How to Avoid Moving Scams

With all the deceptions and frauds out there, it can be challenging to avoid moving scams. The process of finding and hiring a moving company is stressful, but knowing there is a possibility of getting scammed and having to do everything all over again makes it even more frustrating. But you don't have to worry because you have us to help. We've prepared tips and tricks that will help you recognize and avoid a fraudulent moving company, and you can find them all right here in this article.

Are you an ideal scam target?

Scams are designed to look legitimate and sound-friendly. Even though everyone can fall for fraud, scammers usually target specific types of people, depending on the scam they are trying to pull.

Here are the most common types of people scammers target:

• Older adults who are not as familiar with the technology.

• People who were already victims of scams.

• Friendly people are also targeted usually through social media.

• Stressed people tend to fall for scams because they are generally prone to making rash decisions.

• People pleasers need to make others happy, so they're easy to buy into anything someone says.

Ways to recognize and avoid moving scams

Moving scams are widespread, so it can be hard to find a reliable moving company to hire. Therefore, while you are doing your research, make sure to keep your eyes open for red flags and signs that can indicate you're dealing with a scam.

Lack of information about the company

Scams have been perfected, so even if you came across a state-of-the-art website, it still doesn't mean that the company is legit. Therefore, you need to thoroughly check their website and do some digging. You can always hire specialized private investigator services to dig deeper before hand, and if you fall victim they will be vital to helping you recoup your losses.

First, look for a physical address. If you can't find it anywhere on the website, it could be a sign to continue your search. In case you do find details about the physical address, check if it is local or residential.

Caption: If anything seems suspicious about the moving company you're looking to hire, make sure to thoroughly check all information.

Another warning sign is the lack of a DOT number. Every certified moving company has to be registered with the Federal government. You can quickly check this information by visiting The Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration's (FMCSA) website.

Let's look at one example. If you examine the Strong-Ass Movers website, you'll be able to find all the relevant information. You'll also be able to find their insurance information and confirm they've been certified.

The company changed its name several times

One of the ways fraudulent companies get away with scams is by updating their names. It's very rare for a company to change its name because of branding and other marketing reasons. Even though a name change doesn't have to mean the company is doggy, it's definitely a red flag if you're able to trace the company's history through multiple name changes.

Avoid moving scams by asking for a free estimate

The key difference between legit moving companies and scammers is in the way they estimate moving costs. Namely, you are entitled to get a free, in-home estimate from a moving company as per FMCSA regulations. If the moving company you got in touch with refuses to do this or provides you with a rough estimate over the phone, look for movers somewhere else.

Look out for suspicious bids

Although you probably want to save money when moving house, don't rush into making a decision about movers simply because the offer is too good to pass. It's usually quite the opposite - if the offer is too good, it's because it's not true.

For instance, if the mover insists its quote is "ironclad," it can be a warning sign. It's doubtful your offer won't change. In most cases, the estimate is subject to change as the weight of household belongings is usually more than expected.

Some companies even state that their insurance covers absolutely everything. However, you should be skeptical when seeing an offer like this. Usually, protection starts at 60 cents per pound. This means that the company will reimburse you that amount for the total weight of all your belongings in case they are damaged, destroyed, or lost.

Protect yourself and avoid moving scams

When choosing a moving company, you can proactively do things to protect yourself and avoid moving scams. It can massively reduce your chances of being a victim of moving fraud.

Know what you're signing

One of the most critical things is to thoroughly check the moving contract. You need to make sure you know what you are signing, so read it several times if necessary and check every detail. Unscrupulous moving companies tend to give you a lower price only to drive it up by adding fees you weren't aware of.

Caption: Analyze your contract before signing it and pay attention to details.

Your contract should contain details about pickup and drop-off dates. Also, look for a clear explanation of how the company calculated your charges. If something seems fishy, you must back out before you sign it.

Ask for recommendations

All the details you need to check and be mindful of probably got you thinking about if you should do a DIY move or hire movers. However, don't give up because plenty of good moving companies can handle your relocation efficiently and professionally.

One of the easiest ways to avoid being scammed is to ask people you trust for recommendations. Check with your friends, family members, or colleagues who moved at some point to tell you about their experience. Your real estate agent could have some information, too.

Caption: Invite your friends over for coffee and ask them if they can recommend reliable movers for you to hire. They can also help you do your research and avoid moving scams more easily.

The bottom line

We hope our advice helped you avoid moving scams and find the right movers to assist with your relocation. Listen to your gut, and if something doesn't sit quite right with you or you feel it's off, it probably is. Take it as a sign to research further and check everything before you make your decision.

Photos used:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/scam-alert-letting-text-on-black-background-5697256/

https://unsplash.com/photos/npxXWgQ33ZQ

https://unsplash.com/photos/-uHVRvDr7pg

https://unsplash.com/photos/GJao3ZTX9gU

Nasdaq vs. NYSE: What Is the Difference?

 

If you are new to the world of stocks and trading, there is a lot of jargon and technical terms you'll need to know.

One of the more confusing things is the difference between NASDAQ and the NYSE. While they are both stock exchanges, they operate differently. And those differences can make a huge impact on how you invest your money.

If you are looking to learn more about NASDAQ vs NYSE, don't fret. We've put together a quick-start guide that outlines the differences between the two. Read on to learn more!

The NASDAQ Guide

NASDAQ stands for the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations. 

NASDAQ began in 1971, at the very beginning of the internet. It was started as an electronic stock exchange and remains completely online today. As such, it has no physical location.

The main stocks and securities that NASDAQ deals with are related to the technology field. This includes heavy hitters such as Microsoft and Apple, as well as emerging tech companies. 

Perhaps the biggest difference between NASDAQ vs NYSE is that NASDAQ is a market-maker exchange. This means that instead of individual brokers, stocks are traded and sold by market-makers, which are usually brokerage houses.

In short, market-makers buy, sell, and trade larger quantities of stock, usually to other market-makers. These market-makers compete with each other to earn investors.

Let's give a quick scenario: an investor sees that the asking price on a Microsoft stock is $100 per share. However, the bid price is $90. 

The market-maker purchased the stocks for $90 apiece and is now selling them for $100, for a profit of $10/share. This is how they mitigate risk and see a return on their portfolios. 

The NYSE Guide

The NYSE, short for New York Stock Exchange, is probably the most famous stock market in the world. 

Think about all the 1980's movies about Wall Street investors. The room full of ticker feeds and men in suits shouting and running around: that is the NYSE.

The NYSE is a physical location that began back in 1792 on 68 Wall Street in New York City. While the physical floor is still used, a lot of the electronic data is handled at another site in nearby New Jersey. 

The New York Stock Exchange is well-known for its blue-chip stocks. These are well-known and established companies, such as Johnson and Johnson or General Electric. 

Where NASDAQ is a market-maker exchange, the NYSE is an auction exchange. Instead of brokerage firms setting the stock prices, individual specialists from the respective companies run auctions on their stock daily.

If you are interested in learning more about investing in the NYSE, visit www.monexsecurities.com.au.

NASDAQ vs NYSE: Which One Should I Invest In?

NASDAQ vs NYSE? Which is better?

To sum it up quickly: both. To build a strong stock portfolio, it is a good idea to spread your investments out.

NASDAQ companies tend to be more volatile. Think of this as a "high risk, high reward" situation. Conversely, NYSE blue-chip companies are established and secure, but tend to grow more slowly. 

For more financial advice, be sure to visit the Money Saving Tips section of our blog!

Fashion Accessories to Flaunt Your Style

 

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The past two years have been pretty challenging for the entire world. With persistent lockdowns and isolation led by the global pandemic, most of us haven't been able to show off the latest fashion trends. After all, days and nights were spent at home in comfy Pjs, but as the world is starting to emerge from the confines of our homes, it is time to catch up on the fashion trends.

Fashion experts predict a 'behind the keyboard' trend about a homey and comfortable look. Thus, you would be spotting celebs flaunting joggers, perfect trouser co ord sets, solids, comfort tees, and sweatpants. However, that doesn't mean your outfits have to look dull. You can always make more of a statement by mixing the comfort look with some dazzling fashion accessories. Perhaps, you may flaunt a few pearl earrings and necklaces with a basic black t-shirt.

Similarly, you can style your hair with funky clips, scarfs, and bandanas to make a style statement. Here we are highlighting seven fashion accessories that you can wear in style.

1.       Sleek Bracelets

Believe it or not, there's nothing easier than adding a bracelet on your wrist to make a style statement. Even though it is a simple staple accessory, but it accessorizes the outfit pretty well. Thus, look for some unique and stylish bracelets to find something that represents your style. If you want something cool, classic, and funky, get your hands on Badass Jewelry's new skeleton bracelets and style them with casual outfits. Likewise, you can find sleek designs and beaded bracelets for a more formal look.

2.       Chic Hoop Earrings

Surprisingly, bulky earrings haven't made it to the accessories list in 2022, and that's because women are rooting for chic hoop earrings that match almost every outfit. Hence, get your hands on a few hoop earrings. From jeans and a tee look to a cocktail dress and sandals, hoops finish off a look with eye-catching class. For casual wear, the minimalistic golden and silver hoops would do the job. On the fancier side, you can get your hands on pearly hoops or the one with embellishments.

3.       Stylish Hair Bandanas

No matter how great it feels to let your hair blow with the wind, you have to tie them up at times. However, that doesn't have to be boring because you always style them with a few hair accessories. Lately, bandanas have become a popular summer essential accessory. It elevates your look and gives a pop of color to the entire outfit, reflecting your aura and style. Besides wearing it on your head, you can wrap it around the neck or wrist for an 80's look. 

4.       Chunky Necklaces

As much as everyone loves timid little pieces, chunky necklaces scream your style. You can pair them with floral dresses, work blouses, casual tees, and skater skirts. In addition, you can also wear them on colder days over bulky sweaters. So, grab a few pearls and layered necklaces and flaunt your outfits in style. Remember, chunky necklaces look best with a v-neckline or a strapless top. You can also wear them with collared shirts but without earrings to avoid killing the look.

5.       Trendy Belts

Oversized tops and pants have become a thing – all thanks to bohemian street style. However, this look still needs a tad bit of styling, and for that, you should consider adding a belt. Despite being an underused accessory, it can transform your day-to-day outfits. For inspiration, you can see how Kendall Jenner wore a thin leather belt with high-waisted pleated trousers. The combination of a skinny belt to an oversized look creates a comfy look with structure, contrast, and balance. In addition, you can pair the belts with dresses and maxis to highlight your waist.

6.       Colorful Frames for Sunglasses

Do you wear sunglasses often? These days, sunglasses have become a staple accessory. In addition to protecting the eyes, it can change the look of an entire outfit. Thus, check out different trending shapes and sizes of sunglasses, and get one that suits your face. Also, you can even pamper yourself with a funky pair of colorful sunglasses. Also, make sure the color of frames compliments your skin tone.

7.       Funky Military Boots

Straight from the 90's chunky boots are back in fashion. From Alanis Morrissette to Phoebe Buffay, everyone has been flaunting these boots. You can pair them up with rolled-up boyfriend jeans, flared skirts, or dresses to complete the 'rock' look. Besides this, there are many styles to choose from, such as the grunge look, Spice-Girl-inspired style, etc. These military boots are also super warm, comfortable, and water-resistant.

Final Thoughts

After staying indoors for so long, it is finally time to flaunt all the outfits and accessories. You have to keep your style in mind and create a cool and impactful look with different accessories. If you are not a chunky boots kind of a girl, settle for a pair of hoops. Likewise, look for statement pieces in belts that reflect elegance and grace.

Quotebook

What an amazing way to remember all the funny things that happen and strange things your kids say over the years. The way we record memories other than photographs hasn’t changed much so we were due for an update! 

I absolutely love this book and I feel it is going to grow in popularity rather quickly, just like time capsules and school work we look back on. These Quotebooks are perfect for everyone on your list this year! 

Quotebook is here! The perfect gift for friends or family, take a look inside Quotebook and explore or featured writing prompts to recreate memories that'll last a lifetime.

For Couples: My wife and I write down all the stuff that we say to make each other laugh.

For Families: Our kids say the darndest things! Our 4-year-old is the most quoted person in the book!

For Friends: Have a college student on a new adventure making new friends? College kids use Quotebook to capture a keepsake snapshot of all the hilarity that doesn't make Instagram.

For Nanas and their grandkids: Give the gift of laughter, and help grandparents capture amazing memories.
 Get 15% off of your 2nd Quotebook when you order now.

Interview With The Creator Of Quotebook!

What gave you the idea for Quotebook?

1. For some reason I've always liked quotes. My wife and I can just be a bit silly, and so before we were married we were living together in Chicago. She was in medical school and I was starting my career. One night I just decided to write some of these inside joke quotes down. We kept it up on and off, and then when our kids were old enough to start talking we brought it back out and its just kind of taken off within our family.

Do you have any tips for entrepreneurs like yourself? 

2. The biggest tip is just if you have an idea, just do it. Don't get bogged down in the details, and it doesn't have to be perfect. Get something out there that people can react to and give you feedback on. Just view the entire process as a learning experience. You can start things like this pretty cheaply these days.

What is your best quote or memory you have written down?

3. The best memory is this: 

Me to my wife: "Hey, have you ever been parasailing before?"

My wife: "Yes, I was strapped in next to you the one and only time in your life you've ever been parasailing!"

She gave me a framed picture of us up in the parasail for one of our wedding anniversaries and it sits on the bookshelf behind my desk now.

Did you find it challenging to create a new product? What steps did you take to get started and live your dream? 

4. It can be hard, mainly because it always feels like I'm not making progress fast enough. I'm not good at design really, so I hired a designer on upwork as a first step. He helped pull out the features that I want and bring the book to life. Once I felt good about that, I talked to a few different creators and sourced a manufacturer out of China to do a first run of the books. Once I had version one in hand, I've just been experimenting with different marketing channels to see what will work, since I've never really sold a physical product before.

What are your hopes for Christmas? Do you have any deals or promos I can offer my readers?

5. I've had lots of people tell me they are going to buy some for Christmas gifts, client gifts etc. My hope is just that more people buy them and experience the fun that my family has experienced. We are going to do a Black Friday deal which will be 15% off and free shipping I think. 

The 15% discount code is QBBF15 and will be active from Black Friday until the end of Cyber Monday. All orders from this time period will have free shipping.

Anything else you wish to add? Social media, favourite photos?

6. We're on IG @realquotebook

5 Telling Signs of a Troubled Marriage

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Do you know that four out of 10 marriages in the US involve couples marrying for the second time? This number brings the rate of remarriages to about 40 percent. The rate of both spouses remarrying is about 20 percent, while one spouse remarrying is also at 20 percent. 

However, second marriages are more prevalent in men than women. Women find it hard to say “I do” again after their first marriage fails. Many of them prefer to stay single or raise children as single parents.

From these statistics, it’s evident that many people find themselves in a troubled marriage. But what signs signal a bad marriage? When do you know that it’s time to break the “till death do us apart” covenant?

Here are five common instances.

1. You Keep on Avoiding Conflict

Relationship problems usually manifest in conflicts. However, if you keep on avoiding these conflicts, then your marriage is in big trouble. It means that your spouse doesn’t feel free or safe talking about their insecurities.

2. Poor Communication Signals a Troubled Marriage

Communication problems in marriages can manifest in many ways. For instance, you can’t resolve a simple marital conflict simply because no one is ready to talk about it. Even worse, you can’t hold meaningful conversations as before.

This is a clear sign that your marriage experiences relationship issues. You should find a solution as soon as possible or walk away.

3. Zero Intimacy

Although sex isn’t the most critical factor for a successful relationship, it has a lot to do with a strong marriage. Zero intimacy even when out in the public are signs marriage is in trouble.

Do you remember how your partner couldn’t let go of your hands when you started dating? The same energy should prevail during the marriage.

4. No Connection

Relationship issues start to manifest when your spouse goes out of their way and starts avoiding you. This is very common among wives that cheat. In most cases, a loose connection means you find yourself happier alone than when you spend time with your spouse.

For instance, you can discover something new that gives you more joy than catching a movie together, say a hobby. Eventually, you start to draw away from your partner, fading the love connection. This is a red flag for a troubled marriage.

5. Dishonesty

Do you find yourself withholding vital information from your partner, simply because you don’t want to upset them? Well, this is very big marriage trouble. You may have good intentions but your partner won’t take it lightly once they discover you’re being dishonest.

In the long haul, dishonesty broods a feeling of betrayal. It won’t be long before you decided to call it quits and everyone walks their way. In that case, always weigh your options before withholding something back from your partner.

You Can Make Your Marriage Work

Marriages are just like any other relationship. It’s never all that rosy unless you’re faking it. Watch out for these signs of a troubled marriage and make effort to amend things before walking away.

For instance, you can go for counseling to improve your communication. Read other articles on this site for more tips on maintaining a good relationship in marriage.

Holiday Gift Guide When Shopping At Walmart!

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Dynamic duo Bethany Halford and Amanda Jerkins, smart shoppers and the brains behind Whoa, Wait. Walmart?, use their diverse backgrounds in fashion and interiors to hunt down surprisingly cool items from the aisles of the retailer. Each time the gals pop into a Walmart, they become your personal shoppers, and share their high-end looks on a low-end budget with over 334,000 of their very best (virtual) friends.

 

To help you shop smarter, not harder this holiday season, they created a list (and checked it twice) of some of their top items to add to your shopping cart. Please advise if you would like an interview on being budget-friendly this holiday season or would like to repurpose their recommendations (samples not available).

 

Gift Guide for Moms:

Calming Gift Set: Help Mom unwind after a long day with lavender essential oil and a beautiful rattan diffuser. Bonus: It doubles as decor, too! Lavender is known for its calming properties, so we love diffusing the oil or adding it to bathwater. 

 

Skincare Gift: Gua Sha and jade rollers are great ways to massage your face and neck. Both of these tools feel amazing, so Mom can relax while helping her skin out. Here’s a tutorial!

 

Cozy Gift: A good pair of house shoes is a staple for all moms. But, sometimes we forget to replace the worn-out pair we already have. These are SO soft and will keep her feet warm and cozy all winter long. 

 

Sweet Memories Gift: Framing some of the kids’ artwork or a few pictures she has in her favorites folder on her phone will show Mom just how much you care. She’ll be thrilled to hang the sweet memories on the wall, but more so that she didn’t have to do the legwork herself. 

 

Accessories Gift: Giving jewelry can be tricky. We suggest getting Mom some pieces like these from the Scoop line. They’re gold-plated, so they’ll hold up better than typical costume jewelry, but they aren’t pricey like fine jewelry (that she’d want to pick out on her own). 

 

Gift Guide for Kids: 

Boys 

Dude Perfect 101 Tricks, Tips, and Cool Stuff: Dude Perfect videos are so fun to watch as a family, and this book is the perfect addition to your kid’s library. There are tons of fun tricks and tips, plus motivational content as well. 

 

Walkie Talkies: This toy is a necessity for kids who love creative play. We love that this set also comes with binoculars. Let the adventure begin! 

 

Girls 

Interactive Pet: If your daughter is an animal lover and nurturer, she’s sure to be a great mom to this sweet interactive pig by Little Live Pets. 

 

Playset: Bluey is a big hit with girls so we know that Bluey’s house will score at your house, too. This playset is the perfect backdrop for hours of pretend play with your daughter’s favorite pup. 

 

Both  

SEQUENCE for Kids: A classic game that everyone should have in their toy closet. It’s one of our favorites because all of our kids can play, even the youngest who can’t read just yet. 

 

Book Series: Bad Kitty is so clever and fun that our kids can’t put these books down. They actually read and re-read them which we absolutely love! 

 

Craft Kit: This craft kit has it all! Give it as a gift and you are giving endless possibilities to create. 

 

CD Player: That’s right, a CD player! Why? Because you have a huge CD collection just waiting to be discovered by your kids. This is a great gift for older kids and gives them some freedom to choose their own music. 

 

Lightboxes: Our kids love their lightboxes! It’s great for all ages and is a fun item to add to your drawing supplies. 

 

Rock Kit: Raise your hand if your kids collect rocks? This is a super fun rock tumbler kit that will continue their love of rocks into adulthood. 

 

WEBSITE

https://whoawaitwalmart.com/

 

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About Whoa, Wait. Walmart?:

Amanda is shopping at the Nashville, TN stores. Bethany is shopping at the NW Arkansas stores. Check out their magazine, now available at ALL Walmart locations.