog-opoly! One or more of the various flavors of this game is likely to hang around for years to come.

2. Scrabble: Another classic that has diehard followers. A lot of people start playing scrabble to improve their vocabulary. In this game, the goal is to outwit the other player, scoring more points by creating more high-scoring words. A game that most people fall in love while they are just picking up the English language. Some of these hang around and make a career of it. The true testament that this game is truly global is that the current world champion hails from Thailand.

3. Chess: Chess goes as far back as the 7th century. The game is strategy at its best. It is one game that many will study, learn, and spend a life learning again. It's a game you learn to love as you pick up more strategies with time. Chess has an extremely large following of people.

4. Checkers: is another popular board game. Everyone recognizes the black and red checkered board and it is one of the simplest of games to learn. It has been around since about the 1500's where people began playing with far less interesting pieces.

5. Life: This is a relatively newer game in comparison to the other four. This is designed to be, well, like real life. Go through and make choices that will eventually effect what you can and cannot do in life. A game with plenty of options and each choice will take you in a completely different direction. This game and its different varieties such as the Simpson's version continue to hold promise for many years to come.
About the Author

MustHave Mirrors

Famous auto parts suppliers come and go, but only those that are well trusted by consumers last and are established. One of these brands is CIPA, famous for its quality mirrors. Established in France in 1926, CIPA has been an innovative industry leader for over 65 years, playing a major role in the design evolution of rear view mirrors. Big clients in the European market include top auto manufacturers BMW, Volvo, Mercedes, Renault, and Volkswagen. CIPA-USA was a subsidiary of France until 1985. Huge US clients include Chrysler and Ford, whose vehicles are most often spotted with CIPA mirrors. At present, CIPA-USA is the only company in the world that has a full line of mirrors for all watercraft types. Hence, US' finest boats, motorcycles, watercraft and snowmobiles use CIPA mirrors as well.

Over the years, CIPA has shown constant growth. Manufacturing its products in the US, France, and Asia, its quality products in every category continue to set sales volumes records. Among CIPA's trademarks that customers just cannot resist are good customer service and on-time delivery. Hence, it's not surprising that CIPA mirrors were able to penetrate into every automotive market, considering CIPA's humble beginning as a car rear view manufacturer. For instance, 100% of the mirrors of tournament ski boats manufactured in the US today are supplied by CIPA.

What is it about CIPA mirrors that have made them number one throughout the years? Topping the list is these mirrors' superior precise construction from the toughest plastics to make them last for a lifetime. Broken mirrors at the slightest pressure will never be of sight when it's a CIPA mirror you have installed. And speaking of installing, there's no need to install CIPA mirrors as they slip right on. Made for exact fit, CIPA mirrors are also guaranteed not to damage your existing mirror.

Options abound with CIPA's mirrors as CIPA manufactures a wide variety guaranteed to suit your specific needs. Their mirror lines like the passenger vehicle Custom CIPA Mirror line are equipped with lots of convenient features. For example, when you're driving in unfamiliar territory or in the dark, CIPA mirrors that feature a compass, temperature sensor, and map lights would be beneficial. When cruising in icy conditions, CIPA mirrors equipped with an ice warning that flashes when the temperature drops below freezing is truly a necessity. Another good feature of CIPA mirrors is the ability to sense ambient light and glare from behind the vehicle.

For racing and sports fanatics, there is a CIPA mirror especially made: the CIPA Optic Custom Sport Mirror. This mirror actually comes in several styles. The CIPA Optic Glow Mirrors are manual sports mirrors featuring green or blue LEDs that produce a glowing effect. The CIPA Optic LED signal mirror features forward amber signals for style and safety and offers a more classic and luxurious style, coming in black and carbon fiber finishes.

Among the latest innovations CIPA has introduced deals with their towing mirror line. Manufactured by CIPA-USA, CIPA towing mirrors are well designed and versatile, available for a wide range of vehicles and come in many styles and sizes. One product in CIPA's towing mirror line is the Slide On Custom Towing Mirror. With its sleek, aerodynamic make, the Slide On Custom Towing Mirror greatly increase the driver's range of vision for towing safety.
About the Author

Jeremy Stotzenberg is a auto enthusiast having his own shop catering to customized cars in San Mateo, California. He sells car accessories such as, floor mats, cargo liners, and a range of CIPA products. He aims to reach out for more clients through the Internet.

Action Games The Thrill Is Addictive

When you watch live action on movie screens, you get excited. Combined with sound effects the action can be a real thrill. Some actions that we watch takes the breath away. How about Action games on computers?

Some of the makers of action games make great animations and may include a story line. Stories always attract us. Tell a story and everybody will listen. The action games on computers use this very well to produce games that can take your breath away thinking of the imagination and artistry applied by the maker.

Adventures, space fights, planes colliding in mid air, think of any action and you will find it used in a game. Most of these games are free online. Action games give great thrill and despite called for teenagers they are for the family to enjoy them together. Action games test the response of the player and sharpen the judgment. Such games are not pure fun. They can help as training tools if used properly.

Other free online games that are currently becoming very popular are- Arcade Games, Board Games, Card Games, Casino Games, Strategy Games, Sports Games, Shooting Games and, Puzzle Games. Most of the online games are free. Look for a good website and play the games. They are a fabulous way of enjoyment. As I said in the heading these games can become addictive. Take small doses and life will be a joy.
About the Author

5 Best Free Child Games for Your Preschooler

Child Birthday Gift Ideas

 



Child Birthday Gift IdeasSubmitted By: Misti Norusis  

Picking that perfect birthday gift for a child is always an exciting experience, but can also be rather challenging. Possibilities are countless, the choice of a birthday gift will depend on the resources available to the giver, and many other considerations, like the child?s age, sex, and interest. Think about clothes, shoes, little girl jewelry, trinkets, fairy tale stuff, art materials, dolls, toys, playhouses, vanity sets, music boxes, racing cars, robots, and many others. Can you say Cash, perhaps?

Here are some gift ideas for the birthday girl or birthday boy.

Newborn to 1 year: On the baby?s first few months, colorful toys like fancy rattles, flash cards and large picture books will keep the baby entertained, also nice soothing music. Activity quilts, decorated with animals or soft dolls, cloth books, bath toys or baby swings come useful. Be sure that the quilts are free of button noses and eyes, and small parts.

Ages 1 to 3: When a toddler turns one year old, he or she will engage in more active play, like climbing, jumping and exploring. Toys for building basic structure and those that can be used in active play will be preferred. Examples of gifts that will impress this age group are Kid's Rocking Horses and Rockers, and educational toys.

Ages 3-5: This is the stage for a child?s creative and imaginative play. A child likes building recognizable structures, and uses smaller and more complex pieces. Your child now prefers playing in groups, and will show interest in toys that can be shared with friends. Examples of gifts that will impress this age group are pull toys, pretend play like puppet theaters, child sleeping bags and kitchen sets.

Ages 5 to 7: Children now develop stronger muscles. Coordination is improved, and so is dexterity. They develop a degree of competitiveness, and interaction becomes complex. Your children also become interested in home activities like, arts and crafts, reading, writing, and collecting. Look for activities involving arts, music, outside play, and sports. Children in this age group want more complex things to play with?more difficult games like card games, and more complex puzzles. Older children like reading easy novels, favorite stories, children's recipe books, and diaries. Examples of gifts that will impress this age group are child art easels and child sleeping bags. Unique child furniture like rocking chairs and toy boxes also make for great gifts.

Sometimes, it is a good idea to stock up on gifts, especially the small stuff, and those that do not get spoiled when kept in storage for a few months so that they can always come handy.

When giving gifts that take a lot of space, consider the size of the house where the family lives. Also, if the celebrant has other siblings, bear in mind that the gift items you have in mind, especially toys, might already be available in their home. Try to avoid the possibility of duplications.

If you are very close to the parents of the celebrant, and if you feel that they would not mind, ask what the birthday celebrant might need. This way, you will be able to get that almost perfect gift idea for the little one.

Article Tags: age, play, toys

A Good Baby Car Seat Is Critical To Your Little One's Safety

Having a car seat is not just a good idea?it is the law. The consequences of not having one are usually more than a person can bear. Save yourself the trouble and get a good baby car seat today.

Having a good baby car seat is critical to your child's safety. Doesn't that sound familiar? When you have you baby, you are advised to invest in a good baby car seat, as soon as you leave the hospital. Most babies are picked up from the hospital with their first baby car seat, courtesy of mommy or daddy or the baby shower that was had before they were born.

When you are in the process of choosing a car seat for your little one, there are a few things that are important to keep in mind. We are going to explore these things in a bit more detail.

Height and Weight

Having the right baby car seat for your little one's height and weight is extremely important. Car seats are designed to hold a baby in place in the event of an accident, and there is a huge difference between a newborn infant and a 12 month old child.

If your car seat is too large or too small for your little one, it cannot properly protect them in the event of an accident, and that can be extremely dangerous. If someone gives you a baby car seat that is too large for your little one as of yet, wait until they are big enough for it before you use it. Although the car seat will be useful when they get big enough for it, they may as well be riding on the actual seat itself?which is certainly not a safe idea.

The Style of the Car Seat

There are some car seats that you can look into that can be converted from infant car seats to a baby car seat and then a booster seat. These are usually a bit more expensive at first, but certainly beat having to have a baby car seat and then purchase additional seats as your little one gets older. While you may not realize it, your child can easily be in a car seat until they are five or even six years old; it all has to do with height and weight and what the laws are in your area.

A baby car seat is probably the most important thing you will ever purchase for your little one. If you have a car, you must have a baby car seat?and a good one at that. The National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration regulates things like baby car seats, and you can have your baby car seat checked out by them to make sure that it fits all of the safety requirements if you want to be sure. There is no greater gift than a happy, healthy child and taking care to purchase a good car seat can certainly make sure that your child is as happy and healthy as they come.

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Craig Thornburrow is an acknowledged expert in his field. You can get more free advice on a baby car seat and leather baby car seats at http://www.bestbabycarseat.com/

Generating Mortgage Leads Is A Very Important Part Of The Mortgage Business

Generating mortgage leads is a very significant part of the mortgage business. Buying mortgage leads is a daily practice for many loan officers and mortgage companies; often the leads that they buy are oversold Internet leads that lead aggregators online sell over and over causing mortgage applicants to get a colossal amount of phone calls, and unwelcome email.

The mortgage industry battle for loan deals on a daily basis. You see advertisements everywhere in the mass media sector. So, is there a way to compete with the big dogs of the industry? Yes, your local market is where you have to focus hard if you are a mortgage loan officer and are having trouble generating loan deals from leads that you buy online. There are many different ways of generating mortgage leads in your local market. Below I have listed a small number of methods that have worked for scores of loan officers who have taken the plunge in to gorilla marketing and viral marketing techniques.

-Create a referral network with realtors: Communicate or at least introduce your self to as many realtors as you can. This will create a viral marketing system that will generate you leads for years to come.

-Use online press release service to your advantage. Submit a well written interesting press release about the local mortgage industry include some worthy news. You local papers and news may pick up on it. This can be a goldmine!

-Plaster your local area with flyers, business cards, pens, and anything containing your company name. Pens work real well since that have a use and are saved for 6-24 months on average.

-Work with local events and charities. Be a part of the community. Sponsor charity golf tournaments. Many real estate agents play golf and wealthy homeowners.

-Network to build net worth! Be known! Don?t expect everyone to know you, make them know you. Go to local after hour spots and network.

-Join as many organizations as possible. The local chamber of commerce, BBB, Social Clubs, anywhere that will get your name more credibility and visibility.

-T-shirts for children. Make company t-shirts. Instead of giving them to adults give them to children, they will wear them and be seen. I saw one shirt on a child that said ?Future Mortgage Broker? Company Name, Phone?. Awesome!

These are just a few ways to enhance your local market share without spending big bucks. Compared to the price of internet leads ($15.00-$75.00 per lead) based off the prices we found posted at http://www.leadbull.com, local marketing is a immense money saver and maker if you have the time and put the effort in!

Jayson Brock has been in the mortgage industry for over 11 years and mostly in the marketing business for 6 of those years. To see more articles Jayson has compiled visit http://www.TheMortgageWire.com or http://www.BrokerTrends.com.

Acne Facts Myths and Treatment

People of all races suffer from acne, In the US 85% of everyone aged between 12-24 develop some form of acne, that amounts to 17 million people making it the most common form of skin disease.

In the UK 80% of 11-30 year olds will suffer from acne at some point.

Acne symptoms tend to disappear for the majority of people when they reach their 30's, however people can still suffer from acne well into their 40's & 50's.

Acne is a disorder resulting from the action of hormones on the skins oil glands, known as sebaceous glands, which leads to plugged pores and outbreaks of lesions more commonly known as pimples or zits. They tend to appear on the face, neck, back, chest & shoulders.

Doctors believe that acne results from several related factors rather than one single cause. One of the most important factors is an increase in hormones called androgens, a male sex hormone. These increase in both boys & girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge making more sebum.

Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.

Heredity or genetics is another factor and researchers believe that acne can be inherited from parents. Studies have shown that many school age boys with acne have a family history of the disorder.

Certain drugs containing androgens or lithium can cause acne. A side effect of steroids can be acne.

Greasy cosmetics can alter the cells of the skin follicles and make them stick together causing plugs which can lead to acne.

Factors which can also cause acne are:

1. Friction caused by leaning on or rubbing the skin.
2. Squeezing or picking at blemishes.
3. Hard scrubbing of the skin.
4. Environmental irritants such as pollution & high humidity.
5. Changing hormonal levels in adolescent girls & adult women 2-7 days before their menstrual period starts.
6. Pressure from bike helmets, backpacks or tight collars.

Myths about causes of acne include.

1. Greasy foods & chocolate are often blamed for acne, but what we eat seems to have little effect.
2. Acne is cause by dirty skin is another common myth however blackheads & other acne lesions are not caused by dirt.
3. Stress is often blamed but has no effect in regards to the condition.

Acne treatment

There are 2 ways to treat acne, topical (applied to the skin) or systematic (taken by mouth). Both over the counter (OTC) meaning no prescription is necessary & prescription remedies are available. The goals of treatment are to heal existing lesions, to prevent new lesions forming, stop scarring & minimise psychological stress & embarrassment caused by the disease. Drug treatment is aimed at reducing several problems that play a part in causing acne: abnormal clumping of the cells in the follicles, increased oil production, bacteria & inflammation.

Depending upon the extent of a persons acne it is recommended to try one of several OTC medicines that are topical (applied to the skin) or systematic (taken by mouth) or a combination of both. For prescription remedies you must see your doctor.

Prescription topical medicines can result in side effects, the skin may look worse for a while before hopefully improving. Other side effects include stinging, burning, redness, peeling, scaling or discoloration of the skin.

Similarly some prescription oral medicines can have side effects such as increased tendency to sunburn, upset stomach, dizziness or light-headedness & changes in skin colour. Also some drugs decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills making it necessary to use a backup birth control method.
About the Author

John Mac is the owner of fitnessdiethealth.com a website aimed at people looking to improve their fitness diet & health

Stellenbosch Is The SecondOldest City In South Africa

With its temperate Mediterranean climate, beautiful surroundings, magnificent backdrop of mountain ranges, modern facilities and close proximity to all major places of interest in the Cape Peninsula, Stellenbosch is the ideal get-away holiday destination.

Soon after the Cape of Good Hope had been established, the newly-appointed Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel, set out on a discovery journey east to explore the wild and untouched land beyond the Cape Peninsula. On 6 November 1679 he came across a river running through a beautifully green, fertile valley. He named the river Eerste Rivier (First River) and the surrounding area Van der Stel Bosch (Van der Stel's bush).

Before long, news of the finding of this fertile valley spread and the first families settled there in 1680. The settlement later became known as Stellenbosch, and is the second-oldest city in South Africa. The warm summers and winter rainfall provided an ideal farming environment, and by 1682 the settlement had become an established town. In 1685 it became the seat of a magistrate, whose authority extended over 25 000 square kilometers. The first school was built in 1686, followed soon afterwards by the first church.

A yearly celebration on Simon van der Stel's birthday was held in honor of the founder. This tradition was started in 1686 and included games, parades, festivities and dances. As the celebration took place on October 14th, it was a celebration of spring at the same time. The highlight of the celebration was when marksmen shot at a wooden parrot to win the main prize, and to this day the hill where this event took place is still known as Papegaaiberg (parrot hill).

Simon van der Stel launched a project to plant oak trees and the mighty trees still line the streets of Stellenbosch. The town is appropriately known as Eikestad, or the Town of Oaks. Unfortunately a recent disease has affected the trees, and the towering oaks are slowly dying. Fortunately, since the oak trees are a symbol of Stellenbosch, the town council started planting new trees soon after the discovery of the disease.

In 1866, the Stellenbosch Gymnasium was founded. In 1880 it changed its name to Stellenbosch College, but was renamed in 1887 to Victoria College in honor of Queen Victoria. In 1918 the college officially became the University of Stellenbosch, known affectionately as Maties. The University has over the years become the heart of Stellenbosch and is regarded as one of the best in the world.

During the year, the estimated 17 000 students fill the town with a cheerful vibe and bustling activity in the hostels, lecture halls, restaurants, coffee shops, bars and discos. Holidays are the times when the tranquillity of the natural surroundings and the comparative quiet in the streets allows Stellenbosch a chance to breathe and prepare for the influx of young people that is sure to follow with the next semester.

Stellenbosch is a treasure of beautifully restored buildings - elegant Cape Dutch, Victorian and Georgian architecture can be seen particularly in historic Dorp Street, which is reminiscent of the rich and colorful past. Several international businesses have their headquarters in this historical university town. Just outside Stellenbosch, nestled between the majestic Simonsberg, Stellenbosch, Jonkershoek, Twin Peaks and Helderberg mountains, a clean industry settlement has been established at Techno Park.

Once a quiet little village, Techno Park has become a centre for industry, business and education, as well as the heart of the wine industry.

Wine and the are of winemaking are woven into the history of Stellenbosch. From its humble beginnings with Simon van der Stel and the Huguenots, the valley has evolved to becoming the centre of the Cape's wine industry, and produces some of the finest wines in the country. The famous Stellenbosch Wine Route, established in 1971, allows you to enjoy our fabulous local wines while undertaking entertaining and fun expeditions into the countryside. Stellenbosch is an amazing place to be.

Events and activities take place throughout the year - music, street, wine and art festivals delight both young and old. Outdoors enthusiasts can partake in hiking, mountain climbing, horse riding and cycling, while sports fans can attend international sporting events.

Stellenbosch has a bustling sidewalk caf? scene in the French tradition, excellent restaurants and coffee shops, modern shopping facilities and a vibrant Nightlife. A peaceful, cheerful town and its friendly people, a never-ending choice of entertainment and activities and a breathtaking valley with majestic mountains embracing it - this is what makes Stellenbosch such a special tourist and conference destination.

Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: www.12234455.co.za

Most Popular Classic Board Games

There are a lot of classic board games in the world. Those games offer people the same thing - fun pastime and learning experience. Another great thing about classic board games is that they are accessible to almost everyone. Practically anyone can play them, unlike some outdoor sporting games where a lot of factors are in play. Board games are not exactly physically strenuous, but it does challenge the mind.

Classic board games offer portability and convenience. The fact that anybody can easily learn how to play means that anyone can be anybody's playmate. There is no need for a large venue such as a soccer field or a coliseum to play board games. Anywhere, even at the comfort of one's own bedroom, can become a battlefield.

Lots of new games are being developed every year. There are only some games that every person must know and must have. Classic board games have been very popular through the years and have stood the test of time. These provide people with very valuable lessons. Thus, every household should never be caught without at least one of these most popular classic games:

1. Checkers - checkers is one of the easiest games to learn with its black and red checkered board and it has been around since the 1500's.

2. Monopoly - Monopoly is just one of the world's most popular board games. It deals about purchasing property (real estate) and developing it. One should prevent their side from losing money before their opponent does. Monopoly has different versions to cater to all age levels - from the young to the grown ups and professionals.

3. Chess - this classic board game improves a player's strategic thinking. It is probably the hardest game to master. It is also the most mentally challenging.

4. Scrabble - another classic game that most people get addicted to is Scrabble. A personal objective here is to improve one's vocabulary. But game-wise, a player's purpose is to really outwit his opponent by scoring more by producing more words. People love this classic board game so much that some even make a career out of playing it.

These classic games have been part of the world culture. That is the reason why they are still extremely popular today. These classic games have transcended time and cultures. Their staying power is a testament on how people never seem to get tired of them. Not only does it improve the thinking process, people find the challenge fun and exciting, too.

Visit Board Games Store A Place Where You Can Find Huge Selection Of Classic Board Games And Find Info On The World's Most Popular Board Games

By Robert Diarioti

Volvo V70: History In The Making

Volvo, in its 54 years of unbroken commitment to refinement, improvement and safety, is set to release the all-new V70. The wagon, which is scheduled to be introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March, is said to be Volvo?s history in the making. The Volvo V70 epitomizes the balance between safety, luxury and versatility that could serve as standard for wagons.

?This segment has been our specialty ever since we invented it back in the 1950s, said Fredrik Arp, Volvo Cars President and CEO. Our competitors can count on us remaining number one in the future, too. In the all-new V70, rear passengers and luggage both ride in first class.?

The wagon segment is noticeably growing in Europe. The demands are increasing and the shift to wagons is apparent. Today?s wagons are evolving but it is made without compromising comfort, driving dynamics and style. According to analysts, this is because sedan owners could now appreciate the added versatility of wagons. Basically, the concept of the wagon has not changed. But buyer certainly has.

?The attitude towards the modern wagon has undergone a significant change. With greater focus on design and comfort, the all-new V70 is both luxurious and practical. It's not just for families with growing children but also for active people that demand everything of their cars. In fact, we expect that half of all V70 buyers won?t actually be families with children,? Arp said.

The Volvo V70 is built in a completely new architecture. The latter gave the new version greater edge over the current version of the wagon. The upcoming Volvo V70 is equipped with six-cylinder engine beneath the sculpted hood. The engine is complemented by an equally-efficient Volvo fuel pump to pave way for a smooth and hassle-free ride. The efficient new 3.2-liter inline-6 engine produces 235 horsepower. Compared to the current Volvo V70, the upcoming version is made spacious. The latter also offers dual built-in child booster cushions that can be adjusted in two stages. The feature is suited to those families with young children.

To boost protection, the Volvo V70 is given extended inflatable curtains mated to booster cushions and the strong body side structure. These features provide superb protection in side impact. The comfy features of the wagon have also been enhanced using wonderful seats blended to ergonomically designed instruments. The package also includes the stylish, super-slim center console, world-class audio system and the distinct Scandinavian style of the automaker.

Enthusiasts say that the Volvo V70 is stunning inside and out. This is because of the automaker?s brand development plan. Volvo wagons have significantly evolved with time. They have been continuously modified since 1953 when the automaker introduced the PV 445 to the industry. With regards all-new Volvo V70, each design detail is focused on intelligent functionality and clean form.

Smart and functional details allow the owners of the car to entertain his eccentricities to suit his specific needs. The most flexible in the segment is the rear seat?s 40/20/40 split. Other breath-taking features include lightweight backrest, simple folding mechanism, optional power tailgate, sliding load floor and a storage compartment under the luggage area floor. The compartment locks when the tailgate is shut.

To add a distinctive sporty stance, the all-new V70 features a unique soft nose with a black egg-crate grille having chrome in the vertical bars, LED brake lights and a C30-like tailgate. The tailgate glass window goes further down for extra rearward visibility. The climbing waistline also adds to the forward-leaning, vibrant posture which is further reinforced with the aid of the black pillars between the side windows.

Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field. You can visit Volvo fuel pump for more information.

Housing For Alternative Lifestyles

What are alternative lifestyles and why would they require alternative housing? To answer the first part it is easiest to give examples. Then the answer to the second part becomes self evident.

One winter we were camping in our conversion van at a hot springs area in Arizona. We met a man who sold stuffed animals on the side of the highway. Having been through a bad divorce, and having little money, he was living in the van at places like these hot springs. Every day he drove off to the nearest highways and set up his stuffed animals for sale. He claimed to have sold $4,000 worth the first month, so his low cost living meant he could save the money and get back on his feet.

Meanwhile, another neighbor at the hot springs was living in his old RV. He had a house, but he preferred to supplement his social security by renting it out. This meant he lived in his RV for a few weeks at each location, often for free, and spent evenings sitting around campfires talking to travelers like us.

A friend of ours lived in a shack that he built for $3,000 on a small piece of land he bought for $7,000. He was there for enough time to pay off the land and sell it for a profit. This is illegal in many areas, of course, because of things like occupancy permits and minimum square footage requirements. Usually, however, you can camp on your land, so a $2,000 used RV parked on your land makes for a cheap and legal housing alternative.

Other Housing For Alternative Lifestyles

Alternative lifestyle doesn't mean low income of course. There are other reasons for living differently and needing different types of housing. Whether to save money, to travel, to live creatively - there are many reasons why people choose to live in tents, RVs, cabins, underground homes, rental rooms and anything else that's less common than the houses, condos and apartments that most people call home. Here are a few more of these housing options.

- RV Boondocking. I've talked to people living in Rvs that cost $200,000 and ones that cost $600, so the selection of accommodations is varied, to say the least.

- Permanent travelers. Housing is whatever works for the moment for those who work various jobs as the travel.

- Houseboats. There are whole communities of people living on houseboats, and they usually don't have to pay property taxes.

- Basements. Even some people with good incomes choose to live in the basement as they build the house above for cash. No mortgage sounds nice, doesn't it?

- Log cabin squatting. Yes, there really are people living out there in the national forests, moving when they get caught every five or ten years.

- School busses. Apparently old busses sell cheap. We met three young men who lived in one in the deserts of Arizona, and anywhere else they could park it for a month.

- Offices. A couple I know almost moved into the office building they owned. It was on the river and had showers, so why not? One less mortgage too.

A national magazine recently did a write-up on people who lived in the jungles of Hawaii. Rents are high in Hawaii, and life on the beach is good - at least for younger people who can tolerate camping out for years. Alternative lifestyles and alternative housing are often more for the younger crowd. Then again, tell that to the tens of thousands of retirees living in RVs.

Copyright Steve Gillman. Visit his website for: 1. A photo of a beautiful house he and his wife bought for $17,500. 2. A free book on how to save thousands buying your next home. 3. A free real estate investing course. Visit http://www.HousesUnderFiftyThousand.com

Home Sellers Now is the Time to Make a Change

The mechanics of selling a house is on the road to change. In Southern California, specifically the Inland Empire of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, where I have practiced for many years, Sellers are beginning to feel the change in buyers attitudes.

Buyers are now expecting to pay a little less for a home then they did about a year ago. Todays prospective buyer is spending a lot more time looking on the internet even before they contact a real estate agent to see what housing prices are like and what interest rates to buy those homes are doing.

I am a Real Estate Agent and a Loan Specialist, and have been watching the real estate market and the interest rates change for the past several months.

Today, for a Seller to sell their home in a timely manner, the price must now be within the actual market prices or below. The days of putting your house on the market and have it sell almost immediately are gone. There is a lot more to it now.

1. There are many listing agents making sure that the commission offered to a selling agent is either at the old normal rates or above, so that an agent who is looking for a property for a client will show and sell that particular home. I have seen several offering 3.5% and 4% to the selling agent with bonuses, plus sellers are willing to help with buyer closing costs.

2. The next obstacle to overcome is how the home shows to prospective buyers. You need to remember that now there are more homes on the market, giving buyers a lot more choices. You, the seller, want your home to show at its best.

3. This leads us to the ?Staging? of a home. Less is always better. If your home needs painting, paint it. If your carpets need to be cleaned, clean them. Set your dining room table with nice tablecloths and nice dinner ware. Take most everything on your kitchen counter tops off. If your living room or family room looks like there is too much furniture, make it disappear. Rent a storage space if necessary. Even closets and pantries need to be neat and tidy. Buyers tend to look everywhere. There are still many new homes being built, go and check them out. See how a professional stages a model home.

4. A First Impression is Everything. Your agent will normally take photos of your home and the one that goes on the Multiple Listing Service, Realtor.com, etc., is the front of your house. Water the lawn, clean up by the front door, put potted plants if you can, and make sure when your agent takes pictures that no cars are in the way. This first photo will also have a bearing on what the agent thinks. Will that agent even tell a prospective buyer that your house is for sale?

5. Landscaping I have seen some properties offered that because the seller has no landscaping in the back yard that the buyer will get an allowance at the close of escrow. If you can, and have the time, put down some fertilizer and grass seed and put in your own back yard. This can really make a difference. Always keep in the back of your mind, you?re the seller who wants their house sold. A Buyer has lots more choices today and would probably go on to the next house if they felt they had to put several thousand dollars into a back yard that they wouldn?t have to spend with another house.

First and foremost, buyers are just as conscious of money and how much they spend as you are on how much you can actually get for your house and move on to the next one.

My views and comments are based on my personal research and should not be consrued as anything else.

Patti Schopper

Contact Patti with any questions you may have regarding selling your property or purchasing a new property at: http://www.realestateandloans4you.com

Patti Schopper has been in the real estate industry over 36 years. Her goal has always been to put her clients first.

Atlanta Real Estate FAQs

The answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Atlanta real estate can help you to make a better real estate deal. You can also approach a real estate organization or agent in Atlanta to clarify your points.

How much money is required to buy an average home in Atlanta?

This depends upon a number of factors such as the size and location of the home, the comforts you are looking for, and the procedural fees.

Why do Atlanta home prices go up?

High employment rates and the growing population have raised Atlanta real estate prices. Atlanta's rapid all-round growth contributes significantly to the price hike as well.

What are closing costs?

Various expenses associated with selling and buying of a home, paid at the closing of the mortgage process, are collectively referred to as closing costs. For sellers, closing costs can be approximately 9.5% of the total price of the property.

What are the requirements for Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)?

This is a consumer-protection statute and requires that certain information about property loans be revealed, such as estimated closing costs and Annual Percentage Rate (APR).

What is the current trend in the Atlanta condominium market?

There has been an explosion in Atlanta's condo and loft market over the past few years. Ranging from renovated warehouses and factories to high-rise condos with many amenities, Atlanta has a buzzing condo and loft market.

What is special about Atlanta's neighborhoods?

Atlanta's neighborhoods have some historic importance. You find Jewish communities and a historical African-American population in the neighborhoods. Most neighborhoods have civic associations that work for the welfare of the local community.

Atlanta Real Estate provides detailed information on Atlanta Real Estate, Atlanta Real Estate Agents, Atlanta Commercial Real Estate, Atlanta Real Estate Listings and more. Atlanta Real Estate is affiliated with Chicago Suburb Real Estate.

About a Career in Real Estate Field

To become a real estate agent is very easy. About schools, that is one question to ask the brokers. You may be sure in every area there are several private real estate schools, and many community colleges offering courses. To find private real estate schools search the yellow pages after the Real Estate - General section. Most schools let you sample their program or classes.

It generally takes two months of classes and then you should take the exam. When you pass you need to activate your license under a broker from your area. At that moment you need sales training classes, unless you was born a sales person. I think you realize that you will wait 3-4 months in the real estate field before to see an income stream flowing. What I want to say is you need some financial resources to live on while getting your shoes on the ground.

To be a successful real estate agent is the highly competitive Acting in Real Estate field you will work hard and it will take time to build your own successful business. As a compensation of your hard work, the payoffs is great. Real Estate is one of the highest paying sales professions in the United States of America.

You will enjoy working out of your home office, work flexible hours, and set your own schedule. In addition there are few, if any, businesses you can start up for the investment you will make in becoming a professional Real Estate Agent.

Larry is a freelance writer interested in items such as travel real estate career

How Much Is Too Much For a Scottsdale Home

Are you looking for a home in Scottsdale, Arizona? Scottsdale has earned a reputation as an expensive community, one of affluence and sophistication. Unfortunately many people firmly believe that these traits come with a hefty price tag. Although this is often true, you may be surprised by your options.

Maybe you haven't figured out how much your can afford for a home. Some prospective buyers deliberately stay away from Scottsdale because they think prices are out of their reach, while others don't realize when they are in over their heads.

How exactly do you figure out how much you can afford for a mortgage? The formula many mortgage agents formerly suggested was that home owners' plan that their mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) be about 30% of the total gross monthly earnings.

But times have changed and this formula doesn't always work for all buyers. This old computation method doesn't take into account the debt that most people carry in addition to their mortgage payments. Unlike the good old days, today, many of us owe on credit cards, as well as car, student, and personal loans.

A far better formula for calculating how much you can afford is to add up all of your monthly bills, and then plan that the total amount of debt with mortgage, insurance and taxes, then keep this total at 45% of your gross monthly income or less.

There are a number of mortgage options that give home buyers more choices. For instance, no interest loans allow buyers to pay against the principle only on the loan for a period of time. This is a great choice for anyone anticipating that their income may increase over the next few years.

Some of these mortgage options are great for buyers in the Scottsdale market. It gives them more opportunities to buy into more expensive home communities. The main caution of course is to not overextend yourself financially so that your home ownership becomes precarious.

Even though Scottsdale is an expensive community, there are still homes available at various price points. There are elegant yet affordable condominium communities, and older single family homes with great potential.

Owning a home in Scottsdale is an important step in planning for your financial future. Scottsdale is certainly a market that will continue to appreciate, and there is no better investment than real estate. Scottsdale also has traditionally been a very in demand community, which means this investment offers stability and growth.

With careful planning, you can find your perfect home in Scottsdale and not lose your shirt in the process.

Reg Gustin is a senior loan officer with Sun American Mortgage and specializes in helping families and their financial lending needs.

Get a FREE mortgage rate quote from a reputable Arizona mortgage company at http://www.arizona-homes-store.com/arizona-mortgages.html

Search the Arizona MLS at http://www.arizona-homes-store.com/arizona-mls.html

Click here: http://www.arizona-homes-store.com/arizona-real-estate-appreciation-report.htmland get a FREE copy of The Greater Phoenix Area Housing Appreciation Report, as compiled by Arizona State University with your free subscription to his monthly ezine, MARKET NEWS.

Wilderness Camps Let Campers Really Rough It

If your idea of a great vacation is being pampered, wilderness camping is not for you. Since these camps generally offer a variety of high excitement activities with not much in the way of modern conveniences pampering is not an option. However, during a week or two at a wilderness camp, children can learn important lessons such as survival skills, first aid and wilderness safety. As a plus, kids will also be forced away from the television and video games for a spell so they can connect with nature.

One of the first and most obvious aspects of wilderness camping is, of course, the wilderness. These campers do not visit already set up camps with cabins, kitchens and bathroom facilities. Along with leaders experienced in wilderness survival, they set out to make their own adventure and their own camps.

Wilderness campers generally carry all of the things they need to live during their camping trip in a backpack on their backs. Their packs will hold their clothing, food and eating utensils as well as tents and bedding. Depending on their activity, they may make and break camp each day, or they may set up one camp site and stay there during their entire camping trip.

These campers generally travel to remote places where there is no electricity or plumbing. They must learn to cook all of their food over a fire and also set up a tent and campsite that will be protected from the elements. Campers will be taught how to pick a good campsite and how to pitch a tent properly. They will also be taught fire and cooking safety.

During their camping experience campers will also learn the basics of wilderness safety. This will include training in which plants, animals and insects are poisonous and what should be done if someone should become poisoned by a plant or insect. Campers will bring the lessons they learn while wilderness camping back to their everyday lives where they will know how to properly handle emergency situations.

In addition to the skills they will learn, most campers will tell you the exciting activities they can participate in during the trip is the focal point of wilderness camping. Wilderness camping will generally focus on an activity that can no be experienced in any other type of camp.

These activities can include mountain climbing, white water rafting, glacier hiking or backpacking in the forest or jungle. Wilderness camps are available in locations in both the United States as well as foreign locations, so your child can choose the adventure that is right for them.

Participating in a wilderness camp can help children learn the skills they need to survive and help others survive in the case of an emergency. They will also learn the extent of their own inner and physical strength as they participate in the adventure of their lives. Additionally, wilderness camps will also force kids away from video games and television for awhile and help them focus on nature and the world around them.

About the Author:

Still looking for the perfect summer camp? Try visiting http://www.aboutcamps.com - a website that specializes in providing camp advice, tips and resources including information on wilderness camp.

More Than Just Strollers

The Combi stroller line has a number of great strollers to choose from when you’re looking to purchase your first stroller. In fact, Combi has so many choices it can be a bit overwhelming. When choosing a stroller you have to first think about what you want exactly. Do you want a stroller only? Do you want a system that gives you both stroller and car seat working together? Do you want something that can accommodate exercise or two children? The great thing besides a lot of choices is that you can also expect most Combi strollers to be lightweight and compact. In my research I didn’t come across any Combi models that appeared to be a hassle. Whatever it is you’re looking for in a stroller, Combi should be able to accommodate you and your family’s needs.

Many of the umbrella Combi Strollers are lightweight, compact and come with a shoulder strap. They are also affordable range from very inexpensive to relatively expensive. The Combi City Savvy Stroller comes in a variety of colors not typical of strollers. Its fashionable, modern look gives it the Combi Savvy Stroller appeal for the city dweller. This umbrella stroller weighs only 12lbs and can form a travel system with the Combi Connection Infant Seat! The infant seat boasts a five-point harness and is good for the first year or until your child reaches 22lbs.

Also, available is the Combi Cosmo DX Stroller that comes in colors mango and keylime. The Combi Cosmo DX is one of many Combi lightweight tri-folding strollers and weighs only 13lbs. It is a reasonably priced duo-system you don’t want to overlook. The Cosmo DX (chocolate) is a top of the line stroller with a five-star rating. In addition to the mango and keyline models above, this version has a canopy and viewing window, front swivel wheels along with removable guardrail and washable cover.

In addition to just being a stroller, Combi offers a number of travel systems. This combination makes it a two-way system that functions to serve you and your child while you are out and about your daily routine. The Combi Cosmo ST Travel System accommodates the Centre ST Car Seat, which is part of the LATCH system. It comes with an energy absorbing foam that keeps the child’s head both cushioned and comfortable in case of an impact. The DK-5 Ultra Lite Travel System is another one to check out. This stroller comes in three different colors, is lightweight and portable. It also comes with a shoulder strap for parents on the go. I personally love the look of this stroller and at first glance one can see the ergonomics of its snail-shape build. And lastly, Combi also has a Twin Savvy EX Double Stroller. This Combi Double Stroller again, is lightweight and compact. It can also by itself once it is folded!

About the Author

LynnMarie is On-Line Editor for Babyage.com which is one of the top online retailers of Strollers with a wide variety of Combi Strollers for you to choose from!

Sarasota Housing Market: Behold the "ThreeBuyer" Rule

The buyer, appraiser and underwriter must all agree with the price of the house before it can go to settlement (particularly if there is no large down payment involved.) Here's how it happens.

Buyer is First

When you visit the grocery store and examine the prices of produce and goods, you normally do not walk up to the check out and bargain the price listed on the sticker. The eggs are $1 per dozen all day long and most everyone will pay that amount or go without eggs.

In real estate (and other large investment items), the price is not necessarily what one is going to pay. It is merely the list price or asking price set by the seller. While Sarasota real estate agents may have some sort of control in determining if a house is overpriced or under-priced, they are not the ones buying the house. Hence, the real decision maker is the buyer. Thus, the buyers must be confident enough that the asking price and the terms almost certainly reflect the real market value of the house.

The savvy real estate seller will make sure that the asking price is as close to the realistic price in order to draw offers. Particularly, in a transitional market or dropping sales price environment, such as the Sarasota housing market at present, do not squander time holding off for the ?right? buyer to come along and pay the price being asked for. The smart real estate seller will realize what the price trend is and move in front of it.

Sellers over the last few years in the Sarasota housing market have had the benefit of price trending upward. Negotiation for buyers seemingly went up on its head?You want $350,000. What, are you crazy? I'll pay $375,000 and not a dollar less. Of course, they got beat out by the guy willing to pay $400,000 and include a vacation for the sellers.

When the Sarasota housing market begins to trend downward, a seller must get at the forefront of the trend. This is even more important than a market heading upward if you do not want your house floating on the market over a long waiting period. Every week you wait, you literally lose money, which sometimes could be thousands of dollars each week. Do not wait. When prices trend downward, sellers must forget what their neighbor's sales price was two months ago. It certainly has no bearing the day you receive your contract.

The moral here for the seller is that the buyer must believe the house is worth the asking price. Next, one has to convince the appraiser.

Appraiser is Second

Despite what others may believe, the appraiser is the most important visitor who is going come by your house. Sometimes even the appraiser understates his or her visit to the property.

If you have to impress the buyer to persuade him or her to write a contract, then you better mesmerize the appraiser. This is the person who is going to take a first stab in confirming that the buyer and seller have come up with a realistic price for the property.

With a contract price of $351,990, you want an appraisal of at least $351,990. If the appraisal is high, it has no bearing on the contract. If the price comes too far below, and the buyer does not possess enough down payment funds to cover the difference, then the seller and buyer will have to renegotiate who is going to absorb the financial hit to make the loan work. Is the seller coming down in price, the buyer up in price or are they going to split the difference?

Underwriter is Third

Finally, one has to satisfy the person in the back office?the underwriter of the mortgage. Underwriters calculate the risk factors for the lending company or group of investors. If they underestimate the risk of default on a loan and the buyer indeed defaults on the mortgage in time, then either their investors lose or they must sell the loan at a loss. Because of this, while they are not on the street monitoring if prices increase in the Sarasota housing market and if their analysis reveals that the house may not be worth what the contract is asking, they can withhold the loan process and the negotiations must start anew.

Let?s say I want to sell my house for $1 million. The problem is, while I might think it is worth that amount, I keep running into buyers who disagree. Thus it is worth $1 million solely in my perception.

I therefore have to satisfy three other people to get my price. In pricing my property, I must keep these three other people in mind if I want my ?asking? price to become my ?sold? price.

Earl Juanico

Sarasota Real Estate

Know More About Type Of Backpack

Backpack is one foe the most important outdoor and camping equipment. The outdoor camping trip could not happen without backpack and good quality backpack provides smooth and pleasant trip. Backpacks are design to fit to each personality of both men and women. The purpose of carry backpack is simply enabling us to carry all necessary for travel without leaving them at one place. And when you decide to buy your backpack, you should know what you intend to use it for. It is quite obvious that backpacks now are becoming the major equipment that traveller and camper must have. However, the factor to determine the type of backpack you would need is to consider from the objective. Types of backpack can be divided into four major categories which are, military backpacks, assault packs, full packs, day packs.

Therefore, the following detail will take you thought the basic guide of these types of backpack. You will get to know each of them about what they look like and short description of their usage. We are going to start to know assault pack. Assault pack typically known as mountain pack, which is suitable for camping and mountain climbing activities or any other recreation trip. The pack of assault type is probably biggest among pack of any other type of backpack as they are designed for carrying more stuff for long or mountain vacation. Also the packs come in two main types! They are internal frame and external frame. The purpose of these frames is to distribute weight evenly through the pack. The internal frame may have less capability of hold heavy stuff than the pack that has external frame.

The first type of backpack is day pack. Day pack means to some kind of pack that we use to contain stuff that will be used during the day. Therefore, it doesnt need to be big and they are usually has low capacity. Day pack may not suitable for long trip that requires bigger and tougher backpack. However, you may use day pack with your long trip by us them as a personal bag to carry travelling stuff such as wallet, purse, air tickets, and all travel document. This is because when you travel, especially if you travel overseas, you should keep this kind of stuff handy.

The third type is military backpack. Military backpack is quite flexible and utilised because they are designed to be used in very hard and tough condition. However, you may find that military backpack may not have as large size as other type of travel backpack. Military backpack is also suitable for short trip and if you are willing to travel to remote rural area, military backpack maybe the one that you are looking for. The fabric used for military backpack is extremely hard and you cloud make sure that it will never easily tear.

From the detail described above then you can see that there's practical value in learning more not only about backpack topic but for all other ones. Can you think of ways to apply what's been covered in this article and as your knowledge about this topic may continues to grow, you will begin to see how it fits into the overall scheme of things.

By: Pisan K.

The New Audi S5 in Detail

At the recent 77e Salon International de l'Auto Geneve (77th annual Geneva International Motor Show) early this March, Volkswagen Group's Audi division unveiled their latest luxury high-performance sports coupe in front of the European crowd who participated in the show. The Audi S5 took the center stage in the Audi stand along with the Audi A5 coupe.

As for a sports coupe, the Audi S5 features a sporty and elegant exterior and interior design along with clear functionality. Outside the car, you can find the radiator grille painted in platinum grey and fitted with vertical chrome inlays. The front and rear bumpers are more distinctive along with the air inlet grilles. Other exterior parts found on the Audi S5 include aluminium-look exterior mirror housings, colour-keyed door sill trim, dual-branch exhaust system with four oval tailpipes, xenon plus headlights with daytime running lights featuring LED light sand, 18-inch wheels with 245/40 R 18 performance tires, and the pronounced rear spoiler providing aerodynamic down force for better road-to-vehicle traction.

In addition to sporty exterior parts, Audi S5 also comes with a host of elegant and sporty interior amenities. Customers can choose between the available interior trims including carbon, aluminium, stainless steel or wood. Customers can also feel the dynamic environment on the interior with the car's sports seats, sports steering wheel, instruments with grey dials, and aluminium door sill plates. Just like the VW cargo liner, the Audi S5 also comes with a functional luggage compartment.

Audi tuned up the S5 and installed some of the highest quality chassis parts and powertrain systems. The sports coupe comes with a specially tuned sports suspension and high-performance brakes to provide improved vehicle handling and driving dynamics. The special high-performance brakes with their black painted brake calipers ensure precise deceleration. For challenging drivers who have starving needs for speed, they can fully deactivate the Audi S5's electronic stabilisation program (ESP) and explore the sports coupe's full driving potential.

In terms of performance of a sports coupe, the Audi S5 is equipped with a monstrous V8 FSI 8-cylinder engine with an impressive and powerful output delivering 354 hp (260 kW) and produces 295 lb.-ft. (400 Nm) amount of peak torque at 3,500 rpm. With this V8 FSI engine, the Audi S5 is capable of accelerating from zero to 62 mph in a mere 5.1 seconds. Audi has also included some of the high-end powertrain technology for the V8 engine to boost the Audi S5's performance. The engine comes with a standard FSI direct injection technology with high compression and optimum fuel mixture formation.

The torque distribution is perfectly balanced, 40 percent on the front axle and 60 percent torque out put carried to the vehicle's rear axle. To complete the Audi S5's powertrain system, a six-speed manual gearbox is mated to the engine to power the four wheel drive (4WD) configuration.

Watch out for the Audi S5 when it rolls out in dealerships starting in June 2007, along with the Audi A5 luxury coupe.

For more details with your VW cargo liner requests check your online resources.

Benjamin Hudson works as a supervisor at one of the top engineering firms in the business district of Louisiana. He is also a freelance journalist and has passion for anything automotive.

The Substance of Style

How many times have you heard that curb appeal is half the sale? Why is it that certain ethnic groups are so keen at using tiles and marbles, whereas others prefer hardwoods and plaster? What?s the scoop behind the trend of new construction ? more bedrooms, more bathrooms, higher ceiling clearance? What makes a neighborhood trendy? Why is it that fashionable colors, all of a sudden, are no longer fashionable? In essence, what is it that drives innovation and change in real estate?

Gianni Versace (1946 ? 1997), perhaps the most famous Italian stylist and designer of contemporary times, and Andy Warhol (1928 ? 1987), one of the major figures of the American Pop Art movement, both had an innate knowledge of one of the most profound tenets of economics, that is the production of wealth comes not simply from labor or raw materials or even intellectual brilliance. It comes from new ways to give people what they want. By matching creativity and desire, the economy will renew itself. Thus, it is imperative to abandon prejudices regarding the sources of economic value.

It follows, that manufacturing and technology generate wealth only when they make matter and information serve human desire. Desire is the true source of economic value, and the motor behind demand. So, to exploit any market ? being fashion design as in the case of Versace or Pop Art as in the case of Warhol ? since people want pleasure, those who bring pleasure will make the economy go, because what is bringing pleasure is anticipated status enhancement. This rule of thumb applies all the more in a big-ticket industry such as real estate.

Contrary to what most of us believe, humans do not make rational decisions, at least not pre-eminently but, rather, their conclusions are rooted into deeper sources of motivation located well within the realm of sub-consciousness. Marketers already seem to know a lot about how consumers think, but recent experiments in neuroscience have captured the full attention of Corporate America and Corporate Japan. New scanning techniques are making it easier to determine how our minds work and creating hopes in the corporate world, that companies can finally figure out how consumers are wired so as to establish new connections with customers. And the field of real estate sales is at the forefront of this scientific research.

The breakthrough behind all this is the development of functional magnetic resonance imaging or ?fMRI?, the latest in neuroimaging technology, which displays not only the structures of the brain but also how they actually function by measuring blood flow. And the corporate world is particularly interested in how neuroimaging can be applied to study empathy, trust, deception, emotional communication, body language and generally speaking all issues that are central to human existence and interaction. Decision-making is, of course, at the top of the list.

Research, especially in real estate, indicates that consumers love novelties and, what?s more, can create novelties. Consumers are not mere passive recipients of goods and services but, rather, active producers as well. The reason is that at the basis of production and consumption there is human imagination and desire for novelty. Furthermore, when people actually ?own? novelties in the form of goods, they set about to convince others that the possession of such novelties shows that they have achieved a higher status, and that if others were clever enough to do what they did or to possess the same things that they have, then the others too could achieve high status and enjoy all the good things that come from it.

The continuous interaction between desire and demand on one side, and production and supply on the other side, is what rejuvenates and regenerates real estate markets through trends and innovation over and over again.

Luigi Frascati

Luigi Frascati is a Real Estate Agent based in Vancouver, British Columbia. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Economics and maintains a weblog entitled the Real Estate Chronicle at http://wwwrealestatechronicle.blogspot.com where you can find the full collection of his articles. Luigi is associated with the Sutton Group, the largest real estate organization in Canada, and is based with Sutton-Centre Realty in Burnaby, BC.

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Have You Lost Track Of Your Family Time?

Back in the '50s, families gathered around the dinner table (and often the breakfast table) to eat and talk and catch up with each other. Today, it's rare that a family finds the time and circumstances to gather together for a meal. Johnny has basketball practice. Suzi is freshman class president. Dad's working late. Mom's trying to catch up with a week's worth of errands. Life is more hectic and stressful than ever before.

The impact all these activities can have on a family are often the opposite of their intented purpose. When we work long hours at the office, we're working to provide our families with all those things we didn't have when we were children. When we involve our children in numerous activities, we want them to have a world of positive experiences designed to help them grow up to be happier, healthier adults. These are the best of intentions. But sometimes we overlook the most important foundation of any healthy family ... the time we spend together.

If you feel like your family is perpetually running on high octane with everyone heading in a different direction, here are some suggestions that might help you to start thinking about your family time in new ways ...

1. Take up an activity or two that the family can do as a whole. For instance, join a family bowling league or put aside Saturdays for one-day trips to explore the nearby towns, parks, museums, etc.

2. Set aside an evening or two each week when everyone is home together. This can be designated as the family night and it can be spent playing games, or reading great stories outloud to the group, or even watching a movie together as long as there's some interaction and discussion time when it's over. This little bit of quality time together can create a family tradition that you'll all cherish for years to come.

3. Set aside two or three days each week that will be television-free days. This encourages family members to spend time interacting with one another.

4. Whenever possible, do things together. Eat as a family. Plan trips as a family. Build puzzles, play games, go grocery shopping.

5. Do family chores in teams instead of individually. Mom and Suzi can change the linens on Saturday morning, while Dad and Johnny clean out the garage. Then once a week or once a month, shift the teams around so that eventually everyone will be teamed up with each other family member. One of the best ways to open family communication and come away with a sense of pride and accomplishment is by working together.

The more time you spend together as a family, the more your children will come away with the values and ethics you want them to pick up from you. They'll learn to be more responsible, to laugh more often, to be confident and caring, to be giving and grateful. And they'll discover you aren't a perfect parent, but they'll also discover you aren't an old fuddy-duddy who doesn't have a clue.

Make the time to be with your family. There's nothing more precious in this lifetime than them.

About the Author:

D. Silva is a family member, just like you. He's also the webmaster of Board Games For Everyone (http://boardgamesforeveryone.com). Play a game, laugh a little, there's no better way to spend time with the ones you love.

What Occurs at a Real Estate Closing or Escrow

Smooth closings or escrow don't just happen. Real estate agents, mortgage lenders, attorneys, title companies, surveyors, insurance agents, and the property buyer and seller can contribute or hinder a successful closing or escrow. Often, buyers and sellers reach this concluding occasion and not know what they could have done to prevent delays or no closing at all. Here are some tips to move you along to accomplishing your goal; to buy or sell a home.

-Closing. The terms agreed to in a real estate contract are fulfilled by the buyer and seller. The seller delivers the title to the buyer in exchange for the contract purchase price. The seller also delivers a deed, title evidence and insurance, property survey, leases if applicable, and proof of any required repairs from the result of the buyers inspection(s). It is recommended that you consult with and retain an experienced real estate attorney for all real estate closings or escrow.

-Closing in escrow. A disinterested or neutral party coordinates all the aspects and documents related to the transfer of the property from the seller to the buyer. Escrow agents may be title companies, attorneys, trust or escrow companies. Check with state laws to see if escrow closings are legal and if so what the procedures are for conducting one.

-Survey. A new survey should be issued when your purchase or sell a property. This update will confirm any new easements or encroachments in addition to the documented location and exact size of the property through a diagram and written legal description.

-Title. Is the legal document that gives you ownership or evidence that you own a specific piece of land. Investigate the different ways you and or others can hold title in your state.

-Title insurance. This is delivered to the buyer and the buyer delivers it to their lender. The insurance policy is issued after a search of the public records for a property. The search looks for liens, easements, conditions, encumbrances, and restrictions, that can affect the marketability of the title.

-Deed. Title is the right to hold an ownership interest in a property, the right is transferred through a deed. There are several common forms of deeds, learn about deed options.

-IRS Form 1099. The closing agent must report all real estate transactions to the Internal Revenue Service.

-Real Estate Settlement Act. A form known as the HUD-1 statement or the Uniform Settlement Statement is required in all residential real estate transactions and with full disclosure of all settlement costs. This form applies to those loans financed by all U.S. government related mortgage loans. Most closings or escrow today use this form.

-Closing statements. A separate accounting from the HUD-1 statement, that is an accounting of all the debits and credits to the parties in a transaction.

-Prorations. Some expenses or items related to the property or mortgage loan are prepaid or paid in arrears must be pro-rated between the buyer, seller or mortgage lender at closing or escrow. Proration customs vary by state, inquire how prorations are done in your locale.

-Homeowners insurance. Most mortgage lenders require that you bring proof (known as a binder) that you have homeowners insurance on the property you are purchasing.

-Keys and automatic garage door openers. Don't forget to bring all the keys if you're the seller, or have them delivered to you if you receive possession at closing or escrow.

-Certified checks. Most closing agents require all parties who need to bring funds to close a transaction bring the funds in the form of certified checks. These checks verify that the funds are available when the check is presented.

-Bring photo identification. After 9/11 all closing agents require you to bring photo I.D. to any closing or escrow.

Mark Nash is the author of Fundamentals of Marketing for the Real Estate Professional, Starting & Succeeding in Real Estate, Reaching Out: The Financial Power of Niche Marketing, and 1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home. Mark is a contributing writer for: Realtor (R) Magazine Online, Broker Agent News, Real Estate Executive Magazine, Principal Broker, and Realty Times. His tried and true real estate tips has been featured on Business Week, CBS The Early Show, CNN, HGTVpro.com, The New York Times, and USA Today. Purchase his books at http://www.1001RealEstateTips.com.

LeftBrained Geeks and Why They Need Copywriters

Not long ago, I received a rather unusual email from a stranger. The title of the email read, your site and services which of course would prompt any normal person to open it and expect to read a quote request.

The email contained no such request, but instead revealed a screen shot of the homepage of my Web site. Let me repeat that. A complete stranger sent me a screen shot of my own Web site.

Within the screen shot art, writer of said email had encircled (in red ink), three words that they felt were glaring errors, as the message stated. (One was in fact a typo, while the other two were merely subjective criticisms.)

The message was short, terse and did not address me by name. The email closed with Cheers, and a pair of initials.

I confess: I enjoy people who push the envelope. This is just the kind of bold approach that gets and holds my attention.

However, when someone whom you've never met before decides to arbitrarily PROBE something that you personally created, it comes as a bit of a shock. It makes you feel slightly violated.

I imagine it wouldn't feel all that much different than if I'd been sent a picture of myself, with a red circle around the pimple in the corner of my nose or something equally creepy.

Upon Googling said emailer, I learned that this person worked in a high intelligence, left-brained field and chalked it up to her being a social idiot.

Which brings me to the main point, which is that technology experts and other High IQ individuals are often painfully unaware of the unspoken rules that drive modern communication.

I'm not saying that's right or wrong or I don't like such people, because I really do enjoy them in the way one might enjoy searingly spicy food or extreme sports, for the extra stimulation.

Truth be told, I'd rather spend a half hour having some cantankerous dweeb spew facts at me than sit there letting someone dull and insipid massage my ego while dribbling faulty reasoning or parroting someone else's wisdom. I don't need an ego rub. Just teach me something I didn't know before.

But I also know that I'm in the minority.

Most professionals, at least the ones I've seen buzzing around the blogosphere and met with in various conference rooms throughout my life, would never stand for such brusque handling. Some might even deliver a swift verbal backhand in reply.

Most professionals are secretly insecure. Therefore, they expect you to play with their emotions. And not only is this what they crave in their personal communication, but they REALLY want it in your marketing materials.

The average human begs on his knees to be schmoozed and sold to.

That's a skill that most geeks don't naturally possess. Especially if they're math, science and tech experts (those fields are ruled by the opposite hemisphere of the brain that governs emotions).

Emotion is unequivocally the most powerful sales weapon regardless of what industry you work in. Get a handle on your reader's emotions, turn his ego into silly putty, and you've got yourself a lifelong customer.

If you really, really want to sell something to emotionally suggestible humans, something that they don't understand and can't procure on their own, then you have GOT to learn how to talk to people, or else hire someone for whom graceful communication is second nature.

(For those who don't pick up on subtlety: get a copywriter).

I know of this brilliant computer genius guy from my Web travels who burns a path of destruction wherever he roams. I've watched entire networks lash out against him because he doesn't know how to talk to folks without sounding mean, rude and condescending.

I secretly like him - because he explained some basics of HTML publishing that nobody else had the patience or attention to detail to convey.

But even so - I know he sucks at selling.

Yes, you might be smarter than 90% of the population. But do you know how to write copy that sells?

Sign up for the Copywriting and Marketing Ezine from Dina at http://wordfeeder.com and learn to write search engine-friendly Web copy and market your Web based business for free.

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