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	<title>Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</title>
	
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	<description>personal finance, advice, tips, tools, calculators, stocks, mutual funds, investing, college savings, 529, retirement, 401k, autos, mortgage, refinance, interest rates, banking, taxes, insurance, credit, money 101, etfs, stock portfolio, michael sivy, sivy on stocks, everyday money, jeanne sahadi, sahadi, jean sahadi ,debt ,savings, money, money magazine</description>
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		<title>Advantages of payday loans</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/advantages-of-payday-loans.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/advantages-of-payday-loans.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:46:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tips]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Generally payday loans are also known as the short term loans. The payday loans are used to solve your temporary financial issues. No fax payday loans do not need any requirements and can be easily opted from banks. But the bad credit payday loans require high interest rates. It is the most convenient way to [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/advantages-of-payday-loans.html">Advantages of payday loans</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Generally payday loans are also known as the short term loans. The payday loans are used to solve your temporary financial issues. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.ezloansweb.com/">No fax payday loans</a></span> do not need any requirements and can be easily opted from banks. But the bad credit payday loans require high interest rates. It is the most convenient way to get money easily and quickly. These types of loans can get from either online or offline. But you should repay the money with correct date. To get these loans are very quickly and easily. These types of loans are not only provided for good credit scores but also for bad credits. The <a href="http://www.ezloansweb.com/low-interest-payday-loans.html"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">low interest rate payday loans</span> </a>are also available. But in this loan, you have to pay longer terms. These loans provide many advantages. There are many types of payday loans available such as short term payday loans, 1 hour payday loans, bad credit payday loans, <a href="http://www.ezloansweb.com/no-credit-check-payday-loans.html"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">No credit check payday loans</span></a>, installment payday loans, money tree payday loans, same day payday loans and many more. All kinds of loans are easy to get. Online payday loans process is the most convenient. It is available the lowest interest with flexible terms. The interest rates vary from lender to lender. Sometimes, payday loans are also called as paycheck advance.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/advantages-of-payday-loans.html">Advantages of payday loans</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>All the convenience only exist in Debt consolidation</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/all-the-convenience-only-exist-in-debt-consolidation.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/all-the-convenience-only-exist-in-debt-consolidation.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2011 07:16:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1203</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Maybe you are one of thousands of people in the world who have a financial problem in a very complicated and you cannot resolve by it. Have a loan that is easy and fast its all what you get, if you already know the place or any site that is able to provide a clear [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/all-the-convenience-only-exist-in-debt-consolidation.html">All the convenience only exist in Debt consolidation</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Maybe you are one of thousands of people in the world who have a financial problem in a very complicated and you cannot resolve by it. Have a loan that is easy and fast its all what you get, if you already know the place or any site that is able to provide a clear proof exists, not just crap that will make your time wasted in vain. A lot of deals in debt consolidation so make some people feel irritated and disadvantaged.</p>
<p>For it if you want to know all its details and further only in <a href="http://www.payingpaul.com/" target="_blank">Debt consolidation</a> , which is not in doubt do again its quality or service levels that are so easy and fast. If you are a smart person you may not be the wrong choice again for that we provide tangible evidence is not nonsense. The interest rate you pay on the new loan may be higher than interest rates on credit cards or other unsecured debt that is so easy and better yet to give you a good convenience. This allows you to consolidate all your debts into one new loan that is so easy and the best. Its all there in the very best sites we tested its quality and its ease.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/all-the-convenience-only-exist-in-debt-consolidation.html">All the convenience only exist in Debt consolidation</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>100% Financing Or No Down Payment &amp; Bad Credit Mortgage Loans</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/100-financing-or-no-down-payment-bad-credit-mortgage-loans.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/100-financing-or-no-down-payment-bad-credit-mortgage-loans.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 26 Jun 2011 15:15:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Mortgage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bad credit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mortgage Loans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1197</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Sub-prime lenders now offer financing packages with zero down. Interest rates are higher on these types of loans, but they make purchasing a house easier. And unlike a conventional loan, there is no private mortgage insurance required. There are two types of zero-down mortgage packages, each with their own requirements. Types Of Zero-Down Loans 100% [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/100-financing-or-no-down-payment-bad-credit-mortgage-loans.html">100% Financing Or No Down Payment &#038; Bad Credit Mortgage Loans</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Sub-prime lenders now offer financing packages with zero down. Interest rates are higher on these types of loans, but they make purchasing a house easier. And unlike a conventional loan, there is no private mortgage insurance required. There are two types of zero-down mortgage packages, each with their own requirements.</p>
<p>Types Of Zero-Down Loans</p>
<p>100% financing, as it names implies, offers complete financing of your property. The other option, 80/20, finances your mortgage with two loans. Both loans may be carried by your lender, but sometimes the seller or a second lender is required to carry the 20% mortgage.</p>
<p>100% financing is easier to deal with, but not all lenders will offer this type of home loan. 80/20 financing is more common, but takes some negotiation if the seller is involved.</p>
<p>Qualifications For Zero-Down</p>
<p>Each lender has their own criteria for determining who will qualify for a zero-down loan. Most sub-prime lenders require any bankruptcies or foreclosures to have been at least twelve months ago. A conventional loan requires these to be discharged two to four years ago.<br />
<span id="more-1197"></span><br />
While a credit score of 600 or higher is best, large cash reserves can also qualify you. Six to twelve months worth of cash reserves in the form of savings, money market, or other liquid assets are considered ideal.</p>
<p>If you choose 80/20 financing with the seller carrying the second mortgage, you can qualify with sub-prime lenders with a score of 560.</p>
<p>Zero-Down Sub-prime Lenders</p>
<p>You can find zero-down sub-prime mortgages with both conventional and niche sub-prime lenders. Make sure that you request quotes from as many mortgage lenders has possible to be sure you find the lowest rate and best terms.</p>
<p>You will also want to decide what type of mortgage you want. An ARM is easier to qualify for and has lower rates. A fixed rate mortgage offers the security of a constant interest rate over the life of your loan.</p>
<p>Typically an ARM will be a better deal if you plan to refinance within a couple of years. After you have improved your credit history, you can refinance for a conventional mortgage with low interest rates.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/100-financing-or-no-down-payment-bad-credit-mortgage-loans.html">100% Financing Or No Down Payment &#038; Bad Credit Mortgage Loans</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>4 Reasons to Consolidate your Student Loans On or Before July 1st 2006</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/4-reasons-to-consolidate-your-student-loans-on-or-before-july-1st-2006.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/4-reasons-to-consolidate-your-student-loans-on-or-before-july-1st-2006.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2011 19:38:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[consolidating student loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[student loan advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[student loan consolidation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[student loans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1195</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Every year, student loan interest rates are reconfigured on July 1st. In recent years, this date has come and gone with no cause for alarm, but this year is different. As part of a plan to heal the nations $40 billion budget deficit, the Senate passed a plan to cut $12.7 billion from the federal [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/4-reasons-to-consolidate-your-student-loans-on-or-before-july-1st-2006.html">4 Reasons to Consolidate your Student Loans On or Before July 1st 2006</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Every year, student loan interest rates are reconfigured on July 1st.  In recent years, this date has come and gone with no cause for alarm, but this year is different.  As part of a plan to heal the nations $40 billion budget deficit, the Senate passed a plan to cut $12.7 billion from the federal student loan program between 2006 and 2011.  The impact on students is a drastic interest rate hike on all federal student loans including the Stafford loan, the PLUS loan, the Consolidation loan, and the Perkins loan.</p>
<p><strong>1. Student loan interest rate hike</strong><br />
After July 1st, the interest rate on new Federal Stafford loans will jump from a variable 4.7 percent to a fixed 6.8 percent while PLUS loans will increase from a variable 6.1 percent to a fixed 8.5 percent.  The way to avoid these skyrocketing interest rates is to lock into todays low fixed rate by consolidating your loans.</p>
<p><strong>2. Last chance for in school consolidations</strong><br />
Under the new legislation, students that are still in school wont be able to consolidate their loans after July 1st, 2006.  Its more important than ever for current students and those who are in their post-graduation grace period to seize this current window of opportunity to refinance and lock in the current rate before July 1st.</p>
<p><strong>3. The 1st of July means the end of spousal consolidations</strong><br />
Another student loan consolidating restriction will be imposed on the spousal consolidation loan.  For years, married couples have enjoyed the simplicity and financial benefits of consolidating their student loan payments.  Married couples still have the chance to take advantage of this opportunity by applying for a spousal consolidation loan before July 1st.<br />
<span id="more-1195"></span><br />
<strong>4. Youre stuck with your lender</strong><br />
Starting on July 1st, borrowers will no longer have the opportunity to consolidate existing Consolidation loans with a different lender.  Unless the current lender does not offer a consolidation loan with income sensitive repayment terms, borrowers wont have any options when it comes to shopping around more attractive offers and companies.</p>
<p><strong>Steps to take on or before July 1st</strong><br />
If you havent already consolidated your student loans, contact a student loan consulting and refinancing lender as soon as possible.  Go online and compare various online loan companies, read up on loan terminology, use online calculators to understand your potential savings, and get in touch with a student loan consolidation expert with a list of questions.</p>
<p>Student loan consolidation already offers a wealth of benefits, not to mention the newest benefit as a safe haven from the July 1st interest rate hikes.  Because payments are combined and spread out over a longer period of time, monthly payments are reduced, freeing up cash flow for young adults who are just beginning their careers.  Additionally, having only one open loan is more beneficial in terms of credit rating as opposed to numerous open loans that can lower an overall FICO score.</p>
<p>Refinancing before July 1st still gives students one last chance to lock in low interest rates and take advantage of other soon-to-be cut money saving opportunities and programs.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/4-reasons-to-consolidate-your-student-loans-on-or-before-july-1st-2006.html">4 Reasons to Consolidate your Student Loans On or Before July 1st 2006</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>A Few Tips For Day Trading the Stock Market</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/a-few-tips-for-day-trading-the-stock-market.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/a-few-tips-for-day-trading-the-stock-market.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Jun 2011 21:29:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Investing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[day trader]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[day trading]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trading]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1192</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Day trading the stock market involves the rapid buying and selling of stocks on a day-to-day basis. This technique is used to secure quick profits from the constant changes in stock values, minute to minute, second to second. It is rare that a day trader will remain in a trade over the course of a [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/a-few-tips-for-day-trading-the-stock-market.html">A Few Tips For Day Trading the Stock Market</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Day trading the stock market involves the rapid buying and selling of stocks on a day-to-day basis.  This technique is used to secure quick profits from the constant changes in stock values, minute to minute, second to second.  It is rare that a day trader will remain in a trade over the course of a night into the next day.  These trades are entered and exited in a matter of minutes.</p>
<p>The main question that most people ask when it comes to <strong>day trading</strong> is simple: is it necessary to sit at a computer watching the markets ALL day long in order to be a successful day trader?</p>
<p>The answer is no.  Its not necessary to sit at a computer all day long.  There are a number of factors to consider, but generally the rule of day trading is to trade when everyone else is trading.  In other words, trade in the morning.</p>
<p>As with all financial investments, day trading is risky  in fact, its one of the riskiest forms of trading out there.  The stock prices rise or fall according to the behaviour of the market, which is entirely unpredictable.  Day traders buy and sell shares rapidly in the hopes of gaining profits within the minutes and seconds they own those particular stocks.  Simple to do in theory, harder to do in practice.<br />
<span id="more-1192"></span><br />
If you are constrained by a small amount of capital, you may not be able to buy large amounts of a stock, but buying only a small amount can add to the risk of a loss.  And, obviously, it is impossible to predict with certainty which stocks will result in profits and which in losses.  Even the best of traders must learn to accept both outcomes.</p>
<p>Its also important to know that in day trading, it is the number of shares rather than the value of shares that should be the focus.  If you day trade, you WILL face losses, but even for the more expensive stocks, the loss should be marginal, because prices do not usually fluctuate to an extreme degree over the course of just one day.</p>
<p>The day trading industry deals in a large variety of stocks and shares.  Here are just a few:</p>
<p>Growth-Buying Shares  shares made from profit, which continue to grow in value.  Eventually, these shares will begin to decline in price, and an experienced trader can usually predict the future of this type of share.</p>
<p>Small Caps  shares of companies which are on the rise and show no signs of stopping.  Although these shares are generally cheap, they are a very risky investment for day traders.  Youd be safer to go with large caps and/or mid-caps, which are much more secure and stable thanks to a premium.</p>
<p>Unloved Stocks  company stock that has not performed well in the past.  Traders buy these shares in the hopes of generating profits if and when the stock rises in value.  As with small caps, unloved stocks can be a risky choice for day traders.</p>
<p>These examples are NOT your only options when it comes to day trading stocks.  The best way to determine which type of stock is right for you is to invest some time for careful research, a knowledge of market patterns, a solid strategy, and a disciplined trading plan.</p>
<p>The key to successful day trading is to be prepared.  Know as much as possible about the industry before you begin actually trading. You need to learn to trade ONLY when the market gives the right signals, and ONLY when the volume of activity in the market supports a successful trading opportunity.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/a-few-tips-for-day-trading-the-stock-market.html">A Few Tips For Day Trading the Stock Market</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>7 Things You Should Know About Health Savings Account Plans</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/7-things-you-should-know-about-health-savings-account-plans.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/7-things-you-should-know-about-health-savings-account-plans.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:06:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insurance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[employee health savings account]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flexible health savings account]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health care savings account]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health savings account]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health savings account plan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health savings account tax]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1189</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Health savings accounts (HSAs) are wildly popular. Since their introduction in 2004, approximately 2.5 million Americans have enrolled in these so-called consumer-driven health plans. But, alas, HSA plans are not for everyone. Here are some pointers to help you consider whether an HSA will benefit you and your family. 1. An HSA plan can cut [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/7-things-you-should-know-about-health-savings-account-plans.html">7 Things You Should Know About Health Savings Account Plans</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Health savings accounts (HSAs) are wildly popular. Since their introduction in 2004, approximately 2.5 million Americans have enrolled in these so-called consumer-driven health plans. But, alas, HSA plans are not for everyone.<br />
Here are some pointers to help you consider whether an HSA will benefit you and your family.</p>
<p>1. An HSA plan can cut healthcare costs by an average of 40% for many people.<br />
Nevertheless, some people will not realize any net savings. Those most likely to realize significant savings are people who pay all of their own health insurance premiums, such as the self-employed, who are relatively healthy with few medical expenses.</p>
<p>2. health savings plan restores freedom of choice.<br />
An HSA plan puts individual consumers back in control of their own health care. This also means that each individual must be more responsible for his or her own health care decisions. This approach of self-reliance is not always popular with or appropriate for everyone, especially those who have become comfortable with HMO-type &#8220;co-pay&#8221; plans.</p>
<p>3. Health savings accounts reduce income taxes.<br />
Every dollar contributed into your HSA account is deducted from your taxable income in the same manner as contributions into a traditional IRA account&#8211;regardless of whether you spend it or just save it. Interest and investment earnings in a HSA accumulate tax-deferred, just like a traditional IRA. Unlike an IRA, withdrawals are tax-FREE when used to pay qualifying medical expenses. In many situations, new account holders are able to almost fully fund their HSA with money saved on premiums from a prior, higher priced plan. By stashing all or most of those savings into an HSA, the account holder realizes instant, additional savings in the form of reduced taxes.</p>
<p>4. You must have a properly qualified high health insurance policy in place first before<br />
you can open a health savings account. One of the biggest misconceptions about HSA plans is that any insurance policy with a high deductible will qualify the policyholder to establish an HSA account. IRS regulations, however, are quite specific. Not just any policy with a so-called &#8220;high deductible&#8221; will suffice. It is important to be certain that you are insured under a properly qualified policy. Your best bet is to work with a qualified and duly licensed health insurance broker who is experienced in marketing properly qualified HSA plans.<br />
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<p>5. You must be insurable in order to qualify for the HSA-qualified health insurance policy.<br />
Because most people do not have a properly qualified high deductible insurance policy, they will need to switch insurance plans in order to become HSA-eligible. Unless coverage is being offered under small group reform laws (generally groups with 2-49 employees), the new high deductible policy will be individually underwritten by an insurance company. This means that some &#8220;pre-existing&#8221; conditions may not be fully covered. Alternatively, some companies may opt to cover certain &#8220;pre-existing&#8221; conditions in exchange for slightly higher premiums. Unfortunately, some health conditions simply render an individual uninsurable (examples: diabetes, chron&#8217;s disease, heart attack, etc.). Underwriting requirements vary by state, which is another reason to rely on an experienced health plan broker.<br />
You should not switch to a HSA plan when the management of existing medical expenses is more important than saving up-front medical insurance premiums. Do not change health plans: in the middle of ongoing medical treatments; after a major health issue has been diagnosed; or if any family member is pregnant.<br />
Generally, it is relatively hassle-free to qualify, i.e. no medical exams, etc. Most insurance companies offering HSA coverage will issue based on your application answers, perhaps accompanied by a follow-up telephone interview. In some cases, medical records may be requested, and companies always reserve the right to order a paramed exam.</p>
<p>6. Although HSA insurance premiums are low, they are not always as low as you might expect.<br />
This happens for one main reason. Simply stated, the underlying insurance policy is just thata health insurance policy. Although it has a &#8220;high&#8221; deductible, as required by law, the insurance company still must compensate for the risk it is assuming over the deductible amount, which it does by charging premiums. Many companies offer policies with one deductible that all family members contribute toward. With those plans, it is not uncommon for premiums for a 5000 family deductible with 100% coverage after the deductible to be comparable to a 2500 &#8220;per person&#8221; deductible plan with 80/20 coverage after the deductible.<br />
Lower premiums represent just one element of the lower net cost achieved with an HSA plan. The low net cost of an HSA plan is achieved after factoring in the benefits of lower taxes, made possible by the tax-deductible contribution to the HSA account. Thus, if obtaining the lowest possible gross premium is your main concern, you may wish to consider a high deductible, non-HSA policy, especially if you do not see the benefit to contributing to a tax-deductible savings account.</p>
<p>7. An HSA offers your best chance to keep a lid on health insurance rate increases.<br />
Make no mistake-you will have rate increases with your HSA insurance policy. Because an HSA qualified policy is still a health insurance policy at heart, there is no logical reason to presuppose that an HSA policy would be immune to rate increases required by an insurer to keep paying claims and stay in business. But what you can expect is that the actual dollar amount of any future rate increases will be substantially lower compared to traditional health insurance plans (regular PPO and HMO plans). This is true because insurers base increases on percentages, and the same percentage of a lower base premium results in a lower dollar increase. It&#8217;s not a perfect solution-but it is the most cost-efficient solution for many qualified people.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/7-things-you-should-know-about-health-savings-account-plans.html">7 Things You Should Know About Health Savings Account Plans</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>Cookie Dough Fundraisers</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/cookie-dough-fundraisers.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/cookie-dough-fundraisers.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 18 Jun 2011 19:02:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fundraising]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cookie dough]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cookie dough fundraiser]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fundraiser]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1187</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Looking for good school fundraiser? Cookie dough sales are an easy moneymaker. What is a cookie dough fundraiser? The basic concept is the same as all order taker fundraisers. You equip your sellers with a brochure, an order form, and a basic sales script. Your group does catalog sales of a three-pound tub of cookie [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/cookie-dough-fundraisers.html">Cookie Dough Fundraisers</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Looking for good school fundraiser? Cookie dough sales are an easy moneymaker. What is a cookie dough fundraiser? The basic concept is the same as all order taker fundraisers. You equip your sellers with a brochure, an order form, and a basic sales script.</p>
<p>Your group does catalog sales of a three-pound tub of cookie dough. Average retail price is $10 per three-pound tub. The dough comes in a wide variety of flavors, including some that are sugar free.</p>
<p>Some suppliers are now offering the dough in pre-sliced packages to further simplify the baking process.</p>
<p>Others are offering it in a dry mix that doesn&#8217;t need to be refrigerated. All you do is add water, mix by hand, and you have your cookie dough ready for baking.</p>
<p>Profitability<br />
Most fundraising companies offer the three-pound tubs of cookie dough at a 40%-50% discount. Some suppliers also offer a larger four-pond tub for slightly more.</p>
<p>Cookie dough needs to be refrigerated, so this fundraiser requires a little more delivery preparation. Kids like selling this because its something that they enjoy themselves.</p>
<p>The average seller makes ten sales or approximately $100 in revenue. That translates to roughly $50 in profit per seller, which is quite good.</p>
<p>Factors affecting your cookie dough fundraiser profitability include freight charges, quantity discounts, quality of the brochure, number of available cookie dough choices, and the need to keep the dough refrigerated.</p>
<p>This product works well for both elementary school and high school fundraising.<br />
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Larger groups can easily earn a quantity discount above 50%. As always, do an RFQ fax quote to the supplier list and get your best possible discount up front.</p>
<p>Sales Tips<br />
Here&#8217;s what they need to do to sell:</p>
<p>1 &#8211; Smile, use their name in greeting, and introduce yourself<br />
2 &#8211; Use the power of &#8220;because&#8221; (give a reason why)<br />
3 &#8211; Ask for their help (ask for the order)<br />
4 &#8211; Make eye contact and suggest a favorite</p>
<p>Example sales script: (Keep it short &amp; sweet)</p>
<p>Hi, Mrs. Johnson! (Smile &amp; make eye contact)</p>
<p>I&#8217;m Jimmy Roberts from down the street. (Hand over sales flyer with large bold print)</p>
<p>Our school is doing a cookie dough fundraiser because we need new computers.</p>
<p>Can you help us out with a $10 contribution? That gets you a three-pound tub of cookie dough. My favorite is the chocolate chip, but peanut butter is real popular too!</p>
<p>(Pause and wait for a response)</p>
<p>The important points are to smile, use a sales flyer, use the word because, ask for their help, and suggest an order size, then wait for a response.</p>
<p>Each prospect has a potential dollar value to your organization. Don&#8217;t waste prospects by not being prepared. Make sure all your sellers know what to say and how to say it.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/cookie-dough-fundraisers.html">Cookie Dough Fundraisers</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>7 Common Refinancing Mistakes to Avoid</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/7-common-refinancing-mistakes-to-avoid.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2011 17:52:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Debt Consolidation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[7 Common Refinancing Mistakes to Avoid]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1185</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whenever interest rates drop, a refinancing frenzy naturally follows. Whether you&#8217;re looking to trim your mortgage payments, eliminate credit-card debt or pay off your car loan, experts say you should fully understand all of the options available to you before deciding to refinance. Allied Mortgage Consultants, a mortgage company recognized for educating consumers on the [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/7-common-refinancing-mistakes-to-avoid.html">7 Common Refinancing Mistakes to Avoid</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Whenever interest rates drop, a refinancing frenzy naturally follows. Whether you&#8217;re looking to trim your mortgage payments, eliminate credit-card debt or pay off your car loan, experts say you should fully understand all of the options available to you before deciding to refinance.</p>
<p>Allied Mortgage Consultants, a mortgage company recognized for educating consumers on the realities behind new home loans and refinancing, reveals seven common mistakes people make when refinancing.</p>
<p>1. Not saving enough to justify refinancing. It&#8217;s best to decrease your rate by at least .75 percent to 1 percent. This will save you about $100 a month on a $150,000 mortgage.</p>
<p>2. Not knowing your closing costs up front. By law, closing costs must be disclosed within three days of the loan application. However, there are different approaches to calculating them. Until the details of your loan are clear, the closing costs quoted to you are only estimates. Plan for the worst-case scenario.</p>
<p>3. Not fully understanding your reasons for refinancing. Besides reducing your interest rate, there are other legitimate reasons to refinance, such as debt consolidation, home improvements or major purchases. In some cases, you may be able to deduct your interest payments on your tax return. Always consult an accountant or tax attorney before making these types of decisions.<br />
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4. Not being aware of APR &#8220;teaser rates.&#8221; Some mortgage brokers use annual percentage rates to get your attention, but it may actually end up costing you more. APRs often are derived by using a 30-year mortgage coupled with an accelerated payment plan. Make sure you know the actual interest rate you will be paying throughout the life of the loan.</p>
<p>5. Not weighing the pros and cons of adjustable rate mortgages. ARMs can minimize your monthly payment, but not if additional refinancing occurs. In this case, they can cost more in the long run.</p>
<p>6. Not being aware of the service you should expect from a mortgage broker. The process of refinancing should be hassle-free and accomplished quickly. Ask your mortgage broker to provide details of its service plan and performance guarantees.</p>
<p>7. Not knowing to ask the mortgage broker about all available loan products, terms and rates. Subtle differences can save or cost you thousands of dollars.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/7-common-refinancing-mistakes-to-avoid.html">7 Common Refinancing Mistakes to Avoid</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>7 Steps to Becoming a Dynamite Real Estate Agent</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/7-steps-to-becoming-a-dynamite-real-estate-agent.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/7-steps-to-becoming-a-dynamite-real-estate-agent.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 12 Jun 2011 08:08:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Real Estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[real estate agent license]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[real estate salesperson secrets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[realtor tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1182</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most real estate agents want to be extremely successful. Goals are set and then the hard work begins to reach those goals. So what steps can you take to skyrocket your success as a realtor? Here are 7 powerful steps that will get you on the road to success: 1. Realize your Potential In order [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/7-steps-to-becoming-a-dynamite-real-estate-agent.html">7 Steps to Becoming a Dynamite Real Estate Agent</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most real estate agents want to be extremely successful.  Goals are set and then the hard work begins to reach those goals.  So what steps can you take to skyrocket your success as a realtor? Here are 7 powerful steps that will get you on the road to success:</p>
<p>1. Realize your Potential</p>
<p>In order to succeed as a real estate agent, you need to see that you have the potential to reach your goals.</p>
<p>2. Dont Look Back</p>
<p>Everyone has failures or mistakes from the past.  To have success in the real estate industry, you need to learn from those past mistakes and learn valuable lessons from them.  After doing so, simply move forward and make better, more educated decisions from the lessons learned.</p>
<p>3. Dare to Dream Big</p>
<p>To succeed as a realtor, you need to have big dreams and aspirations.  Be honest with yourself as to what you want out of life and what you want to give of your life.  Allow your mind to dream and think big!<br />
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4. A Powerful Business Plan</p>
<p>Create a powerful business plan that will organize your strategies.  This plan will be the blueprint to your success.  The business plan should include prospecting, listing strategies, prospect follow up techniques, networking ideas, and ways to boost customer loyalty.</p>
<p>5. Dont Give Up</p>
<p>To reach success as a real estate agent, you must persevere through difficult times.  Even Thomas Edison had to learn this.  When he was inventing the incandescent light bulb, it took him more than 10,000 times to get it right.  Keep striving even when the challenge seems to be overwhelming.</p>
<p>6. Have an Unstoppable Attitude</p>
<p>You need to have determination in order to succeed as a realtor.  Be wary of close friends or family members that feel it would be better if you focused your attention in another direction or career.  Uphold your unstoppable attitude, determined to succeed.</p>
<p>7. Stop Complaining</p>
<p>You might think there is no correlation between complaining about you difficulties and success, but there is in fact a connection.  When you spend time complaining about the obstacles you are facing in you real estate career, you&#8217;re wasting so much time being negative that you are actually missing out on chances to move your career forward.  Don&#8217;t think of challenges as problems, think of them as opportunities.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/7-steps-to-becoming-a-dynamite-real-estate-agent.html">7 Steps to Becoming a Dynamite Real Estate Agent</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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		<title>A Review of Automated Forex Brokers</title>
		<link>http://mlbcal.com/a-review-of-automated-forex-brokers.html</link>
		<comments>http://mlbcal.com/a-review-of-automated-forex-brokers.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Jun 2011 18:14:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Currency Trading]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Forex Brokers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Forex Market Makers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[forex trading]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[online forex brokers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://mlbcal.com/?p=1180</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Several companies offer automated forex broker services. In the following articles, you&#8217;ll find brief reviews of each. What forex brokers offer automated services? GFT Forex is an automated forex broker, whose DealBook FX 2 software offers the investor both a demo and a live forex trading tool in the currency market. This forex trading software [...]<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/a-review-of-automated-forex-brokers.html">A Review of Automated Forex Brokers</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Several companies offer automated forex broker services.  In the following articles, you&#8217;ll find brief reviews of each.</p>
<p>What forex brokers offer automated services?</p>
<p>GFT Forex is an automated forex broker, whose DealBook FX 2 software offers the investor both a demo and a live forex trading tool in the currency market. This forex trading software offers the investor direct access to some of the tightest spreads, through a stable, standalone forex trading platform, 24 hours a day.</p>
<p>The DealBook FX 2 software shows live, dealable prices, real time data, free real time world and financial news, forex charts, more than 65 technical indicators, and the ability to build the investors own indicators.</p>
<p>GCI Financial Ltd., another automated forex broker, provides trading software that tracks real time prices in 20 major currencies, live charts, and real time profit and loss account tracking. The software is offered as a demo also. Market orders are confirmed within seconds at prices clicked on or accepted by the client.</p>
<p>The FX3K is an online automated dealing and trading platform used by automated forex brokers. The FX3K online trading environment includes real time quotes, charting, technical analysis tools, and news. FX3K integrates the client, dealer, back office and system administrator functions. Product features include high speed execution of client orders and the ability to monitor real time margin availability, net exposure and profit and loss on all open positions. FX3K has chat options to allow trader-dealer conversations.<br />
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The COESfx Level 1 Trading Platform is used by automated forex broker as an Electronic Currency Network for the execution of best prices for buyers and sellers of foreign exchange. It offers traders live and executable prices, thereby making each participant a market maker. Traders gain access to &#8220;best bid/best offer quotes directly from price providers and other traders. COESfx pricing is derived from a number of partners in the network such as banks, Futures Commission Merchants (FCMs), Introducing Brokers (IBs), fund managers and other traders on its Electronic Currency Network.</p>
<p><a href="http://mlbcal.com/a-review-of-automated-forex-brokers.html">A Review of Automated Forex Brokers</a> is a post from: <a href="http://mlbcal.com">Finance Blogs | Mlbcal.com</a></p>
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